Motor Vehicle Accidents in Krugerville, Texas – Attorney911 Fights for You

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

Every 57 seconds, a motor vehicle crash occurs somewhere in Texas. In Krugerville and across Denton County, these accidents disrupt lives in an instant—leaving victims with painful injuries, mounting medical bills, and the overwhelming stress of dealing with insurance companies that care more about their profits than your recovery.

At Attorney911, we understand the chaos you’re facing. Founded by Ralph Manginello, who has over 25 years of experience fighting for accident victims across Texas, our firm has recovered millions of dollars for clients who suffered serious injuries in car crashes, truck collisions, and other motor vehicle accidents. We know Krugerville’s roads, we know Denton County’s courts, and we know how to hold negligent drivers and their insurance companies accountable.

One recent case illustrates our commitment: Our client’s leg was injured in a car accident. During treatment, staff infections developed, leading to a partial amputation. While the insurance company initially offered just $50,000, we proved the amputation was a direct result of the accident and secured a multi-million dollar settlement. This is the level of dedication we bring to every case we handle in Krugerville and throughout North Texas.

The Reality of Motor Vehicle Accidents in Krugerville and Denton County

Texas sees more motor vehicle crashes than any other state, with over 251,977 people injured in 2024 alone. That’s one person injured every 2 minutes and 5 seconds. In Denton County and the growing communities around Krugerville, these statistics translate into real tragedies every day.

Krugerville sits at the intersection of several major roads, including FM 428 and FM 1385, which connect to I-35 and the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. This location means our community sees a mix of local traffic and through traffic, creating dangerous conditions on our roads. Some of the most hazardous areas include:

The FM 428 corridor, especially near the Krugerville city limits
Intersections along FM 1385 where local and regional traffic converges
Construction zones on I-35 and surrounding highways
Rural roads where higher speeds and limited visibility create risks

The Texas Department of Transportation reports that Denton County saw thousands of crashes last year, with many resulting in serious injuries. These accidents aren’t just statistics—they represent Krugerville families whose lives are forever changed by a moment of negligence.

Common Types of Motor Vehicle Accidents in Krugerville

Car Accidents – The Most Common but Often Serious

Car accidents are the most frequent type of motor vehicle crash in Krugerville and Denton County. Despite being common, these accidents often result in serious injuries due to the sheer number of vehicles on our roads.

Common causes of car accidents in Krugerville include:

Distracted driving (texting, phone use, eating)
Speeding and aggressive driving
Failure to yield right of way
Running red lights or stop signs
Following too closely (rear-end collisions)
Drunk or drugged driving
Poor weather conditions (rain, fog)

Injuries we commonly see from Krugerville car accidents:

Whiplash and other 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

One of our clients, Chavodrian Miles, shared his experience: “Leonor got me into the doctor the same day…it only took 6 months amazing.” This level of prompt, compassionate care is what sets Attorney911 apart from other firms in Denton County.

Trucking Accidents – Catastrophic Consequences on Krugerville Roads

Krugerville’s proximity to I-35 means our community sees significant commercial truck traffic. While essential for our economy, these massive vehicles pose serious risks when drivers or trucking companies cut corners.

Texas trucking accident statistics are alarming:

39,393 commercial motor vehicle crashes in Texas in 2024
608 trucking fatalities and 1,601 serious injuries
Texas accounts for 11% of ALL fatal truck crashes nationwide
549 fatal truck accidents resulted in 620 deaths

Why trucking accidents are more dangerous:

A fully loaded 18-wheeler can weigh up to 80,000 pounds—20 times more than a passenger car
Trucks require longer stopping distances
Large blind spots make it difficult for truck drivers to see smaller vehicles
Fatigue and pressure to meet deadlines often lead to dangerous driving

Federal regulations that trucking companies often violate:

Hours of Service (HOS) rules limiting driving time
Mandatory rest breaks
Regular vehicle maintenance requirements
Proper cargo loading procedures
Drug and alcohol testing requirements

Multiple parties can be held liable in trucking accidents:

The truck driver
The trucking company (for negligent hiring, training, or supervision)
The cargo loader (for improperly secured loads)
The vehicle manufacturer (for defective parts)
The maintenance company (for improper repairs)

Our firm has extensive experience handling trucking cases. As Ralph Manginello explains, “We’ve recovered millions for families facing trucking-related wrongful death cases. These cases require federal court experience and the ability to take on billion-dollar corporations—exactly the kind of complex litigation we specialize in.”

Drunk Driving Accidents – 100% Preventable Tragedies

In Texas, 1,053 people lost their lives in 2024 due to alcohol-impaired driving—25.37% of all traffic fatalities. These accidents are particularly devastating because they’re completely preventable.

Denton County has seen its share of drunk driving tragedies, with accidents occurring:

On weekends when bars and restaurants are busiest
During holidays and special events
Late at night when visibility is poor
On rural roads where speeds are higher

Texas dram shop laws allow victims to hold establishments accountable:
Under Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code § 2.02, bars, restaurants, and even liquor stores can be held liable if they serve alcohol to someone who is obviously intoxicated and that person then causes an accident.

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 in drunk driving cases:

The drunk driver
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 may be available for gross negligence
Multiple defendants can be held liable
Criminal charges strengthen the civil case
Insurance companies cannot easily defend the indefensible

Ralph Manginello’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) gives our firm unique capabilities in handling cases involving drunk driving accidents. We understand both the criminal and civil aspects of these cases, allowing us to build the strongest possible claim for our clients.

Motorcycle Accidents – Vulnerable Riders Face Higher Risks

Motorcycle accidents often result in catastrophic injuries due to the lack of protection for riders. In 2024, Texas saw 585 motorcyclist fatalities, with many more suffering life-altering injuries.

Key motorcycle accident statistics:

37% of motorcycle fatalities involved riders not wearing helmets
90% of fatal motorcycle accidents involve male victims
Helmets reduce the risk of death by 37%
Helmets reduce the risk of head injury by 69%

Texas helmet law requirements:

Riders under 21 must wear helmets
Riders 21 and older may ride without helmets if they:
- Have completed an approved motorcycle safety course, OR
- Have at least $10,000 in medical insurance coverage

Common causes of motorcycle accidents in Krugerville:

Drivers failing to yield right of way to motorcycles
Distracted drivers not seeing motorcycles
Unsafe lane changes by other vehicles
Left-turn accidents (vehicles turning left in front of motorcycles)
Speeding and reckless driving
Road hazards that are minor for cars but dangerous for motorcycles

The 51% rule is particularly important in motorcycle cases:
Texas uses a modified comparative negligence system. If you’re found to be 51% or more at fault for the accident, you cannot recover any damages. Insurance companies often try to blame motorcyclists for accidents, even when the other driver is clearly at fault.

Lupe Peña, our associate attorney who previously worked for insurance companies, explains: “I’ve seen how adjusters try to shift blame onto motorcyclists. They’ll argue that the rider was speeding, lane-splitting, or not paying attention. But the truth is that most motorcycle accidents are caused by other drivers failing to see the motorcycle or respect its right of way.”

Pedestrian Accidents – Krugerville’s Most Vulnerable Road Users

Pedestrian accidents are particularly devastating because pedestrians have no protection against vehicles. In 2024, Texas saw 6,095 pedestrian crashes resulting in 768 fatalities. While pedestrians account for only 1% of all crashes, they represent 19% of all roadway deaths.

Critical legal point for pedestrians:
Pedestrians ALWAYS have the right-of-way at intersections in Texas—even at unmarked crosswalks. Many drivers don’t realize that anytime there’s an intersection of two streets, the distance between them is considered a crosswalk, whether it’s marked or not.

Common pedestrian accident scenarios in Krugerville:

Drivers failing to yield at crosswalks
Vehicles turning right on red without checking for pedestrians
Distracted drivers not seeing pedestrians
Drunk drivers hitting pedestrians at night
Speeding vehicles in residential areas
Poorly designed intersections with limited visibility

Severe injuries common in pedestrian accidents:

Traumatic brain injuries
Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
Broken pelvis and leg bones
Internal organ damage
Fatalities

Rideshare Accidents – The Complexities of Uber and Lyft Claims

Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have transformed transportation in Krugerville and the Dallas-Fort Worth area, but they’ve also introduced new complexities when accidents occur.

Rideshare industry statistics:

11 billion trips in the US since 2010
17.4 million Uber trips daily
118 million Uber users worldwide
5 million Uber drivers

The critical issue: Rideshare insurance coverage varies dramatically based on what the driver was doing at the time of the accident

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)

Lupe Peña’s experience working for insurance companies gives us a unique advantage in rideshare cases: “I understand how these companies structure their coverage and how they try to minimize payouts. Many accident victims don’t realize that the coverage available depends entirely on what the driver was doing at the exact moment of the crash. Was the app on? Were they waiting for a ride request? Were they en route to pick up a passenger? These details make all the difference in how much compensation is available.”

Hit and Run Accidents – When the At-Fault Driver Flees

Hit and run accidents are particularly frustrating because the at-fault driver has fled the scene, making it difficult to hold them accountable. In Texas, a hit and run occurs every 43 seconds.

Texas penalties for hit and run (Texas Transportation Code § 550.021):

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

Your recovery options after a hit and run:

Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage from your own policy
Underinsured Motorist (UIM) coverage if the at-fault driver is later identified but has insufficient coverage
Personal Injury Protection (PIP) or Medical Payments (MedPay) coverage

Critical evidence preservation:

Surveillance footage from nearby businesses (typically deleted within 7-30 days)
Witness statements (memories fade quickly)
Photographs of the scene and your injuries
Police reports

We send preservation letters immediately to secure this evidence before it’s lost forever. As one of our clients, MONGO SLADE, shared: “I was rear-ended and the team got right to work…I also got a very nice settlement.”

Tesla and Autonomous Vehicle Accidents – Emerging Liability Issues

As technology advances, Krugerville and Denton County are seeing more accidents involving Tesla vehicles with Autopilot and Full Self-Driving (FSD) capabilities. These cases present unique legal challenges.

Notable Tesla-related crashes:

May 2016: Joshua Brown killed in Florida when Autopilot failed to detect a white 18-wheeler
March 2018: Apple engineer Walter Huang killed in California (case settled April 2024)
December 2024: Genesis Mendoza killed in California (active lawsuit)
August 2025: $240 million+ jury verdict against Tesla in Miami (landmark case)

Key liability arguments in Tesla/Autopilot cases:

Tesla marketed FSD/Autopilot as safer than human drivers, creating a false sense of security
Marketing fostered driver overconfidence and overreliance on the system
Tesla knew the system couldn’t detect emergency vehicles or certain road conditions
Tesla used over-the-air software updates instead of comprehensive safety fixes

NHTSA data shows:

Tesla Autopilot accounts for 70% of driver-assist crashes reported to NHTSA
In December 2023, Tesla recalled 2+ million vehicles for Autopilot issues

Ralph Manginello’s admission to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, is particularly valuable in these complex product liability cases. Our firm’s involvement in BP explosion litigation also demonstrates our capability to take on billion-dollar corporations in high-stakes litigation.

Other Motor Vehicle Accidents in Krugerville

Bicycle Accidents:
Denton County has seen an increase in bicycle accidents as more residents take up cycling for recreation and commuting. In 2024, Texas saw 78 bicyclist fatalities. Common causes include drivers failing to yield, unsafe lane changes, and dooring accidents.

Bus Accidents:
With Denton County’s growing population, bus accidents are becoming more common. Texas saw 1,110 bus accidents in 2024, with 17 resulting in fatalities. Liable parties can include the bus driver, the bus company, and even government entities.

Work Zone Accidents:
Construction zones on I-35 and other major roads around Krugerville create dangerous conditions. Texas saw nearly 28,000 crashes in work zones in 2024, resulting in 215 deaths—a 12% increase over the previous year.

Wrongful Death:
When a motor vehicle accident results in fatality, surviving family members may have both wrongful death and survival action claims. Wrongful death claims compensate the family for their losses, while survival actions compensate for the pain and suffering the deceased experienced before death.

What to Do Immediately After a Motor Vehicle Accident in Krugerville

Hour 1-6: Immediate Crisis Response

If you’ve been in an accident in Krugerville or anywhere in Denton County, here’s what to do in the critical first hours:

✅ Safety First: If you can move safely, get to a secure location away from traffic. Turn on your hazard lights and set up flares or warning triangles if available.

✅ Call 911: Report the accident and request medical assistance if anyone is injured. Even if injuries seem minor, it’s important to get checked by professionals.

✅ Medical Attention: If injured, go to the ER immediately. Adrenaline can mask serious injuries—you may be hurt and not realize it yet. Nearby hospitals serving Krugerville include:

Medical City Denton
Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Denton
Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – Denton

✅ Document Everything:

Take photos of ALL vehicle damage (every angle)
Photograph the accident scene, road conditions, traffic signals
Take photos of visible injuries
Screenshot any messages visible on your phone (do NOT delete anything)

✅ Exchange Information:

Other driver’s name, phone number, address
Insurance company and policy number
Driver’s license number
License plate number
Vehicle make, model, color

✅ Witnesses:

Get names and phone numbers of any witnesses
Ask if they saw what happened
Record their statements if possible

✅ Call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate legal guidance before speaking to ANY insurance company

Hour 6-24: Evidence Preservation

✅ Digital Preservation:

Preserve all texts, calls, photos, videos related to the accident
Do NOT delete anything from your phone
Screenshot everything relevant
Email copies to yourself for backup

✅ Physical Evidence:

Secure damaged clothing, glasses, personal items
Keep receipts for any expenses (towing, rental car, medications)
Do NOT repair your vehicle yet—preserve the damage

✅ Medical Records:

Request copies of all ER/hospital records
Keep all discharge paperwork
Follow up with your primary care physician within 24-48 hours

✅ Insurance Communications:

Note any calls from insurance companies
Do NOT give recorded statements yet
Do NOT sign anything
Do NOT accept any settlement offers
Say: “I need to speak with my attorney first”

✅ Social Media:

Make ALL profiles private immediately
Do NOT post about the accident
Do NOT post photos of injuries or activities
Tell friends/family not to tag you in posts

Hour 24-48: Strategic Decisions

✅ Legal Consultation:

Speak with 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 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

Week One Priorities

✅ Medical Follow-Up:

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

✅ Investigation Begins:

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

✅ Communication:

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

Why Evidence Disappears Quickly After an Accident

One of the most important reasons to call Attorney911 immediately is that critical evidence disappears on a predictable schedule:

Day 1-7:

Witness memories are at their peak but begin fading immediately
Physical evidence like skid marks and debris is still visible
Medical treatment begins, creating important documentation

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
Once deleted, this evidence is GONE FOREVER
Witnesses become harder to locate as days pass

Month 1-2:

Insurance companies solidify their defense position
Adjusters have built their case against you
Settlement positions harden
Vehicle repairs destroy evidence from the vehicles

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: Varies by company
Cell phone records become harder to obtain
Social media posts are deleted

Month 6-12:

Witnesses graduate, move away, or their memories degrade significantly
Medical evidence becomes harder to link directly to the accident
Treatment gaps are used against you by insurance companies
Financial desperation makes you vulnerable to lowball offers

Month 12-24:

Approaching the 2-year statute of limitations
Creates pressure to settle (insurance knows you’re desperate)
Evidence is severely degraded
Case value is diminished

Every day you wait, your case becomes harder to prove and your potential recovery decreases. Call Attorney911 immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911 to protect your rights.

Texas Motor Vehicle Accident Law: What Krugerville Victims Need to Know

Statute of Limitations: The 2-Year Deadline

In Texas, you have 2 years from the date of your accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This deadline, known as the statute of limitations, is absolute. If you miss it, your case will be barred forever, and you’ll lose your right to compensation.

Exceptions to the 2-year rule:

Discovery Rule: In rare cases, the clock may start later if you couldn’t have reasonably discovered your injury immediately
Defendant’s Absence: If the defendant leaves Texas, the clock may be paused
Mental Incapacity: The clock may be paused if you’re mentally incapacitated
Minors: The clock doesn’t start until the minor turns 18

Why this matters: Insurance companies know about the statute of limitations and often delay cases, hoping you’ll miss the deadline. They may offer a lowball settlement right before the deadline expires, knowing you’re desperate.

Texas Comparative Negligence: The 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 for the accident, you can recover damages—but your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault
If you are 51% or more at fault, you cannot recover ANY damages

Examples of how this 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 of dollars.

Real-world impact:

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 working for insurance companies gives us a unique advantage: “I know exactly how adjusters calculate fault percentages. I used to make these arguments myself—now I know how to defeat them. We don’t let insurance companies unfairly blame our clients for accidents they didn’t cause.”

Texas Minimum Auto Insurance Requirements

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

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

The problem: These minimum limits are often inadequate to cover serious injuries. If you’re seriously injured in an accident, the at-fault driver’s insurance may not be enough to cover your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Solution: Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage on your own policy can protect you when the at-fault driver has insufficient insurance.

Uninsured motorist statistics:

15.4% of US motorists are uninsured (approximately 1 in 7 drivers)
Texas allows inter-policy stacking, which can increase your available coverage

Dram Shop Liability: Holding Bars Accountable

Texas has strong dram shop laws that allow victims of drunk driving accidents to hold bars, restaurants, and other establishments accountable when they serve alcohol to obviously intoxicated patrons.

Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code § 2.02 establishes that an establishment can be held liable if:

They served alcohol to someone who was obviously intoxicated
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:

Bars and nightclubs
Restaurants serving alcohol
Liquor stores
Event organizers (concerts, festivals)
Hotels with bars or room service
Country clubs

Why this matters: Dram shop cases often result in higher settlements because:

Punitive damages may be available
Multiple defendants can be held liable
Insurance companies cannot easily defend the indefensible
The evidence is often clear-cut (receipts, surveillance, witness statements)

Wrongful Death vs. Survival Actions

When a motor vehicle accident results in death, surviving family members may have two types of claims:

Wrongful Death Claim:

Brought by surviving family members (spouse, children, parents)
Compensates for the losses THEY suffered due to the death
Damages include: loss of companionship, mental anguish, lost financial support, funeral expenses

Survival Action:

Brought on behalf of the deceased’s estate
Compensates for damages the deceased would have been able to recover if they had survived
Damages include: pain and suffering before death, medical expenses before death, lost income before death

Both claims can be pursued simultaneously after a fatal accident.

Proving Liability: Building Your Case

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

Duty of Care: The at-fault driver had a legal duty to operate their vehicle safely
Breach of Duty: The at-fault driver violated that duty through negligent actions
Causation: The breach of duty directly caused your injuries
Damages: You suffered actual harm (physical, financial, emotional)

Types of Evidence We Use to Prove Your Case

Physical Evidence:

Vehicle damage photographs (all angles)
Skid marks, debris, and road damage
Damaged personal property (clothing, glasses, phone)
Weather and road conditions documentation

Documentary Evidence:

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

Electronic Evidence:

ELD (Electronic Logging Device) data from 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: More Defendants = More Insurance Coverage

In many motor vehicle accidents, there are multiple parties who can be held liable:

Trucking Accidents:

The truck driver (for negligent operation)
The trucking company (for negligent hiring, training, or supervision)
The cargo loader (for improperly secured loads)
The vehicle manufacturer (for defective parts)
The maintenance company (for improper repairs)

Rideshare Accidents:

The rideshare driver
The rideshare company (Uber or Lyft)
Other at-fault drivers
The vehicle owner (if different from the driver)

Drunk Driving Accidents:

The drunk driver
The bar or restaurant that served them (dram shop liability)
The liquor store (in some cases)
Social hosts (in limited circumstances)

Product Liability Cases:

The vehicle manufacturer
The parts manufacturer
The dealership or repair shop

More liable parties means more insurance policies that can contribute to your settlement. This is why it’s critical to have an experienced attorney investigate your case thoroughly.

Damages and Compensation: What You Can Recover

Types of Damages Available in Texas Motor Vehicle Accident Cases

Economic Damages (No Cap in Texas):

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

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

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):

Available for gross negligence, fraud, or malice
Common in drunk driving cases
Cap: 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 and suffering: $8,000-$35,000
Settlement Range: $15,000-$60,000

Broken Bone (Simple Fracture):

Medical treatment: $10,000-$20,000
Lost wages: $5,000-$15,000
Pain and suffering: $20,000-$60,000
Settlement Range: $35,000-$95,000

Broken Bone Requiring Surgery:

Medical treatment: $47,000-$98,000
Lost wages: $10,000-$30,000
Pain and 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 and suffering: $40,000-$100,000
Settlement Range: $70,000-$171,000

Herniated Disc Requiring Surgery:

Medical treatment: $96,000-$205,000 (past) + $30,000-$100,000 (future)
Lost wages: $20,000-$50,000
Lost earning capacity: $50,000-$400,000
Pain and suffering: $150,000-$450,000
Settlement Range: $346,000-$1,205,000

Traumatic Brain Injury (Moderate to Severe):

Medical treatment: $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+
Settlement Range: $1,548,000-$9,838,000

Spinal Cord Injury/Paralysis:

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

Amputation:

Medical treatment: $170,000-$480,000 (past) + $500,000-$2,000,000 (future)
Settlement Range: $1,945,000-$8,630,000

Wrongful Death:

Funeral 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
Settlement Range: $1,910,000-$9,520,000

The Settlement Multiplier Method: How Insurance Companies Calculate Your Claim

Insurance companies often use a formula to calculate settlement offers:

Total Settlement = (Medical Expenses × Multiplier) + Lost Wages + Property Damage

The multiplier typically ranges from 1.5 to 5, depending on:

Injury Severity	Multiplier Range
Minor injuries (soft tissue, quick recovery)	1.5 – 2
Moderate injuries (broken bones, months of recovery)	2 – 3
Severe injuries (surgery, long recovery)	3 – 4
Catastrophic injuries (permanent disability)	4 – 5+

Factors that increase the multiplier:

Permanent injury or disability
Scarring or disfigurement
Long recovery time (12+ months)
Surgery required
Ongoing pain management needed
Clear liability (other driver 100% at fault)
Sympathetic plaintiff (child, elderly, pregnant)
Defendant’s conduct was egregious (drunk driving, hit and run)
Strong evidence (video, witnesses)
Permanent restrictions on work or activities

Factors that decrease the multiplier:

Soft tissue injury only
Quick recovery (under 3 months)
No surgery required
Disputed liability (comparative fault)
Gaps in medical treatment
Pre-existing conditions
Minor property damage
No permanent injury

Lupe Peña’s experience calculating these multipliers for insurance companies gives us a unique advantage: “I know exactly how they arrive at these numbers. I used to calculate them myself. Now I know how to present our clients’ cases to justify the highest possible multipliers. We don’t accept the lowball offers that insurance companies initially propose.”

Insurance Company Tactics: How They Try to Deny or Minimize Your Claim

Insurance companies are not on your side. Their goal is to pay you as little as possible—or nothing at all. Having Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney, on our team gives us unique insight into their tactics.

Tactic #1: The Quick Contact and Recorded Statement Trap

What they do:
Within hours or days of your accident, an insurance adjuster will contact you—often while you’re still in the hospital or on pain medication. They’ll sound friendly and helpful, saying things like:

“We just want to help you”
“We need to get your side of the story to process your claim”
“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 trap you:

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 to 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:
Once you hire us, we become your voice. We handle all communication with the insurance company. If a recorded statement becomes absolutely necessary, we prepare you thoroughly and sit with you during the statement.

Lupe Peña explains: “I’ve taken hundreds of these statements as a defense attorney. I know exactly what questions they’ll ask and how they’ll try to twist your words. Now I use that knowledge to protect our clients.”

Tactic #2: The Quick Settlement Offer Trap

What they do:
Within days or weeks of your accident, the insurance company will offer you a quick settlement—often $2,000-$5,000, sometimes up to $15,000 if they’re worried about liability. 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”
“This is our final offer” (it’s not)

The trap:
You don’t know the full extent of your injuries yet. Consider this real scenario:

Day 3: Insurance offers $3,500 “final settlement”
You’re desperate, in pain, and scared about mounting bills
You sign the release, thinking it’s over
Week 6: MRI reveals a herniated disc requiring surgery
Surgery costs $100,000
TOO LATE – You signed a release and can’t reopen your claim
You’re now responsible for the $100,000 medical bill

The release is permanent and final. Once you sign it, you cannot undo it.

How Attorney911 counters:
We NEVER let our clients settle before they’ve reached Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI)—the point where you’ve recovered as much as you’re going to.

Lupe knows these tactics from the inside: “I’ve made these lowball offers myself. I know exactly how they calculate them, and I know they’re always offering 10-20% of what the case is really worth. We don’t let our clients get pressured into accepting these insulting offers.”

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

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 don’t select the most qualified doctors—they select doctors who give them the reports they want. The criteria include:

Doctors who consistently find “no injury” or “pre-existing condition”
Doctors who are paid thousands of dollars by insurance companies ($2,000-$5,000 per exam)
Doctors who provide repeat business through favorable reports

What happens at an IME:

A 10-15 minute “examination” (vs. your treating doctor’s thorough evaluation)
Rarely review your complete medical records beforehand
Ask questions designed to elicit “I’m feeling better” responses
Look for any reason to minimize your injuries

Common IME doctor findings:

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

How Attorney911 counters:

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

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

Tactic #4: Delay, Deny, Defend

What insurance companies do:
They drag out your case, hoping you’ll get desperate and accept a lowball offer:

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

Why delay works (on people without attorneys):
Insurance companies have:

Unlimited time
Unlimited resources
No financial pressure
Your settlement money earning interest for them while they delay

You have:

Mounting bills
Zero income
Creditors threatening
Need for 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 lawsuits to force deadlines
We set depositions, forcing them to produce witnesses
We prepare for trial, showing 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 follow you and monitor your social media accounts, looking for any activity that contradicts your injury claims.

Surveillance tactics:

Video you doing daily activities
Film from public places (your driveway, street, stores)
Follow you to appointments, errands, social activities
Look for any activity that contradicts your injury claims
One video of you bending over can be used to claim “you’re not really injured”

Social media monitoring:
They monitor ALL your social media platforms:

Facebook: Posts, photos, check-ins, comments, likes, tagged photos
Instagram: Stories, reels, posts, geotags, tagged photos
TikTok: Videos showing activity levels
LinkedIn: Employment status changes
Twitter/X: Tweets, replies, activity
YouTube: Videos you post
Snapchat: Saved stories, public content

Advanced surveillance techniques:

Facial recognition to find photos you’re tagged in
Geotagging data from photos to track your movements
Monitoring posts from friends and family who might mention you
Creating fake profiles to send friend requests
Using archive services to preserve deleted content
Obtaining subpoenas for “private” content

Examples of how they use social media against victims:

Example	What They Claim	Reality
Old gym photo from 3 years ago	Presented as recent, contradicting injury claims	We proved the photo was pre-accident through metadata
Facebook check-in at restaurant	“Partying and having fun”	Client was sitting quietly having dinner
Friend’s comment: “Had fun yesterday!”	Evidence of non-injury	Client was resting at home
Video of client walking dog slowly	“Not disabled”	Doctor recommended short walks for recovery
Family photo where client is smiling	“Not in pain—she’s smiling!”	Everyone smiles for photos, regardless of pain

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

Tactic #6: Comparative Fault Arguments

What insurance companies do:
They try to assign you maximum fault to reduce their payment, using arguments like:

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

Why they do this:
Texas’s 51% bar rule means:

If you’re 51% or more at fault, you get NOTHING
If you’re 50% or less at fault, your damages are reduced by your percentage

Real financial impact:

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 to prove the other driver’s fault:

Accident reconstruction to determine exactly how the crash occurred
Witness statements supporting your version of events
Police report analysis emphasizing any citations issued to the other driver
Expert testimony on perception-reaction time and visibility issues

Lupe knows their fault arguments because he made them for years: “I’ve argued that motorcyclists were speeding, that pedestrians weren’t paying attention, that accident victims could have avoided the crash. Now I know exactly how to counter these arguments and prove the other driver’s negligence.”

The Colossus Software System: How Insurance Companies Actually Value Your Claim

How Colossus works:
Colossus is a computerized claim valuation system used by Allstate, State Farm, Liberty Mutual, and other major insurers. Here’s how it works:

Data Entry: The adjuster inputs injury codes, treatment types, medical costs, jurisdiction, and other details
Coding: Your injuries are coded using standardized medical terminology
Calculation: The software applies proprietary algorithms to determine your claim’s “value”
Range Output: The system provides a recommended settlement range
Authority: The adjuster typically cannot exceed this range without supervisor approval

How insurance companies manipulate Colossus:

Manipulation	Effect on Your Claim
Using low injury codes	“Soft tissue strain” instead of “disc herniation” reduces value by 50-100%
Flagging “excessive” treatment	Physical therapy beyond “normal” range triggers reductions
Penalizing conservative treatment	Chiropractic care valued less than MD treatment
Reducing for pre-existing conditions	Any prior condition used to reduce value
Applying jurisdiction factors	Low-verdict counties get lower values

Why Lupe’s experience with Colossus is invaluable:

He knows how to code injuries properly for maximum value
He knows which medical terms trigger higher valuations
He knows when the Colossus output is artificially low
He knows how to present medical records to beat the algorithm
He used these systems for years as a defense attorney—now he uses that knowledge to maximize our clients’ recoveries

Medical Knowledge: Understanding Your Injuries

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

Immediate vs. Delayed Symptoms:

Immediate Symptoms (At the 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
Increasing confusion and memory problems

Why delayed symptoms matter legally:
Insurance companies often claim that delayed symptoms aren’t related to the accident. We use medical experts to explain that symptom progression is normal for brain injuries.

Severity classifications:

Classification	Characteristics
Mild TBI / Concussion	Brief LOC, GCS 13-15, may seem “fine” initially but can have serious long-term effects
Moderate TBI	LOC minutes to hours, GCS 9-12, lasting cognitive impairment, requires hospitalization
Severe TBI	Extended unconsciousness or coma, GCS 3-8, permanent disability likely, lifetime care needs

Long-term complications:

Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE): Progressive brain degeneration leading to personality changes and 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 their 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 below injury have <3/5 strength
D	Motor Incomplete	Motor function with most muscles below injury having ≥3/5 strength
E	Normal	Full motor and sensory function (recovered)

Secondary complications:

Pressure sores (leading cause of hospitalization for spinal cord injury patients)
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 of amputations:

Traumatic Amputation: Limb severed at the accident scene by the force of the collision
Surgical Amputation: Required due to crush injuries, infections, or other complications (like our client whose leg injury led to infection and amputation)

Levels of amputation:

Above-Knee: More difficult rehabilitation, 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 recovery

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

Burn Injuries

Classifications of burn injuries:

Degree	Characteristics	Treatment Required
First-Degree	Superficial, like a sunburn, heals in 7-10 days	Outpatient care
Second-Degree	Blistering, severe pain, may scar	Monitor closely, possible hospitalization
Third-Degree	Full thickness, destroys all skin layers, always scars	Skin grafting required
Fourth-Degree	Extends into muscle and bone	Often requires amputation

Impact of body surface area burned:

% Body Burned	Treatment Required
<10%	Usually outpatient care
10-20%	Hospitalization required
20-40%	Burn center admission, ICU care, multiple surgeries
>40%	Extremely life-threatening
>60%	Often fatal

Herniated Disc

Treatment timeline and costs:

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 and their impact:

Inability to return to physical labor jobs
Lost earning capacity claims
Ongoing pain management needs
Potential for future surgeries

Soft Tissue Injuries

Why insurance companies undervalue soft tissue injuries:

No broken bones or surgery = appears “minor”
Difficult to see on X-rays
Symptoms are subjective (pain, stiffness)
Often misdiagnosed initially (rotator cuff tears thought to be sprains)

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, leading to delayed treatment

Proper documentation is critical:

Detailed pain descriptions to doctors
Consistent treatment (no gaps)
MRI results proving the injury
Physical therapy records
Work restrictions documented by your doctor

Psychological Injuries

PTSD after motor vehicle accidents:

32-45% of accident victims develop PTSD symptoms
Anxiety about driving or riding in vehicles
Fear of getting in cars (as driver or passenger)
Panic attacks near the accident location or on similar roads
Sleep disturbances, nightmares, flashbacks
Avoidance behaviors (avoiding the accident location)

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 Krugerville 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.”

This is Attorney911’s most powerful advantage. Lupe spent years working FOR insurance companies. Now he uses that knowledge FOR our clients. He knows their tactics because he used them himself.

What this means for your case:

We know their playbook because Lupe wrote it
We anticipate their strategies before they deploy them
We know how they value claims internally
We know which IME doctors they favor (because he hired them)
We know how to beat their algorithms
We speak their language

No other firm in Krugerville or Denton County has this advantage.

2. Multi-Million Dollar Results

Attorney911 has recovered millions of dollars for victims of motor vehicle accidents, including:

Multi-million dollar settlement for a client who suffered a brain injury with vision loss when a log dropped on him at a logging company
Multi-million dollar settlement for a client whose leg was injured in a car accident, leading to a partial amputation due to staff infections during treatment
Millions recovered for families facing trucking-related wrongful death cases
Significant cash settlement for a client who injured his back while lifting cargo on a ship

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 for your case:

Complex cases, like those involving trucking accidents or product liability, often end up in federal court
FMCSA regulations governing trucking accidents are federal laws
Out-of-state defendants can create diversity jurisdiction, moving cases to federal court
Federal court requires different skills and strategies than state court

BP Explosion Litigation: “Our firm is one of the few firms in Texas to be involved in BP explosion litigation.” This experience demonstrates our capability to take on billion-dollar corporations and complex litigation.

4. Personal Attention You Won’t Get at Big Firms

What our clients say about our personal service:

“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

“Consistent communication and not one time did I call and not get a clear answer…Ralph reached out personally.” – Dame Haskett

“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

At Attorney911, you work directly with Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña—not a case manager assembly line. We answer the phone, we return your calls, and we keep you informed every step of the way.

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

This means you can have an experienced, aggressive legal team on your side without any financial risk.

Frequently Asked Questions About Motor Vehicle Accidents in Krugerville

Immediate After Accident

1. What should I do immediately after a car accident in Krugerville?

If you’ve been in an accident in Krugerville or anywhere in Denton County:

Call 911 and report the accident
Seek medical attention even if you feel fine (adrenaline masks injuries)
Document everything: 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 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate legal guidance

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 at Medical City Denton, Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Denton, or another local facility.

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?

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 on what to say.

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 UM/UIM (Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist) coverage can compensate you. Texas allows inter-policy stacking, which can increase your available coverage. Watch our video on UM/UIM claims: 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 a medical authorization without attorney review.

Legal Process

13. Do I have a personal injury case?

You may have a case if:

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

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

14. When should I hire a car accident lawyer?

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

15. 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. For wrongful death claims, you have 2 years from the date of death. Miss this deadline, and your case will be barred forever.

16. What is comparative negligence and how does it affect me?

Texas uses a modified comparative negligence system with a 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 cannot recover anything.

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 will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you’re 20% at fault in a $100,000 case, you can recover $80,000.

18. Will my case go to trial?

Most cases settle before trial. But Attorney911 prepares every case as if it’s going to trial. This preparation 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 your case until you’ve reached Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI)—the point where you’ve recovered as much as you’re going to. 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 the insurance company
Negotiation
Lawsuit if necessary
Discovery (exchange of information)
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?

The value of your case depends on:

The severity of your injuries
Your medical expenses (past and future)
Your lost wages and earning capacity
The impact on your daily life
The strength of the evidence
The available insurance coverage

Cases can range from $15,000 for soft tissue injuries to millions for catastrophic injuries.

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 specific advice.

26. How is the value of my claim determined?

The value is determined based on:

Your medical bills
Future treatment costs
Lost income
Permanent impairment rating
Comparable verdicts and settlements
The severity of your injuries
The 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 your case.

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?

It means you pay nothing unless we recover money for you. If we don’t win your case, you owe us nothing. We advance all case costs, and you only reimburse us if we win.

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 attorneys if you’re unhappy with your current representation. As client Greg Garcia said: “In the beginning I had another attorney but he dropped my case although Mangiello law firm were able to help me out.”

Mistakes to Avoid

32. What common mistakes can hurt my case?

Giving a recorded statement without an attorney
Accepting a quick settlement
Delaying medical treatment
Gaps in treatment
Posting on social media
Signing releases or authorizations
Not documenting everything

Watch our video: “Client Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Case” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY

33. Should I post about my accident on social media?

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

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.

Additional Common Questions

36. What if I have a pre-existing condition?

You can still recover compensation. If the accident aggravated your pre-existing condition, you’re entitled to compensation for the aggravation. The “eggshell plaintiff” rule means defendants take victims as they find them.

For example: You had mild occasional back pain before the accident. The accident caused 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 between your condition before and after the accident.

Lupe Peña knows how insurance companies attack pre-existing conditions because he made these arguments for years. Now he knows how to present pre-existing conditions favorably to maximize your recovery.

37. Can I switch attorneys if I’m unhappy with my current lawyer?

YES. You have the right to fire your attorney at any time if you’re unhappy with their representation. If your current attorney isn’t communicating with you, isn’t fighting for you, or is pushing you to accept a lowball settlement, you can switch to Attorney911.

We’ve taken over many cases from other attorneys. As 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.” Call 1-888-ATTY-911 to discuss switching your case to our firm.

38. What if the insurance company is my own insurance (UM/UIM claim)?

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) claims are made against your own insurance policy when the at-fault driver has no insurance or insufficient insurance. Unfortunately, your own insurance company will fight your claim just as aggressively as the other driver’s insurance would.

You need experienced attorney representation for UM/UIM claims. Texas allows inter-policy stacking, which means you can combine coverage from multiple vehicles on your policy. Lupe Peña’s insurance defense experience is particularly valuable in UM/UIM cases because he understands how these claims are evaluated and how to maximize your recovery.

39. How do you calculate pain and suffering?

The most common method is the multiplier method: Medical expenses × multiplier (1.5 to 5) = pain and suffering.

The multiplier depends on:

The severity of your injuries
Whether you have permanent injuries
The impact on your daily life
The clarity of liability
Whether the defendant’s conduct was egregious

For example:

$100,000 in medical expenses × 1.5 = $150,000 for pain and suffering
$100,000 in medical expenses × 4 = $400,000 for pain and suffering

Lupe Peña calculated these multipliers for years as an insurance defense attorney. He knows how to present cases to justify the highest possible multipliers. We don’t accept the low multipliers that insurance companies initially propose.

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

Government claims have special rules and shorter deadlines. You must file a notice of claim within 6 months of the accident—much shorter than the 2-year statute of limitations for regular personal injury cases.

Government entities also have sovereign immunity, which can limit their liability. There may be damage caps that apply to your claim. These cases are complex and require experienced legal representation.

Ralph Manginello’s 25+ years of experience includes handling claims against government entities. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately if you were hit by a government vehicle—the 6-month deadline is strict.

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

Hit and run accidents are particularly frustrating because the at-fault driver has fled, making it difficult to hold them accountable. However, you still have options:

File a police report immediately—hit and run is a criminal offense.
Your Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage can compensate you when the at-fault driver is unidentified.
Surveillance footage from nearby businesses is critical—most footage is deleted within 7-30 days, so we send preservation letters immediately.

Texas has strict penalties for hit and run offenses:

Death: 2nd degree felony (2-20 years in prison)
Serious injury: 3rd degree felony (2-10 years in prison)
Minor injury: State jail felony (up to 5 years)
Property damage: Class B misdemeanor (up to 6 months in jail)

We’ve recovered substantial settlements for hit and run victims through UM claims. Call Attorney911 immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911—time is critical to preserve evidence.

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 caused by someone else’s negligence. You are entitled to full recovery regardless of your immigration status.

Your case is confidential, and we protect your privacy. We’ve successfully represented clients of all immigration statuses in motor vehicle accident cases. Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish, ensuring that language is never a barrier to justice.

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 try to argue that “parking lot accidents are always 50/50 fault,” but this is not true.

We prove fault in parking lot accidents through:

Surveillance video from the parking lot or nearby businesses
Witness statements
Analysis of vehicle damage to determine who had the right of way
Traffic patterns and signage in the parking lot

Texas comparative negligence rules apply to parking lot accidents. We’ve won many parking lot cases with clear liability findings. Don’t let the insurance company dismiss your claim just because it happened in a parking lot.

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

If you were a passenger in the vehicle that caused the accident, you can still pursue a claim against the driver. You’re an innocent victim, and the driver’s insurance should cover your injuries.

These cases often settle quickly because liability is usually clear—you weren’t driving, so there are no comparative fault issues. We handle the difficult conversation with your friend or family member 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 their insurance company. The death of the at-fault driver doesn’t eliminate their liability.

The insurance policy still applies, and the estate may have assets that can be used to compensate you. Wrongful death laws protect both sides—you have the right to pursue compensation for your injuries.

Krugerville-Specific Information: Why Local Matters

When you’re injured in a motor vehicle accident in Krugerville or anywhere in Denton County, having a law firm that understands the local landscape can make a significant difference in your case.

Krugerville Courts and Legal System

Krugerville is served by the Denton County legal system, which includes:

Denton County Courts at Law: Handle misdemeanor criminal cases and civil cases up to $250,000
Denton County District Courts: Handle felony criminal cases and civil cases over $250,000
Justice of the Peace Courts: Handle small claims and Class C misdemeanors

Ralph Manginello has experience in Denton County courts and understands the local judges, procedures, and legal climate. This local knowledge helps us navigate your case more effectively.

Local Hospitals and Medical Care

After an accident, you may receive treatment at:

Medical City Denton: A full-service hospital serving Krugerville and surrounding communities
Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Denton: Another major hospital in the area
Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – Denton: Offers comprehensive medical services
Local urgent care centers and physical therapy clinics

We work with medical providers across Denton County to ensure you receive the best possible care while we build your case. We also understand which doctors are most respected by local judges and juries.

Dangerous Roads and Intersections in the Krugerville Area

While Krugerville itself is a smaller community, its proximity to major roads creates dangerous conditions:

FM 428 corridor: This road connects Krugerville to I-35 and sees significant traffic, including commercial vehicles. The intersection with FM 1385 can be particularly hazardous.
FM 1385: This road carries both local and regional traffic, creating dangerous conditions at intersections and driveways.
I-35: While not directly in Krugerville, this major highway is nearby and sees significant truck traffic, construction zones, and high-speed collisions.
Construction zones: With Denton County’s rapid growth, construction zones on I-35 and surrounding highways create dangerous conditions for drivers.
Rural roads: Many roads in the Krugerville area are rural with higher speed limits, limited visibility, and fewer safety features.

Local Economic Factors

Krugerville and Denton County are part of the growing Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. Key economic factors that may affect your case include:

Median household income: The median income in Denton County is higher than the Texas average, which can affect lost wage calculations.
Major employers: Denton County is home to the University of North Texas, Texas Woman’s University, and numerous healthcare, technology, and retail employers.
Commuter patterns: Many Krugerville residents commute to jobs in Lewisville, Denton, or the Dallas-Fort Worth area, increasing traffic on local roads.
Growth and development: Denton County is one of the fastest-growing counties in Texas, leading to increased traffic and construction.

Why Local Knowledge Matters for Your Case

When you hire Attorney911 for your Krugerville motor vehicle accident case, you benefit from our:

Understanding of local accident patterns: We know which roads and intersections are most dangerous.
Knowledge of local courts: We understand Denton County’s legal procedures and judges.
Relationships with local medical providers: We know which doctors provide the best care and documentation for personal injury cases.
Experience with local insurance adjusters: We know the insurance companies that handle claims in Denton County and how they operate.
Community connections: As part of the North Texas legal community, we have relationships that help us build stronger cases for our clients.

Call Attorney911 Now: 1-888-ATTY-911

If you’ve been injured in a motor vehicle accident in Krugerville or anywhere in Denton County, don’t wait to get the help you need. Evidence disappears daily, and insurance companies are already building their case against you.

Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911) for a free consultation. We’ll review your case, explain your rights, and help you understand your options—with no obligation and no upfront cost.

Remember:

We don’t get paid unless we win your case
Your consultation is free
We advance all case costs
You pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you
We speak Spanish—Lupe Peña and our team are ready to help Spanish-speaking clients

Se habla español: Si ha sufrido un accidente en Krugerville o en el condado de Denton, llámenos al 1-888-ATTY-911. Lupe Peña y nuestro equipo están listos para ayudarle en español.

Don’t face this alone. The insurance companies have teams of lawyers working against you. You need a team of experienced advocates on your side.

Call Attorney911 now: 1-888-ATTY-911

We’re available 24/7 to help you through this difficult time. Let us fight for the compensation you deserve while you focus on your recovery.