Motor Vehicle Accidents in Richardson, Texas: Your Legal Emergency Guide

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Richardson, Texas, you’re not alone. With over 251,977 people injured in Texas motor vehicle crashes last year alone—one every 57 seconds—our roads are more dangerous than ever. At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for accident victims across North Texas for over 25 years, and we’re here to help you navigate this crisis.

Richardson’s unique position along major highways like US-75 and the President George Bush Turnpike makes it a hotspot for serious accidents. Whether you were rear-ended on Campbell Road, sideswiped on Central Expressway, or involved in a multi-vehicle pileup on the Bush Turnpike, our experienced team understands the specific challenges you’re facing.

Why Richardson Accident Victims Choose Attorney911

Ralph Manginello, our founding attorney with over 25 years of experience, leads our Richardson team. Unlike high-volume firms that treat you like a number, we provide personal attention to every client. As Jamin Marroquin shared in his testimonial: “Mr. Manginello guided me through the whole process with great expertise…tenacious, accessible, and determined throughout the 19 months.”

Our firm’s unique advantage? We have a former insurance defense attorney on our team. Lupe Peña spent years working for insurance companies, learning their tactics from the inside. Now, he uses that knowledge to fight for victims like you. “I’ve reviewed hundreds of surveillance videos and social media posts as a defense attorney,” Lupe explains. “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.”

The Reality of Car Accidents in Richardson

Richardson’s mix of urban roads, suburban neighborhoods, and major highways creates unique accident patterns:

US-75/Central Expressway: One of the most dangerous corridors in North Texas, with frequent rear-end collisions and lane-change accidents
President George Bush Turnpike: High-speed crashes often result in catastrophic injuries
Campbell Road and Arapaho Road: Busy intersections with frequent T-bone collisions
Renner Road and Coit Road: Areas with heavy commuter traffic and distracted driving incidents

In 2024 alone, Texas saw 4,150 traffic fatalities—one every 2 hours and 7 minutes. The Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex consistently ranks among the most dangerous areas in the state for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists.

Common Types of Accidents in Richardson

Car Accidents (Tier 1 – Most Common)

Car accidents remain the most frequent type of motor vehicle collision in Richardson. With over 251,977 people injured in Texas car crashes last year, the odds of being involved in an accident are higher than ever.

Common causes in Richardson:

Distracted driving (especially near UT Dallas and corporate offices)
Speeding on highways like US-75
Failure to yield at busy intersections
Rear-end collisions in stop-and-go traffic
Drunk driving incidents near entertainment districts

Injuries we commonly see:

Whiplash and soft tissue injuries
Herniated discs (especially from rear-end collisions)
Broken bones and fractures
Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
Spinal cord injuries
Internal organ damage

As Chavodrian Miles shared: “Leonor got me into the doctor the same day…it only took 6 months amazing.” Our team understands how to document these injuries properly to maximize your compensation.

Case Example: In a recent Richardson 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—not the $50,000 the insurance initially offered.

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

Richardson’s position along major freight corridors makes trucking accidents particularly common. With 39,393 commercial vehicle crashes in Texas last year—resulting in 608 fatalities—Truck accidents are 3-4 times more likely to cause severe injuries than car accidents.

Why truck accidents are more severe:

Trucks weigh up to 80,000 lbs (vs. 4,000 lbs for a car)
Longer stopping distances
Larger blind spots
Cargo shift risks
Driver fatigue (despite FMCSA regulations)

FMCSA violations we commonly find:

Hours of Service violations (driving beyond 11-hour limit)
Inadequate driver training
Poor vehicle maintenance
Improper cargo loading
Drug/alcohol violations

Multiple liable parties in trucking cases:

Truck driver
Trucking company
Cargo loader
Vehicle manufacturer
Maintenance provider

Texas leads the nation in fatal truck crashes, accounting for 11% of all U.S. trucking fatalities. Our firm has recovered millions for trucking accident victims, including multi-million dollar settlements in wrongful death cases.

Drunk Driving Accidents (Tier 1 – Most Preventable)

With 1,053 alcohol-impaired driving deaths in Texas last year (25.37% of all fatalities), drunk driving remains a serious problem in Richardson. These accidents are particularly tragic because they’re 100% preventable.

Dallas County drunk driving statistics:

Over 2,000 DUI arrests annually
Higher rates on weekends and holidays
Common near entertainment districts and sports venues

Dram Shop Liability (Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code § 2.02):
Texas law allows you to sue bars, restaurants, and other establishments that serve alcohol to obviously intoxicated patrons who then cause accidents. Signs of obvious intoxication include:

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

Punitive damages available:
Drunk driving cases often qualify for punitive damages—additional compensation meant to punish the defendant and deter similar behavior. Texas caps punitive damages at $200,000 or twice the economic damages plus non-economic damages (up to $750,000).

Our advantage in drunk driving cases:
Ralph Manginello’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association gives us unique insight into both the criminal and civil aspects of these cases. We’ve successfully handled numerous DWI cases, including:

A client charged with drunk driving based on a breath test—we proved the police department wasn’t properly maintaining the breathalyzer machines and got the charges dismissed
A client who drove home at 2:30 a.m., hit a curb, and rolled his car—the case was dismissed on the day of trial due to missing evidence
A client charged with DUI where the state’s primary evidence was a video field sobriety test—we got the case dismissed because our client didn’t appear drunk in the video

Motorcycle Accidents (Tier 2 – High Risk)

With 585 motorcyclist fatalities in Texas last year, motorcycle accidents often result in severe injuries. Richardson’s mix of urban roads and highways creates particular risks for riders.

Texas motorcycle statistics:

37% of fatality victims weren’t wearing helmets
90% of fatal victims are male
Helmets reduce death risk by 37%
Harris County consistently leads the state in motorcycle fatalities

Texas helmet law:

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

Common causes of motorcycle accidents in Richardson:

Failure to yield right of way (most common)
Driver inattention/distraction
Unsafe lane changes
Left-turn accidents (T-bone/head-on)
Speeding/reckless driving

Comparative negligence challenges:
Texas uses the 51% bar rule, meaning if you’re found 51% or more at fault, you recover nothing. Insurance companies often try to blame motorcyclists for accidents. Lupe Peña’s experience as an insurance defense attorney helps us counter these arguments effectively.

Pedestrian Accidents (Tier 2 – Most Vulnerable)

With 6,095 pedestrian crashes in Texas last year resulting in 768 deaths, pedestrians are the most vulnerable road users. Richardson’s mix of urban areas, shopping districts, and residential neighborhoods creates particular risks.

Richardson pedestrian danger zones:

US-75/Central Expressway crossings
Campbell Road near shopping centers
Arapaho Road near schools
Downtown Richardson near the Eisemann Center
The University of Texas at Dallas campus area

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

Common pedestrian injuries:

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

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

With 17.4 million Uber trips daily in the U.S., rideshare accidents are increasingly common in Richardson. The complex insurance structure makes these cases particularly challenging.

Rideshare insurance phases:

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

Who can be injured:

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

Lupe’s insurance expertise is critical in these cases. He understands how to identify the correct insurance phase and maximize recovery from all available policies.

Hit and Run Accidents (Tier 2 – Evidence Critical)

With a hit and run occurring every 43 seconds in the U.S., these cases require immediate action. Richardson’s mix of urban and suburban areas creates particular challenges for identifying fleeing drivers.

Texas hit and run penalties:

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

UM/UIM coverage is critical:
Your own Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist coverage can compensate you when the at-fault driver flees. Texas allows inter-policy stacking, meaning you can combine coverage from multiple vehicles.

Evidence urgency:

Surveillance footage deleted in 7-30 days
Witnesses disperse quickly
Call Attorney911 immediately: 1-888-ATTY-911

We send preservation letters to all nearby businesses to secure surveillance footage before it’s automatically deleted.

What to Do Immediately After an Accident in Richardson

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, 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

Texas Motor Vehicle Law Framework

Statute of Limitations

Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code § 16.003

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

Critical: Miss the deadline = case BARRED forever. Cannot be extended or waived.

Comparative Negligence (51% Bar Rule)

Texas uses modified comparative negligence with a 51% bar:

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

Examples:

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

Insurance companies ALWAYS try to assign maximum fault to you. Even small percentages cost you thousands:

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

Lupe’s insurance defense experience helps us counter these arguments effectively.

Texas Minimum Auto Insurance (30/60/25)

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

Uninsured Motorist Statistics:

15.4% of U.S. motorists are uninsured (approximately 1 in 7 drivers)
UM/UIM coverage is critical for protection
Texas allows inter-policy stacking

Proving Liability: Building Your Case

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

Duty of Care: All drivers have a legal duty to operate their vehicles safely
Breach of Duty: The at-fault driver violated their duty of care (speeding, distracted driving, etc.)
Causation: The breach directly caused your injuries
Damages: You suffered actual harm (physical, financial, emotional)

Evidence Types and Sources

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

Damages and Compensation: What You Can Recover

Types of Damages Available

Economic Damages (No Cap in Texas):

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

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

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

Punitive/Exemplary Damages (Capped):

Available for gross negligence, fraud, or malice
Drunk driving cases often qualify
Cap: Greater of $200,000 OR (2x economic + 1x non-economic max $750,000)

Settlement Ranges by Injury Type

Soft Tissue Injuries (Whiplash, Sprains, Strains):

Medical Treatment: $6,000-$16,000
Lost Wages: $2,000-$10,000
Pain & Suffering: $8,000-$35,000
Settlement Range: $15,000-$60,000

Broken Bone (Single, Simple Fracture):

Medical Treatment: $10,000-$20,000
Lost Wages: $5,000-$15,000
Pain & Suffering: $20,000-$60,000
Settlement Range: $35,000-$95,000

Herniated Disc (Surgery Required):

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 Documented Result:

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

Spinal Cord Injury / Paralysis:

First Year Costs: $500,000-$1,500,000
Annual Costs: $70,000-$250,000
Lifetime Costs: $2,500,000-$13,000,000+
Settlement Range: $4,770,000-$25,880,000

Amputation:

Past Medical: $170,000-$480,000
Future Medical: $500,000-$2,000,000
Settlement Range: $1,945,000-$8,630,000

Attorney911 Documented Result:

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

Wrongful Death (Working Age Adult):

Funeral: $10,000-$20,000
Medical Before Death: $50,000-$500,000
Lost Financial Support: $1,000,000-$4,000,000
Non-Economic: $850,000-$5,000,000
Settlement Range: $1,910,000-$9,520,000

Attorney911 Documented Result:

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

Insurance Company Tactics: What They Don’t Want You to Know

At Attorney911, we’ve seen it all. Lupe Peña spent years working for insurance companies, learning their tactics from the inside. Now, he uses that knowledge to fight for victims like you. Here’s what they don’t want you to know:

Tactic #1: Quick Contact & Recorded Statement (Days 1-3)

What They Do:
Insurance adjusters contact you IMMEDIATELY—often while you’re still in the hospital. They act friendly and helpful, saying things like:

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

What They’re Really Doing:
They’re building their defense against you with leading questions:

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

Everything is recorded and will be used against you.

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

How Attorney911 Counters:
Once you hire us, we become your voice. All calls go through us. We prepare you properly if a statement becomes absolutely necessary. We know their questions because Lupe asked them for years.

Tactic #2: Quick Settlement Offer (Weeks 1-3)

What They Do:
Within days or weeks, they offer quick money—typically $2,000-$5,000, sometimes $10,000-$15,000 if they’re scared. It sounds good when you have zero money and mounting bills.

They Create Artificial Urgency:

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

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

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

The release is PERMANENT AND FINAL.

How Attorney911 Counters:
NEVER settle before reaching Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI). MMI is when you’ve recovered as much as you’re going to—could be 6 months, 12 months, or longer. We know their offers are ALWAYS lowball. Lupe calculated these offers for years—he KNOWS they’re offering 10-20% of true value.

Tactic #3: “Independent” Medical Exam (Months 2-6)

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

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

How They Choose IME Doctors:

Based on who gives insurance-favorable reports (NOT who’s most qualified)
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 the IME:
A 10-15 minute “examination” where:

They rarely review your complete medical records beforehand
They ask questions designed to elicit “I’m feeling better” responses
They look for ANY reason to minimize your injuries

Common IME Doctor Findings:

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

How Attorney911 Counters:

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

Tactic #4: Delay and Financial Pressure (Months 6-12+)

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 $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 lawsuits to force deadlines
We set depositions to make them produce witnesses
We prepare for trial to show we’re serious
Lupe understands delay tactics because he used them—he knows when to push

Tactic #5: Surveillance & Social Media Monitoring

What They Do:
They hire private investigators to:

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

They Monitor ALL Your Social Media:

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

Examples We’ve Defended:

Example	What Happened	Insurance Claimed	Reality
Old 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”	Sitting quietly having dinner
Friend’s Comment	Friend posted “Had fun yesterday!”	Evidence of non-injury	Client was resting at home
Walking Dog	Video of client walking dog slowly	“Not disabled”	Doctor RECOMMENDED short walks
Smiling in Photo	Family photo smiling	“Not in pain—she’s smiling!”	Everyone smiles for photos

7 Rules for Clients:

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

Lupe’s Insider Quote:

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

Tactic #6: Comparative Fault Arguments

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

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

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

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

Even Small Percentages Cost Thousands:

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

How Attorney911 Counters:
Aggressive Liability Investigation:

Accident reconstruction proving 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 (seconds to minutes), 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%)
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:

Cervical Spine (C1-C8, Neck Region):

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

Thoracic Spine (T1-T12, Mid-Back):

Paraplegia: Lower body paralysis, wheelchair dependent
Trunk control varies by level

Lumbar Spine (L1-L5, Lower Back):

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
B	Sensory Incomplete	Sensory function but no motor function
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:

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

Levels:

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 Case 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”

Herniated Disc

Treatment Timeline:

Acute Phase (Weeks 1-6): Severe pain, medications, rest. Cost: $2,000-$5,000
Conservative Treatment (Weeks 6-12): Physical therapy, chiropractic. Cost: $5,000-$12,000
Interventional (If Conservative Fails): Epidural injections. Cost: $3,000-$6,000
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

Psychological Injuries

PTSD After Motor Vehicle Accidents:

32-45% of accident victims develop PTSD symptoms
Anxiety about driving again
Fear of getting in cars
Panic attacks near accident location
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 Richardson Accident Case

When you’re injured in an accident, you need more than just a lawyer—you need a legal emergency response team. Here’s why Richardson accident victims choose Attorney911:

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 Richardson 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

What 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

“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

Real Client Stories from Richardson and North Texas

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

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

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

Glenda Walker: “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.”

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

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

Hablamos Español – No Language Barriers

For our Spanish-speaking clients in Richardson:

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

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

Our bilingual staff ensures language is never a barrier to justice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Richardson Accidents

Immediate After Accident

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

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

2. Should I call the police even for a minor accident?
Yes. Always call 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 Richardson?
You can obtain the police report from the Richardson Police Department or through the Texas Department of Transportation’s Crash Records Information System (CRIS).

Dealing with Insurance

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

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

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

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

11. What if the other driver is uninsured/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 in Richardson?
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 accident for personal injury, 2 years from date of death for wrongful death. Miss it = case barred forever.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Compensation

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

22. What types of damages can I recover?

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

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

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

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

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

Attorney Relationship

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mistakes to Avoid

32. What common mistakes can hurt my case?

Giving 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” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY

33. Should I post about my accident on social media?
NO. Make all profiles private. Don’t post about 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. “Eggshell plaintiff” rule: Defendant takes victim as they find them. Example: You had mild occasional back pain. 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 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 multiple UM policies). Lupe’s insurance knowledge is critical for maximizing UM/UIM recovery.

39. How do you calculate pain and suffering?
Most commonly using the multiplier method: Medical expenses × multiplier (1.5 to 5) = pain & suffering. The multiplier depends on: injury severity, permanency, impact on life, clear liability. Example: $100,000 medical × 4 multiplier = $400,000 pain & suffering. Lupe calculated these for years—he knows how to justify higher multipliers. See Section G for a detailed breakdown.

40. What if I was hit by a government vehicle (city bus, police car, etc.)?
Government claims have special rules. You must file notice within 6 months (much shorter than the 2-year statute of limitations). Sovereign immunity protects government entities. Damage caps may apply. These cases are complex—you need an experienced attorney. Ralph’s 25+ years includes government litigation. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately—the 6-month deadline is strict.

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

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

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

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

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

Richardson-Specific Resources

Richardson Courts:

Collin County Courts (Richardson is split between Dallas and Collin Counties)
Dallas County Courts
Richardson Municipal Court (for traffic citations)

Richardson Hospitals and Trauma Centers:

Methodist Richardson Medical Center (Level III Trauma Center)
Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Richardson
Medical City Plano (Level II Trauma Center, 10 minutes from Richardson)
Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – Plano (Level II Trauma Center)

Richardson Police Department:

Richardson Police Department: 972-744-4800 (non-emergency)
Emergency: 911

Richardson Dangerous Intersections:

US-75 and Campbell Road: High volume of rear-end and lane-change accidents
US-75 and Arapaho Road: Frequent T-bone collisions
President George Bush Turnpike and Coit Road: High-speed merge accidents
Renner Road and Central Expressway: Distracted driving hotspot
Campbell Road and Plano Road: Busy shopping district with frequent accidents

Take Action Now: Your Legal Emergency Line

If you’ve been injured in a motor vehicle accident in Richardson, Texas, time is critical. Evidence disappears daily. Insurance companies are already building their case against you. You need an experienced legal team on your side.

Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911) for your free consultation. We don’t get paid unless we win your case.

Hablamos Español. No importa el idioma—estamos aquí para ayudarle.

Serving all of North Texas: Richardson, Dallas, Plano, Garland, McKinney, Frisco, Allen, Carrollton, Irving, and surrounding communities.

Your recovery starts with one call: 1-888-ATTY-911