Car Accident Lawyers in Fredericksburg, Gillespie County, Texas

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Fredericksburg or anywhere in Gillespie County, Texas, you’re not alone. Every 57 seconds, another crash occurs on Texas roads, and every 2 minutes and 5 seconds, someone is injured. In 2024 alone, Texas saw 251,977 people injured in motor vehicle accidents. When these crashes happen in Gillespie County—whether on Highway 290, Main Street, or the rural roads connecting our communities—they can change lives in an instant.

At Attorney911, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a car accident can take. Our founding attorney, Ralph Manginello, has been fighting for accident victims across Texas for more than 25 years. With offices serving Central Texas from our Austin location, we know the Gillespie County courts, the local judges, and the insurance adjusters who handle claims in this area. When you call our legal emergency line at 1-888-ATTY-911, you’re not just calling a law firm—you’re calling neighbors who are ready to fight for you.

The Reality of Car Accidents in Gillespie County

Fredericksburg and Gillespie County are known for their scenic beauty, historic charm, and growing tourism industry. But with that growth comes increased traffic—especially on weekends when visitors flock to local wineries, Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, and Main Street’s shops and restaurants. The mix of local drivers, tourists unfamiliar with the roads, and commercial traffic creates dangerous conditions:

Highway 290, the main east-west corridor through Fredericksburg, sees heavy traffic from Austin commuters and commercial vehicles
Main Street (US 87) through downtown has numerous intersections where accidents frequently occur
Rural roads like Ranch Road 965 and Farm-to-Market 783 often lack proper lighting and signage, increasing accident risks
The hilly terrain and occasional deer crossings create additional hazards

In 2024, Texas saw one crash every 57 seconds, with one person injured every 2 minutes and 5 seconds. While Gillespie County is less densely populated than urban areas, the accident rate per capita remains significant due to these unique traffic patterns and road conditions.

Common Injuries from Car Accidents

Car accidents in Gillespie County can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor to life-altering:

Whiplash and soft tissue injuries: The most common injury, often not apparent immediately after the crash. Symptoms may take days to appear.
Herniated or bulging discs: Spinal injuries that can cause chronic pain, numbness, and mobility issues.
Broken bones and fractures: Common in high-impact collisions, often requiring surgery and extended recovery.
Traumatic brain injuries (TBI): Even “mild” concussions can have long-term cognitive effects.
Spinal cord injuries: Can result in partial or complete paralysis.
Internal organ damage: Often not visible but can be life-threatening.
Psychological trauma: PTSD, anxiety, and depression are common after serious accidents.

One of our recent cases illustrates the serious nature of these injuries. Our client’s leg was injured in a car accident on Highway 290. During treatment, staff infections developed, and doctors had no choice but to perform a partial amputation. This case settled in the millions—not the $50,000 the insurance company initially offered. This is why it’s critical to have experienced legal representation that understands how to document and prove the full extent of your injuries.

Why You Need a Fredericksburg Car Accident Lawyer

After a car accident in Gillespie County, you might think you can handle the insurance claim yourself. But insurance companies have teams of adjusters and attorneys whose sole job is to minimize your compensation. They use sophisticated tactics to reduce or deny claims, and without legal representation, you’re at a significant disadvantage.

At Attorney911, we have a unique advantage: our team includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who spent years working for large insurance companies. He knows exactly how they value claims, what tactics they use to deny or reduce payments, and how to counter their strategies. This insider knowledge is invaluable when negotiating with insurance companies or presenting your case in court.

Texas Car Accident Laws You Need to Know

Texas has specific laws that affect your car accident claim:

Statute of Limitations: You have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit in Texas. If you miss this deadline, you lose your right to compensation.
At-Fault State: Texas is an at-fault state, meaning the driver who caused the accident is responsible for the damages. You can file a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance.
Comparative Negligence (51% Rule): Texas follows a “modified comparative negligence” rule. If you’re found to be 50% or less at fault for the accident, you can still recover damages—but your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. If you’re 51% or more at fault, you can’t recover anything.
Minimum Insurance Requirements: Texas law requires drivers to carry at least $30,000 in bodily injury coverage per person, $60,000 per accident, and $25,000 in property damage coverage. However, many drivers carry only the minimum, which may not be enough to cover serious injuries.

What to Do After a Car Accident in Gillespie County

If you’re involved in a car accident in Fredericksburg or anywhere in Gillespie County, follow these steps to protect your health and your legal rights:

At the Scene:

Call 911: Report the accident and request medical assistance if anyone is injured.
Document everything: Take photos of all vehicle damage, the accident scene, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
Exchange information: Get the other driver’s name, phone number, address, driver’s license number, and insurance information.
Talk to witnesses: Get names and contact information from any witnesses.
Don’t admit fault: Stick to the facts when talking to police and others at the scene. Don’t apologize or say anything that could be interpreted as admitting fault.

After the Accident:

Seek medical attention: Even if you feel fine, see a doctor as soon as possible. Some injuries, like whiplash or traumatic brain injuries, may not be immediately apparent.
Report the accident: In Texas, you must report accidents that result in injury, death, or property damage over $1,000.
Notify your insurance company: Report the accident to your insurer, but don’t give a recorded statement without consulting an attorney.
Don’t talk to the other driver’s insurance: Refer them to your attorney. Anything you say can be used against you.
Call Attorney911: Before speaking to any insurance company, call our legal emergency line at 1-888-ATTY-911.

In the Following Days:

Follow your doctor’s orders: Attend all follow-up appointments and follow your treatment plan.
Document your injuries and recovery: Keep a journal of your symptoms, pain levels, and how the injuries affect your daily life.
Preserve evidence: Don’t repair your vehicle or delete any photos, videos, or messages related to the accident.
Avoid social media: Insurance companies monitor social media for posts that could undermine your claim.

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Fredericksburg Car Accident Case?

When you’re recovering from a car accident, the last thing you need is to navigate the complex legal and insurance systems alone. At Attorney911, we offer:

Insurance Defense Insider Knowledge: Lupe Peña, our associate attorney, spent years working for a national defense firm, learning firsthand how large insurance companies value claims. He knows their tactics because he used them—now he uses that knowledge to fight for you.
Proven Track Record: We’ve recovered millions for car accident victims across Texas. Our results include multi-million dollar settlements for clients with serious injuries, including the amputation case mentioned earlier.
Personal Attention: Unlike high-volume firms where you’re just a case number, at Attorney911, you work directly with Ralph Manginello or Lupe Peña. As client Chad Harris said, “You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client…You are FAMILY to them.”
Contingency Fee Basis: We don’t get paid unless we win your case. There are no upfront costs or hourly fees—just a percentage of your recovery if we’re successful.
Local Expertise: With our Austin office serving Central Texas, we know the Gillespie County courts, local judges, and the insurance adjusters who handle claims in this area.
Comprehensive Support: From handling all communications with insurance companies to connecting you with medical providers, we manage every aspect of your case so you can focus on recovery.

What Our Clients Say

Don’t just take our word for it—here’s what our clients say about working with Attorney911:

“Leonor got me into the doctor the same day…it only took 6 months amazing.” – Chavodrian Miles

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

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

“Melanie was excellent. She kept me informed and when she said she would call me back, she did.” – Brian Butchee

“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.” – Kiimarii Yup

Common Types of Car Accidents in Gillespie County

Rear-End Collisions

Rear-end collisions are among the most common types of car accidents in Gillespie County, often occurring:

On Highway 290 during rush hour or tourist season
At stoplights on Main Street in downtown Fredericksburg
In parking lots and driveways
When drivers are distracted by their phones or GPS devices

Even at low speeds, rear-end collisions can cause serious injuries like whiplash, herniated discs, and traumatic brain injuries. Insurance companies often try to downplay these injuries, but we know how to document their severity and fight for fair compensation.

Head-On Collisions

Head-on collisions are particularly dangerous and often result in catastrophic injuries or fatalities. In Gillespie County, these accidents frequently occur:

On two-lane rural roads where drivers attempt to pass slower vehicles
When drivers cross the center line due to fatigue, distraction, or impairment
At intersections where drivers run red lights or stop signs

The force of a head-on collision is significantly greater than other types of crashes, often resulting in life-altering injuries.

Intersection Accidents

Intersections are high-risk areas for accidents, especially in Fredericksburg where Main Street (US 87) intersects with Highway 290 and other major roads. Common causes include:

Drivers running red lights or stop signs
Failure to yield the right of way
Distracted or impaired driving
Poor visibility due to weather or inadequate signage

Single-Vehicle Accidents

Single-vehicle accidents are common on Gillespie County’s rural roads and can be caused by:

Animals crossing the road (deer, livestock)
Poor road conditions (potholes, uneven surfaces)
Driver fatigue or impairment
Mechanical failures
Distracted driving

Even if no other vehicles are involved, you may still have a claim against the government entity responsible for road maintenance or a vehicle manufacturer if a defect contributed to the crash.

Drunk Driving Accidents

Despite strict laws and public awareness campaigns, drunk driving remains a serious problem in Texas. In 2024, alcohol-impaired driving was a factor in 1,053 traffic fatalities—25.37% of all traffic deaths in the state. In Gillespie County, these accidents often occur:

Late at night or early in the morning
On weekends, especially during tourist season
Near bars, restaurants, and wineries

If you’re injured by a drunk driver, you may be entitled to punitive damages in addition to compensation for your injuries. You may also have a claim against the establishment that served the driver if they were obviously intoxicated.

Distracted Driving Accidents

Distracted driving is a growing problem, contributing to 380 deaths in Texas in 2024. Common distractions include:

Texting or using a smartphone
Adjusting GPS or infotainment systems
Eating or drinking
Talking to passengers
Daydreaming

In Gillespie County, distracted driving is particularly dangerous due to the mix of rural roads, tourist traffic, and local drivers.

How Insurance Companies Try to Minimize Your Claim

After a car accident, insurance companies use various tactics to reduce or deny your claim. Having a former insurance defense attorney on our team gives us a unique advantage in countering these strategies:

Quick Settlement Offers: Insurance companies often make lowball settlement offers within days of the accident, before you know the full extent of your injuries. They hope you’ll accept a quick payout and sign away your rights.
Recorded Statements: Adjusters may ask you to give a recorded statement, using leading questions to get you to say things that could hurt your claim. Lupe knows these tactics because he used them when he worked for the insurance companies.
Independent Medical Exams (IMEs): Insurance companies may require you to see a doctor of their choosing. These doctors are often biased and may downplay your injuries. Lupe knows which IME doctors insurance companies favor because he hired them when he worked for the defense.
Surveillance: Insurance companies may hire private investigators to follow you and record your activities, looking for any evidence that could contradict your injury claims.
Delay Tactics: Insurance companies may drag out the claims process, hoping you’ll get desperate and accept a lower settlement.
Comparative Fault Arguments: Insurance companies often try to blame you for the accident to reduce their payout. Lupe knows how to counter these arguments because he made them when he worked for the defense.

What You Can Recover in a Car Accident Claim

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Gillespie County, you may be entitled to compensation for:

Economic Damages

Medical expenses: Past and future medical bills related to your injuries
Lost wages: Income lost due to time off work for recovery
Lost earning capacity: If your injuries prevent you from returning to your previous job or earning the same income
Property damage: Repair or replacement of your vehicle and other personal property
Out-of-pocket expenses: Transportation to medical appointments, home modifications, and other accident-related costs

Non-Economic Damages

Pain and suffering: Physical pain and discomfort caused by your injuries
Mental anguish: Emotional distress, anxiety, depression, and PTSD
Physical impairment: Loss of mobility, strength, or function
Disfigurement: Scarring or other permanent changes to your appearance
Loss of consortium: Impact on your relationship with your spouse or family
Loss of enjoyment of life: Inability to participate in activities you previously enjoyed

Punitive Damages

In cases involving gross negligence, such as drunk driving, you may be entitled to punitive damages. These are designed to punish the at-fault party and deter similar behavior in the future.

How Long Will My Case Take?

The timeline for a car accident case varies depending on several factors:

Severity of Injuries: More serious injuries typically require longer treatment periods before we can determine the full extent of your damages.
Complexity of Liability: If fault is disputed or multiple parties are involved, the case may take longer to resolve.
Insurance Company Cooperation: Some insurance companies are more willing to negotiate fair settlements than others.
Court Schedules: If your case goes to trial, the timeline will depend on the court’s schedule.

While most cases settle within 6-18 months, some may take longer, especially if they go to trial. We’ll keep you informed throughout the process and work to resolve your case as efficiently as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions About Car Accidents in Gillespie County

What should I do immediately after a car accident in Fredericksburg or Gillespie County?

If you’ve been in a car accident in Gillespie County:

Call 911 and report the accident
Seek medical attention, even if you feel fine
Document everything with photos and videos
Exchange information with the other driver
Get witness contact information
Do NOT give a recorded statement to any insurance company
Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate legal guidance

Should I call the police even for a minor accident?

Yes, always call the police after a car accident in Texas. The police report is critical evidence for your claim. In Texas, you must report accidents that result in injury, death, or property damage over $1,000.

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

Absolutely. Many serious injuries, like whiplash, traumatic brain injuries, and internal bleeding, may not show symptoms immediately. Adrenaline can mask pain at the scene. Insurance companies use delays in treatment against you, so it’s important to get checked out right away.

What information should I collect at the scene?

Collect the following information:

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

Should I talk to the other driver or admit fault?

Exchange information only. Do NOT discuss fault, apologize, or say anything that could be interpreted as admitting fault. Stick to the facts when talking to police and others at the scene.

How do I obtain a copy of the accident report?

In Gillespie County, you can obtain the police report from the Fredericksburg Police Department or the Gillespie County Sheriff’s Office, depending on which agency responded to the accident. You can also request it through the Texas Department of Transportation’s Crash Records Information System (CRIS).

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 on what to say.

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.

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.

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.

What if the other driver is uninsured or underinsured?

Your own UM/UIM (Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist) coverage can compensate you when the other driver has no insurance or insufficient insurance. Texas allows inter-policy stacking, which can significantly increase your coverage. Watch our video on UM/UIM claims: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kWcNFyb-Yq8

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.

How do you calculate pain and suffering?

Most commonly using the multiplier method: Medical expenses × multiplier (1.5 to 5) = pain and 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.

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.

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, so we send preservation letters immediately.

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.

What if the accident happened in a parking lot?

Parking lot accidents are fully compensable. Insurance companies often 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.

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.

What if the other driver died in the accident?

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

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

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 at 1-888-ATTY-911.

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.

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% or more at fault, you get nothing. Watch our video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=agzHKY_v9l4

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.

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: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Ed5AnmCMcc

How long will my case take to settle?

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

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: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XwzYymneDVs

What is my case worth?

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

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

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).

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.

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.

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, and impact on daily life.

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: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc

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.

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.”

Who will actually handle my case?

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

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.”

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.

How do you calculate pain and suffering?

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

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

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

What if the accident happened in a parking lot?

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

What if the other driver died in the accident?

You can still pursue a claim against the deceased driver’s estate and insurance. The 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.

Why Gillespie County Residents Choose Attorney911

Fredericksburg and Gillespie County are special places with unique needs. As a local law firm serving Central Texas, we understand the challenges our neighbors face after car accidents:

Tourist Traffic: The influx of visitors, especially on weekends and during peak tourist seasons, increases accident risks on our roads.
Rural Roads: Many of Gillespie County’s roads are rural, with poor lighting, uneven surfaces, and wildlife crossings that contribute to accidents.
Limited Medical Resources: While Gillespie County has excellent healthcare providers, serious injuries often require transport to larger hospitals in Austin or San Antonio, adding complexity to medical care and documentation.
Insurance Challenges: Insurance companies may try to take advantage of the fact that many local residents aren’t familiar with the legal process.

At Attorney911, we combine our deep knowledge of Texas law with a personal understanding of Gillespie County. We know the local courts, the judges, and the insurance adjusters who handle claims in this area. When you work with us, you’re not just getting a law firm—you’re getting a team that cares about our community and is committed to fighting for your rights.

Our Commitment to Gillespie County

As a law firm serving Gillespie County, we’re committed to:

Protecting Our Neighbors: When you’re injured in an accident, you deserve fair compensation. We fight to ensure you’re not taken advantage of by insurance companies.
Supporting Local Businesses: We work with local medical providers, auto repair shops, and other businesses to help our clients get the care and services they need.
Giving Back to the Community: We support local organizations and events that make Gillespie County a great place to live.
Providing Accessible Legal Services: We offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis, so you don’t pay unless we win your case.
Offering Bilingual Services: With Lupe Peña’s fluency in Spanish and our bilingual staff, we ensure that language is never a barrier to justice.

Contact Attorney911 Today

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Fredericksburg or anywhere in Gillespie County, don’t wait to get the help you need. Evidence disappears daily, and the insurance companies are already building their case against you. Call our legal emergency line at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We don’t get paid unless we win your case.

At Attorney911, we’re more than just lawyers—we’re your neighbors, your advocates, and your partners in recovery. Let us fight for the compensation you deserve while you focus on healing. Call us today at 1-888-ATTY-911. Se habla español.