Motor Vehicle Accident Lawyers in Haslet, Texas | Attorney911

If You’ve Been Injured in a Car Accident in Haslet, Texas, We’re Here to Help

Every 57 seconds, a motor vehicle crash occurs in Texas. That means while you’re reading this, someone in Haslet or nearby Fort Worth may be involved in an accident that changes their life forever. If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, truck collision, or any motor vehicle incident in Haslet, Texas, you need experienced legal representation that understands the complexities of Texas law and the tactics insurance companies use to minimize your claim.

At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for accident victims across Texas for over 25 years. Our team, led by Ralph Manginello and former insurance defense attorney Lupe Peña, has recovered millions of dollars for clients who suffered serious injuries in motor vehicle accidents. We know how insurance companies operate because we’ve worked on their side – now we use that insider knowledge to fight for you.

Why Haslet Accident Victims Choose Attorney911

Haslet, Texas, may be a small community in Tarrant County, but it’s not immune to the dangers of our state’s roads. With major highways like I-35W and US 287 nearby, Haslet residents face the same risks as those in larger cities – distracted drivers, fatigued truckers, drunk drivers, and more. When accidents happen, the consequences can be devastating.

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. This is just one example of how we fight for maximum compensation for our clients.

The Reality of Motor Vehicle Accidents in Haslet and Tarrant County

Texas consistently ranks among the worst states for traffic fatalities. In 2024 alone:

251,977 people were injured in Texas motor vehicle crashes
4,150 people lost their lives
1 person is injured every 2 minutes and 5 seconds
1 person dies every 2 hours and 7 minutes

These aren’t just statistics – they represent real people in Haslet, Fort Worth, and communities across Tarrant County whose lives have been forever changed by preventable accidents.

Common Causes of Accidents in Haslet and Surrounding Areas

Haslet’s location near major highways and growing suburban development creates unique traffic patterns that contribute to accidents. Some of the most common causes we see include:

Distracted Driving: With smartphones and in-car entertainment systems, drivers are more distracted than ever. In 2024, distracted driving caused 380 deaths in Texas.
Speeding: Many drivers exceed posted speed limits, especially on highways like I-35W, reducing their reaction time and increasing the severity of collisions.
Drunk Driving: Despite strict laws, drunk driving remains a major problem in Texas. In 2024, 1,053 people were killed in alcohol-related crashes – that’s 25.37% of all traffic fatalities in our state.
Failure to Yield: At intersections and highway on-ramps, drivers often fail to yield the right of way, leading to serious collisions.
Fatigued Driving: Commercial truck drivers and commuters alike may drive while fatigued, impairing their judgment and reaction time.
Weather Conditions: Texas weather can change rapidly, and many drivers fail to adjust their driving to match road conditions.

Common Types of Motor Vehicle Accidents in Haslet

Car Accidents

Car accidents are the most common type of motor vehicle collision in Haslet and across Tarrant County. These accidents can range from minor fender benders to catastrophic crashes resulting in life-altering injuries.

Common Injuries in Car Accidents:

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

Why You Need an Attorney After a Haslet Car Accident:
Insurance companies often try to minimize car accident claims, especially when injuries aren’t immediately apparent. They may offer quick settlements that don’t account for long-term medical needs or lost wages. Our team knows how to document your injuries properly and fight for the full compensation you deserve.

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

Trucking Accidents

With Haslet’s proximity to major highways like I-35W and US 287, trucking accidents are a serious concern. These accidents often result in catastrophic injuries due to the size and weight disparity between commercial trucks and passenger vehicles.

Trucking Accident Statistics:

In 2024, there were 39,393 commercial motor vehicle crashes in Texas
These crashes resulted in 608 fatalities and 1,601 serious injuries
Texas accounts for 11% of all fatal truck crashes nationwide

Why Trucking Accidents Are More Complex:

Multiple Liable Parties: In a trucking accident, you may be able to hold several parties responsible:
- The truck driver
- The trucking company
- The cargo loader
- The truck manufacturer
- The maintenance provider
Federal Regulations: Commercial trucking is governed by strict federal regulations, including:
- Hours of Service (HOS) rules limiting driving time
- Mandatory Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs)
- Regular drug and alcohol testing
- Vehicle maintenance requirements
Higher Insurance Limits: Trucking companies typically carry much higher insurance policies than passenger vehicles, often $1 million or more.

FMCSA Regulations That Impact Your Case:

11-Hour Driving Limit: Drivers may drive a maximum of 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty.
14-Hour Window: Drivers cannot drive beyond the 14th consecutive hour after coming on duty.
30-Minute Break: Required after 8 cumulative hours of driving.
60/70-Hour Limit: Drivers cannot drive after 60/70 hours on duty in 7/8 consecutive days.
ELD Mandate: Electronic Logging Devices are required to track driving time.

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

Drunk Driving Accidents

Drunk driving accidents are particularly tragic because they’re entirely preventable. In Texas, drunk driving causes:

1,053 deaths annually (25.37% of all traffic fatalities)
Over 24,000 crashes each year

Texas Dram Shop Law (TABC § 2.02):
Texas law allows victims of drunk driving accidents to hold establishments accountable if they served alcohol to an obviously intoxicated person who then caused an accident. This is known as dram shop liability.

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 in Drunk Driving Cases:

Bars and nightclubs
Restaurants serving alcohol
Liquor stores
Event organizers (concerts, festivals)
Social hosts (in limited circumstances)

Why Drunk Driving Cases Often Result in Higher Settlements:

Punitive Damages: Drunk driving is considered gross negligence, making punitive damages available.
Multiple Defendants: You may be able to sue both the driver and the establishment that served them.
Criminal Case: A criminal conviction can strengthen your civil case.
Insurance Can’t Defend the Indefensible: Insurance companies often settle these cases quickly because the conduct is so egregious.

“Ralph Manginello is an AMAZING ATTORNEY. I have used him 2 TIMES FOR 2 separate cases the first case he got me an OFF DOCKET DISSMISSAL! And the other only 10 months probation. He gets the JOB DONE RIGHT!!!!” – Cassie Wright

Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents often result in severe injuries due to the lack of protection for riders. In 2024:

585 motorcyclists were killed in Texas
37% of those killed were not wearing helmets
90% of fatal victims were male

Texas Helmet Law:

Helmets are required for all riders under 21
Riders 21 and older may ride without a helmet if they:
- Have completed an approved motorcycle safety course, OR
- Have health insurance coverage of at least $10,000

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Haslet:

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

Why Insurance Companies Often Blame Motorcyclists:
Texas uses a modified comparative negligence system with a 51% bar 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

Insurance companies often try to assign maximum fault to motorcyclists to reduce or eliminate their payment. Our team, including former insurance defense attorney Lupe Peña, knows how to counter these arguments.

Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian accidents are particularly devastating, as pedestrians have no protection against vehicles. In 2024:

6,095 pedestrian crashes occurred in Texas
768 pedestrians were killed
Pedestrians account for 1% of crashes but 19% of all roadway deaths

Critical Legal Point for Pedestrians:
In Texas, pedestrians ALWAYS have the right-of-way at intersections, even at unmarked crosswalks. Many drivers don’t know this, and insurance companies won’t tell you.

Common Pedestrian Injuries:

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

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

Rideshare Accidents (Uber/Lyft)

Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have become increasingly popular in Haslet and the Fort Worth area. However, these accidents present unique challenges when it comes to insurance coverage.

Rideshare Industry Statistics:

11 billion rideshare trips have occurred in the US since 2010
Uber completes 17.4 million trips daily
There are 118 million Uber users worldwide

Rideshare Insurance Phases and Coverage:

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

Who Can Be Injured in Rideshare Accidents:

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

Why Rideshare Accidents Are Complex:

Insurance Coverage Varies: The amount of insurance coverage depends on what the driver was doing at the time of the accident.
Multiple Insurance Policies: There may be several insurance policies that could apply to your claim.
Corporate Defendants: Uber and Lyft have legal teams and insurance companies that aggressively defend claims.

Our team, including former insurance defense attorney Lupe Peña, knows how to navigate the complex insurance landscape of rideshare accidents to maximize your recovery.

Hit and Run Accidents

Hit and run accidents are particularly frustrating because the at-fault driver flees the scene, leaving victims without someone to hold accountable. In Texas:

A hit and run occurs every 43 seconds
Hit and run is a criminal offense, with penalties ranging from misdemeanors to felonies

Texas Penalties for Hit and Run:

Severity	Charge	Penalty
Death	2nd Degree Felony	2-20 years in prison, up to $10,000 fine
Serious Bodily Injury	3rd Degree Felony	2-10 years in prison, up to $10,000 fine
Minor Injury	State Jail Felony	Up to 5 years in jail, up to $5,000 fine
Property Damage ≥$200	Class B Misdemeanor	Up to 6 months in jail, up to $2,000 fine

How to Recover Compensation After a Hit and Run:
If the at-fault driver cannot be identified, your Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage can compensate you for your injuries. Texas allows inter-policy stacking, which means you may be able to combine coverage from multiple vehicles on your policy.

Evidence Preservation is Critical:

Surveillance footage is typically deleted within 7-30 days
Witnesses disperse quickly
Physical evidence at the scene is cleared

If you’ve been the victim of a hit and run in Haslet, call Attorney911 immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911. We’ll send preservation letters to nearby businesses to secure surveillance footage before it’s deleted.

Delivery Vehicle Accidents (Amazon, FedEx, DoorDash)

With the rise of e-commerce and food delivery services, delivery vehicle accidents have become increasingly common in Haslet and across Tarrant County. These accidents often involve:

Amazon delivery vans
FedEx and UPS trucks
DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Grubhub drivers
USPS vehicles

Key Verdicts in Delivery Vehicle Cases:

2024 Georgia case: $16.2 million awarded to a child struck by an Amazon delivery van (Amazon found 85% responsible)
2024 Lopez v. All Points 360: $105 million verdict against an Amazon Delivery Service Partner (DSP)
2023 Grubhub wrongful death lawsuit in Arizona

Amazon DSP Liability:

Amazon’s DSPs are contractually required to “defend and indemnify” Amazon for accidents
DSPs have a higher safety violation rate than average motor carriers
In the 24 months ending August 2025, there were 1,879 crashes involving Amazon-related motor carriers

Why Delivery Vehicle Accidents Often Result in Higher Settlements:

Trucks are 3x the size and weight of passenger cars, resulting in more severe injuries
Higher insurance limits are required for commercial vehicles
No jury sympathy for corporate defendants
Business model encourages dangerous behavior (tight delivery windows, distracted driving)

Work Zone Accidents

Work zone accidents are a growing concern in Texas, particularly in areas like Haslet where infrastructure improvements are ongoing. In 2024:

Nearly 28,000 crashes occurred in Texas work zones
215 people were killed in work zone accidents (a 12% increase from the previous year)
Work zone fatalities have increased by 50% nationally from 2013 to 2023
60% of highway contractors reported crashes into their work zones
43% of contractors reported worker injuries from work zone crashes

Real Case Example:
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 vehicle, pushing it into the path of another truck. The accident was fatal.

Why Work Zone Accidents Happen:

Speeding through work zones
Distracted driving (texting, phone use)
Failure to merge properly
Confusion about lane changes
Driver impatience

Who Can Be Held Liable:

Negligent drivers
Construction companies (for inadequate signage or unsafe work zone setup)
Government entities (for poor road design or maintenance)
Vehicle manufacturers (if a defect contributed to the accident)

Tesla/Autopilot and Autonomous Vehicle Accidents

As electric and autonomous vehicles become more common in Haslet and across Texas, accidents involving these technologies present new legal challenges.

Notable Autonomous Vehicle Crashes:

May 2016, Williston, FL: Joshua Brown was killed when his Tesla Model S failed to detect a white 18-wheeler crossing its path.
March 2018, Mountain View, CA: Apple engineer Walter Huang was killed in a Tesla crash. The case settled in April 2024.
December 2024, California: Genesis Mendoza was killed in an autonomous vehicle crash, leading to an active lawsuit.
August 2025, Miami, FL: A jury awarded $240 million against Tesla in a landmark case involving Autopilot.

Key Liability Arguments in Autonomous Vehicle Cases:

Misleading Marketing: Tesla has marketed Full Self-Driving (FSD) and Autopilot as safer than human drivers.
Overconfidence: Marketing has fostered driver overreliance on the systems.
Known Defects: Tesla knew that Autopilot couldn’t reliably detect emergency vehicles with flashing lights.
Inadequate Recalls: Tesla has used over-the-air (OTA) software updates instead of comprehensive fixes.

NHTSA Data on Tesla Autopilot:

Tesla Autopilot accounts for 70% of driver-assist crashes reported to NHTSA
In December 2023, Tesla recalled over 2 million vehicles due to Autopilot safety concerns

Common Crash Patterns with Autonomous Vehicles:

Tractor-trailer crossings
Emergency vehicles with flashing lights
Gore points and barriers
Situations where the driver has their hands off the wheel

E-Bike and E-Scooter Accidents

E-bikes and e-scooters have become increasingly popular in Haslet and the Fort Worth area, but they also present new safety challenges.

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

If an E-Bike Exceeds Standards:

If the motor is over 750W, the speed is over 28 mph, or there’s a throttle on a Class 3 e-bike, it may not be classified as an “electric bicycle” under Texas law
This could require registration as a motor vehicle
Different insurance and liability implications may apply

E-Bike Accident Liability:

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

Recent E-Bike Verdict:
In October 2024, a Portland jury awarded $1.6 million to an e-bike rider who was struck by an SUV.

What to Do After a Motor Vehicle Accident in Haslet

Immediate Steps (First 48 Hours)

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 out. Adrenaline can mask serious injuries.
Document Everything:
- Take photos of all vehicle damage (from every angle)
- Photograph the accident scene, road conditions, and traffic signals
- Take photos of any visible injuries
- Screenshot any messages visible on your phone (do NOT delete anything)
Exchange Information:
- Other driver’s name, phone number, and address
- Insurance company and policy number
- Driver’s license number
- License plate number
- Vehicle make, model, and color
Witnesses: Get names and phone numbers of any witnesses. Ask if they saw what happened.
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, and 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, or 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 and 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 and family not to tag you in posts

Hour 24-48: Strategic Decisions

Legal Consultation:
- Speak with an experienced motor vehicle accident attorney
- Call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation
- Have your documentation ready
Insurance Response:
- If insurance contacts you, refer them to your attorney
- Say: “My attorney will be in touch with you”
- Provide only basic information: name, date of accident, that you were involved
Settlement Offers:
- Do NOT accept or sign anything without your lawyer reviewing it
- Early offers are ALWAYS lowball offers
- You don’t know the full extent of your injuries yet
Evidence Backup:
- Upload all screenshots and photos to cloud storage
- Email copies to yourself and a family member
- Create a written timeline of events while your memory is fresh

Evidence Deterioration Timeline

Day 1-7:

Witness memories are at their peak but begin fading immediately
Physical evidence like skid marks and debris may still be visible

Day 7-30:

Surveillance footage is typically deleted:
- Gas stations: 7-14 days
- Retail stores: 30 days
- Ring doorbells: 30-60 days
- Traffic cameras: 30 days
Witnesses become harder to locate as days pass
Details are forgotten or become uncertain

Month 1-2:

Insurance companies solidify their defense position
Adjusters have built a file against you
Settlement positions harden
Vehicle repairs destroy evidence once the vehicle is fixed

Month 2-6:

Trucking electronic data is deleted:
- ELD (Electronic Logging Device) data: 30-180 days retention
- Black box data: Can be automatically overwritten
- GPS/telematics data: Varies by company
Cell phone records become harder to obtain
Social media posts may be deleted

Month 6-12:

Witnesses may graduate, move away, or have severely degraded memories
Medical evidence becomes harder to link to the accident
Treatment gaps are used against you by insurance companies
Financial desperation mounts as bills pile up

Month 12-24:

You’re approaching the statute of limitations deadline
Pressure to settle increases as the deadline nears
Evidence is severely degraded
Case value is diminished

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

Texas Motor Vehicle Law Framework

Statute of Limitations

In Texas, you have a limited time to file a lawsuit after a motor vehicle accident. This is called the statute of limitations.

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

Exceptions:

Discovery Rule: The statute of limitations may start later if the injury or its cause wasn’t immediately discoverable.
Defendant Absence: The clock may be tolled if the defendant leaves Texas.
Mental Incapacity: The clock is tolled during periods of mental incapacity.

Critical Warning: If you miss the deadline, your case will be barred forever. You cannot extend or waive this deadline.

Comparative Negligence (51% Bar Rule)

Texas uses a modified comparative negligence system with a 51% bar rule. This means:

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

Examples of How Comparative Negligence Works:

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 ALWAYS try to assign maximum fault to you to reduce their payment. Even small fault percentages can cost you thousands:

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

Lupe Peña, our former insurance defense attorney, knows how insurance companies build these arguments – and how to defeat them.

Texas Minimum Auto Insurance Requirements

Texas law requires all drivers to carry minimum auto insurance coverage:

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 US motorists are uninsured (approximately 1 in 7 drivers)
Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage is critical for protection
Texas allows inter-policy stacking, which means you can combine coverage from multiple vehicles on your policy

Proving Liability in Your Haslet Accident Case

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

Duty of Care: All drivers have a legal duty to operate their vehicles safely and obey traffic laws.
Breach of Duty: The at-fault driver violated their duty of care through action or inaction (e.g., speeding, running a red light, texting while driving).
Causation: The breach of duty directly caused your injuries.
Damages: You suffered actual harm (physical, financial, or emotional).

Types of Evidence We Use to Prove Your Case

Physical Evidence:

Photographs of vehicle damage from all angles
Skid marks, debris, and road damage at the scene
Damaged personal property (clothing, glasses, phone)
Weather and road conditions at the time of the accident

Documentary Evidence:

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

Electronic Evidence:

ELD (Electronic Logging Device) data from commercial trucks
Vehicle black box/EDR (Event Data Recorder) data
GPS/telematics data
Dashcam footage
Social media posts (from the at-fault driver)

Testimonial Evidence:

Witness statements
Expert witness testimony
Medical expert opinions
Accident reconstruction specialists

Multiple Liable Parties

In many motor vehicle accidents, especially those involving commercial vehicles, there may be multiple parties who share responsibility:

Trucking Accidents:

Truck driver (for negligent operation)
Trucking company (for negligent hiring, supervision, or maintenance)
Cargo loader (for improper loading that caused instability)
Vehicle manufacturer (for defective parts)
Maintenance company (for improper repairs)

Rideshare Accidents:

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

Drunk Driving Accidents:

Drunk driver
Bar or restaurant (under dram shop liability)
Social host (in limited circumstances)
Liquor store (if they sold alcohol to an obviously intoxicated person)

Why Multiple Liable Parties Matter:
More liable parties mean more insurance policies that can contribute to your compensation. This increases your potential recovery.

Damages and Compensation in Texas Motor Vehicle Accident Cases

Types of Damages You Can Recover

Economic Damages (No Cap in Texas):

Medical expenses (past and future)
Lost wages (past and future)
Property damage
Out-of-pocket expenses (transportation to medical appointments, 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 in Texas):

Available for gross negligence, fraud, or malice
Common in drunk driving cases
Cap: The 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 (ORIF):

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 Requiring Surgery:

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

“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:

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

Amputation:

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

“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 and burial: $10,000-$20,000
Medical expenses before death: $50,000-$500,000
Lost financial support: $1,000,000-$4,000,000
Loss of companionship: $500,000-$3,000,000
Mental anguish: $250,000-$1,500,000
Settlement Range: $1,910,000-$9,520,000

“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 in Texas

Nuclear verdicts are jury awards exceeding $10 million. These verdicts have a significant impact on the legal landscape:

207 nuclear verdicts ($10M+) were awarded in Texas from 2009-2023
Total: $45+ billion in nuclear verdicts in Texas alone
Texas leads all states in nuclear verdicts
Auto accidents account for 23.2% of all nuclear verdicts

Recent Texas Motor Vehicle Nuclear Verdicts:

2024: $81.7 million in Hatch v. Jones (car accident wrongful death)
2024: $72 million in Frito-Lay Warehouse vehicle collision
2024: $105 million in Lopez v. All Points 360 (Amazon DSP)
2024: $44.1 million in New Prime I-35 pileup (6 deaths)
2024: $37.5 million in Oncor Electric trucking case
2024: $35 million in Ben E. Keith (Fort Worth trucking)
2023: $557 million in Johnson v. Union Pacific (train accident)
2021: $730 million in Ramsey v. Landstar (trucking)
2017: $301 BILLION in Kindred v. Delbosque (drunk driving)

Why Nuclear Verdicts Matter:
Insurance companies fear nuclear verdicts. This fear increases settlement values across ALL serious injury cases, not just those that go to trial. Attorney911’s trial readiness and multi-million dollar track record give us leverage in every negotiation.

Insurance Company Tactics Exposed

Insurance companies are not on your side. Their goal is to pay you as little as possible. Here are the tactics they use to minimize or deny your claim:

Tactic #1: Quick Contact and Recorded Statement

What They Do:
Within hours or days of your accident, an insurance adjuster will contact you. They’ll be friendly and helpful, saying things like:

“We just want to help you”
“We need to get 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 designed to get you to say things that hurt your case:

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 the severity of the collision
“You were able to walk away from the scene?”	Suggest your injuries aren’t 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”

The Truth:

You are NOT required to give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance company
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:

DO NOT give a recorded statement without us
Once you hire Attorney911, we become your voice
All calls go through us
You don’t talk to adjusters
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

What They Do:
Within days or weeks of your accident, the insurance company will offer you quick money:

Typical offers: $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. Consider this scenario:

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 the 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 medically
This could be 6 months, 12 months, or 24+ months depending on your injuries
You can’t know the true value of your case until you reach MMI
We know their offers are ALWAYS lowball
Lupe calculated these lowball offers for years – he KNOWS they’re offering 10-20% of true value

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

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 Insurance Companies Choose IME Doctors:
They select 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 THOUSANDS by insurance companies ($2,000-$5,000 per exam)
Repeat business = repeat favorable reports

What Happens at an IME:

A 10-15 minute “examination” (vs. your treating doctor’s thorough evaluation)
The doctor rarely reviews 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 your 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 (forcing them to 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

What Insurance Companies Do:
They drag out your case hoping you’ll get desperate:

“Still investigating your claim”
“Waiting for medical records” (that we sent months ago)
“Reviewing your file”
“Need additional information”
They ignore calls and emails
They take weeks to respond to simple questions

Why Delay Works (On People Without Attorneys):
Insurance Companies Have:

Unlimited time
Unlimited resources
No financial pressure
They’re 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 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 and Social Media Monitoring

What Insurance Companies Do:
They hire private investigators to:

Video you doing daily activities
Film from public places (your driveway, street, stores)
Follow you to appointments, errands, and 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
They screenshot EVERYTHING: photos, posts, check-ins, comments, likes
They monitor your friends’ profiles for posts mentioning you
They use facial recognition to find photos you’re tagged in
They archive your entire social media history

Examples We’ve Defended Against:

Example	What Happened	What Insurance Claimed	Reality
Old 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 Our Clients:

Make ALL profiles private immediately
DON’T post about the accident, injuries, activities, or emotions
DON’T check in anywhere
Tell friends and family: don’t tag you, 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

“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

Tactic #6: Comparative Fault Arguments

What Insurance Companies 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 uses the 51% bar rule, which means:

If you’re 51% or more 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 aggressive liability investigations
We use accident reconstruction to prove the other driver’s fault
We gather witness statements supporting your version
We analyze police reports to emphasize citations against the other driver
We use expert testimony on perception-reaction time
Lupe knows their fault arguments because he made them for years – now he defeats them

How Insurance Companies Actually Value Your Claim: Colossus Software

Lupe Knows This From the Inside – He Used These Systems

How Colossus Works:

Data Entry: The adjuster inputs injury codes, treatment types, medical costs, and jurisdiction.
Coding: Injuries are coded using standardized medical terms.
Calculation: The software applies algorithms to determine the “value” of your claim.
Range Output: The system provides a recommended settlement range.
Authority: The adjuster typically cannot exceed the recommended range without supervisor approval.

How Insurance Companies Manipulate Colossus:

Manipulation	Effect
Low Injury Codes	Using “soft tissue strain” instead of “disc herniation” reduces value by 50-100%
Excessive Treatment Flags	Therapy beyond “normal” range triggers reductions
Conservative Treatment Penalty	Chiropractic care is valued less than MD treatment
Pre-Existing Reduction	Any prior condition is used to reduce value
Jurisdiction Factor	Low-verdict counties get lower values

Why Lupe’s Experience Matters:

He knows how to code injuries properly for maximum value
He knows which medical terms trigger higher valuations
He knows when Colossus output is artificially low
He knows how to present medical records to beat the algorithm
He worked with these systems for years as a defense attorney

Medical Knowledge: Understanding Your Injuries

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

Immediate vs. Delayed Symptoms:

Immediate Symptoms (At the 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 loss of consciousness, GCS 13-15, may seem “fine” initially but can have serious long-term effects
Moderate TBI	Loss of consciousness for 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: A single moderate TBI doubles the risk of dementia later in life
Personality and Mood Disorders: Depression (40-50% of TBI patients), anxiety, irritability
Seizure Disorders: Can develop months or years after the 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 prognosis
B	Sensory Incomplete	Sensory function but no motor function below injury
C	Motor Incomplete	Motor function but most muscles have less than 3/5 strength
D	Motor Incomplete	Motor function with most muscles having 3/5 or greater 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 the 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, or finger amputations
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

“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:

Degree	Characteristics	Treatment
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

Body Surface Area Impact:

% 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:

Acute Phase (Weeks 1-6): Severe pain, medications, rest. Cost: $2,000-$5,000
Conservative Treatment (Weeks 6-12): Physical therapy, chiropractic care. Cost: $5,000-$12,000
Interventional (If Conservative Fails): Epidural steroid injections (series of 3). Cost: $3,000-$6,000
Surgery (If Injections Fail): Microdiscectomy or spinal 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 Undervalues 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 locations 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
Impact on relationships

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Haslet Motor Vehicle 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 Haslet or Tarrant County has this advantage.

2. Multi-Million Dollar Results

Attorney911 has recovered millions of dollars 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 practice in 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 applies to 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 from Start to Finish

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 compensation for you

“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

Frequently Asked Questions About Motor Vehicle Accidents in Haslet

Immediate After Accident

1. What should I do immediately after a car accident in Haslet, Texas?

If you’ve been in an accident in Haslet or anywhere in Tarrant County:

Call 911 and report the accident
Seek medical attention even if you feel fine (adrenaline masks injuries)
Document everything: take 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 the 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 information
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” (this can be used as an admission of fault)
Do NOT give your opinion on what happened
Stick to the facts only

6. How do I obtain a copy of the accident report?

In Haslet and Tarrant 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 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 the actual value of your claim. 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” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kWcNFyb-Yq8

12. Why does insurance want me to sign a medical authorization?

They want unlimited access to your ENTIRE medical history to find pre-existing conditions to use against you. Never sign without attorney review.

Legal Process

13. Do I have a personal injury case?

You may have a case if:

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

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

14. When should I hire a car accident lawyer?

Immediately. Evidence disappears daily. Insurance companies start building their defense against you from day one. Call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911

15. How much time do I have to file (statute of limitations)?

In Texas: 2 years from the date of the 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 damages (reduced by your percentage of fault). If you’re 51% or more at fault, you recover 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 in negotiations.

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?

It depends on the severity of your injuries. We don’t settle until you’ve reached Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI). This could be 6 months for minor injuries or 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?

It depends on: injury severity, medical costs, lost wages, permanent impairment, pain and suffering, and available insurance. 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 damages (except in medical malpractice cases).

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 – defendants take victims as they find them.

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 for your specific situation.

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, and impact on your daily life.

Attorney Relationship

27. How much do car accident lawyers cost?

Attorney911 works on a contingency fee basis: 33.33% before trial, 40% if the case goes to 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 Concerns

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 companies monitor everything.

34. Why shouldn’t I sign anything without a lawyer?

Releases are PERMANENT. Medical authorizations give unlimited access to your records. 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 that you didn’t realize the severity of your injuries. Delayed symptoms are common. We can still help.

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. After the accident, you developed a herniated disc requiring surgery. You can recover for the NEW injury, not just the pre-existing pain. We hire medical experts to prove the difference. Lupe knows how insurance companies attack 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 and suffering. The multiplier depends on:

Injury severity
Permanency
Impact on life
Clear liability

For example: $100,000 in medical expenses × 4 multiplier = $400,000 for pain and 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 of experience 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 can compensate you. Surveillance footage is CRITICAL – 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 that “parking lot accidents are always 50/50 fault” – this is a 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. 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.

Attorney911 Serves Haslet and All of Tarrant County

Attorney911 serves Haslet, Texas, and the entire Tarrant County area from our offices across Texas. While we’re based in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, our Texas-wide practice means we understand the unique accident patterns in Haslet and the surrounding communities.

Why Local Knowledge Matters

Haslet’s location near major highways like I-35W and US 287 creates unique traffic patterns that contribute to accidents. Our team understands:

The specific dangers of Haslet’s roads and intersections
The local courts that serve Tarrant County
The insurance adjusters who handle claims in this area
The medical facilities where Haslet residents receive treatment

Our Commitment to Haslet

We’re committed to serving the Haslet community because we believe everyone deserves access to experienced legal representation, regardless of where they live. Whether you’re in Haslet, Fort Worth, or anywhere in Tarrant County, we’re here to fight for you.

Spanish Language Services

At Attorney911, we understand that language should never be a barrier to justice. Our team includes Spanish-speaking attorneys and staff, including Lupe Peña, who is fluent in Spanish. We’ve helped many Spanish-speaking clients in Haslet and across Texas.

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

Free Consultation for Haslet Residents

If you’ve been injured in a motor vehicle accident in Haslet, Texas, contact Attorney911 for a free consultation. We’ll review your case, explain your rights, and discuss how we can help. There’s no obligation, and we don’t get paid unless we win your case.

Contact Attorney911 Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a motor vehicle accident in Haslet, Texas, don’t wait to get the help you need. Evidence disappears daily, and the statute of limitations is ticking.

Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911) for a free consultation. We’re available 24/7 to answer your questions and help you take the first step toward recovery.

Remember:

Free consultation – no obligation
We don’t get paid unless we win your case
Evidence disappears every day you wait
The statute of limitations is real
Insurance companies are already building their case against you

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

Don’t face this alone. We’re here to fight for you.