Motor Vehicle Accident Lawyers in Watauga, Texas | Attorney911

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Watauga, Texas, you’re not alone. With one motor vehicle crash occurring every 57 seconds in Texas and over 251,000 people injured annually, 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.

Watauga residents face unique traffic challenges, from the bustling intersections along Denton Highway to the high-speed dangers on nearby highways like I-820 and Highway 121. Whether you were rear-ended at a stoplight, sideswiped on your commute, or involved in a multi-vehicle collision, our Watauga car accident lawyers have the knowledge and resources to handle your case.

Why Watauga Accident Victims Choose Attorney911

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 national insurance companies. He knows exactly how they evaluate claims, what tactics they use to minimize payouts, and how to counter their strategies. This insider knowledge gives our clients a significant edge in negotiations and litigation.

As client Chad Harris shared: “You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client…You are FAMILY to them.” This personal attention sets us apart from high-volume firms where you’re just another case number.

Common Types of Motor Vehicle Accidents in Watauga

Car Accidents

With over 251,977 people injured in Texas motor vehicle crashes last year, car accidents are the most common type we handle. Watauga’s mix of residential streets, commercial corridors, and highway access points creates multiple accident hotspots. Common causes include:

Distracted driving (380 deaths in Texas last year)
Speeding through residential neighborhoods
Failure to yield at intersections
Running red lights on Denton Highway
Following too closely on Highway 121
Drunk driving incidents, especially near local bars

Common injuries we see from Watauga car accidents include:

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

“In a recent case, our client’s leg was injured in a car accident. Staff infections during treatment led to a partial amputation. This case settled in the millions.” – Attorney911 Case Result

As client Chavodrian Miles shared: “Leonor got me into the doctor the same day…it only took 6 months amazing.” And MONGO SLADE said: “I was rear-ended and the team got right to work…I also got a very nice settlement.”

18-Wheeler and Trucking Accidents

With 39,393 commercial motor vehicle crashes in Texas last year, trucking accidents represent a significant danger, especially on Watauga’s major thoroughfares like I-820 and Highway 121. These accidents often result in catastrophic injuries due to the sheer size and weight of commercial trucks (up to 80,000 pounds compared to 4,000 pounds for a typical car).

Texas leads the nation with 11% of all fatal truck crashes. In 2024 alone, there were 608 trucking fatalities and 1,601 serious injuries in our state. Attorney911 has extensive experience handling these complex cases, including:

Hours of Service (HOS) violations – drivers exceeding 11 hours of driving after 10 hours off duty
Electronic Logging Device (ELD) violations – tampering with or falsifying driving records
Driver qualification issues – unqualified or improperly trained drivers
Maintenance failures – poorly maintained brakes, tires, or other critical systems
Cargo loading errors – improperly secured loads causing instability

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

Ralph Manginello’s federal court admission to the Southern District of Texas is particularly valuable in trucking cases, as many involve federal regulations and interstate commerce. Our firm’s involvement in the BP explosion litigation demonstrates our capability to handle complex cases against large corporations.

Recent nuclear verdicts in Texas trucking cases underscore the potential value of these claims:

2024 Oncor Electric: $37.5M verdict for distracted truck driver
2024 New Prime I-35 pileup: $44.1M verdict (6 deaths)
2024 Ben E. Keith (Fort Worth): $35M settlement

Drunk Driving Accidents

Tragically, 1,053 people were killed in alcohol-impaired driving crashes in Texas last year, accounting for 25.37% of all traffic fatalities. In Tarrant County, drunk driving remains a persistent problem, with accidents often occurring near local establishments.

Texas has strong dram shop laws (Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code § 2.02) that allow victims to hold bars, restaurants, and other establishments liable if they served alcohol to someone who was obviously intoxicated. Signs of obvious intoxication include:

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

Potentially liable parties in drunk driving cases include:

The drunk driver
Bars and nightclubs that over-served
Restaurants with liquor licenses
Liquor stores
Event organizers (concerts, festivals)
Social hosts in limited circumstances

Drunk driving cases often qualify for punitive damages due to the gross negligence involved. Ralph Manginello’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) gives our firm unique capabilities in handling both the criminal and civil aspects of these cases.

Our firm’s track record in DWI defense cases demonstrates our investigation skills:

DWI dismissal: Breathalyzer machine improperly maintained
DWI dismissal: No breath/blood test, missing hospital notes
DWI dismissal: Video evidence showed client not drunk

Motorcycle Accidents

With 585 motorcyclist fatalities in Texas last year, motorcycle accidents represent a disproportionate share of traffic deaths. Tarrant County consistently ranks among the top counties for motorcycle accidents in the state. Tragically, 37% of those killed were not wearing helmets.

Texas law requires helmets for all riders under 21. Riders 21 and over may ride without a helmet if they’ve completed a safety course or have $10,000 in medical insurance coverage. However, helmets reduce the risk of death by 37% and head injury by 69%.

Common causes of motorcycle accidents in Watauga include:

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

Insurance companies often try to blame motorcyclists using Texas’ 51% comparative fault rule. Lupe Peña’s experience as an insurance defense attorney gives us an advantage in countering these arguments, as he knows exactly how insurance companies build their cases against riders.

Pedestrian Accidents

Watauga’s growing population and commercial development create increased pedestrian risks. In Texas last year, there were 6,095 pedestrian crashes resulting in 768 fatalities. Pedestrians account for only 1% of crashes but 19% of all roadway deaths.

A critical legal point that many drivers don’t know: Pedestrians ALWAYS have the right-of-way at intersections, even at unmarked crosswalks. This means that anytime there’s an intersection of two streets, the distance between them is considered a crosswalk – even if it’s not painted.

Common pedestrian injuries include:

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

Rideshare Accidents (Uber/Lyft)

With the growth of rideshare services in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, accidents involving Uber and Lyft vehicles are becoming more common in Watauga. The rideshare industry has grown exponentially, with 11 billion trips taken in the US since 2010 and 17.4 million daily Uber trips.

The complexity of rideshare insurance coverage makes these cases particularly challenging. Insurance coverage varies dramatically depending on what the driver was doing at the time of the accident:

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

Injury distribution in rideshare accidents:

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

Lupe Peña’s insurance defense background gives Attorney911 a unique advantage in navigating the complex insurance landscape of rideshare accidents. He knows how to identify the correct insurance coverage and maximize recovery for our clients.

What to Do Immediately After an Accident in Watauga

Hour 1-6 (Immediate Crisis Response)

If you’re involved in an accident in Watauga, take these critical steps:

Safety First: If you can move safely, get to a secure location away from traffic
Call 911: Report the accident and request medical assistance if anyone is injured
Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, get checked immediately. Adrenaline can mask serious injuries
Document Everything:
- Take photos of ALL vehicle damage (every angle)
- Photograph the accident scene, road conditions, traffic signals
- Take photos of visible injuries
- Screenshot any messages visible on your phone
Exchange Information:
- Other driver’s name, phone, address
- Insurance company and policy number
- Driver’s license number
- License plate number
- Vehicle make, model, color
Witnesses: Get names and phone numbers of any witnesses
Call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate legal guidance before speaking to any insurance company

Hour 6-24 (Evidence Preservation)

Digital Preservation:
- Preserve all texts, calls, photos, videos related to the accident
- Do NOT delete anything from your phone
- Screenshot everything relevant
- Email copies to yourself for backup
Physical Evidence:
- Secure damaged clothing, glasses, personal items
- Keep receipts for any expenses (towing, rental car, medications)
- Do NOT repair your vehicle yet – preserve the damage
Medical Records:
- Request copies of all ER/hospital records
- Keep all discharge paperwork
- Follow up with your primary care physician within 24-48 hours
Insurance Communications:
- Note any calls from insurance companies
- Do NOT give recorded statements yet
- Do NOT sign anything
- Do NOT accept any settlement offers
- Say: “I need to speak with my attorney first”
Social Media:
- Make ALL profiles private immediately
- Do NOT post about the accident
- Do NOT post photos of injuries or activities
- Tell friends/family not to tag you in posts

Hour 24-48 (Strategic Decisions)

Legal Consultation:
- Speak with an experienced motor vehicle accident attorney
- Call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation
Insurance Response:
- If insurance contacts you, refer them to your attorney
- Say: “My attorney will be in touch with you”
- Provide only basic information: name, date of accident, that you were involved
Settlement Offers:
- Do NOT accept or sign anything without lawyer review
- Early offers are ALWAYS lowball offers
- You don’t know the 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

Texas Motor Vehicle Law You Need to Know

Statute of Limitations

Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code § 16.003 establishes strict deadlines for filing lawsuits:

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

Critical Note: If you miss this deadline, your case is permanently barred. You cannot file a lawsuit or recover compensation after the statute of limitations expires.

Comparative Negligence (51% Bar Rule)

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

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

Insurance companies always try to assign maximum fault to accident victims. 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’s experience as an insurance defense attorney gives Attorney911 a unique advantage in countering comparative fault arguments. He knows exactly how insurance companies build these cases and how to defeat them.

Texas Minimum Auto Insurance Requirements

Texas requires all drivers to carry minimum insurance coverage:

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

Important Note: Approximately 15.4% of Texas drivers are uninsured (about 1 in 7). Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage is critical for protecting yourself.

How Insurance Companies Try to Minimize Your Claim

At Attorney911, we know how insurance companies operate because Lupe Peña spent years working for them. Here are the tactics they use to minimize or deny your claim:

Tactic #1: Quick Contact & Recorded Statement

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

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

What they’re really doing: Building a case against you with leading questions designed to get you to minimize your injuries or admit fault.

Never give a recorded statement without an attorney. Once you hire Attorney911, we handle all communication with insurance companies.

Tactic #2: Quick Settlement Offer

Within weeks of your accident, insurance companies will offer quick money – typically $2,000-$5,000, sometimes up to $15,000 if they’re worried. They’ll create artificial urgency:

“This offer expires in 48 hours”
“I can only get approval for this amount right now”
“Take it or leave it”

The trap: You don’t know the extent of your injuries yet. If you accept a quick settlement and later discover you need surgery, you’re responsible for those costs.

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

Insurance companies will send you to a doctor they’ve hired to examine you. These exams are anything but independent.

How insurance companies choose IME doctors:

Based on who gives insurance-favorable reports
Doctors who consistently find “no injury” or “pre-existing condition”
Doctors paid thousands by insurance companies

What happens at an IME:

A 10-15 minute cursory examination
Rarely a review of your complete medical records
Questions designed to elicit “I’m feeling better” responses

Common IME findings:

“Patient has pre-existing degenerative changes”
“Injuries consistent with minor trauma”
“Patient can return to full duty work”
“Treatment has been excessive”
“Subjective complaints out of proportion to objective findings”

Lupe Peña knows these specific doctors and their biases because he hired them when he worked for insurance companies. We prepare our clients extensively for these exams and challenge biased IME reports.

Tactic #4: Delay and Financial Pressure

Insurance companies will 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”
Ignoring calls and emails

Why delay works:

They have unlimited time and resources
You have mounting bills and no income
Financial desperation makes you accept less

At Attorney911, we file lawsuits to force deadlines and set depositions, showing insurance companies we’re serious about going to trial.

Tactic #5: Surveillance and Social Media Monitoring

Insurance companies hire private investigators to:

Video you doing daily activities
Film from public places (your driveway, street, stores)
Follow you to appointments and errands
Look for any activity that contradicts your injury claims

They also monitor all your social media:

Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, Twitter
Screenshot everything: photos, posts, check-ins, comments
Monitor your friends’ profiles for posts mentioning you
Use facial recognition to find photos you’re tagged in

Examples we’ve defended:

Old gym photo from 3 years ago presented as recent
Facebook check-in at a restaurant used to claim “partying”
Friend’s comment “Had fun yesterday!” used as evidence
Video of client walking dog slowly used to claim “not disabled”
Family photo where client is smiling used to claim “not in pain”

Rules for our clients:

Make all profiles private immediately
Don’t post about the accident, injuries, or activities
Tell friends/family not to tag you in posts
Assume everything is being monitored

Tactic #6: Comparative Fault Arguments

Insurance companies will try to assign you maximum fault to reduce their payment:

“You were speeding” (without evidence)
“You weren’t paying attention”
“You could have avoided this”
“You were distracted”
“You contributed to this accident”

Even small fault percentages can cost you thousands. Lupe Peña knows these arguments because he made them for years when he worked for insurance companies. Now he uses that knowledge to defeat them.

Colossus Software System

Most major insurance companies use a software system called Colossus to calculate claim values. Here’s how it works:

Adjuster inputs injury codes, treatment, costs, jurisdiction
Injuries are coded using standardized medical terms
Software applies algorithms to determine “value”
System provides recommended settlement range
Adjuster typically cannot exceed without supervisor approval

How insurance companies manipulate Colossus:

Use low injury codes (“soft tissue strain” instead of “disc herniation”)
Flag “excessive” treatment to reduce value
Penalize conservative treatment (chiropractic valued less than MD)
Use pre-existing conditions to reduce value
Apply jurisdiction factors (low-verdict counties get lower values)

Lupe Peña knows how to code injuries properly for maximum value, which medical terms trigger higher valuations, and when Colossus output is artificially low.

Types of Compensation Available

Economic Damages (No Cap in Texas)

Damage Type	What It Covers
Medical Expenses (Past)	ER, hospital, surgery, doctors, physical therapy, medications, medical equipment
Medical Expenses (Future)	Ongoing treatment, future surgeries, lifetime medications, long-term care
Lost Wages (Past)	Income lost from date of accident to present
Lost Earning Capacity (Future)	Reduced ability to earn income in the future
Property Damage	Vehicle repair or replacement, personal property
Out-of-Pocket Expenses	Transportation to medical appointments, home modifications, household help

Non-Economic Damages (No Cap Except Medical Malpractice)

Damage Type	What It Covers
Pain and Suffering	Physical pain from injuries, both past and future
Mental Anguish	Emotional distress, anxiety, depression, fear, PTSD
Physical Impairment	Loss of physical function, disability, limitations
Disfigurement	Scarring, permanent visible injuries affecting appearance
Loss of Consortium	Impact on marriage/family relationships, loss of companionship
Loss of Enjoyment of Life	Inability to participate in activities you previously enjoyed

Punitive/Exemplary Damages (Capped)

Available for gross negligence, fraud, 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)

Common Injuries and Medical Considerations

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

Immediate symptoms:

Loss of consciousness
Confusion and disorientation
Vomiting and nausea
Seizures
Severe headache
Dilated pupils
Slurred speech

Delayed symptoms (critical to document):

Worsening headaches
Repeated vomiting
Seizures developing days later
Personality changes
Sleep disturbances
Sensitivity to light and noise

Severity classifications:

Mild TBI/Concussion: Brief LOC, GCS 13-15
Moderate TBI: LOC minutes to hours, GCS 9-12
Severe TBI: Extended unconsciousness, GCS 3-8

Long-term complications:

Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE)
Post-Concussive Syndrome
Increased dementia risk
Personality and mood disorders
Seizure disorders

Spinal Cord Injury

Injury levels and impact:

C1-C4 (High Cervical): Quadriplegia, possible ventilator dependence
C5-C8 (Low Cervical): Quadriplegia with some arm/hand function
T1-T12 (Thoracic): Paraplegia, wheelchair dependent
L1-L5 (Lumbar): Varying degrees of leg weakness/paralysis

ASIA Impairment Scale:

A: Complete (no motor or sensory function below injury)
B: Sensory Incomplete (sensory but no motor function)
C: Motor Incomplete (motor function but most muscles <3/5 strength)
D: Motor Incomplete (motor function with most muscles ≥3/5 strength)
E: Normal (full recovery)

Secondary complications:

Pressure sores
Respiratory complications
Bowel and bladder dysfunction
Autonomic dysreflexia (life-threatening blood pressure crisis)
Depression

Amputation

Types:

Traumatic amputation: Limb severed at accident scene
Surgical amputation: Due to crush injuries or infections

Levels:

Above-knee: More difficult, less mobility
Below-knee: Better mobility potential
Upper extremity: Arm, hand, fingers
Multiple limbs: Exponentially more challenging

Phantom limb pain affects 80% of amputees and can be severe and debilitating.

“In a recent case, our client’s leg was injured in a car accident. Staff infections during treatment led to a partial amputation. This case settled in the millions.” – Attorney911 Case Result

Herniated Disc

Treatment timeline:

Acute Phase (Weeks 1-6): Severe pain, medications, rest
Conservative Treatment (Weeks 6-12): Physical therapy, chiropractic
Interventional (If conservative fails): Epidural injections
Surgery (If injections fail): Microdiscectomy or fusion

Permanent restrictions can impact your ability to return to physical labor jobs, creating lost earning capacity claims.

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Watauga 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.”

This is Attorney911’s biggest competitive advantage. Lupe spent years working FOR insurance companies, learning:

Claim valuation methods (Colossus software, reserve setting)
Settlement authority structures and approval processes
Defense tactics and delay strategies
IME (Independent Medical Exam) doctor selection process
Surveillance and investigation methods
Delay and financial pressure tactics
Comparative fault arguments and blame-shifting

Now he uses that knowledge FOR victims, not against them.

2. Multi-Million Dollar Results

Attorney911 has recovered millions for victims of:

Brain injuries: “Multi-million dollar settlement for client who suffered brain injury with vision loss”
Amputations: “This case settled in the millions”
Trucking wrongful death: “Recovered millions of dollars in compensation”
Maritime injuries: “Significant cash settlement”

Our results prove we don’t settle cheap.

3. Federal Court Experience

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

Complex cases that may end up in federal court
FMCSA trucking regulations cases
Cases involving out-of-state defendants
Diversity jurisdiction cases

4. Personal Attention

At Attorney911, you work directly with Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña, not just paralegals. As client Dame Haskett said: “Consistent communication and not one time did i call and not get a clear answer…Ralph reached out personally.”

And Ambur Hamilton shared: “I never felt like ‘just another case’ they were working on.”

5. Contingency Fee – No Risk to You

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

Free consultation
No upfront costs
No hourly billing
We advance all case costs
You pay nothing unless we recover for you

Frequently Asked Questions About Watauga Car Accidents

Immediate After Accident

What should I do immediately after a car accident in Watauga?

If you’ve been in an accident in Watauga:

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

Should I call the police even for a minor accident?

Yes. Always call police. The police report is critical evidence. In Texas, you must report accidents with injuries, deaths, or property damage over $1,000.

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?

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

Should I talk to the other driver or admit fault?

Exchange information only
Do NOT discuss fault
Do NOT apologize or say “I’m sorry” (can be used as admission)
Do NOT give your opinion on what happened
Stick to facts only

How do I obtain a copy of the accident report?

In Watauga, you can obtain the police report from the Watauga Police Department or through the Texas Department of Transportation’s Crash Records Information System (CRIS).

Dealing with Insurance

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.

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.

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

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

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.

What if the other driver is uninsured/underinsured?

Your own UM/UIM coverage can compensate you. Watch our video: “Uninsured & Underinsured Motorists” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kWcNFyb-Yq8

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

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

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

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

In Texas: 2 years from the date of accident for personal injury, 2 years from date of death for wrongful death. Miss it = case barred forever.

What is comparative negligence and how does it affect me?

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

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

Will my case go to trial?

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

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

How long will my case take to settle?

Depends on injury severity. We don’t settle until you’ve reached maximum medical improvement (MMI). Could be 6 months for minor injuries, 18-24 months for serious injuries.

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

What is my case worth?

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

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

Can I get compensation for pain and suffering?

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

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.

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.

How is the value of my claim determined?

Based on: medical bills, future treatment costs, lost income, permanent impairment rating, comparable verdicts, severity of injuries, impact on daily life.

Attorney Relationship

How much do car accident lawyers cost?

Attorney911 works on contingency: 33.33% before trial, 40% if trial. You pay nothing upfront. We don’t get paid unless we win.

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

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 said: “You are NOT just some client…You are FAMILY to them.”

What if I already hired another attorney?

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

Mistakes to Avoid

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

Should I post about my accident on social media?

NO. Make all profiles private. Don’t post about the accident, injuries, or activities. Insurance monitors everything.

Why shouldn’t I sign anything without a lawyer?

Releases are PERMANENT. Medical authorizations give unlimited access. Settlement offers are binding. Once signed, you can’t undo it.

What if I didn’t see a doctor right away?

See one NOW. Explain you didn’t realize the severity of your injuries. Delayed symptoms are common. We can still help.

Additional Common Questions

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 the victim as they find them. For example, if you had mild occasional back pain before the accident and the accident caused a herniated disc requiring surgery, you recover for the NEW injury, not just the pre-existing pain. We hire medical experts to prove the difference. Lupe knows how insurance companies attack pre-existing conditions because he used this defense for years.

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.

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.

How do you calculate pain and suffering?

Most commonly using the multiplier method: Medical expenses × multiplier (1.5 to 5) = pain & suffering. The multiplier depends on: injury severity, permanency, impact on life, clear liability. For example: $100,000 medical × 4 multiplier = $400,000 pain and suffering. Lupe calculated these for years—he knows how to justify higher multipliers.

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

Government claims have special rules. You must file notice within 6 months (much shorter than the 2-year statute of limitations). Sovereign immunity protects government entities. Damage caps may apply. These cases are complex—you need an experienced attorney. Ralph’s 25+ years includes government litigation. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately—the 6-month deadline is strict.

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

File a police report immediately (hit and run is a criminal offense). Your Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage applies. Surveillance footage is CRITICAL—gas stations, businesses, Ring doorbells, traffic cameras. Most footage is deleted 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.

What if I’m an undocumented immigrant—can I still file a claim?

YES. Immigration status does NOT affect your right to compensation for injuries. You’re entitled to full recovery regardless of immigration status. Your case is confidential. We’ve successfully represented clients of all immigration statuses. Lupe is fluent in Spanish. Call 1-888-ATTY-911—we protect your rights and your privacy.

What if the accident happened in a parking lot?

Parking lot accidents are fully compensable. Insurance companies love to argue “parking lot accidents are always 50/50 fault” (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.

What if I was a passenger in the at-fault vehicle?

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

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.

Watauga-Specific Considerations

At Attorney911, we understand the unique challenges faced by Watauga residents after motor vehicle accidents. Our familiarity with local roads, courts, and medical facilities gives us an advantage in handling your case.

Local Traffic Challenges

Watauga’s location in the heart of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex creates specific traffic patterns and accident risks:

Denton Highway (FM 157): This major north-south corridor through Watauga sees heavy commuter traffic and is known for its dangerous intersections and frequent accidents.
Highway 121: The nearby Highway 121 corridor is a hotspot for trucking accidents and high-speed collisions.
I-820: The nearby interstate sees significant commercial truck traffic, increasing the risk of catastrophic accidents.
Intersection Accidents: Watauga’s growing commercial areas mean more vehicles and pedestrians competing for space at busy intersections.
School Zone Accidents: With multiple schools in the area, school zone accidents involving children are a particular concern.

Local Medical Facilities

After an accident, you may be taken to one of these nearby medical facilities:

Medical City North Hills (North Richland Hills): A Level III trauma center serving Watauga residents
Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Alliance (Fort Worth): A full-service hospital with emergency care
Baylor Scott & White All Saints Medical Center (Fort Worth): Comprehensive medical services
Cook Children’s Medical Center (Fort Worth): For pediatric accident victims

Our familiarity with these facilities and their medical staff helps us navigate your treatment and recovery process more effectively.

Local Courts and Legal Process

Watauga residents typically file personal injury claims in:

Tarrant County District Courts: For cases involving serious injuries or higher damages
Tarrant County Justice Courts: For smaller claims or property damage cases
Fort Worth Municipal Court: For traffic citations related to accidents

Our knowledge of local court procedures, judges, and opposing attorneys gives us an advantage in negotiating settlements and presenting cases in court.

Contact Attorney911 Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a motor vehicle accident in Watauga, don’t wait. Evidence disappears daily, and insurance companies are already building their case against you.

Call our legal emergency line now: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)

We offer:

Free, no-obligation consultation
No fee unless we win your case
Immediate case evaluation
Personal attention from Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña
Aggressive representation against insurance companies

Hablamos Español. Lupe Peña and our bilingual staff are ready to assist Spanish-speaking clients.

Don’t let insurance companies take advantage of you. With our insider knowledge and proven track record, we’ll fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 now for your free consultation.