Car Accident Lawyers in Leander, Texas: Protecting Your Rights After a Crash
If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Leander, Texas, you’re not alone. With nearly 252,000 people injured in Texas motor vehicle crashes last year and one crash occurring every 57 seconds, our roads have become increasingly dangerous. At Attorney911, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a car accident can take on you and your family. That’s why our Leander car accident lawyers are here to fight for the compensation you deserve.
Ralph Manginello, our founding attorney with over 25 years of experience, has built a reputation for aggressive representation and compassionate client care. When you’re facing mounting medical bills, lost wages, and insurance company pressure, you need a legal team that knows how to navigate the complex Texas legal system. Our Leander car accident attorneys don’t just handle cases – we fight for justice and maximum compensation for every client.
The Reality of Car Accidents in Leander and Williamson County
Leander sits at the intersection of major highways like US-183 and SH-45, making it a hub for both local commuters and long-distance travelers. This high-traffic environment contributes to the alarming statistics we see across Texas:
- 251,977 people injured in Texas motor vehicle crashes last year
- 1 person injured every 2 minutes and 5 seconds
- 4,150 fatalities on Texas roads
- Williamson County consistently ranks among the top counties for accident rates
These aren’t just numbers – they represent real people whose lives have been disrupted by car accidents. Whether you were rear-ended on US-183, involved in a T-bone collision at the intersection of 183A and Crystal Falls Parkway, or struck by a distracted driver on FM 2243, our Leander car accident lawyers have seen how these crashes can change lives in an instant.
Common Causes of Car Accidents in Leander
Our Leander car accident attorneys have handled cases involving nearly every type of collision. Some of the most common causes we see include:
Distracted Driving: With so many drivers using their phones while navigating Leander’s growing road network, distracted driving has become a leading cause of accidents. Texas law prohibits texting while driving, but we still see countless accidents caused by drivers who take their eyes off the road for just a few seconds.
Speeding: The rapid growth of Leander means more drivers on the roads, often traveling at unsafe speeds. Speeding reduces reaction time and increases the severity of collisions. Many accidents on US-183 and SH-45 involve drivers exceeding posted speed limits.
Failure to Yield: Intersections like those at 183A and Crystal Falls Parkway, or FM 2243 and Bagdad Road, are common sites for accidents caused by drivers who fail to yield the right of way. These collisions often result in serious injuries.
Drunk Driving: Despite strict laws and public awareness campaigns, drunk driving remains a significant problem in Williamson County. Our Leander car accident lawyers have seen firsthand how alcohol impairment leads to devastating crashes.
Weather Conditions: While Leander enjoys mild winters, sudden thunderstorms can create hazardous driving conditions. Wet roads reduce traction and increase stopping distances, leading to rear-end collisions and multi-vehicle pileups.
Fatigued Driving: With many Leander residents commuting to Austin or Round Rock for work, drowsy driving has become more common. Fatigue impairs judgment and reaction time similar to alcohol impairment.
Common Injuries from Car Accidents
Car accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, from minor to life-altering. Our Leander car accident lawyers have helped clients recover compensation for:
Whiplash and Soft Tissue Injuries: These are among the most common car accident injuries. While often considered “minor,” whiplash can cause chronic pain and require extensive treatment.
Herniated Discs: The force of a collision can cause discs in your spine to bulge or rupture. These injuries often require physical therapy, pain management, or even surgery.
Broken Bones and Fractures: Arms, legs, ribs, and facial bones are commonly fractured in car accidents. Some fractures may require surgery and months of rehabilitation.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Even “mild” TBIs can have lasting effects on cognitive function, memory, and personality. More severe TBIs may require lifelong care.
Spinal Cord Injuries: These devastating injuries can result in partial or complete paralysis. The lifetime cost of care for spinal cord injury victims can exceed millions of dollars.
Internal Organ Damage: The force of a collision can cause internal bleeding or damage to organs. These injuries may not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening.
Psychological Injuries: Many accident victims develop PTSD, anxiety, or depression following a crash. These conditions can be just as debilitating as physical injuries.
In a recent case, our client’s leg was injured in a car accident. During treatment, staff infections developed, and doctors ultimately had to perform a partial amputation. This case settled in the millions, demonstrating our commitment to fighting for maximum compensation for our clients.
Why Leander Car Accident Victims Need Legal Representation
After a car accident in Leander, you might think you can handle the insurance claim on your own. Unfortunately, insurance companies have teams of adjusters and attorneys working to minimize your claim. Here’s what they won’t tell you:
They’re Not on Your Side: Insurance adjusters may seem friendly, but their job is to save the company money – not to ensure you receive fair compensation.
Early Offers Are Lowball Offers: Insurance companies often make quick settlement offers before you know the full extent of your injuries. Once you accept, you can’t go back for more – even if your medical bills exceed the settlement amount.
They’ll Use Your Words Against You: Recorded statements are designed to get you to say things that can be used to deny or reduce your claim.
Surveillance is Common: Insurance companies frequently hire private investigators to monitor accident victims, looking for any activity that contradicts injury claims.
They Know the System – Do You? Insurance companies have teams of attorneys who understand Texas personal injury law. Without your own legal representation, you’re at a significant disadvantage.
Our Leander car accident lawyers know these tactics because our team includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney. He spent years working for insurance companies, learning their strategies from the inside. Now, he uses that knowledge to fight for accident victims like you.
Texas Car Accident Laws You Need to Know
Understanding Texas car accident laws is crucial to protecting your rights. Here are the key legal principles our Leander car accident lawyers will apply to your case:
Texas is an At-Fault State: This means the driver who caused the accident is responsible for compensating the victims. Texas law requires all drivers to carry minimum liability insurance of $30,000 per person, $60,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 for property damage.
Comparative Negligence (51% Rule): Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule. If you’re found to be 50% or less at fault for the accident, you can still recover damages – but your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. If you’re 51% or more at fault, you cannot recover any compensation.
Statute of Limitations: In Texas, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This deadline is strict – if you miss it, you lose your right to compensation forever.
Dram Shop Liability: If a drunk driver caused your accident, you may be able to hold the establishment that served them alcohol responsible under Texas dram shop laws.
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: If the at-fault driver doesn’t have insurance or doesn’t have enough insurance to cover your damages, your own UM/UIM coverage can provide additional compensation.
How Our Leander Car Accident Lawyers Prove Liability
Proving who was at fault for your accident is crucial to recovering compensation. Our Leander car accident attorneys use a variety of evidence to build strong liability cases:
Police Reports: The police report is often the first piece of evidence in a car accident case. It typically includes the officer’s observations, statements from drivers and witnesses, and any citations issued.
Witness Statements: Independent witnesses can provide crucial testimony about how the accident occurred. We interview witnesses as soon as possible while their memories are fresh.
Photographs and Video: Photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and injuries can help reconstruct the collision. We also look for surveillance footage from nearby businesses or traffic cameras.
Medical Records: Your medical records document the extent of your injuries and help establish the connection between the accident and your damages.
Expert Testimony: We work with accident reconstruction experts, medical professionals, and other specialists to build a strong case for liability.
Electronic Data: Many modern vehicles have event data recorders (black boxes) that can provide information about speed, braking, and other factors at the time of the crash.
In one case, our client was charged with drunk driving based on a breath test. Our investigation revealed that a police department employee was not properly maintaining the breathalyzer machines. The charges were dismissed, demonstrating our commitment to thorough investigation and attention to detail.
Damages You Can Recover After a Leander Car Accident
If you’ve been injured in a car accident caused by someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for:
Medical Expenses: This includes all reasonable and necessary medical costs related to your accident, both past and future. This can cover hospital bills, doctor visits, physical therapy, medications, and any necessary medical equipment.
Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you can recover compensation for the income you’ve lost. This also includes lost earning capacity if your injuries affect your ability to earn money in the future.
Pain and Suffering: This compensates you for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by your injuries. There’s no set formula for calculating pain and suffering – it depends on the severity of your injuries and their impact on your life.
Property Damage: You can recover the cost to repair or replace your vehicle and any other personal property damaged in the accident.
Loss of Consortium: If your injuries affect your relationship with your spouse, they may be entitled to compensation for loss of companionship, affection, and other relational damages.
Punitive Damages: In cases involving gross negligence or intentional misconduct (such as drunk driving), you may be entitled to punitive damages. These are designed to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct.
The value of your case depends on many factors, including the severity of your injuries, the impact on your life, and the strength of the evidence. Our Leander car accident lawyers have recovered millions for our clients, including multi-million dollar settlements for catastrophic injuries.
Insurance Company Tactics to Watch Out For
Insurance companies use a variety of tactics to minimize or deny claims. Our Leander car accident attorneys know these strategies because Lupe Peña used them for years while working for insurance companies. Here are some of the most common tactics:
Quick Settlement Offers: Insurance companies often make lowball settlement offers soon after an accident, hoping you’ll accept before you understand the full extent of your injuries. These offers are almost always far below what your case is truly worth.
Recorded Statements: Adjusters may ask you to give a recorded statement about the accident. They’ll use leading questions to get you to say things that can be used to deny or reduce your claim. You’re not required to give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance company.
“Independent” Medical Exams: Insurance companies may require you to see a doctor of their choosing for an “independent medical exam” (IME). In reality, these doctors are hired by the insurance company and often minimize injuries or claim they’re pre-existing.
Delay Tactics: Insurance companies may drag out the claims process, hoping you’ll become desperate and accept a low settlement. They have unlimited resources and can afford to wait – but you can’t.
Surveillance: Insurance companies often hire private investigators to monitor accident victims. They’re looking for any activity that contradicts your injury claims, even if it’s taken out of context.
Comparative Fault Arguments: Insurance companies will try to blame you for the accident to reduce their payment. Texas’ comparative negligence law means that even if you’re partially at fault, you can still recover compensation – but your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Lupe’s insider knowledge from years at a national defense firm gives us a significant advantage. He knows how insurance companies value claims, which doctors they use for IMEs, and how to counter their tactics effectively.
What to Do After a Car Accident in Leander
The steps you take immediately after a car accident can significantly impact your ability to recover compensation. Here’s what our Leander car accident lawyers recommend:
1. Call 911: Report the accident and request medical assistance if anyone is injured. Even if you feel fine, it’s important to get checked out – adrenaline can mask serious injuries.
2. Seek Medical Attention: Get evaluated by a medical professional as soon as possible. This creates a record of your injuries and helps establish the connection between the accident and your damages.
3. Document Everything: Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. Get the names and contact information of the other driver(s) and any witnesses.
4. Exchange Information: Get the other driver’s name, phone number, address, driver’s license number, license plate number, and insurance information.
5. Don’t Admit Fault: Be careful what you say at the scene. Even saying “I’m sorry” can be used against you later. Stick to the facts when talking to police and other drivers.
6. Call Attorney911: Contact our Leander car accident lawyers before speaking to any insurance company. We can guide you through the process and protect your rights.
7. Follow Your Doctor’s Orders: Attend all follow-up appointments and follow your treatment plan. Gaps in treatment can be used by insurance companies to argue that your injuries aren’t serious.
8. Don’t Post on Social Media: Insurance companies monitor social media for any activity that contradicts injury claims. Make all your profiles private and avoid posting about the accident or your injuries.
9. Keep All Documentation: Save all medical records, bills, receipts, and correspondence related to the accident.
10. Call Us Immediately: The sooner you contact our Leander car accident lawyers, the sooner we can start protecting your rights and building your case.
Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Leander Car Accident Case
With so many law firms advertising their services, why should you choose Attorney911 for your Leander car accident case? Here are just a few reasons:
Insurance Defense Insider: Lupe Peña worked for years at a national defense firm, learning firsthand how large insurance companies value claims. He knows their tactics because he used them for years – now he fights against them.
Multi-Million Dollar Results: Our Leander car accident lawyers have recovered millions for our clients, including multi-million dollar settlements for catastrophic injuries. Our results speak for themselves.
Federal Court Experience: Ralph Manginello is admitted to the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas. This federal court experience is crucial for complex cases and those involving out-of-state defendants.
Personal Attention: At Attorney911, you work directly with Ralph and Lupe – not a case manager assembly line. As client Chad Harris said, “You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client…You are FAMILY to them.”
Contingency Fee: We don’t get paid unless we win your case. There’s no risk to you – we only collect a fee if we recover compensation for you.
Local Knowledge: We know the Leander courts, judges, and local accident patterns. This local knowledge gives us an advantage in building strong cases for our clients.
Comprehensive Service: From handling insurance negotiations to coordinating medical care, we handle every aspect of your case so you can focus on recovery.
Proven Track Record: With over 251 five-star reviews and recognition from legal directories, our reputation speaks for itself.
Frequently Asked Questions About Leander Car Accidents
What should I do immediately after a car accident in Leander?
If you’ve been in a car accident in Leander, the first step is to ensure your safety and the safety of others. Call 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance if needed. Even if you feel fine, it’s important to get checked out by a medical professional – adrenaline can mask serious injuries.
Document the scene by taking photos of the vehicles, any visible injuries, and the surrounding area. Exchange information with the other driver, including names, phone numbers, addresses, driver’s license numbers, license plate numbers, and insurance information.
Most importantly, contact our Leander car accident lawyers before speaking to any insurance company. We can guide you through the process and protect your rights. Remember, insurance companies start building their case against you from day one – don’t give them ammunition by speaking to them without legal representation.
Should I call the police even for a minor accident?
Yes, you should always call the police after a car accident in Leander, no matter how minor it may seem. The police report is a crucial piece of evidence that documents the details of the accident, including the officer’s observations, statements from drivers and witnesses, and any citations issued.
In Texas, you’re required to report accidents that result in injury, death, or property damage over $1,000. Even if the accident seems minor, it’s always a good idea to have a police report on file. The report can help establish fault and protect your rights if you need to file an insurance claim or lawsuit.
Should I seek medical attention if I don’t feel hurt?
Absolutely. Many serious injuries don’t show symptoms immediately after an accident. Conditions like traumatic brain injuries, internal bleeding, and herniated discs may not cause pain right away but can have serious long-term consequences.
Adrenaline and shock can mask pain at the scene, so you might not realize you’re injured until hours or even days later. Seeking medical attention immediately creates a record of your injuries and helps establish the connection between the accident and your damages.
Insurance companies often use delays in treatment to argue that your injuries aren’t serious or aren’t related to the accident. Don’t give them this ammunition – get checked out as soon as possible after the accident.
What information should I collect at the scene?
At the scene of the accident, collect as much information as possible. This includes:
- The other driver’s name, phone number, address, and driver’s license number
- The other driver’s insurance company and policy number
- The make, model, color, and license plate number of the other vehicle
- The names and contact information of any witnesses
- Photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries
- The name and badge number of the responding police officer
- The police report number
This information will be crucial for your insurance claim and any potential legal case. Our Leander car accident lawyers can help you gather and preserve this evidence to build a strong case.
Should I talk to the other driver or admit fault?
At the scene of the accident, limit your conversation with the other driver to exchanging information. Don’t discuss fault, apologize, or make any statements that could be interpreted as admitting fault.
Even saying “I’m sorry” can be used against you later as an admission of fault. Stick to the facts when talking to police and other drivers. Let the evidence speak for itself – our Leander car accident lawyers can help determine who was truly at fault for the accident.
How do I obtain a copy of the accident report?
In Leander and Williamson County, you can obtain a copy of the police report from the responding law enforcement agency. For accidents investigated by the Leander Police Department, you can request the report through their records division.
You can also obtain accident reports through the Texas Department of Transportation’s Crash Records Information System (CRIS). Our Leander car accident lawyers can help you obtain and interpret the police report to build your case.
Should I give a recorded statement to insurance?
No, you should never give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance company without consulting an attorney. Insurance adjusters are trained to ask leading questions designed to get you to say things that can be used to deny or reduce your claim.
You’re not required to give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance company. Politely decline and refer them to our Leander car accident lawyers. We can handle all communications with the insurance company to protect your rights.
What if the other driver’s insurance contacts me?
If the other driver’s insurance company contacts you, politely decline to give a statement and refer them to our Leander car accident lawyers. You can say something like, “I need to speak with my attorney first. You can contact Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911.”
Don’t discuss the accident, your injuries, or any other details with the insurance company. They’re not on your side – their goal is to minimize your claim. Let our Leander car accident attorneys handle all communications with the insurance company to protect your rights.
Do I have to accept the insurance company’s estimate?
No, you’re not required to accept the insurance company’s estimate for your vehicle damage or injuries. Their initial estimate is often far below the actual cost of repairs or the true value of your claim.
Our Leander car accident lawyers can negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf to ensure you receive fair compensation for your vehicle damage, medical expenses, and other losses. We have the experience and knowledge to counter lowball offers and fight for what your case is truly worth.
Should I accept a quick settlement offer?
Never accept a quick settlement offer from an insurance company without consulting an attorney. These early offers are almost always far below what your case is truly worth.
Once you accept a settlement offer and sign a release, you can’t go back for more money – even if your medical bills exceed the settlement amount. You may not know the full extent of your injuries for weeks or months after the accident.
Our Leander car accident lawyers can evaluate any settlement offers and negotiate for fair compensation that covers all your current and future expenses. We won’t let the insurance company take advantage of you during this vulnerable time.
What if the other driver is uninsured or underinsured?
If the at-fault driver doesn’t have insurance or doesn’t have enough insurance to cover your damages, your own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage can provide additional compensation.
Texas allows inter-policy stacking, which means you may be able to combine coverage from multiple policies. Our Leander car accident lawyers can help you navigate the complex process of filing a UM/UIM claim and ensure you receive the full compensation you’re entitled to.
Do I have a personal injury case?
You may have a personal injury case if:
- Someone else was at fault for the accident (even partially)
- You suffered injuries or damages as a result
- There is insurance coverage available to compensate you
The best way to determine if you have a case is to consult with our Leander car accident lawyers. We offer free consultations to evaluate your case and explain your legal options. There’s no obligation – just honest advice about your situation.
When should I hire a car accident lawyer?
You should contact our Leander car accident lawyers as soon as possible after your accident. Evidence disappears quickly – surveillance footage is often deleted within 7-30 days, witness memories fade, and accident scenes change.
Insurance companies start building their case against you from day one. The sooner you have legal representation, the sooner we can start protecting your rights and building your case. Don’t wait until it’s too late – call us immediately after your accident.
How much time do I have to file a car accident lawsuit in Texas?
In Texas, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This is known as the statute of limitations. If you miss this deadline, you lose your right to compensation forever.
However, there are some exceptions to this rule, such as when the victim is a minor or when the injury wasn’t discovered immediately. It’s always best to consult with our Leander car accident lawyers as soon as possible to ensure you don’t miss any important deadlines.
What is comparative negligence and how does it affect my case?
Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule, also known as the 51% bar rule. This means:
- If you’re found to be 50% or less at fault for the accident, you can still recover damages
- Your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault
- If you’re found to be 51% or more at fault, you cannot recover any compensation
For example, if you’re awarded $100,000 in damages but found to be 20% at fault, your compensation would be reduced to $80,000. Insurance companies often try to assign maximum fault to victims to reduce their payment. Our Leander car accident lawyers know how to counter these arguments and fight for fair compensation.
Will my case go to trial?
Most car accident cases settle before trial, but our Leander car accident lawyers prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This approach gives us leverage in negotiations and ensures we’re ready to take your case to court if necessary.
We’ll work to negotiate a fair settlement with the insurance company, but we won’t accept a lowball offer just to avoid trial. If the insurance company refuses to offer fair compensation, we’re prepared to take your case to court and fight for the justice you deserve.
How long will my case take to settle?
The timeline for settling a car accident case varies depending on the severity of your injuries and the complexity of your case. We don’t settle cases until you’ve reached maximum medical improvement (MMI) – the point where your condition has stabilized and you’ve recovered as much as possible.
For minor injuries, this might take a few months. For more serious injuries, it could take a year or more. Our Leander car accident lawyers will keep you informed throughout the process and work to resolve your case as efficiently as possible while ensuring you receive fair compensation.
What is the legal process for a car accident claim?
The legal process for a car accident claim typically involves these steps:
- Investigation: We gather evidence, interview witnesses, and build your case.
- Medical Treatment: You continue your medical treatment until you reach maximum medical improvement.
- Demand Letter: We send a demand letter to the insurance company outlining your damages and requesting compensation.
- Negotiation: We negotiate with the insurance company for a fair settlement.
- Lawsuit: If we can’t reach a fair settlement, we file a lawsuit on your behalf.
- Discovery: Both sides exchange information and evidence.
- Mediation: We attempt to reach a settlement through mediation.
- Trial: If necessary, we take your case to trial and fight for your rights in court.
Our Leander car accident lawyers will guide you through every step of this process and keep you informed about the progress of your case.
Do I need a lawyer for mediation?
Yes, you should always have legal representation at mediation. Mediation is a formal settlement conference where both sides try to reach an agreement with the help of a neutral mediator.
The insurance company will have attorneys present who understand the mediation process and know how to negotiate effectively. You need someone on your side who knows the true value of your case and can advocate for your best interests.
Our Leander car accident lawyers have extensive experience with mediation and know how to negotiate effectively to secure the best possible outcome for our clients.
How much do car accident lawyers cost?
At Attorney911, we work on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay nothing upfront, and we only collect a fee if we recover compensation for you. If we don’t win your case, you owe us nothing.
Our fee is a percentage of the recovery, typically 33.33% if the case settles before trial and 40% if the case goes to trial. This fee structure allows you to get the legal representation you need without worrying about upfront costs.
What does “no fee unless we win” mean?
“No fee unless we win” means that you don’t pay any attorney fees unless we recover compensation for you. If we don’t win your case, you owe us nothing.
However, you may still be responsible for court costs and case expenses regardless of the outcome. These expenses can include filing fees, expert witness fees, and other costs associated with building your case.
We’ll explain our fee structure in detail during your free consultation so you understand exactly what to expect.
How often will I get updates on my case?
At Attorney911, we pride ourselves on our communication with clients. As client Dame Haskett said, “Consistent communication and not one time did I call and not get a clear answer.”
We’ll keep you updated on the progress of your case and answer any questions you have along the way. You’ll work directly with Ralph Manginello or Lupe Peña – not a case manager assembly line. This personal attention sets us apart from larger firms where you’re just a number.
Who will actually handle my case?
At Attorney911, you work directly with Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña – not just paralegals or case managers. As client Chad Harris said, “You are NOT just some client…You are FAMILY to them.”
This personal attention ensures that your case gets the expertise and dedication it deserves. We don’t pass cases off to junior associates or paralegals – you get the benefit of our decades of experience and insider knowledge.
What if I already hired another attorney?
If you’re unhappy with your current representation, you have the right to switch attorneys. We’ve taken over many cases from other firms and helped clients get the results they deserve.
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.” If your current attorney isn’t communicating with you, isn’t fighting for you, or is pushing you to settle cheap, it may be time to consider switching to Attorney911.
What common mistakes can hurt my case?
There are several common mistakes that can hurt your car accident case:
- Giving a recorded statement to the insurance company without an attorney
- Accepting a quick settlement offer before knowing the full extent of your injuries
- Delaying medical treatment or having gaps in treatment
- Posting about the accident or your injuries on social media
- Signing releases or authorizations without consulting an attorney
- Not documenting everything related to the accident and your injuries
- Talking to the other driver’s insurance company without legal representation
Our Leander car accident lawyers can help you avoid these mistakes and protect your rights throughout the legal process.
Should I post about my accident on social media?
No, you should never post about your accident or injuries on social media. Insurance companies monitor social media for any activity that contradicts your injury claims.
Even innocent posts can be taken out of context. For example, a photo of you smiling at a family gathering could be used to argue that you’re not really injured. A check-in at the gym could be used to claim you’re not disabled.
Make all your social media profiles private and avoid posting about the accident or your injuries. Tell your friends and family not to tag you in posts or mention the accident online.
Why shouldn’t I sign anything without a lawyer?
You should never sign any documents from an insurance company without consulting an attorney. These documents could include:
- Releases: Signing a release means you’re giving up your right to pursue further compensation, even if your injuries turn out to be more serious than you initially thought.
- Medical Authorizations: These give the insurance company access to your entire medical history, which they’ll use to find pre-existing conditions to blame for your injuries.
- Settlement Offers: Once you sign a settlement offer, it’s binding. You can’t go back for more money even if your medical bills exceed the settlement amount.
Our Leander car accident lawyers can review any documents before you sign them to ensure your rights are protected.
What if I didn’t see a doctor right away?
If you didn’t seek medical attention immediately after your accident, it’s important to see a doctor as soon as possible. Explain that you didn’t realize the severity of your injuries at first.
Insurance companies often use delays in treatment to argue that your injuries aren’t serious or aren’t related to the accident. Don’t give them this ammunition – get checked out by a medical professional and follow their recommended treatment plan.
Our Leander car accident lawyers can help you document the connection between your delayed symptoms and the accident to build a strong case.
What if I have a pre-existing condition?
Having a pre-existing condition doesn’t prevent you from recovering compensation for your injuries. If the accident aggravated or worsened your pre-existing condition, you’re entitled to compensation for the aggravation.
This is known as the “eggshell plaintiff” rule – the defendant takes the victim as they find them. For example, if you had mild back pain before the accident and the collision caused a herniated disc requiring surgery, you can recover compensation for the new injury.
Our Leander car accident lawyers can help you document the difference between your pre-existing condition and the injuries caused by the accident.
Can I switch attorneys if I’m unhappy with my current lawyer?
Yes, you have the right to switch attorneys at any time. If your current attorney isn’t communicating with you, isn’t fighting for you, or is pushing you to settle cheap, it may be time to consider switching.
At Attorney911, we’ve taken over many cases from other firms and helped clients get the results they deserve. As client Donald Wilcox said, “One company said they would not except my case. Then I got a call from Manginello…I got a call to come pick up this handsome check.”
What if the insurance company is my own insurance (UM/UIM claim)?
If you’re filing an uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) claim with your own insurance company, you still need legal representation. Your insurance company will fight your claim just like the other driver’s insurance would.
Texas allows inter-policy stacking, which means you may be able to combine coverage from multiple policies. Our Leander car accident lawyers can help you navigate the complex process of filing a UM/UIM claim and ensure you receive the full compensation you’re entitled to.
How do you calculate pain and suffering?
There’s no set formula for calculating pain and suffering, but one common method is the multiplier method. This involves multiplying your economic damages (medical bills, lost wages) by a number between 1.5 and 5, depending on the severity of your injuries.
For example, if your medical bills and lost wages total $50,000 and we use a multiplier of 3, your pain and suffering would be valued at $150,000.
The multiplier depends on factors like the severity of your injuries, the impact on your life, and the strength of the evidence. Our Leander car accident lawyers have the experience to determine the appropriate multiplier for your case.
What if I was hit by a government vehicle (city bus, police car, etc.)?
If you were hit by a government vehicle, such as a city bus or police car, there are special rules that apply. You typically have to file a notice of claim with the government entity within 6 months of the accident – much shorter than the 2-year statute of limitations for most personal injury cases.
Government entities also have sovereign immunity, which can limit their liability. These cases can be complex, so it’s important to consult with our Leander car accident lawyers as soon as possible.
What if the other driver fled the scene (hit and run)?
If the other driver fled the scene, you should file a police report immediately. Hit and run is a criminal offense in Texas, and the police may be able to identify the driver.
Your uninsured motorist (UM) coverage can provide compensation if the at-fault driver is never identified. Surveillance footage from nearby businesses or traffic cameras can be crucial in identifying the hit-and-run driver.
Our Leander car accident lawyers can help you navigate the process of filing a UM claim and ensure you receive the compensation you’re entitled to.
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 your injuries. You’re entitled to full recovery regardless of your immigration status.
At Attorney911, we’ve successfully represented clients of all immigration statuses. We protect your rights and your privacy. Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish, and our team includes bilingual staff to ensure language is never a barrier.
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.
Our Leander car accident lawyers can prove fault through surveillance video, witness statements, damage analysis, and traffic patterns. Texas comparative negligence rules apply to parking lot accidents just like any other accident.
What if I was a passenger in the at-fault vehicle?
If you were a passenger in the at-fault vehicle, 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 clear – you weren’t driving, so you couldn’t have contributed to the accident. Our Leander car accident lawyers can handle the difficult conversation with the driver so you don’t have to.
What if the other driver died in the accident?
If the other driver died in the accident, you can still pursue a claim against their estate and insurance company. The death doesn’t eliminate 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 in these situations.
Our Leander car accident lawyers can handle these complex cases with sensitivity while protecting your rights.
Contact Our Leander Car Accident Lawyers Today
If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Leander, don’t wait to seek legal help. Evidence disappears quickly, and the insurance company is already building their case against you. Our Leander car accident lawyers are here to fight for your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
At Attorney911, we offer:
- Free, no-obligation consultations
- Contingency fee representation – you pay nothing unless we win
- Personal attention from experienced attorneys
- Aggressive representation against insurance companies
- Decades of experience and proven results
Don’t let the insurance company take advantage of you during this difficult time. Call our Leander car accident lawyers today at 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911) for a free consultation. We’re available 24/7 to take your call and start building your case.
Remember, we don’t get paid unless we win your case. There’s no risk to you – just the opportunity to get the justice and compensation you deserve. Call Attorney911 today and let us fight for you.

