Motor Vehicle Accidents in Coryell County, Texas: Your Complete Legal Guide

If you’ve been injured in a motor vehicle accident in Coryell County, Texas, you’re not alone. With Texas experiencing one crash every 57 seconds and over 251,000 people injured annually, our roads have become increasingly dangerous. At Attorney911, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll these accidents take on victims and their families. Founded by Ralph Manginello with over 25 years of experience fighting for accident victims across Texas, our firm brings unparalleled expertise to Coryell County cases.

Why Coryell County Accidents Require Local Expertise

Coryell County’s unique roadways and traffic patterns create distinct accident risks. Whether you’re traveling on US-84 through Gatesville, navigating the rural roads near Copperas Cove, or commuting to Fort Hood, our attorneys understand the specific challenges faced by local drivers. We know the Coryell County court system, work regularly with local medical providers, and have experience handling cases involving military personnel from nearby Fort Hood.

The Attorney911 Difference: Insurance Defense Insider Knowledge

What truly sets our firm apart is our former insurance defense attorney, Lupe Peña. Having spent years working for national defense firms, Lupe knows exactly how insurance companies evaluate claims, calculate settlements, and build cases against accident victims. This insider knowledge gives our clients a significant advantage in negotiations and litigation.

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

This expertise allows us to anticipate and counter insurance company tactics before they’re deployed against you. When insurance adjusters see Attorney911 on a case file, they know we understand their playbook because Lupe literally wrote it.

Comprehensive Accident Coverage for Coryell County

Our firm handles all types of motor vehicle accidents occurring in Coryell County and throughout Central Texas:

Car Accidents (Tier 1 – Most Common)

With over 251,977 people injured in Texas car crashes annually, these are the most frequent cases we handle. Common causes in Coryell County include:

Distracted driving on rural roads
Speeding on US-84 and SH-36
Failure to yield at intersections
Drunk driving incidents near Gatesville
Weather-related accidents during sudden Texas storms

Common injuries range from whiplash and soft tissue damage to traumatic brain injuries and spinal cord damage. In a recent case, our client’s leg was injured in a car accident near Copperas Cove. Staff infections during treatment led to a partial amputation. This case settled in the millions, demonstrating our ability to handle complex injury cases.

“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”

18-Wheeler and Commercial Truck Accidents (Tier 1 – Highest Value)

With 39,393 commercial vehicle crashes in Texas annually resulting in 608 fatalities, truck accidents are among the most devastating. Coryell County’s proximity to major highways like I-35 and US-84 increases exposure to commercial truck traffic.

These cases are particularly complex due to:

Multiple liable parties (driver, trucking company, cargo loader)
Federal FMCSA regulations governing hours of service
Higher insurance policy limits ($1M+ typically available)
Electronic logging device (ELD) data that must be preserved

Our firm has recovered millions for trucking accident victims. In one case, we helped a family who lost a loved one in a trucking-related wrongful death accident recover substantial compensation.

“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”

Drunk Driving Accidents (Tier 1 – Punitive Damages Available)

Texas sees 1,053 alcohol-impaired driving deaths annually, accounting for 25.37% of all traffic fatalities. In Coryell County, we’ve seen tragic drunk driving incidents near local establishments and on rural roads where enforcement is challenging.

These cases often involve:

Dram shop liability against bars/restaurants (Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code § 2.02)
Punitive damages for gross negligence
Criminal proceedings that strengthen civil cases
Multiple defendants (driver + establishment)

Our firm’s unique advantage includes Ralph Manginello’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA), giving us expertise in both criminal and civil aspects of drunk driving cases.

Motorcycle Accidents (Tier 2 – High Risk)

Texas sees 585 motorcyclist fatalities annually, with 37% of victims not wearing helmets. Coryell County’s scenic routes attract riders, but also create accident risks.

Common causes include:

Failure to yield right of way (most common)
Driver inattention/distraction
Unsafe lane changes
Left-turn accidents
Speeding on rural roads

Insurance companies frequently attempt to blame motorcyclists using Texas’ 51% comparative fault rule. Lupe Peña’s insurance defense background helps us counter these arguments effectively.

Pedestrian Accidents (Tier 2 – Severe Injuries)

With 6,095 pedestrian crashes in Texas annually resulting in 768 deaths, pedestrians are the most vulnerable road users. In Coryell County, pedestrian accidents often occur near:

Downtown Gatesville
Fort Hood access points
School zones
Rural road crossings

Texas law gives pedestrians right-of-way at ALL intersections, even unmarked ones. Insurance companies often try to dispute this – we know how to prove liability.

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

The rideshare industry has transformed transportation in Coryell County, but accidents involving Uber and Lyft drivers create complex insurance issues.

Critical factors include:

Insurance coverage varies dramatically based on driver’s status at time of accident
$1M commercial policies available during active rides
Personal policies apply when app is off
Multiple insurance companies may be involved

Our firm understands these insurance phases and knows how to maximize recovery for rideshare accident victims.

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

Hit and run accidents occur every 43 seconds in the U.S. In Coryell County, these cases often involve:

Drivers fleeing rural accident scenes
Limited witness availability
Critical evidence disappearing quickly

Your own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage can compensate you when the at-fault driver is unidentified. We’ve successfully handled numerous hit and run cases through UM claims.

Delivery Vehicle Accidents (Tier 2 – Amazon, FedEx, UPS)

The rise of e-commerce has increased delivery vehicle traffic in Coryell County. These accidents often involve:

Amazon DSP (Delivery Service Partner) drivers
FedEx and UPS vehicles
Food delivery drivers
Complex liability issues

Recent verdicts demonstrate the significant value of these cases:

2024 Georgia child struck by Amazon van: $16.2M
2024 Lopez v. All Points 360 (Amazon DSP): $105M

Work Zone Accidents (Tier 2 – Construction Zones)

Texas sees nearly 28,000 crashes in work zones annually, with 215 deaths in 2024. Coryell County’s infrastructure projects create work zone hazards.

These accidents often result from:

Speeding through construction zones
Failure to obey traffic control devices
Driver distraction
Poorly marked work zones

Wrongful Death (Tier 2 – Devastating Loss)

When accidents result in fatality, surviving family members may pursue wrongful death claims. These cases involve:

Loss of companionship and support
Funeral expenses
Medical expenses before death
Punitive damages in cases of gross negligence

Our firm approaches these cases with sensitivity and determination, fighting for the compensation families deserve.

Tesla/Autopilot and Autonomous Vehicle Accidents (Tier 3 – Emerging)

As electric and autonomous vehicles become more common in Coryell County, new liability issues emerge. Recent cases include:

2024 $240M+ jury verdict against Tesla
Autopilot failures to detect emergency vehicles
Backup camera failures
Battery fire incidents

These cases often involve complex product liability claims against manufacturers.

E-Bike and Scooter Accidents (Tier 3 – Growing Trend)

With the increasing popularity of e-bikes and scooters in Coryell County, new accident patterns are emerging. These cases involve:

Class 1-3 e-bikes with different speed capabilities
Collisions with vehicles
Poorly maintained rental equipment
Rider inexperience

Texas law classifies e-bikes differently based on speed and throttle capabilities, affecting liability determinations.

Immediate Action Protocol: What to Do After an Accident in Coryell County

Hour 1-6: Immediate Crisis Response

Safety First: If you can move safely, get to a secure location away from traffic
Call 911: Report the accident and request medical assistance if anyone is injured
Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, get checked immediately – adrenaline masks injuries
Document Everything:
- Take photos of ALL vehicle damage (every angle)
- Photograph the accident scene, road conditions, traffic signals
- Take photos of visible injuries
- Screenshot any messages visible on your phone
Exchange Information:
- Other driver’s name, phone, address
- Insurance company and policy number
- Driver’s license number
- License plate number
- Vehicle make, model, color
Witnesses: Get names and phone numbers of any witnesses
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
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/family not to tag you in posts

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

Texas Motor Vehicle Law Framework

Statute of Limitations

Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code § 16.003 establishes a 2-year deadline from the date of accident for personal injury claims. Wrongful death claims also have a 2-year statute of limitations from the date of death.

Critical: Missing this deadline means your case is barred forever. You cannot recover any compensation.

Comparative Negligence (51% Bar Rule)

Texas uses modified comparative negligence with a 51% bar:

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

Insurance companies frequently attempt to assign maximum fault to victims 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 insurance defense experience helps us counter these arguments effectively.

Texas Minimum Auto Insurance Requirements

Texas requires minimum coverage of:

$30,000 bodily injury per person
$60,000 bodily injury per accident
$25,000 property damage per accident

However, 15.4% of Texas drivers are uninsured. Your own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage is critical for protection.

Proving Liability: Building Your Case

To win your case, we must prove four elements of negligence:

Duty of Care: All drivers have a legal duty to operate vehicles safely
Breach of Duty: The at-fault driver violated this duty (speeding, distracted driving, etc.)
Causation: The breach directly caused your injuries
Damages: You suffered actual harm (medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering)

Evidence Types We Use:

Physical Evidence: Vehicle damage, skid marks, road conditions
Documentary Evidence: Police reports, medical records, cell phone records
Electronic Evidence: ELD data from trucks, vehicle black boxes, GPS data
Testimonial Evidence: Witness statements, expert testimony

Multiple Liable Parties

In many cases, multiple parties share responsibility:

Trucking Accidents: Driver, trucking company, cargo loader, manufacturer
Rideshare Accidents: Driver, rideshare company, other at-fault drivers
Drunk Driving Accidents: Driver, bar/restaurant, social host

More liable parties means more insurance policies available to compensate you.

Damages & Compensation: What You Can Recover

Economic Damages (No Cap in Texas):

Medical expenses (past and future)
Lost wages and earning capacity
Property damage
Out-of-pocket expenses

Non-Economic Damages (No Cap Except Medical Malpractice):

Pain and suffering
Mental anguish
Physical impairment
Disfigurement
Loss of enjoyment of life
Loss of consortium

Punitive/Exemplary Damages (Capped):

Available for gross negligence, fraud, or malice. Common in drunk driving cases. Capped at the greater of $200,000 or (2x economic + 1x non-economic, with non-economic portion capped at $750,000).

Settlement Ranges by Injury Type

Soft Tissue Injuries (Whiplash, Sprains, Strains):

Medical treatment: $6,000-$16,000
Lost wages: $2,000-$10,000
Pain & suffering: $8,000-$35,000
Settlement Range: $15,000-$60,000

Broken Bone (Single, Simple Fracture):

Medical treatment: $10,000-$20,000
Lost wages: $5,000-$15,000
Pain & suffering: $20,000-$60,000
Settlement Range: $35,000-$95,000

Herniated Disc (Surgery Required):

Medical treatment: $96,000-$205,000
Future medical: $30,000-$100,000
Lost wages: $20,000-$50,000
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: $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

Spinal Cord Injury/Paralysis:

Lifetime care costs: $2,500,000-$13,000,000+
Settlement Range: $4,770,000-$25,880,000

Wrongful Death (Working Age Adult):

Funeral expenses: $10,000-$20,000
Medical expenses before death: $50,000-$500,000
Lost financial support: $1,000,000-$4,000,000
Loss of companionship: $500,000-$3,000,000
Settlement Range: $1,910,000-$9,520,000

Insurance Tactics: How They Try to Minimize Your Claim

Insurance companies use sophisticated tactics to reduce or deny your claim. Lupe Peña’s insider knowledge helps us counter these strategies:

Tactic #1: Quick Contact & Recorded Statement

Insurance adjusters contact you within hours, often while you’re still in the hospital or on pain medication. They’ll say:

“We just want to help you”
“We need your side of the story”
“This is routine”

What they’re really doing: Building their defense against you with leading questions designed to minimize your injuries and shift blame.

Attorney911 Response: We handle all communications with insurance companies. You should never give a recorded statement without legal representation.

Tactic #2: Quick Settlement Offer

Within days or weeks, insurance companies offer quick money – typically $2,000-$10,000. They create artificial urgency:

“This offer expires in 48 hours”
“Take it or leave it”
“This is our final offer”

The trap: You don’t know the full extent of your injuries yet. If you accept $5,000 today and later need $100,000 surgery, you’re stuck paying the difference.

Attorney911 Response: We never settle before you’ve reached maximum medical improvement (MMI). Lupe knows these offers are always lowball – he calculated them for years.

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

Insurance companies send you to their “independent” doctor for a 10-15 minute exam. These doctors are paid thousands by insurance companies to minimize injuries.

Common IME findings:

“Patient has pre-existing degenerative changes”
“Injuries consistent with minor trauma”
“Patient can return to full duty work”
“Treatment has been excessive”

Attorney911 Response: We prepare you extensively for IMEs and challenge biased 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

Insurance companies drag cases out for months or years, hoping you’ll get desperate:

“Still investigating your claim”
“Waiting for medical records”
“Reviewing your file”
Ignoring calls and emails

Why it works: While they have unlimited time and resources, you have mounting bills, no income, and creditors threatening you.

Attorney911 Response: We file lawsuits to force deadlines. We set depositions and prepare for trial, showing we’re serious about litigation.

Tactic #5: Surveillance and Social Media Monitoring

Insurance companies hire private investigators to:

Video you doing daily activities
Follow you to appointments and errands
Look for any activity contradicting injury claims
Monitor all your social media platforms

What they’re looking for: One video of you bending over or smiling in a photo to claim you’re “not really injured.”

Attorney911 Response: We advise all clients to make social media profiles private and avoid posting about the accident or activities.

“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.” – Lupe Peña

Tactic #6: Comparative Fault Arguments

Insurance companies try to assign you maximum fault to reduce their payment:

“You were speeding” (without evidence)
“You weren’t paying attention”
“You could have avoided this”
“You contributed to this accident”

Attorney911 Response: We conduct aggressive liability investigations, including accident reconstruction and witness statements. Lupe knows their fault arguments because he made them for years – now he defeats them.

Colossus: How Insurance Companies Actually Value Your Claim

Insurance companies use software called Colossus to calculate settlement offers. Lupe Peña worked with this system for years and knows how to beat it:

How Colossus Works:

Data Entry: Adjuster inputs injury codes, treatment, costs, jurisdiction
Coding: Injuries are coded using standardized medical terms
Calculation: Software applies algorithms to determine “value”
Range Output: System provides recommended settlement range

How Insurance Manipulates Colossus:

Low Injury Codes: “Soft tissue strain” instead of “disc herniation” reduces value 50-100%
Excessive Treatment Flags: Therapy beyond “normal” range triggers reductions
Pre-Existing Reduction: Any prior condition used to reduce value
Jurisdiction Factor: Low-verdict counties get lower values

Attorney911 Advantage: Lupe knows how to code injuries properly for maximum value and how to present medical records to beat the algorithm.

Medical Knowledge: Understanding Your Injuries

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

Symptoms may be immediate or delayed:

Immediate: Loss of consciousness, confusion, vomiting, seizures
Delayed: Worsening headaches, personality changes, sleep disturbances

Severity classifications:

Mild TBI/Concussion: Brief LOC, GCS 13-15
Moderate TBI: LOC minutes to hours, GCS 9-12
Severe TBI: Extended unconsciousness, GCS 3-8

Long-term complications include chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), post-concussive syndrome, and increased dementia risk.

Spinal Cord Injury

Injury levels and impact:

Cervical (C1-C8): Quadriplegia, possible ventilator dependence
Thoracic (T1-T12): Paraplegia, wheelchair dependence
Lumbar (L1-L5): Leg weakness/paralysis, bowel/bladder dysfunction

ASIA Impairment Scale ranges from A (complete) to E (normal).

Herniated Disc

Treatment timeline:

Acute Phase (Weeks 1-6): Severe pain, medications, rest
Conservative Treatment (Weeks 6-12): Physical therapy, chiropractic
Interventional (If Conservative Fails): Epidural steroid injections
Surgery (If Injections Fail): Microdiscectomy or fusion

Psychological Injuries

32-45% of accident victims develop PTSD symptoms including:

Anxiety about driving
Fear of getting in cars
Panic attacks near accident location
Sleep disturbances and nightmares

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Coryell County Case

Advantage 1: Insurance Defense Insider Knowledge

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

This insider knowledge gives our clients a significant advantage:

We know their tactics because Lupe used them
We anticipate their strategies before they deploy them
We know how they value claims internally
We know which IME doctors they favor
We know how to beat their algorithms

No other firm in Coryell County has this advantage.

Advantage 2: Multi-Million Dollar Results

Our firm has recovered millions for accident victims:

Brain injuries: “Multi-million dollar settlement for client who suffered brain injury with vision loss”
Amputations: “This case settled in the millions”
Trucking wrongful death: “Recovered millions of dollars in compensation”
Maritime injuries: “Significant cash settlement”

“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”

Advantage 3: Federal Court Experience

Ralph Manginello is admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas. This federal court experience is crucial for:

Complex cases involving multiple defendants
Trucking accidents governed by FMCSA regulations
Cases against out-of-state defendants
High-value cases that may exceed state court limits

Advantage 4: BP Explosion Litigation Experience

“Our firm is one of the few firms in Texas to be involved in BP explosion litigation”

The 2005 BP Texas City explosion killed 15 people and injured 180+. Our involvement in this complex litigation demonstrates our capability to handle:

Catastrophic injury cases
Wrongful death claims
Industrial accidents
Cases against multinational corporations
Federal court litigation

Advantage 5: Personal Attention

At Attorney911, you work directly with Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña, not case managers or paralegals. Our clients consistently praise our personal approach:

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

“I never felt like ‘just another case’ they were working on.” – Ambur Hamilton

“Ralph reached out personally.” – Dame Haskett

“Consistent communication and not one time did I call and not get a clear answer.” – Dame Haskett

Advantage 6: Contingency Fee – No Risk to You

“We don’t get paid unless we win your case.”

Free consultation
No upfront costs
No hourly billing
We advance all case costs
You pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you

Client Testimonials: Real Results for Real People

Communication & Care

“Melanie was excellent. She kept me informed and when she said she would call me back, she did. I got to speak with Ralph Manginello once and knew quickly the way his Firm was ran.” – Brian Butchee

“When I felt I had no hope or direction, Leonor reached out to me…She took all the weight of my worries off my shoulders.” – Stephanie Hernandez

“Special thank you to my attorney, Mr. Pena, for your kindness and patience with my repeated questions.” – Chelsea Martinez

“Leonor and Amanda were amazing, they walked me through everything with my car accident.” – Kelly Hunsicker

Results & Speed

“One company said they would not except my case. Then I got a call from Manginello…I got a call to come pick up this handsome check.” – Donald Wilcox

“Leonor is the best!!! She was able to assist me with my case within 6 months.” – Tymesha Galloway

“Mariela and Zulema have done such a fantastic job…gone above and beyond to get my case settled quickly!” – Hannah Garcia

“It only took 6 months amazing.” – Chavodrian Miles

Switching from Other Attorneys

“In the beginning I had another attorney but he dropped my case although Mangiello law firm were able to help me out.” – Greg Garcia

“They took over my case from another lawyer and got to working on my case.” – CON3531

“They solved in a couple of months what others did nothing about in two years.” – Angel Walle

Spanish Language Services

“Especially Miss Zulema, who is always very kind and always translates.” – Celia Dominguez

“Thank you for your excellent work; I highly recommend you.” – Eduard Marin

“Melani, thank you for your excellent work.” – Miguel J. mayo bermudez

Ralph’s Personal Involvement

“Attorney Manginello is so knowledgeable but straight to the point…responded quickly even while he was away.” – S M

“He listened intently heard my concerns and issues and immediately began working to protect my rights.” – Ken Taylor

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

Overall Excellence

“Best lawyers in the city…fast return..and they really care about their clients.” – Dean Jones

“Very professional and got good results.” – Monty Cazier

“Mr. Manginello got us a nice result in my wife’s injury.” – Bill Spragg

“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.” – Glenda Walker

“This place feels like having a family over your case. And communication with you every step of the way. That’s how you know you’re in good hands.” – Kiwi Potato

Frequently Asked Questions About Motor Vehicle Accidents in Coryell County

Immediate After Accident

1. What should I do immediately after a car accident in Coryell County?
If you’ve been in an accident in Coryell County:

Call 911 and report the accident
Seek medical attention even if you feel fine
Document everything: photos of damage, injuries, scene
Exchange information with other driver
Get witness names and phone numbers
Do NOT give 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 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”
Do NOT give your opinion on what happened
Stick to facts only

6. How do I obtain a copy of the accident report in Coryell County?
You can obtain the police report from the responding agency 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 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 settlement before knowing full extent of 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/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 date of accident for personal injury, 2 years from 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 in Coryell County?
Attorney911 works on contingency: 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 on my case?
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.”

Mistakes to Avoid

32. What common mistakes can hurt my case?

Giving recorded statement without attorney
Accepting quick settlement
Delaying medical treatment
Gaps in treatment
Posting on social media
Signing releases or authorizations
Not documenting everything

Watch our video: “Client Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Case” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY

33. Should I post about my accident on social media?
No. Make all profiles private. Don’t post about accident, injuries, or activities. Insurance monitors everything.

34. Why shouldn’t I sign anything without a lawyer?
Releases are permanent. Medical authorizations give unlimited access. Settlement offers are binding. Once signed, you can’t undo it.

35. What if I didn’t see a doctor right away?
See one now. Explain you didn’t realize severity of injuries. Delayed symptoms are common. We can still help.

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. We hire medical experts to prove the difference between your condition before and after the accident.

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. 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 for UM/UIM claims.

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, and clear liability. Lupe calculated these for years – he knows how to justify higher multipliers.

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 experience.

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 – most footage is deleted within 7-30 days. We send preservation letters immediately. Texas allows UM stacking, which can significantly increase your available coverage.

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

43. What if the accident happened in a parking lot?
Parking lot accidents are fully compensable. Insurance companies often try to argue that “parking lot accidents are always 50/50 fault,” but this is not true. We prove fault through surveillance video, witness statements, damage analysis, and traffic patterns. Texas comparative negligence rules apply to parking lot accidents.

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. 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.

Coryell County-Specific Information

Attorney911 serves Coryell County and the surrounding Central Texas region from our offices across Texas. While we’re based in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, our Texas-wide practice means we understand the unique challenges faced by Coryell County residents.

Local Resources:

Nearest Trauma Centers:
- Scott & White Medical Center – Temple (Level II)
- Baylor Scott & White Hillcrest Medical Center – Waco (Level III)
Coryell County Courts:
- Coryell County District Court
- Coryell County Court at Law
Local Law Enforcement:
- Coryell County Sheriff’s Office
- Gatesville Police Department
- Copperas Cove Police Department

Common Accident Locations in Coryell County:

US-84 through Gatesville
SH-36 between Gatesville and Copperas Cove
FM 1829 and FM 116
I-35 near the county line
Fort Hood access points
Downtown Gatesville
Copperas Cove shopping areas

Local Industries Affecting Traffic:

Fort Hood military base (heavy commuter traffic)
Local agriculture (slow-moving farm vehicles)
Oil and gas industry (commercial truck traffic)
Retail and service industries (local commuter traffic)

Call Attorney911 Now: 1-888-ATTY-911

If you’ve been injured in a motor vehicle accident in Coryell County, time is critical. Evidence disappears daily, and insurance companies are already building their case against you.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 now for your free consultation. We don’t get paid unless we win your case.

Why Call Attorney911:

✅ Free Consultation – No obligation
✅ No Fee Unless We Win – Zero risk to you
✅ Insurance Defense Insider – Lupe knows their tactics
✅ Multi-Million Dollar Results – We fight for maximum compensation
✅ Personal Attention – You work directly with Ralph or Lupe
✅ Federal Court Experience – Complex cases handled properly
✅ BP Explosion Litigation – Capability against corporations
✅ Hablamos Español – Lupe Peña and our team are fluent

What Happens When You Call:

You’ll speak with a real attorney, not a case manager
We’ll listen to your story and answer your questions
We’ll explain your rights and options
If we take your case, we’ll start working immediately
We’ll handle everything – you focus on recovery

Don’t wait. Every day you delay, evidence disappears. Call now: 1-888-ATTY-911

Additional Resources:

YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@Manginellolawfirm (200+ videos)
Podcast: Attorney 911 The Podcast – Available on Apple Podcasts
Car Accident Page: https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/car-accident-lawyer/
Trucking Accident Page: https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/18-wheeler-accidents/
Wrongful Death Page: https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/

At Attorney911, we’re more than just lawyers – we’re your neighbors, your advocates, and your strongest allies in the fight for justice. Let us help you get the compensation you deserve. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 today.