Motor Vehicle Accidents in Plano, Collin County, Texas: Legal Emergency Lawyers Fighting for You

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Plano, Texas, your life can change in an instant. One moment you’re driving to work, picking up your kids, or running errands in Collin County—then suddenly you’re facing mounting medical bills, lost wages, and an insurance company that’s already building a case against you. At Attorney911, we understand the overwhelming fear and confusion you’re experiencing. That’s why we’ve created this comprehensive guide specifically for Plano and Collin County residents who need immediate legal help after a motor vehicle accident.

Every 57 seconds in Texas, another crash occurs. In 2024 alone, 251,977 people were injured on Texas roads, and Plano’s growing population and busy highways like US-75, the Dallas North Tollway, and President George Bush Turnpike make our community particularly vulnerable. When you’re hurt in a collision on these roads, you need more than just a lawyer—you need a legal emergency response team that knows how to fight insurance companies and secure the compensation you deserve.

Ralph Manginello, our founding attorney with over 25 years of experience, has seen firsthand how insurance adjusters try to minimize claims and pressure victims into accepting lowball settlements. That’s why we’ve built a team that includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who knows their tactics from the inside. Together, we’ve recovered millions for accident victims across Texas, including cases settling in the millions for clients with catastrophic injuries. When you call 1-888-ATTY-911, you’re not just getting a law firm—you’re getting a team that treats you like family and fights for every dollar you deserve.

The Reality of Car Accidents in Plano and Collin County

Plano is one of the fastest-growing cities in Texas, with a population exceeding 285,000 residents. Our city’s rapid expansion brings more vehicles on the road, increasing the risk of accidents. The Texas Department of Transportation reports that Collin County saw over 12,000 crashes in 2024, with hundreds resulting in serious injuries. Major highways like US-75, which runs through the heart of Plano, are particularly dangerous, accounting for a significant portion of our area’s accidents.

The intersection of US-75 and SH-121 is one of the most hazardous in our region, with multiple collisions occurring monthly. Other high-risk areas include:

The Dallas North Tollway corridor, especially near Legacy Drive
President George Bush Turnpike between Coit Road and Preston Road
Central Expressway (US-75) from Parker Road to Spring Creek Parkway
Preston Road between SH-121 and Legacy Drive
Coit Road between SH-121 and Legacy Drive

These busy thoroughfares see a mix of local commuters, commercial trucks, and through traffic, creating a perfect storm for accidents. Whether you were rear-ended on the Dallas North Tollway during rush hour or sideswiped by a distracted driver on Preston Road, our team knows how to investigate these crashes and hold negligent drivers accountable.

Why Plano Accident Victims Need Attorney911

When you’re injured in a Plano car accident, you’re not just dealing with physical pain—you’re facing an insurance system designed to pay you as little as possible. Most law firms in Collin County will take your case and settle it quickly for whatever the insurance company offers. At Attorney911, we do things differently.

Lupe Peña, our associate attorney, spent years working for a national defense firm, learning exactly how insurance companies value claims and build cases against victims. He knows their playbook because he wrote it. Now, he uses that insider knowledge to fight for you. As Lupe explains:

“I’ve reviewed hundreds of surveillance videos and social media posts as a defense attorney. Here’s the truth: Insurance companies take innocent activity out of context. They freeze ONE frame of you moving ‘normally’ and ignore the 10 minutes of you struggling before and after. They’re not documenting your life—they’re building ammunition against you.”

This insider perspective is invaluable when dealing with insurance adjusters who will try to minimize your injuries, blame you for the accident, or pressure you into accepting a settlement that doesn’t cover your medical bills. We know the tactics they use because we used to use them ourselves.

Our firm’s commitment to Plano residents goes beyond just legal representation. We’re part of this community. Ralph Manginello grew up in the Houston area but has deep connections to North Texas, and we’ve helped countless Collin County families recover from devastating accidents. As client Chad Harris from Plano shared:

“You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client…You are FAMILY to them.”

This personal attention is what sets Attorney911 apart from the high-volume firms that treat you like just another case number.

Comprehensive Coverage of All Motor Vehicle Accident Types in Plano

At Attorney911, we handle every type of motor vehicle accident that occurs in Plano and throughout Collin County. Our experience includes:

Car Accidents in Plano (Tier 1 – Most Common)

Car accidents are the most frequent type of collision we see in Plano, ranging from minor fender-benders to catastrophic crashes. In 2024, Texas saw 251,977 people injured in motor vehicle crashes, with one person injured every 2 minutes and 5 seconds. Plano’s busy roads contribute significantly to these statistics.

Common causes of car accidents in our area include:

Distracted driving (texting, phone use, eating)
Speeding on highways like US-75 and the Dallas North Tollway
Failure to yield at intersections
Running red lights and stop signs
Following too closely (especially during rush hour)
Drunk or drugged driving
Weather-related accidents (ice, rain, fog)

Common injuries from Plano car accidents:

Whiplash and soft tissue injuries
Herniated discs (often requiring surgery)
Broken bones and fractures
Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
Spinal cord injuries
Internal organ damage
Psychological trauma (PTSD, anxiety, depression)

One of our recent cases involved a Plano client whose leg was injured in a car accident on the Dallas North Tollway. During treatment, staff infections developed, leading to a partial amputation. This case settled in the millions—not the $50,000 the insurance company initially offered. As client MONGO SLADE from nearby Frisco shared:

“I was rear-ended and the team got right to work…I also got a very nice settlement.”

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Plano, don’t let the insurance company lowball your claim. Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We don’t get paid unless we win your case.

18-Wheeler and Trucking Accidents (Tier 1 – Most Dangerous)

Plano sits at the crossroads of major trucking routes, with US-75, the Dallas North Tollway, and President George Bush Turnpike serving as critical corridors for commercial traffic. These massive vehicles, weighing up to 80,000 pounds, create a significant hazard for passenger vehicles. In 2024, Texas saw 39,393 commercial motor vehicle crashes, resulting in 608 fatalities and 1,601 serious injuries. Our state accounts for 11% of all fatal truck crashes in the nation.

The size disparity between trucks and passenger vehicles means that when collisions occur, the results are often catastrophic. A fully loaded 18-wheeler can weigh 20 times more than a typical car, and the force of impact is proportional to that weight difference. This is why trucking accidents in Plano often result in:

Traumatic brain injuries
Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
Multiple broken bones
Internal organ damage
Wrongful death

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations are designed to prevent these accidents, but violations are common. Some of the most frequent violations we see in Plano trucking accidents include:

Hours of Service (HOS) violations (drivers exceeding 11-hour driving limit)
Failure to maintain proper logs (now required to be electronic)
Inadequate vehicle maintenance (brakes, tires, lights)
Improper cargo loading (shifting loads causing instability)
Driver fatigue (exceeding 14-hour on-duty limit)
Drug and alcohol violations (commercial drivers held to 0.04% BAC limit)

When these violations occur, they can establish negligence per se, making it easier to prove liability. Our firm has recovered millions for victims of trucking accidents, including cases involving wrongful death. As we’ve documented:

“At Attorney911, our personal injury attorneys have helped numerous injured individuals and families facing trucking-related wrongful death cases recover millions of dollars in compensation.”

Ralph Manginello’s admission to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, is particularly valuable in trucking cases, as many involve federal regulations and may be filed in federal court. Our involvement in the BP explosion litigation also demonstrates our capability to take on billion-dollar corporations in complex litigation.

Recent nuclear verdicts in Texas trucking cases show what’s possible when companies are held accountable:

2024: $37.5 million verdict against Oncor Electric for a distracted truck driver
2024: $44.1 million verdict in the New Prime I-35 pileup that killed 6 people
2024: $35 million settlement in the Ben E. Keith case (largest in Fort Worth history)

Electronic data from trucks, including Electronic Logging Device (ELD) data and black box information, is critical evidence—but it can be overwritten in as little as 30 days. If you’ve been involved in a trucking accident in Plano, call Attorney911 immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911. We send preservation letters to secure this evidence before it’s lost forever.

Drunk Driving Accidents (Tier 1 – 100% Preventable)

Drunk driving is one of the most preventable causes of accidents, yet it remains a significant problem in Plano and throughout Collin County. In 2024, Texas saw 1,053 alcohol-impaired driving deaths, accounting for 25.37% of all traffic fatalities. That’s one person killed every 8 hours and 18 minutes by a drunk driver in our state.

The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit in Texas is 0.08% for regular drivers and 0.04% for commercial drivers. However, impairment begins well below these limits. At 0.02% BAC, drivers experience some loss of judgment and relaxation. At 0.05%, coordination and ability to track moving objects are impaired. By 0.08%, concentration, short-term memory loss, and speed control are significantly affected.

What makes drunk driving cases unique is the potential for dram shop liability. Under Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code § 2.02, bars, restaurants, and other establishments can be held liable if they served alcohol to someone who was obviously intoxicated and that person then caused an accident. Signs of obvious intoxication include:

Slurred speech
Bloodshot or glassy eyes
Unsteady gait or stumbling
Impaired coordination
Aggressive or erratic behavior
Strong odor of alcohol

Potentially liable parties in drunk driving cases include:

The drunk driver
Bars and nightclubs
Restaurants serving alcohol
Liquor stores
Event organizers (concerts, festivals)
Social hosts (in limited circumstances)

Punitive damages are often available in drunk driving cases because the behavior constitutes gross negligence or malice. These damages are designed to punish the defendant and deter similar conduct. In Texas, punitive damages are capped at the greater of $200,000 or two times the amount of economic damages plus an amount equal to non-economic damages (capped at $750,000).

Ralph Manginello’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) is particularly valuable in drunk driving cases, as it demonstrates our capability to handle both the criminal and civil aspects of these claims. Our firm has successfully defended multiple DWI cases, which gives us unique insight into how to build strong civil cases against drunk drivers:

“Our client was charged with drunk driving based on a breath test. Our investigation revealed that a police department employee was not properly maintaining the breathalyzer machines. The charges were dismissed.”

This level of investigation is what we bring to every drunk driving accident case. If you or a loved one has been injured by a drunk driver in Plano, call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911. We’ll investigate every angle, including potential dram shop liability, to maximize your compensation.

Motorcycle Accidents in Plano (Tier 1 – High Risk)

Plano’s scenic routes and warm Texas weather make it a popular area for motorcyclists. However, the lack of protection afforded by motorcycles means that accidents often result in severe injuries or fatalities. In 2024, Texas saw 585 motorcyclist fatalities, with 37% of those killed not wearing helmets.

Texas law requires all riders under 21 to wear helmets. Riders over 21 may ride without a helmet if they have completed a safety course or have $10,000 in medical insurance coverage. However, helmets are proven to reduce the risk of death by 37% and are always recommended.

Common causes of motorcycle accidents in Plano include:

Failure to yield right of way (most common cause)
Driver inattention or distraction
Unsafe lane changes
Left-turn accidents (often resulting in T-bone or head-on collisions)
Speeding or reckless driving
Road hazards (potholes, debris, uneven surfaces)

One of the biggest challenges in motorcycle accident cases is the Texas comparative negligence rule. Insurance companies almost always try to blame the motorcyclist, arguing that they were speeding, lane-splitting, or otherwise contributed to the accident. Under Texas law, if you’re found to be 51% or more at fault, you recover nothing. Even if you’re 50% or less at fault, your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault.

This is where Lupe Peña’s experience is invaluable. Having worked for insurance companies, he knows exactly how they build comparative fault arguments—and how to defeat them. As client Jamin Marroquin shared:

“Mr. Manginello guided me through the whole process with great expertise…tenacious, accessible, and determined throughout the 19 months.”

If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident in Plano, don’t let the insurance company blame you. Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We know how to fight these arguments and secure the compensation you deserve.

Pedestrian Accidents (Tier 2 – Vulnerable Road Users)

Plano’s growing population and urban development have led to increased pedestrian traffic, particularly in areas like Downtown Plano, the Shops at Legacy, and along the DART light rail corridor. Unfortunately, this also means more pedestrian accidents. In 2024, Texas saw 6,095 pedestrian crashes, resulting in 768 fatalities. Pedestrians account for just 1% of all crashes but 19% of all roadway deaths.

What many drivers don’t realize is that pedestrians ALWAYS have the right-of-way at intersections in Texas—even at unmarked crosswalks. Texas law states that anytime there’s an intersection of two streets, the distance between them is considered a crosswalk, even if it’s not marked. This is a critical legal point that many drivers (and insurance companies) overlook.

Common injuries in pedestrian accidents include:

Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
Broken pelvis and legs
Internal organ damage
Fatalities

The City of Plano has made efforts to improve pedestrian safety, including adding more crosswalks and pedestrian signals, but accidents still occur. High-risk areas include:

Downtown Plano near the DART station
The Shops at Legacy area
Along Coit Road and Preston Road
Near schools and parks
Residential areas with high foot traffic

If you’ve been struck by a vehicle while walking in Plano, call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911. We’ll fight to prove the driver’s negligence and secure compensation for your injuries.

Rideshare Accidents (Uber/Lyft) (Tier 2 – Complex Insurance)

Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have become increasingly popular in Plano, providing convenient transportation options for residents and visitors. However, these services also introduce complex insurance issues when accidents occur. The rideshare industry has grown exponentially, with over 11 billion trips completed in the US since 2010 and 17.4 million Uber trips occurring daily.

The critical issue in rideshare accidents is determining which insurance policy applies. Uber and Lyft provide different levels of coverage depending on what the driver was doing at the time of the accident:

Phase	Driver Status	Coverage Available
Period 0 – Offline	App off, personal use	Personal insurance only (Texas minimum: $30,000/$60,000/$25,000)
Period 1 – Waiting	App on, no ride request	Contingent coverage: $50,000 per person / $100,000 per accident / $25,000 property damage
Period 2 – Accepted	Ride accepted, en route to pickup	Full commercial: $1,000,000 liability
Period 3 – Transporting	Passenger in vehicle	Full commercial: $1,000,000 liability

This means that the same driver could have dramatically different coverage amounts depending on whether they had just accepted a ride or were simply waiting for a request. In 2017-2019 data, 58% of rideshare accident victims were third parties (other drivers, pedestrians), 21% were riders, and 21% were drivers.

Lupe Peña’s insurance defense background is particularly valuable in rideshare cases. He understands how to:

Determine the driver’s status at the time of the accident
Identify all available insurance policies
Navigate the complex coverage phases
Maximize recovery from multiple policies

If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident in Plano, call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911. We know how to handle these complex insurance situations and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Hit and Run Accidents (Tier 2 – UM/UIM Claims)

Hit and run accidents are particularly frustrating because the at-fault driver flees the scene, leaving you injured and unsure of how to recover compensation. Nationally, someone is involved in a hit and run accident every 43 seconds. In Texas, the penalties for hit and run are severe:

Severity	Charge	Penalty
Death	2nd Degree Felony	2-20 years prison, up to $10,000 fine
Serious Bodily Injury	3rd Degree Felony	2-10 years prison, up to $10,000 fine
Minor Injury	State Jail Felony	Up to 5 years, up to $5,000 fine
Property Damage ≥$200	Class B Misdemeanor	Up to 6 months jail, up to $2,000 fine

The good news is that your own Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage can compensate you when the at-fault driver is unidentified or uninsured. Texas allows inter-policy stacking, which means you can combine coverage from multiple vehicles on your policy.

However, insurance companies often resist paying UM/UIM claims, arguing that:

You didn’t properly report the accident
The hit and run wasn’t properly documented
You didn’t meet the policy requirements
Your injuries aren’t severe enough

This is where Attorney911’s expertise comes in. We know how to:

Properly document hit and run accidents
Preserve evidence before it’s lost (surveillance footage is typically deleted within 7-30 days)
Navigate UM/UIM claims and stacking
Fight insurance company denials

One of our videos explains UM/UIM coverage in detail: “Uninsured & Underinsured Motorists” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kWcNFyb-Yq8

If you’ve been the victim of a hit and run accident in Plano, call Attorney911 immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911. Time is critical—evidence disappears quickly.

Tesla and Autopilot Accidents (Tier 2 – Emerging Technology)

Plano has seen a significant increase in Tesla vehicles on our roads, with their advanced driver-assistance systems like Autopilot and Full Self-Driving (FSD). While these technologies promise to improve safety, they’ve also been involved in numerous accidents, some fatal.

Notable Tesla Autopilot crashes include:

May 2016, Williston, FL: Joshua Brown killed when Autopilot failed to detect a white 18-wheeler
March 2018, Mountain View, CA: Apple engineer Walter Huang killed (settled April 2024)
December 2024, California: Genesis Mendoza killed in a crash involving Autopilot
August 2025, Miami, FL: $240 million+ jury verdict against Tesla (landmark case)

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that Tesla Autopilot accounts for 70% of driver-assist crashes reported to the agency. In December 2023, Tesla recalled over 2 million vehicles to address Autopilot safety concerns.

Key liability arguments in Tesla/Autopilot cases include:

Misrepresentation: Tesla marketed FSD/Autopilot as safer than human drivers
Overconfidence: Marketing fostered driver overreliance on the system
Known Defects: Tesla knew the system couldn’t detect emergency vehicles
Inadequate Fixes: Tesla used over-the-air software updates instead of comprehensive recalls

Ralph Manginello’s admission to federal court is particularly valuable in these cases, as product liability claims against manufacturers often end up in federal court. Our experience with complex litigation, including the BP explosion case, demonstrates our capability to take on billion-dollar corporations.

If you’ve been injured in an accident involving a Tesla or other autonomous vehicle in Plano, call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911. These cases require specialized knowledge and aggressive representation.

Bicycle Accidents (Tier 3 – Growing Concern)

Plano’s extensive trail system and bike-friendly initiatives have made cycling increasingly popular in our community. However, this also means more bicycle accidents. In 2024, Texas saw 78 bicyclist fatalities, a 26.42% decrease from the previous year but still a significant concern.

Common causes of bicycle accidents in Plano include:

Drivers failing to yield to cyclists
Dooring accidents (car doors opening into cyclists)
Distracted driving
Speeding
Poor road conditions
Lack of designated bike lanes

The Texas comparative negligence rule is particularly problematic in bicycle accident cases. Insurance companies often argue that cyclists were:

Riding against traffic
Not using proper lights/reflectors
Riding on sidewalks where prohibited
Not wearing helmets
Riding while distracted

However, Texas law protects cyclists’ rights. Bicycles are considered vehicles, and cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicle drivers. This means cyclists are entitled to use the road and must be given the same consideration as other vehicles.

If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident in Plano, call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911. We’ll fight to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.

Bus Accidents (Tier 3 – Public Transportation)

Plano is served by DART (Dallas Area Rapid Transit) buses, which provide important transportation options for our community. However, bus accidents can result in serious injuries due to the size and weight of these vehicles. In 2024, Texas saw 1,110 bus accidents, leading all states in total bus crashes.

Common causes of bus accidents include:

Driver fatigue
Distracted driving
Inadequate training
Poor vehicle maintenance
Road conditions
Other drivers’ negligence

Bus accidents can involve multiple liable parties:

The bus driver
The bus company (DART or private operator)
The vehicle manufacturer (defective parts)
Other drivers involved in the accident
Government entities (poor road design, inadequate signage)

Special notice requirements apply when suing government entities, making these cases particularly complex. If you’ve been injured in a bus accident in Plano, call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911. We have experience handling claims against government entities and will fight for your rights.

Construction Zone Accidents (Tier 3 – Work Zone Dangers)

Plano’s rapid growth means constant construction on our roads and highways. Unfortunately, work zones are particularly dangerous for both workers and drivers. In 2024, Texas saw nearly 28,000 crashes in work zones, resulting in 215 deaths—a 12% increase over the previous year.

Work zone fatalities have increased 50% nationally over the past decade. A 2025 survey found that:

60% of highway contractors reported crashes into their work zones
43% reported worker injuries from these crashes

One tragic case involved Katrina Bond, a college student who slowed for work zone traffic on I-35 near Fort Worth. The driver of a heavy pickup truck, who admitted to receiving a text message, rear-ended her vehicle. The force pushed her car into the path of another truck, resulting in her death.

Construction zone accidents often involve:

Speeding in work zones
Distracted driving
Failure to obey traffic control devices
Improper lane changes
Following too closely

If you’ve been injured in a construction zone accident in Plano, call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911. We’ll investigate the accident thoroughly and hold negligent parties accountable.

Wrongful Death Claims (Tier 3 – Tragic Losses)

Losing a loved one in a motor vehicle accident is devastating. When that loss is caused by someone else’s negligence, you may have a wrongful death claim. In Texas, wrongful death claims are separate from survival actions, and both may be available after a fatal accident.

A wrongful death claim is brought by surviving family members (spouse, children, parents) for the damages THEY suffered from the loss of their loved one. These damages may include:

Loss of companionship
Mental anguish
Lost financial support
Funeral and burial expenses

A survival action is brought on behalf of the deceased’s estate for the damages THE DECEASED would have recovered if they had survived. These damages may include:

Pain and suffering before death
Medical expenses before death
Lost income before death

Our firm has helped numerous families recover millions in wrongful death cases, including trucking-related fatalities. As we’ve documented:

“At Attorney911, our personal injury attorneys have helped numerous injured individuals and families facing trucking-related wrongful death cases recover millions of dollars in compensation.”

If you’ve lost a loved one in a motor vehicle accident in Plano, call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911. We’ll handle your case with compassion and fight for the justice your family deserves.

What to Do Immediately After an Accident in Plano

If you’ve been in an accident in Plano, your actions in the first 48 hours can significantly impact your case. Follow this 48-hour protocol to protect your rights:

Hour 1-6 (Immediate Crisis)

✅ Safety First: If you can move safely, get to a secure location away from traffic. Turn on your hazard lights and set up flares if available.

✅ Call 911: Report the accident and request medical assistance if anyone is injured. Even if you feel fine, get checked out—adrenaline can mask serious injuries.

✅ Document Everything:

Take photos of ALL vehicle damage (every angle)
Photograph the accident scene, road conditions, traffic signals, and skid marks
Take photos of visible injuries
Screenshot any messages visible on your phone (do NOT delete anything)
Note the time, location, and weather conditions

✅ Exchange Information:

Other driver’s name, phone number, and address
Insurance company and policy number
Driver’s license number
License plate number
Vehicle make, model, and color

✅ Witnesses:

Get names and phone numbers of any witnesses
Ask if they saw what happened
Record their statements if possible (use your phone’s voice recorder)

✅ Call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate legal guidance before speaking to ANY insurance company

Hour 6-24 (Evidence Preservation)

✅ Digital Preservation:

Preserve all texts, calls, photos, videos related to the accident
Do NOT delete anything from your phone
Screenshot everything relevant
Email copies to yourself for backup

✅ Physical Evidence:

Secure damaged clothing, glasses, personal items
Keep receipts for any expenses (towing, rental car, medications)
Do NOT repair your vehicle yet—preserve the damage

✅ Medical Records:

Request copies of all ER/hospital records
Keep all discharge paperwork
Follow up with your primary care physician within 24-48 hours
Document all symptoms, even minor ones

✅ Insurance Communications:

Note any calls from insurance companies
Do NOT give recorded statements yet
Do NOT sign anything
Do NOT accept any settlement offers
Say: “I need to speak with my attorney first”

✅ Social Media:

Make ALL profiles private immediately
Do NOT post about the accident
Do NOT post photos of injuries or activities
Tell friends and family not to tag you in posts
Assume EVERYTHING is being monitored

Hour 24-48 (Strategic Decisions)

✅ Legal Consultation:

Speak with an experienced motor vehicle accident attorney
Call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation
Have your documentation ready

✅ Insurance Response:

If insurance contacts you, refer them to your attorney
Say: “My attorney will be in touch with you”
Provide only basic information: name, date of accident, that you were involved

✅ Settlement Offers:

Do NOT accept or sign anything without lawyer review
Early offers are ALWAYS lowball offers
You don’t know the extent of your injuries yet

✅ Evidence Backup:

Upload all screenshots and photos to cloud storage
Email copies to yourself and a family member
Create a written timeline of events while your memory is fresh

Week One Priorities

✅ Medical Follow-Up:

Continue documenting all injuries
See specialists if recommended
Follow ALL doctor recommendations (insurance watches for gaps)
Get written work restrictions if needed

✅ Investigation Begins:

Attorney obtains police report
Preservation letters sent to all parties
Surveillance footage secured before deletion
Witness statements recorded

✅ Communication:

Attorney handles ALL insurance communication
You focus on recovery
Document any pressure from insurance or other parties

Why Evidence Disappears So Quickly

One of the most critical reasons to call Attorney911 immediately is that evidence disappears on a predictable schedule. Here’s what happens to critical evidence after an accident:

Day 1-7:

Witness memories peak but begin fading immediately
Witnesses become harder to locate as days pass
Details are forgotten or become uncertain
Physical evidence: Skid marks fade, debris is cleared, the accident scene is cleaned

Day 7-30:

Surveillance footage is DELETED:
- Gas stations: 7-14 days
- Retail stores: 30 days
- Ring doorbells: 30-60 days
- Traffic cameras: 30 days
Once deleted = GONE FOREVER—cannot be recovered
Witnesses: Change jobs, move, become unreachable
Scene changes: Road repairs, new striping, traffic signals adjusted

Month 1-2:

Insurance companies solidify their defense position
Adjusters have built a file against you
Settlement position hardens
Vehicle repairs: Evidence from vehicles is destroyed once they’re repaired

Month 2-6:

Trucking electronic data is DELETED:
- ELD (Electronic Logging Device) data: 30-180 days retention
- Black box data: Can be automatically overwritten
- GPS/telematics: Varies by company
Cell phone records: Harder to obtain as time passes
Social media: Posts are deleted, accounts are deactivated

Month 6-12:

Witnesses: Graduate, move away, memory severely degraded
Medical evidence: Harder to link injuries to the accident
Treatment gaps: Used against you by insurance
Financial desperation: Mounting bills make you vulnerable to lowball offers

Month 12-24:

Approaching the 2-year statute of limitations
Creates pressure to settle (insurance knows you’re desperate)
Evidence is severely degraded
Case value is diminished

Texas Motor Vehicle Law Framework

Understanding Texas law is crucial for protecting your rights after an accident. Here are the key legal concepts you need to know:

Statute of Limitations

Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code § 16.003 establishes strict deadlines for filing lawsuits:

Claim Type	Time Limit	Starts From
Personal Injury	2 years	Date of accident
Wrongful Death	2 years	Date of death
Property Damage	2 years	Date of damage
Government Claims	6 months notice	Date of incident
Minors	Tolled until 18	Then 2 years from 18th birthday

Exceptions:

Discovery Rule: The statute of limitations may start later if the injury or its cause wasn’t immediately discoverable
Defendant Absence: The clock may be tolled if the defendant leaves Texas
Mental Incapacity: The clock may be tolled during periods of incapacity

CRITICAL: If you miss the deadline, your case is BARRED forever. You cannot file a lawsuit, and you lose all leverage with the insurance company.

Comparative Negligence (51% Bar Rule)

Texas uses a modified comparative negligence system with a 51% bar. This means:

If you are 50% or less at fault, you can recover damages (reduced by your percentage of fault)
If you are 51% or more at fault, you recover NOTHING

Examples:

Your Fault %	Case Value	Your Recovery
0%	$100,000	$100,000
10%	$100,000	$90,000
25%	$250,000	$187,500
40%	$500,000	$300,000
50%	$500,000	$250,000
51%	$500,000	$0

Why This Matters:
Insurance companies ALWAYS try to assign maximum fault to you to reduce their payment. Even small fault percentages can cost you thousands:

10% fault on a $100,000 case = $10,000 less for you
25% fault on a $250,000 case = $62,500 less for you
40% fault on a $500,000 case = $200,000 less for you

Lupe Peña’s experience is invaluable here. Having worked for insurance companies, he knows exactly how they build comparative fault arguments—and how to defeat them.

Texas Minimum Auto Insurance Requirements

Texas is an at-fault state, meaning the at-fault driver’s insurance is responsible for compensating injured parties. The minimum required coverage is:

Coverage	Minimum Required
Bodily Injury – Per Person	$30,000
Bodily Injury – Per Accident	$60,000
Property Damage – Per Accident	$25,000

Uninsured Motorist Statistics:

15.4% of US motorists are uninsured (approximately 1 in 7 drivers)
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage is critical for protection
Texas allows inter-policy stacking

Dram Shop Liability

Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code § 2.02 establishes dram shop liability, which allows victims of drunk driving accidents to sue establishments that served alcohol to obviously intoxicated patrons. To prove dram shop liability, you must show:

The establishment served alcohol to someone who was obviously intoxicated at the time of service
The over-service was the proximate cause of the accident and damages

Signs of Obvious Intoxication:

Slurred speech
Bloodshot or glassy eyes
Unsteady gait or stumbling
Impaired coordination
Aggressive or erratic behavior
Strong odor of alcohol

Potentially Liable Parties:

Bars and nightclubs
Restaurants serving alcohol
Liquor stores
Event organizers (concerts, festivals)
Social hosts (in limited circumstances)

Punitive Damages

Punitive (or exemplary) damages are available in cases involving:

Fraud
Malice
Gross negligence

In motor vehicle accident cases, punitive damages are often available in drunk driving cases because the behavior constitutes gross negligence or malice.

Punitive Damage Cap in Texas:
The greater of:

$200,000, OR
2x economic damages PLUS 1x non-economic damages (capped at $750,000 for the non-economic portion)

How Insurance Companies Try to Minimize Your Claim

At Attorney911, we know how insurance companies operate because Lupe Peña spent years working for them. Here are the six major tactics they use to minimize your claim—and how we counter them:

Tactic #1: Quick Contact & Recorded Statement Trap

What They Do:
Within hours or days of your accident, an insurance adjuster will contact you—often while you’re still in the hospital, on pain medication, or overwhelmed by the situation. They’ll sound friendly and helpful, saying things like:

“We just want to help you”
“We need to get your side of the story to process your claim”
“This is routine, everyone does this”
“It’ll only take a few minutes”

What They’re Really Doing:
They’re building their defense against you with leading questions designed to get you to minimize your injuries or admit fault:

Question They Ask	What They Want You to Say
“You’re feeling better now though, right?”	Trap you into saying you’re improving
“It wasn’t that bad of an impact, was it?”	Minimize collision severity
“You were able to walk away from the scene?”	Suggest injuries aren’t serious
“Were you distracted at all?”	Get you to admit distraction
“How fast were you going?”	Hope you overestimate or say “I don’t know”

The Truth:

You are NOT required to give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance company
Giving a statement without an attorney ALMOST ALWAYS hurts your case
Insurance companies know this—that’s why they push so hard

How Attorney911 Counters:
Once you hire Attorney911:

We become your voice
All calls go through us
You don’t talk to adjusters
We prepare you properly if a statement becomes absolutely necessary
We know their questions because Lupe asked them for years

Tactic #2: Quick Settlement Offer Trap

What They Do:
Within days or weeks of your accident, the insurance company will offer you a quick settlement:

Typical offers: $2,000-$5,000
Sometimes $10,000-$15,000 if they’re scared
Sounds good when you have zero money and mounting bills

They Create Artificial Urgency:

“This offer expires in 48 hours”
“I can only get approval for this amount right now”
“Take it or leave it”
“This is our final offer” (it’s not)

The Trap:
You don’t know the extent of your injuries yet. Here’s what often happens:

What Happens	Result
Day 3: Insurance offers $3,500 “final settlement”	You’re desperate, in pain, scared
You sign the release	You think it’s over
Week 6: MRI shows herniated disc requiring surgery	Surgery costs $100,000
TOO LATE	You signed the release, can’t reopen claim
You pay $100,000 out of pocket	Insurance pays nothing more

The Release is PERMANENT and FINAL.

How Attorney911 Counters:
We NEVER settle before you’ve reached Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI). MMI is the point where you’ve recovered as much as you’re going to—whether that’s 6 months, 12 months, or 24 months after your accident. You can’t know the true value of your case until you’ve reached MMI.

Lupe knows these offers are always lowball because he calculated them for years. He knows they’re offering 10-20% of what your case is truly worth.

Tactic #3: “Independent” Medical Exam (IME) Scheme

What They Call It:
“Independent Medical Examination” (IME)

What It Really Is:
An insurance company-hired doctor whose job is to minimize your injuries.

How They Choose IME Doctors:
Insurance companies don’t choose the most qualified doctors—they choose doctors who give them favorable reports. Selection criteria include:

Doctors who consistently find “no injury” or “pre-existing condition”
Doctors paid THOUSANDS by insurance companies ($2,000-$5,000 per exam)
Repeat business = repeat favorable reports

What Happens at the IME:

10-15 minute “examination” (vs. your treating doctor’s thorough evaluation)
Rarely review your complete medical records beforehand
Ask questions designed to elicit “I’m feeling better” responses
Look for ANY reason to minimize your injuries

Common IME Doctor Findings:

What They Say	What It Means
“Patient has pre-existing degenerative changes”	Everyone over 40 has some arthritis—used to deny claims
“Injuries consistent with minor trauma”	Minimizes your pain and suffering
“Patient can return to full duty work”	Eliminates lost wage claims
“Treatment has been excessive”	Attacks your treating doctors
“Subjective complaints out of proportion to objective findings”	Medical speak for calling you a LIAR

How Attorney911 Counters:

We prepare you extensively before the exam
We send your complete medical records to the IME doctor first (forcing them to review)
We challenge biased IME reports with our own medical experts
Lupe knows these specific doctors and their biases—he hired them for years

Tactic #4: Delay and Financial Pressure

What They Do:
They drag your case out, hoping you’ll get desperate and accept a lowball offer:

“Still investigating your claim”
“Waiting for medical records” (that we sent months ago)
“Reviewing your file”
“Need additional information”
Ignore calls and emails
Take weeks to respond to simple questions

Why Delay Works:
Insurance Companies Have:

Unlimited time
Unlimited resources
No financial pressure
Earning interest on YOUR settlement money while delaying

You Have:

Mounting bills
Zero income
Creditors threatening
Need money NOW

Financial Desperation Makes You Accept Less:

Month 1: You’d reject a $5,000 offer
Month 6: You’d seriously consider $5,000
Month 12: You’d BEG for $5,000 just to end the nightmare

How Attorney911 Counters:

We file a lawsuit to force deadlines
We set depositions, forcing them to produce witnesses
We prepare for trial, showing we’re serious
Lupe understands delay tactics because he used them—he knows when to push

Tactic #5: Surveillance and Social Media Monitoring

What They Do:
Insurance companies hire private investigators to:

Video you doing daily activities
Film from public places (your driveway, street, stores)
Follow you to appointments, errands, social activities
Look for ANY activity that contradicts your injury claims
One video of you bending over = “Not really injured”

They Monitor ALL Your Social Media:

Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, Twitter/X, YouTube, Snapchat
Screenshot EVERYTHING: photos, posts, check-ins, comments, likes
Monitor your friends’ profiles for posts mentioning you
Use facial recognition to find photos you’re tagged in
Archive your entire social media history

Examples We’ve Defended:

Example	What Happened	Insurance Claimed	Reality
Old Photo	Gym photo from 3 YEARS AGO	Presented as recent, contradicts injury	We proved metadata was pre-accident
Restaurant Check-in	Facebook check-in at restaurant	“Partying and having fun”	Sitting quietly having dinner
Friend’s Comment	Friend posted “Had fun yesterday!”	Evidence of non-injury	Client was resting at home
Walking Dog	Video of client walking dog slowly	“Not disabled”	Doctor RECOMMENDED short walks
Smiling in Photo	Family photo smiling	“Not in pain—she’s smiling!”	Everyone smiles for photos

7 Rules for Clients:

Make ALL profiles private immediately
DON’T post about the accident, injuries, or activities
DON’T check in anywhere
Tell friends and family: don’t tag, don’t post about you
Don’t accept friend requests from strangers (fake profiles)
BEST: Stay off social media entirely during your case
Assume EVERYTHING is being monitored

Lupe’s Insider Quote:

“I’ve reviewed hundreds of surveillance videos and social media posts as a defense attorney. Here’s the truth: Insurance companies take innocent activity out of context. They freeze ONE frame of you moving ‘normally’ and ignore the 10 minutes of you struggling before and after. They’re not documenting your life—they’re building ammunition against you.”

Tactic #6: Comparative Fault Arguments

What They Do:
They try to assign you MAXIMUM fault to reduce their payment:

“You were speeding” (without evidence)
“You weren’t paying attention” (speculation)
“You could have avoided this” (hindsight bias)
“You were distracted” (guessing)
“You contributed to this accident” (shifting blame)

Why They Do This:
Texas’s 51% bar rule means:

If you’re 51%+ at fault → You get NOTHING
If you’re 50% or less at fault → Your damages are reduced by your percentage

Even Small Fault Percentages Cost Thousands:

10% fault on a $100,000 case = $10,000 less for you
25% fault on a $250,000 case = $62,500 less for you
40% fault on a $500,000 case = $200,000 less for you

How Attorney911 Counters:
Aggressive Liability Investigation:

Accident reconstruction proving the other driver’s fault
Witness statements supporting your version
Police report analysis emphasizing citations
Expert testimony on perception-reaction time

Lupe knows their fault arguments because he made them for years—now he defeats them.

How Colossus Software Undervalues Your Claim

Most insurance companies use a computerized system called Colossus to calculate the value of your claim. Here’s how it works—and how they manipulate it:

How Colossus Works

Step	What Happens
1. Data Entry	Adjuster inputs injury codes, treatment types, medical costs, lost wages, jurisdiction
2. Coding	Injuries are coded using standardized medical terms
3. Calculation	Software applies algorithms to determine “value”
4. Range Output	System provides recommended settlement range
5. Authority	Adjuster typically cannot exceed without supervisor approval

How Insurance Companies Manipulate Colossus

Manipulation	Effect
Low Injury Codes	“Soft tissue strain” instead of “disc herniation” reduces value 50-100%
Excessive Treatment Flags	Therapy beyond “normal” range triggers reduction
Conservative Treatment Penalty	Chiropractic valued less than MD treatment
Pre-Existing Reduction	Any prior condition used to reduce value
Jurisdiction Factor	Low-verdict counties get lower values

Why Lupe’s Experience Matters

Lupe calculated these multipliers for years using insurance company formulas. He knows:

When to push for higher multipliers (4-5× vs. 2-3×)
Which factors insurance weighs most heavily
How to document cases to justify higher multipliers
When the multiplier method undervalues the case (catastrophic injuries)
When to abandon the multiplier and demand policy limits

We Don’t Accept Low Multipliers:

Insurance offers 1.5× multiplier for severe injury? We fight for 4-5×
We document permanency, impact, severity
We prepare for trial if they won’t pay a fair multiplier
Our multi-million dollar results prove we don’t accept low multipliers

What You Can Recover: Damages in Texas Motor Vehicle Accident Cases

If you’ve been injured in a motor vehicle accident in Plano, you may be entitled to various types of compensation, known as damages. Texas law allows you to recover both economic and non-economic damages, and in some cases, punitive damages.

Economic Damages (No Cap in Texas)

Economic damages are quantifiable financial losses you’ve suffered as a result of the accident:

Damage Type	What It Covers
Medical Expenses (Past)	ER visits, hospital stays, surgery, doctor visits, physical therapy, medications, medical equipment
Medical Expenses (Future)	Ongoing treatment, future surgeries, lifetime medications, long-term care
Lost Wages (Past)	Income lost from the date of the accident to the present
Lost Earning Capacity (Future)	Reduced ability to earn income in the future due to permanent injuries
Property Damage	Vehicle repair or replacement, personal property damaged in the accident
Out-of-Pocket Expenses	Transportation to medical appointments, home modifications, household help

Non-Economic Damages (No Cap Except Medical Malpractice)

Non-economic damages compensate you for intangible losses that don’t have a specific dollar value:

Damage Type	What It Covers
Pain and Suffering	Physical pain from injuries, both past and future
Mental Anguish	Emotional distress, anxiety, depression, fear, PTSD
Physical Impairment	Loss of physical function, disability, limitations on activities
Disfigurement	Scarring, permanent visible injuries affecting appearance
Loss of Consortium	Impact on marriage and family relationships, loss of companionship
Loss of Enjoyment of Life	Inability to participate in activities you previously enjoyed

Punitive/Exemplary Damages (Capped)

Punitive damages are available in cases involving:

Fraud
Malice
Gross negligence

In motor vehicle accident cases, punitive damages are often available in drunk driving cases because the behavior constitutes gross negligence.

Punitive Damage Cap in Texas:
The greater of:

$200,000, OR
2x economic damages PLUS 1x non-economic damages (capped at $750,000 for the non-economic portion)

Settlement Ranges by Injury Type

The value of your case depends on the severity of your injuries, the impact on your life, and the available insurance coverage. Here are typical settlement ranges for common injuries:

Soft Tissue Injuries (Whiplash, Sprains, Strains)

Medical Treatment: $6,000-$16,000
Lost Wages: $2,000-$10,000 (2-6 weeks missed work)
Pain & Suffering: $8,000-$35,000
Settlement Range: $15,000-$60,000
Higher if: Permanent pain, restrictions on activities, chronic condition develops

Broken Bone (Single, Simple Fracture)

Medical Treatment: $10,000-$20,000
Lost Wages: $5,000-$15,000 (4-8 weeks missed work)
Pain & Suffering: $20,000-$60,000
Settlement Range: $35,000-$95,000

Broken Bone (Requiring Surgery – ORIF)

Medical Treatment: $47,000-$98,000
Lost Wages: $10,000-$30,000 (3-6 months)
Pain & Suffering: $75,000-$200,000
Settlement Range: $132,000-$328,000

Herniated Disc (Conservative Treatment)

Medical Treatment: $22,000-$46,000
Lost Wages: $8,000-$25,000
Pain & Suffering: $40,000-$100,000
Settlement Range: $70,000-$171,000

Herniated Disc (Surgery Required)

Past Medical: $96,000-$205,000
Future Medical: $30,000-$100,000
Lost Wages: $20,000-$50,000 (6-12 months recovery)
Lost Earning Capacity: $50,000-$400,000 (if can’t return to physical job)
Pain & Suffering: $150,000-$450,000
Settlement Range: $346,000-$1,205,000

Traumatic Brain Injury (Moderate to Severe)

Past Medical: $198,000-$638,000
Future Medical (Life Care Plan): $300,000-$3,000,000+
Lost Wages: $50,000-$200,000
Lost Earning Capacity: $500,000-$3,000,000+
Pain & Suffering: $500,000-$3,000,000+
Settlement Range: $1,548,000-$9,838,000

Attorney911 Documented Result:

“Multi-million dollar settlement for client who suffered brain injury with vision loss when log dropped on him at logging company”

Spinal Cord Injury / Paralysis

Lifetime care costs by level:

Injury Level	First Year	Each Year After	Lifetime Total
High Tetraplegia (C1-C4)	$1,200,000-$1,500,000	$200,000-$250,000	$6,000,000-$13,000,000+
Low Tetraplegia (C5-C8)	$850,000-$1,100,000	$75,000-$100,000	$3,700,000-$6,100,000+
Paraplegia (T1-L5)	$500,000-$750,000	$70,000-$90,000	$2,500,000-$5,250,000+

Settlement Range: $4,770,000-$25,880,000

Amputation

Medical Treatment: $170,000-$480,000
Future Medical (Lifetime Prosthetics): $500,000-$2,000,000
Settlement Range: $1,945,000-$8,630,000

Attorney911 Documented Result:

“In a recent case, our client’s leg was injured in a car accident. Staff infections during treatment led to a partial amputation. This case settled in the millions”

Wrongful Death (Working Age Adult)

Economic Damages: $1,000,000-$4,000,000 (lost financial support)
Non-Economic Damages: $500,000-$3,000,000 (loss of companionship, mental anguish)
Settlement Range: $1,910,000-$9,520,000

Attorney911 Documented Result:

“At Attorney911, our personal injury attorneys have helped numerous injured individuals and families facing trucking-related wrongful death cases recover millions of dollars in compensation”

Nuclear Verdicts in Texas

Nuclear verdicts (jury awards exceeding $10 million) have become increasingly common in Texas motor vehicle accident cases. These verdicts have a significant impact on settlement values across all serious injury cases because insurance companies fear them.

Recent Texas nuclear verdicts in motor vehicle cases include:

2024: $81.7 million in a car accident wrongful death case (Hatch v. Jones)
2024: $72 million in a Frito-Lay warehouse vehicle collision case
2024: $105 million in Lopez v. All Points 360 (Amazon DSP driver)
2024: $44.1 million in the New Prime I-35 pileup (6 deaths)
2024: $37.5 million in an Oncor Electric trucking case
2024: $35 million settlement in Ben E. Keith (largest in Fort Worth history)

Attorney911’s trial readiness and multi-million dollar track record give us leverage in every negotiation. Insurance companies know we’re not bluffing, and they know we have the capability to secure nuclear verdicts when warranted.

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Plano Motor Vehicle Accident Case

When you’re injured in a motor vehicle accident in Plano, you have many options for legal representation. Here’s why Attorney911 stands out:

1. Insurance Defense Insider Advantage

“Lupe Peña worked for a number of years at a national defense firm, learning firsthand how large insurance companies value claims.”

This is our most powerful differentiator. Lupe spent years working FOR insurance companies, learning:

How they value claims (Colossus software, reserve setting)
Their settlement authority structures and approval processes
Their defense tactics and delay strategies
Their IME (Independent Medical Exam) doctor selection process
Their surveillance and investigation methods
Their delay and financial pressure tactics
Their comparative fault arguments and blame-shifting

Now he uses that knowledge FOR victims, not against them. As Lupe explains:

“I’ve reviewed hundreds of surveillance videos and social media posts as a defense attorney. Here’s the truth: Insurance companies take innocent activity out of context. They freeze ONE frame of you moving ‘normally’ and ignore the 10 minutes of you struggling before and after. They’re not documenting your life—they’re building ammunition against you.”

No other firm in Plano has this level of insider knowledge. We know their playbook because we wrote it.

2. Multi-Million Dollar Results

Attorney911 has recovered millions for victims of motor vehicle accidents, including:

Multi-million dollar settlement for a client who suffered a brain injury with vision loss
Multi-million dollar settlement for a car accident victim whose leg injury led to amputation
Millions recovered for families in trucking-related wrongful death cases
Significant cash settlement for a maritime injury case

Our results speak for themselves. As client Glenda Walker shared:

“They make you feel like family and even though the process may take some time, they make it feel like a breeze. They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.”

3. Federal Court Experience

Ralph Manginello is admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas. This is particularly valuable for:

Complex cases involving federal regulations (like trucking accidents)
Cases against out-of-state defendants
High-value cases that may exceed state court limits

Our involvement in the BP explosion litigation demonstrates our capability to take on billion-dollar corporations in complex litigation.

4. Personal Attention from Partners

At Attorney911, you work directly with Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña, not a case manager assembly line. As client Chad Harris from Plano shared:

“You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client…You are FAMILY to them.”

This personal attention is what sets us apart from high-volume firms that treat you like just another case number.

5. Contingency Fee – No Risk to You

We work on a contingency fee basis, which means:

You pay nothing upfront
We advance all case costs
We don’t get paid unless we win your case
Our fee is a percentage of your recovery

As client Kiimarii Yup shared:

“I lost everything… my car was at a total loss and because of Attorney Manginello and my case worker Leonor… 1 year later I have gained so much in return plus a brand new truck.”

Frequently Asked Questions About Motor Vehicle Accidents in Plano

Immediate After Accident

1. What should I do immediately after a car accident in Plano, Texas?

If you’ve been in an accident in Plano:

Call 911 and report the accident
Seek medical attention even if you feel fine (adrenaline masks injuries)
Document everything: photos of damage, injuries, scene
Exchange information with the other driver
Get witness names and phone numbers
Do NOT give a recorded statement to any insurance company
Call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911

2. Should I call the police even for a minor accident?

Yes. Always call the police. The police report is critical evidence. In Texas, you must report accidents with injuries, deaths, or property damage over $1,000.

3. Should I seek medical attention if I don’t feel hurt?

ABSOLUTELY. Many serious injuries don’t show symptoms immediately:

Traumatic brain injuries can take days to manifest
Internal bleeding may not be obvious
Herniated discs may not cause pain for weeks
Adrenaline masks pain at the scene

Insurance companies use delays in treatment against you. Get checked immediately.

4. What information should I collect at the scene?

Other driver: name, phone, address, driver’s license, insurance
Vehicle: make, model, color, license plate
Witnesses: names and phone numbers
Photos: all vehicle damage, injuries, road conditions, traffic signals
Police: officer name, badge number, report number

5. Should I talk to the other driver or admit fault?

Exchange information only
Do NOT discuss fault
Do NOT apologize or say “I’m sorry” (can be used as admission)
Do NOT give your opinion on what happened
Stick to facts only

6. How do I obtain a copy of the accident report in Plano?

You can obtain the police report from the Plano Police Department or through the Texas Department of Transportation’s Crash Records Information System (CRIS).

Dealing with Insurance

7. Should I give a recorded statement to insurance?

To the other driver’s insurance: NO. Not without an attorney.
To your own insurance: You have a duty to cooperate, but call Attorney911 first. We can advise you.

8. What if the other driver’s insurance contacts me?

Say: “I need to speak with my attorney first.” Give only basic information (name, date of accident). Do NOT give a recorded statement. Do NOT discuss injuries or fault.

9. Do I have to accept the insurance company’s estimate?

No. Their estimate is just an offer. It’s usually far below actual value. Attorney911 fights for what your case is really worth.

10. Should I accept a quick settlement offer?

NEVER accept a settlement before knowing the full extent of your injuries. Once you sign a release, you cannot get more money even if you need surgery later.

11. What if the other driver is uninsured or underinsured?

Your own UM/UIM coverage can compensate you. Watch our video: “Uninsured & Underinsured Motorists” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kWcNFyb-Yq8

12. Why does insurance want me to sign a medical authorization?

They want unlimited access to your ENTIRE medical history to find pre-existing conditions to use against you. Never sign without attorney review.

Legal Process

13. Do I have a personal injury case?

You may have a case if:

Someone else was at fault (even partially)
You suffered injuries or damages
There is insurance to recover from

Watch our video: “Do I Have a Good Case?” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j-PMMP5Jims

14. When should I hire a car accident lawyer?

Immediately. Evidence disappears daily. Insurance companies start building their defense against you from day one. Call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911

15. How much time do I have to file (statute of limitations)?

In Texas: 2 years from the date of the accident for personal injury, 2 years from the date of death for wrongful death. Miss it = case barred forever.

16. What is comparative negligence and how does it affect me?

Texas uses the 51% bar rule. If you’re 50% or less at fault, you can recover (reduced by your fault %). If 51%+ at fault, you get nothing.

Watch our video: “What Is Comparative Negligence?” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=agzHKY_v9l4

17. What happens if I was partially at fault?

You can still recover if you were 50% or less at fault. Your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault.

18. Will my case go to trial?

Most cases settle before trial. But Attorney911 prepares every case AS IF it’s going to trial. That’s what gives us leverage.

Watch our video: “Will Your Case Go to Trial?” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Ed5AnmCMcc

19. How long will my case take to settle?

Depends on injury severity. We don’t settle until you’ve reached maximum medical improvement (MMI). Could be 6 months for minor injuries, 18-24 months for serious injuries.

20. What is the legal process step-by-step?

Investigation and evidence gathering
Medical treatment to MMI
Demand letter to insurance
Negotiation
Lawsuit if necessary
Discovery
Mediation
Trial if needed

Watch our video: “What Is the Process for a Personal Injury Claim?” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XwzYymneDVs

Compensation

21. What is my case worth?

Depends on: injury severity, medical costs, lost wages, permanent impairment, pain and suffering, insurance available. Cases range from $15,000 (soft tissue) to millions (catastrophic injury).

22. What types of damages can I recover?

Medical expenses (past and future)
Lost wages and earning capacity
Pain and suffering
Mental anguish
Physical impairment
Disfigurement
Loss of enjoyment of life
Property damage

23. Can I get compensation for pain and suffering?

Yes. Pain and suffering is a significant component of personal injury cases in Texas. There is NO CAP on pain and suffering (except medical malpractice).

24. What if I have a pre-existing condition?

You can still recover if the accident aggravated or worsened your pre-existing condition. This is called the “eggshell plaintiff” rule.

25. Will I have to pay taxes on my settlement?

Generally, compensation for physical injuries is NOT taxable. Punitive damages ARE taxable. Consult a tax professional.

26. How is the value of my claim determined?

Based on: medical bills, future treatment costs, lost income, permanent impairment rating, comparable verdicts, severity of injuries, impact on daily life.

Attorney Relationship

27. How much do car accident lawyers cost?

Attorney911 works on a contingency fee basis: 33.33% before trial, 40% if trial. You pay nothing upfront. We don’t get paid unless we win.

Watch our video: “How Do Contingency Fees Work?” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc

28. What does “no fee unless we win” mean?

You pay zero unless we recover money for you. If we don’t win, you owe us nothing. We advance all case costs.

29. How often will I get updates?

Attorney911 provides regular updates. As client Dame Haskett said: “Consistent communication and not one time did i call and not get a clear answer.”

30. Who will actually handle my case?

At Attorney911, you work directly with Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña, not just paralegals. As Chad Harris said: “You are NOT just some client…You are FAMILY to them.”

31. What if I already hired another attorney?

You can switch. As client Greg Garcia said: “In the beginning I had another attorney but he dropped my case although Mangiello law firm were able to help me out.”

Specific to Plano

32. Are there specific dangerous intersections in Plano?

Yes, some of the most dangerous intersections in Plano include:

US-75 and SH-121 (high volume, complex interchange)
Dallas North Tollway and Legacy Drive (heavy traffic, frequent lane changes)
President George Bush Turnpike and Coit Road (high-speed merging)
Coit Road and SH-121 (busy commercial area)
Preston Road and Legacy Drive (shopping district traffic)

33. Which hospitals in Plano should I go to after an accident?

Plano has excellent medical facilities, including:

Medical City Plano (Level III Trauma Center)
Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – Plano
Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Plano
Children’s Medical Center Plano (for pediatric cases)

For serious injuries, you may be transported to:

UT Southwestern Medical Center (Dallas, Level I Trauma Center)
Parkland Memorial Hospital (Dallas, Level I Trauma Center)

34. How do Plano’s courts handle car accident cases?

Plano is served by the Collin County District Courts and County Courts at Law. These courts handle personal injury cases, including motor vehicle accidents. Having local representation familiar with these courts can be advantageous.

35. What if I was hit by a DART bus in Plano?

If you were injured by a DART bus, special rules apply because DART is a government entity. You must file a notice of claim within 6 months of the accident. These cases are complex, so it’s important to contact Attorney911 immediately.

Additional Common Questions

36. What if I have a pre-existing condition?

You can still recover. If the accident AGGRAVATED your pre-existing condition, you’re entitled to compensation for the aggravation. The “eggshell plaintiff” rule means the defendant takes you as they find you. For example, if you had mild occasional back pain before the accident and now have a herniated disc requiring surgery, you can recover for the new injury. We hire medical experts to prove the difference. Lupe knows how insurance attacks pre-existing conditions—he used this defense for years.

37. Can I switch attorneys if I’m unhappy with my current lawyer?

YES. You can fire your attorney at any time. If your attorney isn’t communicating, isn’t fighting for you, or is pushing you to settle cheap, you have the right to switch. Attorney911 has taken over many cases from other attorneys. As Greg Garcia shared: “In the beginning I had another attorney but he dropped my case although Mangiello law firm were able to help me out.” Call 1-888-ATTY-911 to discuss switching.

38. What if the insurance company is my own insurance (UM/UIM claim)?

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist claims are against YOUR insurance when the other driver has no insurance or insufficient insurance. Your insurance company will fight your claim just like the other driver’s insurance would. You need attorney representation. Texas allows inter-policy stacking (combining coverage from multiple vehicles). Lupe’s insurance knowledge is critical for maximizing UM/UIM recovery.

39. How do you calculate pain and suffering?

Most commonly using the multiplier method: Medical expenses × multiplier (1.5 to 5) = pain & suffering. The multiplier depends on:

Injury severity
Permanency
Impact on life
Clear liability

Example: $100,000 medical × 4 multiplier = $400,000 pain & suffering.

Lupe calculated these for years—he knows how to justify higher multipliers. See Section G for detailed breakdown.

40. What if I was hit by a government vehicle (city bus, police car, etc.)?

Government claims have special rules. You must file notice within 6 months (much shorter than the 2-year statute of limitations). Sovereign immunity protects government entities, and damage caps may apply. These cases are complex—you need an experienced attorney. Ralph’s 25+ years includes government litigation. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately—the 6-month deadline is strict.

41. What if the other driver fled the scene (hit and run)?

File a police report immediately (hit and run is a criminal offense). Your Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage applies. Surveillance footage is CRITICAL—gas stations, businesses, Ring doorbells, traffic cameras. Most footage is deleted within 7-30 days. We send preservation letters immediately. Texas allows UM stacking. We’ve recovered substantial settlements in hit and run cases through UM claims.

42. What if I’m an undocumented immigrant—can I still file a claim?

YES. Immigration status does NOT affect your right to compensation for injuries. You’re entitled to full recovery regardless of immigration status. Your case is confidential. We’ve successfully represented clients of all immigration statuses. Lupe is fluent in Spanish. Call 1-888-ATTY-911—we protect your rights and your privacy.

43. What if the accident happened in a parking lot?

Parking lot accidents are fully compensable. Insurance companies love to argue “parking lot accidents are always 50/50 fault” (LIE). We prove fault through: surveillance video, witness statements, damage analysis, traffic patterns. Texas comparative negligence rules apply. We’ve won many parking lot cases with clear liability findings.

44. What if I was a passenger in the at-fault vehicle?

You can sue the driver even if you were riding with them (friend, family member, Uber driver). You’re an innocent victim. The driver’s insurance covers passengers. No comparative fault issues (you weren’t driving). These cases often settle quickly because liability is clear. We handle the difficult conversation so you don’t have to.

45. What if the other driver died in the accident?

You can still pursue a claim against the deceased driver’s estate and insurance. Death doesn’t eliminate liability. The insurance policy still applies. The estate may have assets. Wrongful death laws protect both sides. These cases are emotionally complex but legally straightforward. We handle them with sensitivity while protecting your rights.

Plano-Specific Legal Resources

If you’ve been injured in a motor vehicle accident in Plano, these local resources may be helpful:

Plano Police Department: (972) 424-5678 (for accident reports)
Collin County District Clerk: (972) 548-4300 (for court filings)
Medical City Plano: (972) 596-6800 (Level III Trauma Center)
Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – Plano: (469) 814-2000
Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Plano: (972) 981-8000
Plano Fire-Rescue: (972) 941-7430 (for accident response)
Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) Plano District: (972) 377-4300

Contact Attorney911 Today

If you’ve been injured in a motor vehicle accident in Plano or anywhere in Collin County, don’t wait—call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911). Our legal emergency line is open 24/7 to help you when you need it most.

Why call us now?

Evidence disappears daily—surveillance footage, witness memories, electronic data
The 2-year statute of limitations is real and absolute
Insurance companies are already building a case against you
The sooner we start, the stronger your case will be

What happens when you call?

You’ll speak with a real person, not a call center
We’ll listen to your story and answer your questions
We’ll explain your rights and options
If we can help, we’ll schedule a free consultation
There’s no obligation—just honest advice

Remember:

Free consultation
No fee unless we win
We advance all case costs
Hablamos Español
We treat you like family

As client Glenda Walker shared:

“They make you feel like family and even though the process may take some time, they make it feel like a breeze. They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.”

Don’t let the insurance company take advantage of you. Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911. We’re ready to fight for you.