Motor Vehicle Accident Lawyers in Pelican Bay, Texas

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Pelican Bay, Texas, you’re not alone. With one motor vehicle crash occurring every 57 seconds in Texas and 251,977 people injured in 2024 alone, accidents are an unfortunate reality on our roads. At Attorney911, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a serious accident can take. Our experienced team, led by Ralph Manginello with over 25 years of legal expertise, is here to fight for the compensation you deserve.

Pelican Bay residents know our community’s unique challenges. Whether you were involved in an accident on Highway 287, navigating the busy streets near Eagle Mountain Lake, or dealing with the aftermath of a collision in one of our local neighborhoods, we’re here to help. Our firm has successfully handled countless cases in Tarrant County courts, and we’re ready to put our local knowledge to work for you.

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Pelican Bay Accident Case?

When you’re recovering from injuries, the last thing you need is to battle insurance companies alone. That’s where our unique advantage comes in. Our firm includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who spent years working for the very companies that are now trying to minimize your claim. He knows their tactics inside and out – because he used them himself.

This insider knowledge is invaluable. While other firms might struggle to navigate the complex world of insurance claims, we know exactly how to counter their strategies. From dealing with Colossus software (the program insurance companies use to calculate your claim value) to challenging biased Independent Medical Exams, we have the expertise to level the playing field.

Ralph Manginello’s extensive experience adds another layer of strength to your case. Admitted to practice in federal court in the Southern District of Texas, Ralph has handled complex litigation including involvement in the BP explosion case. This means we have the resources and experience to take on even the most challenging cases, whether you’re dealing with a local driver’s insurance or a multinational corporation.

Common Types of Motor Vehicle Accidents in Pelican Bay

Car Accidents

Car accidents are the most common type of motor vehicle collision in Pelican Bay and throughout Tarrant County. With 251,977 people injured in Texas car crashes in 2024, these accidents can range from minor fender benders to catastrophic collisions.

Common causes of car accidents in our area include:

• Distracted driving (a factor in 380 Texas traffic deaths in 2024)
• Speeding on Highway 287 or local roads
• Failure to yield at intersections like those near Eagle Mountain Lake
• Running red lights
• Following too closely on busy commuter routes
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs

Injuries from car accidents can be severe, including:

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

At Attorney911, we’ve seen how these injuries can change lives. In a recent case, our client’s leg was injured in a car accident. During treatment, staff infections developed, leading to a partial amputation. We documented the lifetime impact of this injury and secured a multi-million dollar settlement for our client.

Chavodrian Miles, another client, shared his experience: “Leonor got me into the doctor the same day…it only took 6 months amazing.” This level of personal attention and quick resolution is what sets our firm apart.

18-Wheeler and Trucking Accidents

Pelican Bay’s proximity to major highways like Highway 287 means we see more than our share of trucking accidents. In 2024, Texas experienced 39,393 commercial motor vehicle crashes, resulting in 608 fatalities and 1,601 serious injuries. Texas accounts for 11% of all fatal truck crashes nationwide – the highest percentage of any state.

The sheer size and weight of commercial trucks – up to 80,000 pounds compared to the average 4,000-pound passenger vehicle – means trucking accidents often result in catastrophic injuries. These cases are complex, involving multiple liable parties and federal regulations.

Key factors in trucking accidents include:

• Driver fatigue (violations of Hours of Service regulations)
• Improper loading or secured cargo
• Inadequate vehicle maintenance
• Driver distraction or impairment
• Equipment failures

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations govern the trucking industry, including:

• Maximum 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off-duty
• 14-hour on-duty limit
• Mandatory 30-minute breaks after 8 hours of driving
• Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) to track compliance

When these regulations are violated, it can establish negligence per se, strengthening your case. Our firm has recovered millions for clients in trucking-related wrongful death cases. With Ralph Manginello’s federal court experience and our involvement in complex litigation like the BP explosion case, we have the resources to take on trucking companies and their insurers.

Drunk Driving Accidents

Drunk driving remains a serious problem in Texas, with 1,053 alcohol-impaired driving deaths in 2024 – accounting for 25.37% of all traffic fatalities. In Tarrant County, these preventable tragedies devastate families every year.

What many people don’t realize is that in drunk driving cases, you may be able to hold more than just the driver accountable. Texas’s Dram Shop Law (Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code § 2.02) allows victims to sue establishments that served alcohol to obviously intoxicated individuals who then caused accidents.

To prove dram shop liability, we must show:

1. The establishment served alcohol to someone who was obviously intoxicated
2. The over-service was the proximate cause of the accident and damages

Signs of obvious intoxication include:

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

Potentially liable parties may include bars, restaurants, liquor stores, and even event organizers. This can significantly increase the available insurance coverage for your claim.

Drunk driving cases often qualify for punitive damages – additional compensation meant to punish gross negligence and deter similar conduct. These cases require specialized knowledge, which is why our firm’s criminal defense experience (including Ralph Manginello’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association) is so valuable.

Motorcycle Accidents

With 585 motorcyclist fatalities in Texas in 2024, these accidents often result in severe injuries. Motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable on Pelican Bay roads, where high speeds and distracted drivers create dangerous conditions.

Texas law requires helmets for riders under 21, but those over 21 may ride without a helmet if they’ve completed a safety course or have adequate medical insurance. Unfortunately, 37% of fatal motorcycle accident victims weren’t wearing helmets.

Common causes of motorcycle accidents include:

• Drivers failing to yield right of way (the most common cause)
• Distracted or inattentive drivers
• Unsafe lane changes by other vehicles
• Left-turn accidents (often T-bone or head-on collisions)
• Speeding and reckless driving

Insurance companies often try to blame motorcyclists for accidents, using Texas’s 51% comparative fault rule to reduce or deny claims. Having a former insurance defense attorney like Lupe Peña on your side can make all the difference in countering these tactics.

Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian accidents are particularly devastating, with pedestrians accounting for just 1% of Texas crashes but 19% of all roadway deaths. In 2024, Texas saw 6,095 pedestrian crashes resulting in 768 fatalities.

Many drivers don’t realize that pedestrians always have the right-of-way at intersections – even at unmarked crosswalks. This is a critical legal point that can strengthen your case if you were struck while crossing legally.

Common pedestrian accident injuries include:

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

Rideshare Accidents (Uber/Lyft)

Rideshare services have become common in Pelican Bay, but accidents involving Uber or Lyft vehicles present unique insurance challenges. The coverage available depends on what the driver was doing at the time of the accident:

Phase	Driver Status	Coverage Available
Period 0	App off, personal use	Driver’s personal insurance ($30,000/$60,000/$25,000 minimum in Texas)
Period 1	App on, waiting for ride request	$50,000/$100,000/$25,000 contingent coverage
Period 2	Ride accepted, en route to pickup	$1,000,000 commercial coverage
Period 3	Passenger in vehicle	$1,000,000 commercial coverage

Determining which phase the driver was in at the time of the accident is crucial for maximizing your recovery. Our firm understands these complexities and knows how to navigate the insurance maze.

Hit and Run Accidents

Hit and run accidents are particularly frustrating, leaving victims feeling helpless. In Texas, hit and run is a serious crime, with penalties ranging from a Class B misdemeanor (for property damage) to a 2nd degree felony (for fatal accidents).

If you’re the victim of a hit and run in Pelican Bay, your own Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage can provide compensation. This is why it’s so important to have adequate UM/UIM coverage on your policy.

Evidence preservation is critical in hit and run cases. Surveillance footage from nearby businesses is typically deleted within 7-30 days. Our firm sends preservation letters immediately to secure this critical evidence before it’s lost forever.

Tesla and Autonomous Vehicle Accidents

As technology advances, we’re seeing more accidents involving vehicles with advanced driver assistance systems. Tesla’s Autopilot system has been involved in several high-profile crashes, including fatal accidents where the system failed to detect emergency vehicles or large trucks.

Notable cases include:

• A 2016 fatality where Autopilot failed to detect a white 18-wheeler
• A 2018 accident involving an Apple engineer that settled in 2024
• A 2025 case resulting in a $240 million+ jury verdict against Tesla

Key liability arguments in these cases include:

1. Tesla marketed Autopilot as safer than human drivers
2. The marketing fostered driver overconfidence
3. Tesla knew about system limitations but failed to adequately address them
4. Over-the-air software updates were used instead of comprehensive fixes

Our firm has the technical knowledge and litigation experience to handle these complex cases.

What to Do After a Motor Vehicle Accident in Pelican Bay

Immediate Steps (First 48 Hours)

The actions you take in the first 48 hours after an accident can significantly impact your case. Here’s what you should do:

At the Scene:

1. Call 911 and report the accident
2. Seek medical attention even if you feel fine – adrenaline can mask injuries
3. Document everything with photos:
   • All vehicle damage (from multiple angles)
   • The accident scene and road conditions
   • Visible injuries
   • Traffic signals and signs
4. Exchange information with the other driver:
   • Name, phone number, and address
   • Insurance company and policy number
   • Driver’s license number
   • License plate number
   • Vehicle make, model, and color
5. Get names and contact information from witnesses
6. Do NOT give a recorded statement to any insurance company
7. Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate legal guidance

Within 24 Hours:

• Preserve all digital evidence (texts, photos, videos)
• Secure physical evidence (damaged clothing, personal items)
• Request copies of medical records
• Note any calls from insurance companies
• Make all social media profiles private
• Do NOT post about the accident

Within 48 Hours:

• Consult with an experienced motor vehicle accident attorney
• If insurance contacts you, refer them to your attorney
• Do NOT accept or sign anything without lawyer review

Why Time is Critical

Evidence disappears quickly after an accident:

• Surveillance footage: 7-30 days
• Witness memories: fade quickly
• Electronic data (ELDs, black boxes): 30-180 days
• Physical evidence: can be lost or destroyed

At Attorney911, we act fast to preserve evidence. Within 24 hours of being retained, we send preservation letters to:

• The other driver’s insurance company
• Trucking companies (for commercial vehicle accidents)
• Businesses near the scene (for surveillance footage)
• Employers (for employment records)
• Government entities (for traffic camera footage)

Texas Motor Vehicle Law: What You Need to Know

Statute of Limitations

In Texas, you have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This deadline is absolute – miss it, and your case will be barred forever. For wrongful death claims, the 2-year clock starts from the date of death.

There are limited exceptions to this rule, such as:

• The discovery rule (if injuries weren’t immediately apparent)
• Defendant’s absence from Texas
• Mental incapacity

Comparative Negligence (51% Rule)

Texas uses a modified comparative negligence system. 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 victims to reduce their payouts. 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

Having a former insurance defense attorney like Lupe Peña on your side can help counter these tactics.

Minimum Auto Insurance Requirements in Texas

Texas requires minimum coverage of:

• $30,000 for bodily injury per person
• $60,000 for bodily injury per accident
• $25,000 for property damage

However, with 15.4% of Texas drivers uninsured, it’s crucial to have adequate Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage on your own policy.

Proving Liability in Your Motor Vehicle Accident Case

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

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

Types of Evidence We Use

We gather comprehensive evidence to build your case, including:

• Physical evidence (vehicle damage, skid marks, road conditions)
• Documentary evidence (police reports, medical records, employment records)
• Electronic evidence (ELD data, black box recordings, GPS data)
• Testimonial evidence (witness statements, expert testimony)

Multiple Liable Parties

In many cases, more than one party may be responsible for your injuries. For example:

• In trucking accidents: the driver, trucking company, cargo loader, and manufacturer may all share liability
• In drunk driving cases: the driver and the establishment that served them alcohol may be liable
• In rideshare accidents: the driver, rideshare company, and other at-fault drivers may be involved

More liable parties mean more potential sources of compensation for your injuries.

Understanding Your Damages and Compensation

Types of Damages You Can Recover

Economic Damages (No Cap in Texas):

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

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

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

Punitive/Exemplary Damages (Capped):

• Available in cases of gross negligence or malice
• Common in drunk driving cases
• Capped at 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

While every case is unique, here are general settlement ranges based on injury severity:

Soft Tissue Injuries (Whiplash, Sprains, Strains):

• Medical expenses: $6,000-$16,000
• Lost wages: $2,000-$10,000
• Pain and suffering: $8,000-$35,000
• Total settlement range: $15,000-$60,000

Broken Bones (Simple Fracture):

• Medical expenses: $10,000-$20,000
• Lost wages: $5,000-$15,000
• Pain and suffering: $20,000-$60,000
• Total settlement range: $35,000-$95,000

Herniated Disc (Conservative Treatment):

• Medical expenses: $22,000-$46,000
• Lost wages: $8,000-$25,000
• Pain and suffering: $40,000-$100,000
• Total settlement range: $70,000-$171,000

Traumatic Brain Injury (Moderate to Severe):

• Medical expenses: $198,000-$638,000 (past) + $300,000-$3,000,000 (future)
• Lost wages: $50,000-$200,000
• Lost earning capacity: $500,000-$3,000,000+
• Pain and suffering: $500,000-$3,000,000+
• Total settlement range: $1,548,000-$9,838,000

Wrongful Death:

• Funeral and burial expenses: $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
• Total settlement range: $1,910,000-$9,520,000

These ranges are general guidelines. Your actual case value depends on many factors, including the severity of your injuries, the clarity of liability, and the skill of your legal representation.

How Insurance Companies Try to Minimize Your Claim

Insurance companies have one goal: to pay you as little as possible. They use sophisticated tactics to achieve this, and without experienced legal representation, you’re at a serious disadvantage. Here’s what they don’t want you to know:

Tactic #1: The Quick Contact and Recorded Statement Trap

Within hours or days of your accident, an insurance adjuster will contact you. They’ll sound friendly, concerned, and helpful. They’ll say things like:

• “We just want to help you”
• “We need your side of the story to process your claim”
• “This is routine – everyone does this”

What they’re really doing is building their defense against you. They’ll ask leading questions designed to get you to:

• Minimize your injuries (“You’re feeling better now, right?”)
• Admit partial fault (“Were you distracted at all?”)
• Undermine your case (“It wasn’t that bad of an impact, was it?”)

Everything you say will be recorded, transcribed, and used against you. You are NOT required to give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance company.

At Attorney911, we handle all communications with insurance companies. We know their tactics because Lupe Peña used them for years while working for a national defense firm. Now, he uses that insider knowledge to protect our clients.

Tactic #2: The Quick Settlement Offer

Within days or weeks of your accident, the insurance company may offer you a quick settlement. They’ll say things like:

• “This is our best offer”
• “This offer expires in 48 hours”
• “Take it or leave it”
• “This is more than most people get”

These early offers are almost always far below the true value of your case. The insurance company knows you’re desperate for money to pay medical bills and replace lost income. They’re counting on your financial stress to make you accept a lowball offer.

The problem? Once you sign a release, you can’t get more money – even if you later discover you need surgery or have permanent injuries.

We never settle cases until our clients have reached Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI) – the point where they’ve recovered as much as they’re going to. This could take 6 months, 12 months, or even longer for serious injuries. We know how to calculate the true value of your case, and we won’t let insurance pressure you into settling cheap.

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

If your case involves significant injuries, the insurance company will likely require you to undergo an “Independent Medical Examination” (IME). Don’t be fooled by the name – there’s nothing independent about these exams.

Insurance companies choose IME doctors based on:

• Who gives them favorable reports (not who’s most qualified)
• Who consistently finds “no injury” or “pre-existing condition”
• Who they pay thousands of dollars per exam

These exams typically last just 10-15 minutes and often involve:

• A cursory physical exam
• Questions designed to get you to say you’re feeling better
• Little to no review of your medical records beforehand

Common IME findings include:

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

Lupe Peña knows these tactics firsthand – he selected IME doctors for years while working for insurance companies. Now, he uses that knowledge to challenge biased IME reports and protect our clients.

Tactic #4: Surveillance and Social Media Monitoring

Insurance companies hire private investigators to:

• Video you doing daily activities
• Follow you to appointments, errands, and social events
• Look for any activity that contradicts your injury claims

They also monitor all your social media accounts:

• 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

Examples of how they twist innocent activity:

• A photo of you smiling = “not in pain”
• A check-in at a restaurant = “able to go out and have fun”
• A friend’s post saying “Had fun yesterday!” = evidence you’re not injured
• Video of you walking your dog = “not disabled”

At Attorney911, we advise all our clients to:

1. Make all social media profiles private immediately
2. Don’t post about the accident, injuries, or activities
3. Tell friends and family not to tag you in posts
4. Assume everything is being monitored

Lupe Peña has reviewed hundreds of surveillance videos and social media posts as a defense attorney. He knows how insurance companies take innocent activity out of context, and he knows how to counter these tactics.

Tactic #5: Delay and Financial Pressure

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

• “We’re still investigating your claim”
• “We’re waiting for medical records”
• “Your file is under review”

While they’re delaying, they’re earning interest on your settlement money. Meanwhile, you’re facing:

• Mounting medical bills
• Lost income with no replacement
• Creditors threatening action
• Financial stress that makes you more likely to accept a low offer

This tactic is designed to make you give up or accept less than your case is worth.

At Attorney911, we don’t let insurance companies delay your case. We file lawsuits when necessary to force deadlines. We set depositions to compel them to produce witnesses. We prepare for trial to show we’re serious. And we never back down from a fight.

Tactic #6: Comparative Fault Arguments

Insurance companies will try to assign you maximum fault to reduce their payout. They’ll claim:

• “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)

In Texas, the 51% comparative fault rule 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 of fault

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 knows these arguments well – he made them for years as a defense attorney. Now, he uses that knowledge to counter them and protect our clients’ rights.

How We Calculate the Value of Your Claim

Insurance companies use sophisticated software called Colossus to calculate claim values. This program considers factors like:

• Injury codes
• Treatment types
• Medical costs
• Lost wages
• Jurisdiction

The problem? Insurance companies manipulate Colossus to minimize payouts by:

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

Lupe Peña knows how to beat Colossus because he used the system for years. He knows:

• How to present medical records to show true injury severity
• Which medical terms trigger higher valuations
• When Colossus output is artificially low
• How to document cases properly for maximum value

We don’t accept lowball offers. We fight for what your case is truly worth.

Why Pelican Bay Residents Choose Attorney911

When you’re recovering from a serious accident, you need more than just a lawyer – you need a team that will fight for you like family. Here’s what sets our firm apart:

1. Insurance Defense Insider Advantage

Lupe Peña spent years working for a national defense firm, learning firsthand how large insurance companies value claims. He knows their tactics because he used them. Now, he uses that knowledge to fight for accident victims.

This advantage is truly unique. While other firms struggle to understand insurance company strategies, we know exactly how to counter them. We know:

• How they value claims internally
• Which IME doctors they favor
• How they use Colossus software
• When their offers are artificially low
• How to increase their settlement authority

2. Multi-Million Dollar Results

Our results speak for themselves:

• Multi-million dollar settlement for a client who suffered a brain injury with vision loss
• Multi-million dollar settlement for a car accident victim whose leg injury led to partial amputation
• Millions recovered for families in trucking-related wrongful death cases
• Significant settlement for a maritime injury case where our client’s back was injured while lifting cargo

These aren’t just numbers – they represent real people whose lives were devastated by accidents and who received the compensation they needed to rebuild.

3. Federal Court Experience

Ralph Manginello is admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas. This federal court experience is crucial for:

• Complex cases involving multiple states
• Trucking accidents governed by federal regulations
• Cases against large corporations
• High-value cases that may exceed state court limits

Our firm was also one of the few involved in BP explosion litigation, demonstrating our capability to take on billion-dollar corporations.

4. Personal Attention

At Attorney911, you’re not just another case number. You work directly with Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña, not just paralegals or case managers.

Chad Harris, one of our clients, put it best: “You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client…You are FAMILY to them.”

Stephanie Hernandez shared: “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.”

5. Contingency Fee – No Risk to You

We work on a contingency fee basis – you pay nothing unless we win your case. There are no upfront costs, no hourly fees, and no financial risk to you.

• Free consultation
• No fee unless we recover compensation for you
• We advance all case costs
• You only pay if we win

Frequently Asked Questions About Motor Vehicle Accidents in Pelican Bay

What should I do immediately after a car accident in Pelican Bay?

If you’ve been in an accident in Pelican Bay:

1. Call 911 and report the accident
2. Seek medical attention even if you feel fine (adrenaline masks injuries)
3. Document everything with photos of damage, injuries, and the scene
4. Exchange information with the other driver
5. Get witness names and contact information
6. Do NOT give a recorded statement to any insurance company
7. Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate legal guidance

Should I call the police even for a minor accident?

Yes, always call the police. In Texas, you’re required to report accidents involving injuries, deaths, or property damage over $1,000. The police report is critical evidence for your claim.

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.

What information should I collect at the scene?

Collect:

• Other driver’s name, phone, address, driver’s license, and insurance information
• Vehicle make, model, color, and license plate number
• Witness names and phone numbers
• Photos of all vehicle damage, injuries, road conditions, and traffic signals
• Police officer’s name, badge number, and report number

Should I talk to the other driver or admit fault?

Only exchange basic information. Do NOT:

• Discuss fault
• Apologize or say “I’m sorry” (can be used as admission)
• Give your opinion on what happened
• Speculate about causes

Stick to facts only.

How do I obtain a copy of the accident report?

In Pelican Bay and throughout 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).

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 for guidance.

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 or discuss injuries or fault.

Do I have to accept the insurance company’s estimate?

No. Their estimate is just an offer, usually far below actual value. Attorney911 fights for what your case is really worth.

Should I accept a quick settlement offer?

NEVER accept a settlement before knowing the full extent of your injuries. Once you sign a release, you can’t get more money even if you need surgery later.

What if the other driver is uninsured or underinsured?

Your own Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage can compensate you. Texas allows inter-policy stacking, which can significantly increase your available coverage.

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.

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

When should I hire a car accident lawyer?

Immediately. Evidence disappears daily, and insurance companies start building their case against you from day one. Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 as soon as possible.

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

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

What is comparative negligence and how does it affect me?

Texas uses the 51% bar rule. If you’re 50% or less at fault, you can recover damages (reduced by your percentage of fault). If you’re 51% or more at fault, you recover nothing.

What happens if I was partially at fault?

You can still recover if you were 50% or less at fault. Your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

Will my case go to trial?

Most cases settle before trial, but Attorney911 prepares every case as if it’s going to trial. This trial readiness gives us leverage in negotiations.

How long will my case take to settle?

It depends on injury severity. We don’t settle until you’ve reached Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI) – the point where you’ve recovered as much as you’re going to. This could take 6 months for minor injuries or 18-24 months for serious injuries.

What is the legal process step-by-step?

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

What is my case worth?

It depends on factors like:

• Injury severity
• Medical costs
• Lost wages
• Permanent impairment
• Pain and suffering
• Clear liability
• Available insurance

What types of damages can I recover?

You can recover:

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

Can I get compensation for pain and suffering?

Yes. Pain and suffering is a significant component of personal injury cases in Texas. There is no cap on pain and suffering damages (except in medical malpractice cases).

What if I have a pre-existing condition?

You can still recover if the accident aggravated your pre-existing condition. This is called the “eggshell plaintiff” rule – defendants take victims as they find them.

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 specific advice.

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

How much do car accident lawyers cost?

Attorney911 works on a contingency fee basis – 33.33% before trial, 40% if trial is required. You pay nothing upfront, and we don’t get paid unless we win your case.

What does “no fee unless we win” mean?

You pay zero unless we recover money for you. If we don’t win, you owe us nothing. We advance all case costs.

How often will I get updates?

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

Who will actually handle my case?

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

What if I already hired another attorney?

You can switch attorneys at any time. Attorney911 has taken over many cases from other firms. Greg Garcia shared: “In the beginning I had another attorney but he dropped my case although Mangiello law firm were able to help me out.”

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

Government claims have special rules. You must file notice within 6 months (much shorter than the 2-year statute of limitations). Sovereign immunity protects government entities, and damage caps may apply. These cases are complex – you need an experienced attorney.

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

File a police report immediately. Your Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage applies. Surveillance footage is critical and typically deleted within 7-30 days, so time is of the essence.

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, and we’ve successfully represented clients of all immigration statuses.

What if the accident happened in a parking lot?

Parking lot accidents are fully compensable. Insurance companies often try to argue they’re always 50/50 fault, but this isn’t true. We prove fault through surveillance video, witness statements, damage analysis, and traffic patterns.

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, and the driver’s insurance covers passengers. No comparative fault issues apply to you.

What if the other driver died in the accident?

You can still pursue a claim against the deceased driver’s estate and insurance. The insurance policy still applies, and the estate may have assets. Wrongful death laws protect both sides.

Pelican Bay-Specific Resources

Pelican Bay residents have access to excellent medical facilities in the Fort Worth area. If you’ve been injured in an accident, consider seeking treatment at:

• John Peter Smith Hospital (JPS) – Level I Trauma Center serving Tarrant County
• Baylor Scott & White All Saints Medical Center – Comprehensive trauma and emergency services
• Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Fort Worth – Level II Trauma Center with specialized care
• Cook Children’s Medical Center – For pediatric trauma cases

For legal matters in Tarrant County, cases are typically filed in:

• Tarrant County District Courts – For cases exceeding $200,000
• Tarrant County Courts at Law – For cases under $200,000
• Justice of the Peace Courts – For small claims under $20,000

The Tarrant County Courthouse is located at 100 W Weatherford St, Fort Worth, TX 76196.

Don’t Let Insurance Companies Take Advantage of You

If you’ve been injured in a motor vehicle accident in Pelican Bay, Texas, you don’t have to face this alone. Insurance companies have teams of adjusters and lawyers working to minimize your claim – shouldn’t you have a team fighting for you?

At Attorney911, we have:

• 25+ years of experience handling motor vehicle accident cases
• A former insurance defense attorney who knows their tactics inside and out
• Federal court admission to handle complex cases
• A proven track record of multi-million dollar results
• A commitment to treating every client like family

We offer:

• Free consultation – no obligation
• No fee unless we win your case
• Personal attention from experienced attorneys
• Aggressive representation against insurance companies

Don’t wait – evidence disappears every day. Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911) for your free consultation. We’re here to help 24/7.

Remember: When you call 1-888-ATTY-911, you’re not just calling a law firm – you’re calling a legal emergency line that’s ready to fight for you.