Motor Vehicle Accidents in Kaufman County, Texas: Your Legal Emergency Guide

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Kaufman County, Texas, you’re not alone. With over 251,977 people injured in Texas motor vehicle crashes in 2024 alone—and one accident happening every 57 seconds—our roads have become dangerously crowded. Kaufman County residents face unique risks, from the busy intersections of Forney to the high-speed stretches of Highway 80 and the I-20 corridor. When accidents happen, the aftermath can feel overwhelming: mounting medical bills, insurance adjusters pressuring you to settle, and the fear that you’ll never get the compensation you truly deserve.

At Attorney911, we understand what you’re going through. For over 25 years, Ralph Manginello and our team have been fighting for accident victims across Texas, recovering millions in compensation for clients who’ve suffered life-altering injuries. We don’t just handle cases—we handle emergencies. That’s why we created Attorney911: to provide immediate legal response when you need it most.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about motor vehicle accidents in Kaufman County, from the most common types of crashes to how insurance companies try to minimize your claim. We’ll show you why having a former insurance defense attorney on your side—like Lupe Peña—can make all the difference in your recovery. And most importantly, we’ll explain exactly what to do next to protect your rights and your future.

The Reality of Car Accidents in Kaufman County

Kaufman County’s mix of rural roads, growing suburbs, and major highways creates a perfect storm for accidents. Whether you’re commuting to work in Terrell, driving through Forney’s busy intersections, or traveling on I-20 toward Dallas, the risks are real:

Highway 80 and FM 740 see frequent rear-end collisions and distracted driving accidents
Forney’s growing retail corridors experience increased pedestrian and parking lot accidents
I-20’s high-speed traffic leads to devastating trucking accidents
Rural roads like FM 1391 pose risks from wildlife crossings and poor lighting

With one person injured every 2 minutes and 5 seconds in Texas, Kaufman County families face constant danger on our roads. The question isn’t if another accident will happen—it’s when.

Why Kaufman County Accidents Demand Experienced Legal Representation

After a serious accident, you’ll face challenges that go beyond physical recovery:

Insurance companies are already building a case against you – Adjusters will contact you within hours, hoping to get statements that minimize your injuries
Evidence disappears quickly – Surveillance footage is deleted in 7-30 days, witness memories fade, and vehicle damage is repaired
Medical bills pile up – From emergency room visits to physical therapy, costs can reach hundreds of thousands of dollars
You may be unable to work – Lost wages compound your financial stress while you recover
Texas law has strict deadlines – You have just 2 years to file a claim, or you lose your right to compensation forever

This is why Kaufman County residents trust Attorney911. With offices serving all of Texas and a deep understanding of local courts and insurance adjusters, we bring Houston’s aggressive litigation experience to Kaufman County. Ralph Manginello’s 25+ years of experience and federal court admission mean we’re prepared to take on even the most complex cases—whether you were hit by a distracted driver in Forney, injured in a trucking accident on I-20, or suffered a life-changing injury in a motorcycle crash.

“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.” – Attorney911 Case Result

Common Types of Motor Vehicle Accidents in Kaufman County

1. Car Accidents (Most Common – 500-700 words)

Car accidents are the most frequent type of motor vehicle crash in Kaufman County, accounting for the majority of injuries we see. With Kaufman County’s growing population and increasing traffic on roads like Highway 80 and FM 740, rear-end collisions, T-bone accidents, and distracted driving crashes have become all too common.

Common Causes of Car Accidents in Kaufman County:

Distracted driving (texting, phone use, eating)
Speeding on rural roads and highways
Failure to yield at intersections
Drunk or drugged driving
Poor weather conditions
Vehicle maintenance failures

Typical Injuries:

Whiplash and soft tissue injuries
Herniated discs
Broken bones (arms, legs, ribs)
Traumatic brain injuries
Spinal cord injuries
Internal bleeding and organ damage

Why These Cases Are Complex:
Insurance companies often try to minimize car accident claims, arguing that injuries are “pre-existing” or that the crash was “minor.” They’ll pressure you to accept quick settlements that don’t cover your long-term medical needs. That’s why having an experienced car accident lawyer is crucial.

Attorney911’s Advantage:
With Ralph Manginello’s 25+ years of experience and Lupe Peña’s insurance defense background, we know how to counter these tactics. We’ve recovered millions for car accident victims, including cases involving amputations, spinal injuries, and traumatic brain injuries.

“I was rear-ended and the team got right to work. I received excellent communication throughout the process and got a very nice settlement.” – MONGO SLADE, Attorney911 Client

What to Do After a Car Accident in Kaufman County:

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

2. 18-Wheeler and Trucking Accidents (500-700 words)

Kaufman County’s location along I-20 makes it a major corridor for commercial trucking traffic. With 39,393 commercial motor vehicle crashes in Texas in 2024—resulting in 608 fatalities and 1,601 serious injuries—trucking accidents are among the most devastating crashes we handle.

Why Trucking Accidents Are Different:

Size and weight disparity: An 18-wheeler can weigh up to 80,000 pounds—20 times more than a passenger car
Multiple liable parties: The driver, trucking company, cargo loader, and vehicle manufacturer may all share responsibility
Federal regulations: The FMCSA sets strict rules for hours of service, maintenance, and driver qualifications
Higher insurance limits: Commercial policies often have $1,000,000+ in coverage

Common Causes of Trucking Accidents in Kaufman County:

Driver fatigue (violating hours of service rules)
Improper maintenance (brake failures, tire blowouts)
Overloaded or improperly secured cargo
Distracted or impaired driving
Inadequate driver training

Typical Injuries:

Catastrophic injuries (spinal cord damage, traumatic brain injuries)
Amputations
Severe burns
Wrongful death

FMCSA Regulations That Matter:

Hours of Service: Drivers limited to 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off-duty
Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs): Mandatory since 2017 to track driving hours
Drug and Alcohol Testing: Required pre-employment, randomly, and after accidents
Vehicle Maintenance: Regular inspections and repairs required

Attorney911’s Trucking Accident Experience:
We’ve recovered millions for trucking accident victims, including wrongful death cases. Ralph Manginello’s federal court admission is particularly valuable in trucking cases, which often involve federal regulations and multiple defendants.

“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.” – Attorney911 Case Result

What to Do After a Trucking Accident:

Call 911 immediately—trucking accidents often require specialized emergency response
Document everything: truck company name, driver information, cargo details
Preserve evidence: ELD data is automatically deleted in 30-180 days
Do NOT speak to the trucking company’s insurance adjuster
Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911—the clock is ticking

3. Drunk Driving Accidents (500-700 words)

With 1,053 alcohol-impaired driving deaths in Texas in 2024—accounting for 25.37% of all traffic fatalities—drunk driving remains a serious problem in Kaufman County. These preventable crashes devastate families and leave victims with life-altering injuries.

Texas Dram Shop Law:
Under Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code § 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 include:

Slurred speech
Bloodshot or glassy eyes
Unsteady gait or stumbling
Impaired coordination
Aggressive or erratic behavior

Why Drunk Driving Cases Are Valuable:

Punitive damages are available for gross negligence
Multiple defendants can be held liable (driver + establishment)
Criminal case can strengthen your civil claim
Insurance cannot defend the indefensible—drunk driving is hard to dispute

Attorney911’s Drunk Driving Expertise:
Ralph Manginello’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) gives us unique insight into both the criminal and civil aspects of drunk driving cases. We’ve successfully handled numerous DWI-related accident claims and understand how to maximize compensation in these cases.

What to Do After a Drunk Driving Accident:

Call 911 and report the accident—request a police response
Note any signs of intoxication (odor of alcohol, slurred speech, etc.)
Get witness information—look for people who saw the driver before the crash
Document the scene thoroughly
Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911—dram shop cases require immediate investigation

4. Motorcycle Accidents (300-450 words)

Kaufman County’s scenic routes attract many motorcycle riders, but with 585 motorcyclist fatalities in Texas in 2024, these accidents are often catastrophic. Riders face unique challenges in recovering compensation due to biases and the severity of their injuries.

Texas Motorcycle Laws:

Helmets are required for riders under 21
Riders 21+ can ride without helmets if they’ve completed a safety course or have $10,000+ in medical insurance
Lane splitting is illegal in Texas

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents:

Drivers failing to yield right-of-way
Distracted or inattentive drivers
Unsafe lane changes
Left-turn accidents at intersections
Speeding and reckless driving

Why Motorcycle Cases Are Challenging:
Insurance companies often try to blame the motorcyclist, arguing that they were speeding or could have avoided the crash. Texas’s 51% comparative fault rule means that if you’re found to be more than 50% at fault, you recover nothing.

Attorney911’s Advantage:
Lupe Peña’s insurance defense background is particularly valuable in motorcycle cases. He knows exactly how insurance companies try to shift blame to riders—because he used to make those arguments himself. Now he uses that knowledge to protect your rights.

5. Pedestrian Accidents (300-450 words)

With 6,095 pedestrian crashes in Texas in 2024 resulting in 768 fatalities, pedestrians are among the most vulnerable road users in Kaufman County. These accidents often occur in busy areas like Forney’s retail corridors and near schools.

Pedestrian Right-of-Way Laws:
In Texas, pedestrians always have the right-of-way at intersections, even unmarked crosswalks. This means that if you’re crossing between two streets, you have the right-of-way over vehicles.

Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents:

Drivers failing to yield at crosswalks
Distracted driving (texting, phone use)
Speeding in residential areas
Poor visibility at night
Left-turn accidents

Typical Injuries:

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

What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident:

Call 911 immediately—pedestrian accidents often result in severe injuries
Get witness information
Document the scene thoroughly
Seek medical attention, even if you feel fine
Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911—these cases require immediate investigation

6. Rideshare Accidents (Uber/Lyft) (300-450 words)

With rideshare services like Uber and Lyft operating throughout Kaufman County, these accidents have become increasingly common. The complex insurance structure of rideshare companies makes these cases particularly challenging.

Rideshare Insurance Phases:

Period 0 – App Off: Driver’s personal insurance applies (Texas minimum: $30,000/$60,000/$25,000)
Period 1 – App On, Waiting for Ride: Contingent coverage ($50,000/$100,000/$25,000)
Period 2 – Ride Accepted: Full commercial coverage ($1,000,000)
Period 3 – Passenger in Vehicle: Full commercial coverage ($1,000,000)

Who Can Be Injured:

21% Riders
21% Drivers
58% Third parties (other drivers, pedestrians)

Attorney911’s Rideshare Experience:
Lupe Peña’s insurance defense background is particularly valuable in rideshare cases. He understands how to navigate the complex insurance structure and identify all available coverage.

The Insurance Company Playbook: How They Try to Minimize Your Claim

At Attorney911, we know how insurance companies operate because Lupe Peña used to work for them. He spent years learning their tactics and now uses that knowledge to fight for victims. Here’s what they don’t want you to know:

1. The Quick Cash Trap (First 72 Hours)

Insurance adjusters will contact you within hours of your accident, often while you’re still in the hospital or on pain medication. They’ll act friendly and helpful, saying things like:

“We just want to help you”
“This is routine, everyone does this”
“It’ll only take a few minutes”

What They’re Really Doing:
They’re trying to get you to accept a quick settlement—often for just a few thousand dollars—that doesn’t come close to covering your medical bills or lost wages. Once you sign, you can’t get more money later, even if you need surgery.

Real Example:
We had a client who was offered $3,500 three days after her accident. She accepted because she was desperate. Six weeks later, she needed spinal surgery that cost $100,000. Because she had already signed a release, the insurance company refused to pay anything more.

“Lupe Peña worked for a number of years at a national defense firm, learning firsthand how large insurance companies value claims.” – Attorney911

2. The Recorded Statement Trap

Adjusters will ask you to give a recorded statement about what happened. They’ll make it seem routine, but every word will be analyzed and used against you.

Common Questions They Ask:

“You’re feeling better now though, right?” (Trap: Gets you to minimize your injuries)
“It wasn’t that bad of an impact, was it?” (Trap: Minimizes collision severity)
“You were able to walk away from the scene?” (Trap: Suggests injuries aren’t serious)
“Were you distracted at all?” (Trap: Gets you to admit fault)

The Truth:
You are NOT required to give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance company. In fact, doing so almost always hurts your case.

3. The Independent Medical Exam (IME) Scheme

After a few months of treatment, the insurance company will send you to a doctor of THEIR choosing for an “independent” medical exam. This is anything but independent.

How IME Doctors Are Chosen:

Insurance companies select doctors who consistently find “no injury” or “pre-existing condition”
These doctors are paid thousands of dollars per exam by insurance companies
They often spend just 10-15 minutes examining you
They rarely review your complete medical records beforehand

Common IME Findings:

“Patient has pre-existing degenerative changes” (Everyone over 40 has some arthritis)
“Injuries consistent with minor trauma” (Minimizing your pain)
“Patient can return to full duty work” (Eliminating lost wage claims)
“Treatment has been excessive” (Attacking your doctors)
“Subjective complaints out of proportion to objective findings” (Calling you a liar)

“I’ve reviewed hundreds of surveillance videos and social media posts as defense attorney. Here’s the truth: Insurance companies take innocent activity out of context. They freeze ONE frame of you moving ‘normally’ and ignore the 10 minutes of you struggling before and after. They’re not documenting your life – they’re building ammunition against you.” – Lupe Peña, Attorney911

4. Surveillance Tactics

Insurance companies hire private investigators to follow accident victims and record their daily activities. They’ll look for any activity that contradicts your injury claims.

What They Monitor:

Video surveillance of your home and neighborhood
Following you to appointments and errands
Monitoring your social media accounts
Taking photos of you doing normal activities

Real Examples We’ve Defended:

A photo of a client smiling at a family gathering was used to argue she wasn’t in pain
Video of a client walking slowly to her car was used to claim she wasn’t disabled
A friend’s Facebook post saying “Had fun yesterday!” was used as evidence of non-injury

7 Rules to Protect Yourself:

Make all social media profiles private immediately
Don’t post about your accident, injuries, or activities
Tell friends and family not to tag you in posts
Don’t accept friend requests from strangers
Assume everything is being monitored
Follow your doctor’s activity restrictions exactly
When in doubt, don’t post anything

5. Delay and Financial Pressure

Insurance companies know that the longer they delay your claim, the more desperate you’ll become. They’ll:

Take weeks to respond to simple questions
Claim they’re “still investigating”
Ignore your calls and emails
Hope you’ll accept a lowball offer just to get some money

Why This Works:

You have mounting medical bills
You’re unable to work
Creditors are calling
You need money now

How Attorney911 Counters This:

We file lawsuits to force deadlines
We set depositions to pressure them
We prepare for trial to show we’re serious
We know their delay tactics because Lupe used them for years

6. Comparative Fault Arguments

Texas uses a 51% comparative fault rule. This means:

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

How They Use This Against You:

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

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’s Advantage:
He knows exactly how insurance companies try to assign fault because he used to make these arguments for them. Now he uses that knowledge to protect your rights.

What You Can Recover: Understanding Your Damages

After an accident, you’re entitled to compensation for both economic and non-economic damages. At Attorney911, we fight to maximize your recovery in every category.

Economic Damages (No Cap in Texas)

These are quantifiable financial losses:

Medical expenses (past and future): Hospital bills, surgery, physical therapy, medications, medical equipment
Lost wages: Income lost from the date of accident to present
Lost earning capacity: Reduced ability to earn income in the future
Property damage: Vehicle repair or replacement, personal property
Out-of-pocket expenses: Transportation to medical appointments, home modifications, household help

Non-Economic Damages (No Cap Except Medical Malpractice)

These compensate for intangible losses:

Pain and suffering: Physical pain from injuries, both past and future
Mental anguish: Emotional distress, anxiety, depression
Physical impairment: Loss of physical function, disability, limitations
Disfigurement: Scarring, permanent visible injuries
Loss of consortium: Impact on marriage/family relationships
Loss of enjoyment of life: Inability to participate in activities you previously enjoyed

Punitive Damages (Capped)

Available for gross negligence, fraud, or malice:

Drunk driving cases often qualify
Cap: Greater of $200,000 OR (2x economic + 1x non-economic, max $750,000 for non-economic portion)

Settlement Ranges by Injury Type:

Injury Type	Medical Costs	Lost Wages	Pain & Suffering	Settlement Range
Soft Tissue (Whiplash)	$6,000-$16,000	$2,000-$10,000	$8,000-$35,000	$15,000-$60,000
Broken Bone (Simple)	$10,000-$20,000	$5,000-$15,000	$20,000-$60,000	$35,000-$95,000
Broken Bone (Surgery)	$47,000-$98,000	$10,000-$30,000	$75,000-$200,000	$132,000-$328,000
Herniated Disc (Conservative)	$22,000-$46,000	$8,000-$25,000	$40,000-$100,000	$70,000-$171,000
Herniated Disc (Surgery)	$96,000-$205,000	$20,000-$50,000	$150,000-$450,000	$346,000-$1,205,000
Traumatic Brain Injury	$198,000-$638,000	$50,000-$200,000	$500,000-$3,000,000	$1,548,000-$9,838,000
Spinal Cord Injury	$500,000-$1,500,000	$200,000-$500,000	$2,000,000-$5,000,000	$4,770,000-$25,880,000
Amputation	$170,000-$480,000	$50,000-$100,000	$500,000-$2,000,000	$1,945,000-$8,630,000
Wrongful Death	$50,000-$500,000	$1,000,000-$4,000,000	$500,000-$3,000,000	$1,910,000-$9,520,000

Attorney911 Documented Results:

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

“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”

“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”

Why Kaufman County Residents Choose Attorney911

When you’re injured in an accident, you need more than just a lawyer—you need a legal emergency response team. Here’s what sets Attorney911 apart:

1. Insurance Defense Insider Advantage

Lupe Peña spent years working for a national insurance defense firm. He knows exactly how insurance companies:

Value claims
Calculate settlements
Deploy delay tactics
Select IME doctors
Argue comparative fault

Now he uses that knowledge to fight for victims, not against them.

“Lupe Peña worked for a number of years at a national defense firm, learning firsthand how large insurance companies value claims.” – Attorney911

2. Multi-Million Dollar Results

We’ve recovered millions for clients with:

Brain injuries
Spinal cord damage
Amputations
Wrongful death
Catastrophic injuries

Our results prove we don’t settle cheap. We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial, which gives us leverage in negotiations.

3. Federal Court Experience

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

Complex trucking cases involving FMCSA regulations
Cases against out-of-state defendants
Product liability claims
Cases with multiple defendants

“Our firm is one of the few firms in Texas to be involved in BP explosion litigation” – Attorney911

4. Personal Attention from Day One

At Attorney911, you work directly with Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña, not a case manager assembly line.

“You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client…You are FAMILY to them.” – Chad Harris, Attorney911 Client

5. Contingency Fee – No Risk to You

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

No upfront costs
No hourly fees
No financial risk to you
Free consultations

“We don’t get paid unless we win your case.” – Attorney911

Frequently Asked Questions About Motor Vehicle Accidents in Kaufman County

Immediate After Accident

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

Call 911 and report the accident
Seek medical attention even if you feel fine (adrenaline masks injuries)
Document everything: photos of damage, injuries, scene
Exchange information with other driver
Get witness names and phone numbers
Do NOT give recorded statement to any insurance company
Call Attorney911 at 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 Kaufman County, you can obtain the police report from the responding agency or through the Texas Department of Transportation’s Crash Records Information System (CRIS).

Dealing with Insurance

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

8. What if the other driver’s insurance contacts me?
Say: “I need to speak with my attorney first.” Give only basic information (name, date of accident). Do NOT give recorded statement. Do NOT discuss injuries or fault.

9. Do I have to accept the insurance company’s estimate?
No. Their estimate is just an offer. It’s usually far below actual value. Attorney911 fights for what your case is really worth.

10. Should I accept a quick settlement offer?
NEVER accept settlement before knowing full extent of injuries. Once you sign a release, you cannot get more money even if you need surgery later.

11. What if the other driver is uninsured/underinsured?
Your own UM/UIM coverage can compensate you. Watch our video: “Uninsured & Underinsured Motorists” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kWcNFyb-Yq8

12. Why does insurance want me to sign a medical authorization?
They want unlimited access to your ENTIRE medical history to find pre-existing conditions to use against you. Never sign without attorney review.

Legal Process

13. Do I have a personal injury case?
You may have a case if:

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

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

14. When should I hire a car accident lawyer?
Immediately. Evidence disappears daily. Insurance companies start building their defense against you from day one. Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911

15. How much time do I have to file (statute of limitations)?
In Texas: 2 years from date of accident for personal injury, 2 years from date of death for wrongful death. Miss it = case barred forever.

16. What is comparative negligence and how does it affect me?
Texas uses the 51% bar rule. If you’re 50% or less at fault, you can recover (reduced by your fault %). If 51%+ at fault, you get nothing.

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

17. What happens if I was partially at fault?
You can still recover if you were 50% or less at fault. Your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault.

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

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

19. How long will my case take to settle?
Depends on injury severity. We don’t settle until you’ve reached maximum medical improvement (MMI). Could be 6 months for minor injuries, 18-24 months for serious injuries.

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

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

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

Compensation

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

22. What types of damages can I recover?

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

23. Can I get compensation for pain and suffering?
Yes. Pain and suffering is a significant component of personal injury cases in Texas. There is NO CAP on pain and suffering (except medical malpractice).

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

25. Will I have to pay taxes on my settlement?
Generally, compensation for physical injuries is NOT taxable. Punitive damages ARE taxable. Consult a tax professional.

26. How is the value of my claim determined?
Based on: medical bills, future treatment costs, lost income, permanent impairment rating, comparable verdicts, severity of injuries, impact on daily life.

Attorney Relationship

27. How much do car accident lawyers cost?
Attorney911 works on contingency: 33.33% before trial, 40% if trial. You pay nothing upfront. We don’t get paid unless we win.

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

28. What does “no fee unless we win” mean?
You pay zero unless we recover money for you. If we don’t win, you owe us nothing. We advance all case costs.

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

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

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

Specific Situations

32. 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 2-year statute of limitations). Sovereign immunity protects government entities. Damage caps may apply. These cases are complex—you need experienced attorney. Ralph’s 25+ years includes government litigation. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately—6-month deadline is strict.

33. What if the other driver fled the scene (hit and run)?
File police report immediately (hit and run is criminal offense). Your Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage applies. Surveillance footage is CRITICAL—gas stations, businesses, Ring doorbells, traffic cameras. Most footage deleted 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.

34. What if I’m an undocumented immigrant—can I still file a claim?
YES. Immigration status does NOT affect your right to compensation for injuries. You’re entitled to full recovery regardless of immigration status. Your case is confidential. We’ve successfully represented clients of all immigration statuses. Lupe is fluent in Spanish. Call 1-888-ATTY-911—we protect your rights and your privacy.

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

36. 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. Driver’s insurance covers passengers. No comparative fault issues (you weren’t driving). These cases often settle quickly because liability is clear. We handle the difficult conversation so you don’t have to.

37. What if the other driver died in the accident?
You can still pursue claim against deceased driver’s estate and insurance. Death doesn’t eliminate liability. Insurance policy still applies. Estate may have assets. Wrongful death laws protect both sides. These cases are emotionally complex but legally straightforward. We handle with sensitivity while protecting your rights.

What to Do Right Now: The 48-Hour Protocol

After an accident, every minute counts. Evidence disappears quickly, and insurance companies start building their case against you immediately. Here’s what to do in the first 48 hours:

Hour 1-6 (Immediate Crisis)

✅ Safety First: If you can move safely, get to a secure location away from traffic

✅ Call 911: Report the accident, request medical assistance if anyone is injured

✅ Medical Attention: If injured, get to the ER immediately. Adrenaline masks injuries – you may be hurt and not know it yet

✅ 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
Ask if they saw what happened
Record their statements if possible

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

✅ Insurance Response:

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

✅ Settlement Offers:

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

✅ Evidence Backup:

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

Week One Priorities

✅ Medical Follow-Up:

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

✅ Investigation Begins:

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

✅ Communication:

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

Evidence Deterioration Timeline: Why Time is Critical

Time Frame	What Disappears	Why It Matters
Day 1-7	Witness memories peak	Memories fade quickly, details forgotten
Day 7-30	Surveillance footage	Gas stations: 7-14 days, retail stores: 30 days
Month 1-2	Insurance builds defense	Adjusters have built file against you
Month 2-6	Trucking ELD data	Can be overwritten in 30-180 days
Month 6-12	Witnesses disperse	Graduate, move away, memory degraded
Month 12-24	Approaching SOL	Pressure to settle increases

Every day you wait, evidence disappears. Call Attorney911 NOW: 1-888-ATTY-911

Kaufman County Courts and Legal Resources

Kaufman County residents typically file personal injury lawsuits in:

Kaufman County District Courts (for cases over $200,000 or involving title to land)
Kaufman County Courts at Law (for cases under $200,000)
Federal Court (for cases involving out-of-state defendants or federal issues)

Nearby Medical Facilities:

Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – Sunnyvale (Level III Trauma Center)
Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Kaufman (Emergency Care)
Dallas Regional Medical Center (Level III Trauma Center, 30 minutes away)
UT Southwestern Medical Center (Level I Trauma Center, 45 minutes away)

Kaufman County Law Enforcement Agencies:

Kaufman County Sheriff’s Office
Forney Police Department
Kaufman Police Department
Terrell Police Department

Why Kaufman County Trusts Attorney911

Kaufman County residents choose Attorney911 because we bring Houston’s legal firepower to local cases. With over 25 years of experience, federal court admission, and a former insurance defense attorney on our team, we have the resources and expertise to take on even the most complex cases.

“They make you feel like family and even though the process may take some time, they make it feel like a breeze. They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.” – Glenda Walker, Attorney911 Client

“Ralph Manginello is indeed the best attorney I ever had. He cares greatly about his results.” – AMAZIAH A.T., Attorney911 Client

Your Next Step: Call 1-888-ATTY-911

If you’ve been injured in a motor vehicle accident in Kaufman County, don’t wait. Evidence disappears daily, and insurance companies are already building their case against you.

Call Attorney911 now:
📞 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
🌐 https://attorney911.com
📍 Serving Kaufman County from our Houston office

Free consultation. No fee unless we win. We don’t get paid unless you do.

When you call 1-888-ATTY-911, you’re not just getting a lawyer—you’re getting a legal emergency response team that knows how to fight insurance companies and win. We’ve recovered millions for accident victims across Texas, and we’re ready to fight for you.

Call now. The clock is ticking.