Motor Vehicle Accidents in Beaumont, Texas: Legal Emergency Lawyers™ Fight for You

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Beaumont, Texas, you’re not alone. The Golden Triangle area sees thousands of motor vehicle crashes every year—on I-10, in refinery zones, and on local streets. At Attorney911, we understand the physical pain, emotional stress, and financial uncertainty you’re facing. Our team, led by Ralph Manginello and former insurance defense attorney Lupe Peña, has recovered millions for accident victims across Southeast Texas. We know how insurance companies operate because we used to work for them—now we fight for you.

Every 57 seconds, someone is injured in a Texas motor vehicle crash. In 2024 alone, 251,977 people were hurt on Texas roads, with Beaumont and Jefferson County seeing their share of these preventable tragedies. Whether you were rear-ended on Cardinal Drive, t-boned at the intersection of Major Drive and Phelan Boulevard, or involved in a trucking accident near the Port of Beaumont, Attorney911 is here to help.

Why Beaumont Accident Victims Choose Attorney911

Insurance Companies Are Already Building a Case Against You

Within hours of your accident, insurance adjusters will contact you—often while you’re still in the hospital or recovering at home. They’ll sound friendly, helpful, and concerned. But their real goal? To minimize your claim and protect their profits.

Lupe Peña knows this because he used to work for a national insurance defense firm. He understands their tactics because he deployed them for years. Now, he uses that insider knowledge to fight for victims like 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.”

We Know Beaumont’s Roads and Courts

Beaumont has unique accident patterns. The heavy truck traffic on I-10, the industrial zones near refineries, and the local streets with poor lighting all contribute to serious crashes. Our team knows the Beaumont courts, the local judges, and the insurance adjusters who handle claims in Jefferson County. When you call Attorney911, you’re calling neighbors who understand your community.

Multi-Million Dollar Results for Beaumont Clients

Attorney911 has recovered millions for accident victims, including:

• A multi-million dollar settlement for a client who suffered a brain injury with vision loss after a logging accident
• A recent case where 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.
• Millions recovered for families facing trucking-related wrongful death cases

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.”

Common Types of Motor Vehicle Accidents in Beaumont

Car Accidents: The Most Common but Often Serious

In 2024, Texas saw 251,977 people injured in motor vehicle crashes—one every 2 minutes and 5 seconds. In Beaumont, car accidents happen daily on busy roads like I-10, Eastex Freeway, and local streets.

Common causes in Beaumont:

• Distracted driving (texting, phone use)
• Speeding, especially on I-10
• Failure to yield at intersections
• Running red lights
• Following too closely
• Drunk driving, particularly near entertainment districts

Common injuries:

• Whiplash and soft tissue injuries
• Herniated discs
• Broken bones and fractures
• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
• Spinal cord injuries
• Internal organ damage
• PTSD and emotional trauma

What to do after a Beaumont car accident:

1. Call 911 and report the accident
2. Seek medical attention immediately—adrenaline masks injuries
3. Document everything: photos of damage, injuries, and the scene
4. Exchange information with the other driver
5. Get witness names and phone numbers
6. Do NOT give a recorded statement to any insurance company
7. Call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911

18-Wheeler and Trucking Accidents: Catastrophic Consequences

Beaumont is a major hub for commercial trucking, with I-10 serving as a critical freight corridor. In 2024, Texas saw 39,393 commercial motor vehicle crashes, resulting in 608 fatalities and 1,601 serious injuries. Texas accounts for 11% of all fatal truck crashes nationwide.

Why trucking accidents are more dangerous:

• An 18-wheeler can weigh up to 80,000 pounds—20 times heavier than a passenger car
• Trucks have longer stopping distances
• Limited visibility creates blind spots
• Driver fatigue is a major factor

FMCSA regulations trucking companies often violate:

• Hours of Service (HOS): Drivers can’t drive more than 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off-duty
• 30-minute break: Required after 8 hours of driving
• 60/70-hour limit: Can’t drive after 60/70 hours on-duty in 7/8 days
• Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs): Mandatory to track driving hours

Multiple liable parties in trucking accidents:

• Truck driver (negligent operation)
• Trucking company (negligent hiring, supervision, maintenance)
• Cargo loader (improper loading causing instability)
• Vehicle manufacturer (defective parts)
• Maintenance company (improper repairs)

Why you need Attorney911 for trucking accidents:

• Ralph Manginello is admitted to federal court in the Southern District of Texas, where many trucking cases are litigated
• We’ve been involved in BP explosion litigation, showing our ability to take on billion-dollar corporations
• We know how to preserve critical evidence like ELD data and black box information before it’s deleted
• Our results speak for themselves: we’ve recovered millions in trucking wrongful death cases

Drunk Driving Accidents: Holding All Parties Accountable

In 2024, 1,053 people were killed in alcohol-impaired driving crashes in Texas—25.37% of all traffic fatalities. Beaumont sees its share of these preventable tragedies, especially on weekends and near entertainment districts.

Texas Dram Shop Law (TABC § 2.02):
Bars, restaurants, and other establishments can be held liable if they serve alcohol to someone who is obviously intoxicated and that person later causes an accident.

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:

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

Why drunk driving cases often result in higher settlements:

• Punitive damages are available for gross negligence
• Multiple defendants increase available insurance coverage
• Criminal case evidence can strengthen the civil case

Attorney911’s criminal defense advantage:
Ralph Manginello is a member of the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA), giving our firm unique insight into both the criminal and civil aspects of drunk driving cases. We’ve successfully defended DWI cases in the past, including:

• A case where improperly maintained breathalyzer machines led to dismissal
• A case with missing EMS notes and no breath/blood test, dismissed on the day of trial
• A case where video evidence showed the client wasn’t drunk, leading to dismissal

Motorcycle Accidents: Fighting Against Bias

In 2024, 585 motorcyclists were killed in Texas—many of them in Southeast Texas. Beaumont riders face unique dangers on local roads and highways.

Texas motorcycle statistics:

• 37% of fatal victims were not wearing helmets
• 90% of fatal victims are male
• Helmets reduce the risk of death by 37%

Texas helmet law:

• Required for all riders under 21
• Riders 21+ may ride without a helmet if they’ve completed a safety course or have $10,000+ medical insurance

Common causes of motorcycle accidents in Beaumont:

• Drivers failing to yield right of way
• Distracted driving
• Unsafe lane changes
• Left-turn accidents (T-bone/head-on collisions)
• Speeding and reckless driving

The comparative negligence challenge:
Texas uses a 51% bar rule for comparative negligence. If you’re found to be 51% or more at fault, you recover nothing. Insurance companies often try to blame motorcyclists for accidents. Lupe Peña knows these arguments because he made them for years as a defense attorney—now he defeats them for victims.

Pedestrian Accidents: Vulnerable Road Users

Beaumont saw 6,095 pedestrian crashes in Texas in 2024, resulting in 768 fatalities. Pedestrians make up just 1% of crashes but account for 19% of all roadway deaths.

Critical legal point for pedestrians:
Pedestrians always have the right-of-way at intersections, even at unmarked crosswalks. Many drivers don’t know this, but Texas law is clear: “Anytime there’s an intersection of two streets, the distance between them is a crosswalk”—even if it’s unmarked.

Common pedestrian injuries:

• Traumatic brain injuries
• Spinal cord injuries
• Broken pelvis and legs
• Internal organ damage
• Fatalities

Dangerous areas for pedestrians in Beaumont:

• Major intersections with poor crosswalk visibility
• Areas near bars and restaurants where impaired drivers are common
• Streets with inadequate lighting
• High-speed roads like I-10 where pedestrians shouldn’t be but sometimes are

Rideshare Accidents: Navigating the Insurance Maze

Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have transformed transportation in Beaumont, but accidents involving these vehicles create complex insurance challenges.

The rideshare insurance problem:
Insurance coverage varies dramatically depending on what the driver was doing at the time of the crash:

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

Who can be injured in rideshare accidents:

• 21% Riders
• 21% Drivers
• 58% Third parties (other drivers, pedestrians, passengers in other vehicles)

Why you need Attorney911 for rideshare accidents:
Lupe Peña’s insurance defense background gives us unique insight into how rideshare companies value claims. We know how to identify the correct insurance phase and maximize your recovery.

Hit and Run Accidents: When the At-Fault Driver Flees

Hit and run accidents are particularly frustrating. Every 43 seconds, someone in the U.S. is involved in a hit-and-run incident. In Texas, the penalties are severe:

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

Your recovery options after a hit and run:

• Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage: Your own policy pays when the at-fault driver is unidentified
• Collision coverage: For vehicle damage
• Personal Injury Protection (PIP): For medical expenses

Critical evidence preservation:

• Surveillance footage is typically deleted within 7-30 days
• Witnesses disperse quickly
• The longer you wait, the harder it is to identify the at-fault driver

What Attorney911 does immediately:

• We send preservation letters to all nearby businesses to save surveillance footage
• We canvas the area for witnesses while memories are fresh
• We work with law enforcement to identify the at-fault driver
• We file UM claims with your insurance company

Commercial Vehicle Accidents: Beyond Just Trucks

Beaumont’s industrial economy means many commercial vehicles on the roads—delivery trucks, service vehicles, and company cars.

Types of commercial vehicles that can cause accidents:

• Delivery trucks (Amazon, UPS, FedEx)
• Construction vehicles
• Utility trucks
• Company cars
• Taxi cabs
• Shuttle buses

Why commercial vehicle cases often result in higher settlements:

• Higher insurance policy limits
• Multiple liable parties (driver, company, maintenance provider)
• Commercial drivers held to higher standards
• Electronic data (GPS, telematics) can prove liability

Recent commercial vehicle verdicts:

• 2024: $16.2 million for a Georgia child struck by an Amazon delivery van
• 2024: $105 million in Lopez v. All Points 360 (Amazon DSP case)
• 2023: $5 million Amazon delivery accident settlement

Construction Zone Accidents: Preventable Tragedies

Nearly 28,000 crashes occurred in Texas work zones in 2024, resulting in 215 deaths—a 12% increase from the previous year. Beaumont’s ongoing infrastructure projects mean work zone accidents are a constant risk.

Real case example from Texas:
Katrina Bond, a college student, 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. The force pushed her car into the path of another truck. She was killed.

Why work zone accidents happen:

• Speeding through construction zones
• Distracted driving
• Failure to obey signs and flaggers
• Poorly marked work zones
• Equipment in roadways
• Driver confusion

Liable parties in work zone accidents:

• The negligent driver
• The construction company (poor signage, unsafe practices)
• Government entities (road design, maintenance)
• Equipment manufacturers (defective machinery)

Tesla and Autonomous Vehicle Accidents: Emerging Liability Issues

As electric and autonomous vehicles become more common in Beaumont, new types of accidents are emerging.

Notable autonomous vehicle crashes:

• May 2016: First U.S. Autopilot fatality in Florida (Tesla failed to detect white 18-wheeler)
• March 2018: Apple engineer killed in Mountain View, CA (settled April 2024)
• August 2025: $240 million+ jury verdict against Tesla in Miami

Key liability arguments in autonomous vehicle cases:

1. Tesla marketed Full Self-Driving (FSD) and Autopilot as safer than human drivers
2. Marketing fostered driver overconfidence and overreliance
3. Tesla knew the system couldn’t detect emergency vehicles
4. Tesla used over-the-air software updates instead of comprehensive fixes

NHTSA data on Tesla:

• Tesla Autopilot accounts for 70% of driver-assist crashes reported to NHTSA
• December 2023: Tesla recalled 2+ million vehicles for Autopilot issues

Why you need Attorney911 for autonomous vehicle cases:

• Ralph Manginello’s federal court admission allows us to handle complex product liability cases
• We have experience taking on billion-dollar corporations (BP explosion litigation)
• We understand the technical aspects of autonomous vehicle technology

E-Scooter and E-Bike Accidents: New Risks on Beaumont Streets

Electric scooters and bikes are becoming more popular in Beaumont, creating new accident risks.

Texas e-bike classifications:

Class	Max Speed	Throttle	Pedal Assist
Class 1	20 mph	No	Yes
Class 2	20 mph	Yes	Yes
Class 3	28 mph	No	Yes

Legal requirements for e-bikes in Texas:

• No license required for standard e-bikes
• No registration required
• Motor limit: 750W (1 horsepower) or less
• Speed limit: 28 mph maximum assisted speed
• No statewide helmet requirement (some cities require helmets for riders under 17)

If an e-bike exceeds these standards:

• It may not be classified as an “electric bicycle” under Texas law
• May require registration as a motor vehicle
• Different insurance and liability implications apply

Liability in e-bike accidents:

• Motorists who strike e-bike riders
• E-bike manufacturers (product defects like battery fires or brake failures)
• Pedestrians struck by e-bikes
• Property owners (premises liability for poorly maintained paths)

Recent e-bike verdict:

• October 2024: $1.6 million awarded to an e-bike rider struck by an SUV in Portland

Bus Accidents: When Public Transportation Fails

Texas leads all states in bus accidents, with 1,110 bus crashes reported in 2024. Beaumont’s public transportation system means bus accidents, while relatively rare, do occur.

Texas bus accident statistics (2024):

• 1,110 total bus accidents
• 17 fatal crashes
• 549 injury crashes

School bus statistics (2023):

• 2,523 school bus crashes
• 11 school bus deaths
• 63 serious injuries
• 10,000+ students injured during the 2021-22 school year

Liable parties in bus accidents:

• The bus driver (fatigue, distraction, impairment)
• The bus operator/company (inadequate training, negligent maintenance)
• The vehicle manufacturer (brake, tire, or safety equipment defects)
• Other drivers (third-party vehicles)
• Government entities (poor signage, road defects) – special notice requirements apply

Boat and Maritime Accidents: Unique Risks on the Water

Beaumont’s proximity to the Gulf Coast and the Neches River means boating accidents are a real risk.

Common causes of boat accidents:

• Operator inexperience
• Alcohol use
• Excessive speed
• Navigation errors
• Equipment failure
• Weather conditions

Common boat accident injuries:

• Drowning
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Spinal cord injuries
• Broken bones
• Hypothermia
• Carbon monoxide poisoning

Attorney911’s maritime experience:
In a recent case, our client injured his back while lifting cargo on a ship. Our investigation revealed that he should have been assisted in this duty, and we were able to reach a significant cash settlement.

What to Do Immediately After an Accident in Beaumont

The 48-Hour Evidence Preservation Protocol

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 (do NOT delete anything)
• 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
• Insurance Response: If insurance contacts you, refer them to your attorney
• Settlement Offers: Do NOT accept or sign anything without lawyer review
• Evidence Backup: Upload all screenshots and photos to cloud storage

Why Evidence Disappears So Quickly

Timeframe	What Disappears	Why It Matters
Day 1-7	Witness memories begin fading	Details become uncertain or forgotten
Day 7-30	Surveillance footage deleted	Gas stations: 7-14 days, retail: 30 days, traffic cameras: 30 days
Month 1-2	Insurance companies solidify defense position	They build their case against you
Month 2-6	Trucking ELD/black box data deleted	30-180 day retention period
Month 6-12	Witnesses become unreachable	Move, change jobs, memories degrade
Month 12-24	Approaching statute of limitations	Creates pressure to settle cheaply

What Attorney911 Does Within 24 Hours of Retention

We send preservation letters to:

• The other driver and their insurance company
• Trucking companies (for commercial vehicle accidents)
• Businesses near the accident scene
• Employers (if the accident was work-related)
• Property owners
• Government entities
• Vehicle manufacturers

These letters legally require evidence preservation before automatic deletion.

Texas Motor Vehicle Law: What Beaumont Victims Need to Know

Statute of Limitations: The 2-Year Deadline

In Texas, you have 2 years from the date of your accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This deadline is absolute. Miss it, and your case is barred forever.

Exceptions:

• Discovery Rule: In rare cases, the 2-year clock may start later if the injury wasn’t immediately discoverable
• Defendant Absence: If the defendant leaves Texas, the clock may be paused
• Mental Incapacity: The clock may be paused during periods of incapacity
• Minors: The clock doesn’t start until the victim turns 18

Comparative Negligence: The 51% Bar Rule

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

• If you’re 50% or less at fault, you can recover damages (reduced by your percentage of fault)
• If you’re 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 will try to assign you maximum fault to reduce their payment. Even small percentages 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 because he made them for years—now he defeats them.

Texas Minimum Auto Insurance Requirements

Texas requires all drivers to carry minimum insurance coverage:

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

The uninsured motorist problem:

• 15.4% of U.S. motorists are uninsured (approximately 1 in 7 drivers)
• Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage is critical for protection
• Texas allows inter-policy stacking (combining coverage from multiple vehicles)

Dram Shop Liability: Holding Bars Accountable

Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code § 2.02 allows victims to sue establishments that serve alcohol to obviously intoxicated individuals who later cause accidents.

Elements to prove:

1. The establishment served alcohol to someone who was obviously intoxicated
2. 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 (limited circumstances in Texas)

Wrongful Death vs. Survival Actions

Wrongful Death Claim:

• Brought by surviving family members (spouse, children, parents)
• Recovers damages they suffered from the loss of their loved one
• Includes: loss of companionship, mental anguish, lost financial support, funeral expenses

Survival Action:

• Brought on behalf of the deceased’s estate
• Recovers damages the deceased would have recovered if they had survived
• Includes: pain and suffering before death, medical expenses before death, lost income before death

In Texas, families can pursue both claims after a fatal accident.

Proving Liability: Building Your Case

To win your motor vehicle accident case in Texas, you must prove four elements of negligence:

1. Duty of Care: The at-fault party had a legal obligation to act reasonably
2. Breach of Duty: They violated that duty through action or inaction
3. Causation: Their breach directly caused your injuries
4. Damages: You suffered actual harm (physical, financial, emotional)

Types of Evidence We Use

Physical Evidence:

• Vehicle damage photographs (all angles)
• Skid marks, debris, road damage
• Damaged personal property (clothing, glasses, phone)
• Weather and road conditions documentation

Documentary Evidence:

• Police accident report
• 911 call recordings
• Traffic camera footage
• Surveillance footage from nearby businesses
• Medical records and bills
• Employment records (for lost wages)
• Cell phone records (proving distraction)

Electronic Evidence:

• ELD (Electronic Logging Device) data from trucks
• Vehicle black box/EDR (Event Data Recorder)
• GPS/telematics data
• Dashcam footage
• Social media posts (theirs, not yours)

Testimonial Evidence:

• Witness statements
• Expert witness testimony
• Medical expert opinions
• Accident reconstruction specialists

Multiple Liable Parties: More Defendants, More Insurance

In many accidents, multiple parties share responsibility:

Trucking Accidents:

• Truck driver (negligent operation)
• Trucking company (negligent hiring, supervision, maintenance)
• Cargo loader (improper loading causing instability)
• Vehicle manufacturer (defective parts)
• Maintenance company (improper repairs)

Rideshare Accidents:

• Rideshare driver
• Rideshare company (Uber/Lyft)
• Other at-fault drivers
• Vehicle owner (if different from driver)

Drunk Driving Accidents:

• Drunk driver
• Bar/restaurant (dram shop liability)
• Social host (limited circumstances)
• Liquor store (serving obviously intoxicated person)

More liable parties = more insurance policies = higher recovery potential.

Expert Witnesses: Strengthening Your Case

Attorney911 works with a network of expert witnesses to build strong cases:

Expert Type	What They Prove
Accident Reconstructionist	How the crash occurred, who was at fault, speeds, angles
Medical Experts	Extent of injuries, future treatment needs, permanent impairment
Life Care Planner	Lifetime cost of care for catastrophic injuries
Vocational Expert	Lost earning capacity, inability to return to prior work
Economist	Present value of future losses, wage calculations
Biomechanical Engineer	How injuries were caused by collision forces
Trucking Industry Expert	FMCSA violations, industry standards
Human Factors Expert	Perception-reaction time, visibility issues

Damages: What Beaumont Accident Victims Can Recover

Types of Damages Available in Texas

Economic Damages (No Cap in Texas):

• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost wages and lost earning capacity
• Property damage
• Out-of-pocket expenses (transportation, home modifications, household help)

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

• Pain and suffering
• Mental anguish
• Physical impairment
• Disfigurement
• Loss of consortium (impact on marriage/family relationships)
• Loss of enjoyment of life

Punitive/Exemplary Damages (Capped):

• Available for gross negligence, fraud, or malice
• Purpose: punish the defendant and deter similar conduct
• Cap: Greater of $200,000 OR (2x economic damages + 1x non-economic damages, capped at $750,000 for non-economic portion)

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

Broken Bone (Requiring Surgery):

• Medical treatment: $47,000-$98,000
• Lost wages: $10,000-$30,000
• 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
• Lost earning capacity: $50,000-$400,000
• 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

Attorney911’s documented TBI result:

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

Spinal Cord Injury / Paralysis:

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

Amputation:

• Past medical: $170,000-$480,000
• Future prosthetics: $500,000-$2,000,000
• Settlement range: $1,945,000-$8,630,000

Attorney911’s documented amputation 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):

• Funeral/burial: $10,000-$20,000
• Medical 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

Attorney911’s documented wrongful death 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: Texas Leads the Nation

Texas leads the nation in nuclear verdicts (jury awards exceeding $10 million). In 2024 alone:

• Hatch v. Jones (car accident wrongful death): $81.7 million
• Frito-Lay Warehouse (vehicle collision): $72 million
• Lopez v. All Points 360 (Amazon DSP): $105 million
• New Prime I-35 pileup (6 deaths): $44.1 million
• Oncor Electric (trucking): $37.5 million
• Ben E. Keith (Fort Worth trucking): $35 million

Why nuclear verdicts matter:
Insurance companies fear nuclear verdicts. This fear increases settlement values across all serious injury cases. Attorney911’s trial readiness and multi-million dollar track record give us leverage in every negotiation.

How Insurance Companies Calculate Your Claim

Most insurance companies use software called Colossus to value claims. Here’s how it works:

1. Data Entry: Adjuster inputs injury codes, treatment types, medical costs, 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

How insurance companies manipulate Colossus:

• Using low injury codes (“soft tissue strain” instead of “disc herniation”)
• Flagging “excessive” treatment (physical therapy beyond “normal” range)
• Penalizing conservative treatment (chiropractic valued less than MD)
• Reducing value for pre-existing conditions
• Applying jurisdiction factors (low-verdict counties get lower values)

Why Lupe’s experience matters:
Lupe Peña used Colossus for years while working for insurance companies. He knows:

• How to code injuries properly for maximum value
• Which medical terms trigger higher valuations
• When Colossus output is artificially low
• How to present records to beat the algorithm

Insurance Tactics: How They Try to Minimize Your Claim

Tactic #1: Quick Contact & Recorded Statement

What they do:
Within days of your accident, insurance adjusters contact you—often while you’re still in the hospital or recovering at home. They’ll sound friendly and helpful, but their real goal is to get you to say something that hurts your case.

Common trap questions:

• “You’re feeling better now though, right?”
• “It wasn’t that bad of an impact, was it?”
• “You were able to walk away from the scene?”
• “Were you distracted at all?”
• “How fast were you going?”

The truth:

• You are NOT required to give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance
• 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 us, we become your voice. All calls go through us, and we prepare you properly if a statement becomes necessary. We know their questions because Lupe asked them for years.

Tactic #2: Quick Settlement Offer

What they do:
Within days or weeks of your accident, the insurance company offers you quick money—typically $2,000-$5,000, sometimes up to $15,000 if they’re worried. 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”

The trap:
You don’t know the full extent of your injuries yet. What seems like a lot of money now might not cover your future medical bills.

Real example:
Day 3: Insurance offers $3,500 “final settlement”
You sign the release (thinking it’s over)
Week 6: MRI shows herniated disc requiring surgery (cost: $100,000)
Too late—you signed the release and can’t reopen your claim
You pay $100,000 out of pocket
Insurance pays nothing more

How Attorney911 counters:
We never settle before you’ve reached Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI)—the point where your doctors say you’ve recovered as much as you’re going to. This could be 6 months, 12 months, or longer depending on your injuries. We know their offers are always lowball.

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

What they call it:
“Independent Medical Examination”

What it really is:
An insurance company-hired doctor whose job is to minimize your injuries.

How they choose IME doctors:

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

What happens at an 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:

• “Patient has pre-existing degenerative changes” (everyone over 40 has some arthritis)
• “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
• 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:

• “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”

What they monitor on social media:

• Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, Twitter, 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	What Insurance Claimed	Reality
Old Gym 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”	Client was 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:

1. Make ALL profiles private immediately
2. Don’t post about the accident, injuries, or activities
3. Don’t check in anywhere
4. Tell friends/family: don’t tag you, don’t post about you
5. Don’t accept friend requests from strangers (fake profiles)
6. Best: stay off social media entirely during your case
7. Assume everything is being monitored

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:
We conduct an 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.

Medical Knowledge: Understanding Your Injuries

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

Immediate vs. Delayed Symptoms:

Immediate Symptoms (At Accident Scene or Within Hours):

• Loss of consciousness (even brief—seconds to minutes)
• Confusion and disorientation (“Where am I? What happened?”)
• Vomiting and nausea
• Seizures
• Severe headache
• Dilated pupils
• Slurred speech
• Weakness or numbness

Delayed Symptoms (Hours to Days Later—Critical):

• Worsening headaches that don’t respond to medication
• Repeated vomiting
• Seizures developing days later
• Slurred speech or difficulty speaking
• Personality changes and mood swings
• Sleep disturbances (sleeping much more or can’t sleep)
• Sensitivity to light and noise
• Confusion and memory problems worsening

Why delayed symptoms matter legally:
Insurance companies claim delayed symptoms aren’t from the accident. We use medical experts to explain that symptom progression is normal for brain injuries.

Severity Classifications:

Classification	Characteristics
Mild TBI / Concussion	Brief LOC, GCS 13-15, may seem “fine” initially but can have serious long-term effects
Moderate TBI	LOC minutes to hours, GCS 9-12, lasting cognitive impairment, requires hospitalization
Severe TBI	Extended unconsciousness or coma, GCS 3-8, permanent disability likely, lifetime care needs

Long-Term Complications:

• Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE): Progressive brain degeneration, personality changes, dementia
• Post-Concussive Syndrome: Headaches, dizziness lasting months or years (affects 10-15% of TBI patients)
• Increased Dementia Risk: Single moderate TBI doubles dementia risk later in life
• Personality and Mood Disorders: Depression (40-50% of TBI patients), anxiety, irritability
• Seizure Disorders: Can develop months or years after injury
• Cognitive Impairment: Memory problems, difficulty concentrating, slowed processing

Spinal Cord Injury

Injury Levels and Impact:

Injury Level	Characteristics
C1-C4 (High Cervical)	Quadriplegia (all four limbs paralyzed), possible ventilator dependence, 24/7 care required
C5-C8 (Low Cervical)	Quadriplegia with some arm/hand function, wheelchair dependent
T1-T12 (Thoracic)	Paraplegia (lower body paralysis), trunk control varies by level, wheelchair dependent
L1-L5 (Lumbar)	Varying degrees of leg weakness/paralysis, bowel/bladder dysfunction common, may walk with assistive devices

ASIA Impairment Scale:

Grade	Classification	Prognosis
A	Complete	No motor or sensory function below injury—worst prognosis
B	Sensory Incomplete	Sensory function but no motor function below injury
C	Motor Incomplete	Motor function but most muscles <3/5 strength
D	Motor Incomplete	Motor function with most muscles ≥3/5 strength
E	Normal	Full motor and sensory function (recovered)

Secondary Complications:

• Pressure sores (leading cause of hospitalization)
• Respiratory complications (pneumonia—leading cause of death)
• Bowel and bladder dysfunction
• Sexual dysfunction
• Autonomic dysreflexia (life-threatening blood pressure crisis)
• Depression (40-60% of patients)
• Shortened life expectancy (5-15 years on average)

Amputation

Types of Amputations:

• Traumatic Amputation: Limb severed at accident scene by collision impact
• Surgical Amputation: Due to crush injuries or infections (like Attorney911’s documented case)

Levels of Amputation:

• Above-Knee: More difficult, less mobility, more expensive prosthetics
• Below-Knee: Better mobility potential, easier prosthetic use
• Upper Extremity: Arm, hand, fingers
• Multiple Limbs: Exponentially more challenging

Phantom Limb Pain:

• 80% of amputees experience phantom pain
• Feeling pain in a limb that’s no longer there
• Can be severe and debilitating
• Often a permanent condition
• Requires lifetime pain management

Attorney911’s documented amputation case:

“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.”

Burn Injuries

Classifications of Burn Injuries:

Degree	Characteristics	Treatment Required
First-Degree	Superficial, like sunburn, heals in 7-10 days	Outpatient care
Second-Degree	Blistering, severe pain, may scar	Monitor, possible hospitalization
Third-Degree	Full thickness, destroys all skin, always scars	Skin grafting required
Fourth-Degree	Extends into muscle and bone	Often requires amputation

Impact of Body Surface Area Burned:

% Body Burned	Treatment Required
<10%	Usually outpatient care
10-20%	Hospitalization required
20-40%	Burn center, ICU, multiple surgeries
>40%	Extremely life-threatening
>60%	Often fatal

Herniated Disc

Treatment Timeline:

1. Acute Phase (Weeks 1-6): Severe pain, medications, rest. Cost: $2,000-$5,000
2. Conservative Treatment (Weeks 6-12): Physical therapy, chiropractic. Cost: $5,000-$12,000
3. Interventional (If Conservative Fails): Epidural steroid injections. Cost: $3,000-$6,000
4. Surgery (If Injections Fail): Microdiscectomy or fusion. Cost: $50,000-$120,000

Permanent Restrictions Impact:

• Can’t return to physical labor jobs
• Lost earning capacity claims
• Ongoing pain management needs

Soft Tissue Injuries

Why insurance companies undervalue soft tissue injuries:

• No broken bones or surgery = appears “minor”
• Difficult to see on X-rays
• Symptoms are subjective (pain, stiffness)

Why soft tissue injuries can be serious:

• 15-20% develop chronic pain
• Can prevent return to physical jobs
• Whiplash can cause permanent problems
• Often misdiagnosed initially (rotator cuff tears thought to be sprains)

Proper documentation is critical:

• Detailed pain descriptions to doctors
• Consistent treatment (no gaps)
• MRI proving injury
• Physical therapy records
• Work restrictions documented

Psychological Injuries

PTSD After Motor Vehicle Accidents:

• 32-45% of accident victims develop PTSD symptoms
• Anxiety about driving again
• Fear of getting in cars (as driver or passenger)
• Panic attacks near accident location or similar roads
• Sleep disturbances, nightmares, flashbacks
• Avoidance behaviors

Compensable psychological damages:

• Mental anguish
• Emotional distress
• Anxiety and depression
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Fear and worry
• Relationship impacts

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Beaumont Accident Case

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.”

What this means for your case:

• 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
• We speak their language

No other firm in Beaumont has this advantage.

2. Multi-Million Dollar Results

Attorney911 has recovered millions for victims of:

• 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”

Our results prove we don’t settle cheap.

3. Federal Court Experience

Ralph Manginello is admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas.

Why this matters:

• Complex cases often end up in federal court
• FMCSA trucking regulations are federal
• Diversity jurisdiction for out-of-state defendants
• Federal court requires different skills than state court

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

4. Personal Attention You Deserve

What our clients say:

“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

You work directly with Ralph or Lupe, not a case manager assembly line.

5. 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 for you

6. We Know Beaumont

Our team knows:

• The Beaumont courts and local judges
• The dangerous intersections on Major Drive, Phelan Boulevard, and I-10
• The local hospitals (CHRISTUS Southeast Texas, Baptist Hospitals)
• The insurance adjusters who handle Jefferson County claims
• The unique accident patterns in refinery zones

When you call Attorney911, you’re calling neighbors who understand your community.

7. Hablamos Español

Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish, and our team includes bilingual staff members like Zulema. As client Celia Dominguez shared:

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

Whether you’re more comfortable in English or Spanish, we communicate clearly and compassionately throughout your case.

Frequently Asked Questions About Beaumont Car Accidents

Immediate After-Accident Questions

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

• Call 911 and report the accident
• Seek medical attention even if you feel fine (adrenaline masks injuries)
• Document everything: photos of damage, injuries, and the 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 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 Beaumont, you can obtain the police report from the responding agency (Beaumont Police Department or Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office) or through the Texas Department of Transportation’s Crash Records Information System (CRIS).

Dealing with Insurance Questions

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 Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage can compensate you. Watch our video: Uninsured & Underinsured Motorists

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 Questions

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?

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 your 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 recover nothing.

Watch our video: What Is Comparative Negligence?

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?

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?

1. Investigation and evidence gathering
2. Medical treatment to MMI
3. Demand letter to insurance
4. Negotiation
5. Lawsuit if necessary
6. Discovery
7. Mediation
8. Trial if needed

Watch our video: What Is the Process for a Personal Injury Claim?

Compensation Questions

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 lost 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 Questions

27. How much do car accident lawyers cost?
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?

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.”

Mistakes to Avoid Questions

32. What common mistakes can hurt my case?

• Giving a recorded statement without an attorney
• Accepting a 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

33. Should I post about my accident on social media?
No. Make all profiles private. Don’t post about the 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 the severity of your 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. For example: You had mild occasional back pain before the accident. The accident caused a herniated disc requiring surgery. You recover for the new injury, not just the pre-existing pain. 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 said: “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 own 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, and clear liability. For example: $100,000 medical expenses × 4 multiplier = $400,000 pain & suffering. Lupe calculated these multipliers for years using insurance company formulas. He knows how to justify higher multipliers and when the multiplier method undervalues catastrophic injuries.

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 when the at-fault driver is unidentified. Surveillance footage is critical—gas stations, businesses, Ring doorbells, and traffic cameras may have captured the incident. 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. 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. 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 often argue “parking lot accidents are always 50/50 fault” (this is a lie). We prove fault through surveillance video, witness statements, damage analysis, and 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. There are 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.

Beaumont-Specific Resources

Beaumont Courts and Legal System

Jefferson County District Courts:

• Jefferson County Courthouse
  • 1001 Pearl Street, Beaumont, TX 77701
  • Handles civil cases with damages over $250,000
  • Multiple district courts (133rd, 172nd, 252nd, etc.)

Jefferson County Courts at Law:

• Handle civil cases with damages under $250,000
• Located in the Jefferson County Courthouse
• More accessible for smaller cases

Justice of the Peace Courts:

• Handle small claims under $20,000
• Multiple precincts throughout Jefferson County
• JP Court, Precinct 1: 1085 Pearl Street, Beaumont, TX 77701

Federal Court:

• U.S. District Court, Eastern District of Texas (Beaumont Division)
• 300 Willow Street, Suite 200, Beaumont, TX 77701
• Ralph Manginello is admitted to the Southern District of Texas (Houston Division), allowing him to handle federal cases across Southeast Texas

Beaumont Hospitals and Trauma Centers

Level III Trauma Center:

• CHRISTUS Southeast Texas – St. Elizabeth
  • 2830 Calder Avenue, Beaumont, TX 77702
  • Primary trauma center for Beaumont and the Golden Triangle
  • Specializes in emergency care, orthopedics, neurology

Additional Medical Facilities:

• Baptist Hospitals of Southeast Texas
  • 3080 College Street, Beaumont, TX 77701
  • Specializes in orthopedics, rehabilitation, and emergency care
• CHRISTUS Southeast Texas – Jasper Memorial
  • 1275 Marvin Hancock Drive, Jasper, TX 75951
  • Serves Jasper and surrounding areas
• Orange Memorial Hospital
  • 608 Strickland Drive, Orange, TX 77630
  • Serves Orange and surrounding communities

Beaumont Law Enforcement Agencies

Beaumont Police Department:

• 255 College Street, Beaumont, TX 77701
• Handles accidents within Beaumont city limits
• Non-emergency: (409) 880-3800

Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office:

• 1001 Pearl Street, Beaumont, TX 77701
• Handles accidents in unincorporated Jefferson County
• Non-emergency: (409) 835-8411

Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS):

• 6505 Eastex Freeway, Beaumont, TX 77706
• Handles accidents on state highways (I-10, US-69, US-96, etc.)
• Non-emergency: (409) 899-5500

Beaumont Towing and Vehicle Storage

After an accident, your vehicle may be towed to a storage facility. Here are some common towing companies in Beaumont:

• Beaumont Towing Service: (409) 833-8697
• A-1 Towing & Recovery: (409) 832-8691
• Golden Triangle Towing: (409) 832-8691

Important: Storage fees add up quickly (typically $20-$50 per day). Insurance may cover towing but not storage. Act quickly to avoid excessive fees.

Beaumont Rental Car Companies

If your vehicle is damaged, you may need a rental car:

• Enterprise Rent-A-Car: 3825 Phelan Boulevard, Beaumont, TX 77707 | (409) 842-1111
• Hertz: 3850 Phelan Boulevard, Beaumont, TX 77707 | (409) 842-1112
• Avis: 3850 Phelan Boulevard, Beaumont, TX 77707 | (409) 842-1113
• Budget: 3850 Phelan Boulevard, Beaumont, TX 77707 | (409) 842-1114

Insurance Tip: Check if your policy includes rental reimbursement coverage. If not, we can help you recover rental costs as part of your claim.

Call Attorney911 Now: 1-888-ATTY-911

If you’ve been injured in a motor vehicle accident in Beaumont, Texas, don’t wait. Evidence disappears daily. Insurance companies are already building their case against you. The 2-year statute of limitations is ticking.

Attorney911 is here to fight for you. We know how insurance companies operate because we used to work for them—now we fight for victims like you. Our team has recovered millions for accident victims across Southeast Texas.

Call now for a free consultation: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)

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

Hablamos Español.

The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC | Attorney911
Principal Office: Houston, Texas
Serving Beaumont, Port Arthur, Orange, and the Golden Triangle

Remember:

• Evidence disappears daily—surveillance footage deleted in 7-30 days
• Insurance is already building their case against you
• The 2-year statute of limitations is absolute
• We know their tactics because Lupe used them for years
• We’ve recovered millions for accident victims
• We don’t get paid unless we win

Call Attorney911 now: 1-888-ATTY-911

Your recovery starts with one call.