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Chicago 18-Wheeler & Car Crash Attorneys | I-90, I-94, I-290 Collisions | Commercial Trucks, Uber/Lyft, Hit-and-Run | Former Insurance Defense — We Know Their Playbook | Multi-Million-Dollar Results | Attorney911 — The Firm Insurers Fear | Federal Court Experience | Se Habla Español | 1-888-ATTY-911

Motor Vehicle Accident Lawyers in Thrall, Texas | Attorney911

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Thrall, Texas, or anywhere in Williamson County, Attorney911 is here to fight for you. With over 25 years of experience handling motor vehicle accident cases across Texas, our team understands the physical, emotional, and financial toll these incidents take on victims and their families. Thrall residents face unique challenges on our local roads, from the dangers of Highway 79 to the increasing traffic around our growing community. When accidents happen, you need more than just a lawyer—you need a legal emergency response team that knows how to protect your rights and maximize your compensation.

At Attorney911, we don’t just handle cases—we handle lives. Our firm includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how insurance companies try to minimize your claim. This insider knowledge gives our Thrall clients an unfair advantage in negotiations and courtrooms. Whether you’ve been rear-ended on Highway 79, involved in a trucking accident near the I-35 corridor, or suffered injuries in a drunk driving crash, our team has the experience to fight for the compensation you deserve.

Why Thrall Accident Victims Choose Attorney911

Thrall may be a small community, but our roads see significant traffic, especially with the growth in Williamson County. When accidents happen on our local streets or nearby highways, you need a law firm that understands both the legal landscape and the unique challenges faced by rural Texas communities. Attorney911 offers:

  • Local Expertise: We know Williamson County courts and the specific accident patterns in Thrall and surrounding areas
  • Insurance Defense Insider: Our team includes a former insurance company attorney who knows their tactics
  • Multi-Million Dollar Results: We’ve recovered millions for accident victims across Texas
  • Personal Attention: You’ll work directly with our attorneys, not case managers
  • 24/7 Availability: Call our legal emergency line at 1-888-ATTY-911 when you need us most

As client Chad Harris shared: “You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client…You are FAMILY to them.” This personal approach sets us apart from high-volume firms that treat clients as case numbers.

Common Motor Vehicle Accidents in Thrall and Williamson County

Car Accidents in Thrall

Car accidents are the most common type of motor vehicle collision in Thrall and throughout Williamson County. In 2024 alone, Texas saw 251,977 people injured in motor vehicle crashes—one every 57 seconds. Thrall residents face particular risks on Highway 79, which sees heavy commuter traffic, as well as on local roads where drivers may be unfamiliar with the area.

Common causes of car accidents in Thrall include:

  • Distracted driving (texting, phone use)
  • Speeding on rural roads and highways
  • Failure to yield at intersections
  • Running red lights or stop signs
  • Following too closely
  • Drunk or impaired driving
  • Weather-related conditions

Common Injuries in Car Accidents:

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

One of our clients suffered a leg injury in a car accident that led to complications and eventual partial amputation. This case settled in the millions, demonstrating our ability to handle even the most complex injury cases.

18-Wheeler and Trucking Accidents

Williamson County’s proximity to major highways like I-35 makes trucking accidents a serious concern for Thrall residents. In 2024, Texas saw 39,393 commercial motor vehicle crashes, resulting in 608 fatalities and 1,601 serious injuries. Thrall’s location near major trucking corridors means our community is at risk for these devastating accidents.

Trucking accidents are particularly dangerous due to:

  • The massive size and weight of commercial trucks (up to 80,000 pounds)
  • Long stopping distances required for large vehicles
  • Driver fatigue from long hours on the road
  • Improperly secured cargo
  • Mechanical failures
  • Poor weather conditions

Federal Regulations That Protect You:
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets strict rules for truck drivers and companies:

  • Hours of Service (HOS): Drivers can work no more than 14 consecutive hours after 10 hours off duty
  • Driving Limits: Maximum 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off
  • 30-Minute Breaks: Required after 8 hours of driving
  • Weekly Limits: 60/70-hour limits in 7/8 consecutive days
  • Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs): Mandatory since 2017 to track compliance
  • Drug and Alcohol Testing: Required before employment and randomly throughout the year

Violations of these regulations can establish negligence per se, making it easier to prove liability in your case. Our firm has recovered millions for clients involved in trucking-related wrongful death cases.

Drunk Driving Accidents in Thrall

Drunk driving remains a serious problem in Texas, with 1,053 alcohol-impaired driving deaths in 2024—25.37% of all traffic fatalities. Thrall and Williamson County are not immune to this tragedy. When drunk drivers cause accidents, they not only face criminal charges but also civil liability for the injuries and damages they cause.

Texas Dram Shop Law (TABC § 2.02):
Texas holds bars, restaurants, and other establishments liable if they serve alcohol to obviously intoxicated patrons who then cause accidents. 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)
  • Social hosts (limited circumstances)

Punitive Damages in Drunk Driving Cases:
Texas allows punitive (exemplary) damages in cases involving gross negligence or malice. Drunk driving often qualifies, as it demonstrates conscious indifference to the safety of others. These damages are designed to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct.

Our firm’s experience in both criminal defense and civil litigation gives us unique insight into drunk driving cases. We’ve achieved multiple DWI dismissals through thorough investigation, including cases where:

  • Police failed to properly maintain breathalyzer machines
  • Critical evidence was missing from hospital records
  • Video evidence showed our client was not impaired

Motorcycle Accidents in Williamson County

Motorcycle accidents are particularly devastating, with 585 motorcyclist fatalities in Texas during 2024. Williamson County sees its share of these tragic accidents, especially during warmer months when more riders are on the road. Thrall residents who enjoy riding on rural roads or commuting to nearby cities face significant risks.

Texas Helmet Law:

  • Required for all riders under 21
  • Riders 21+ may ride without a helmet if they’ve completed a safety course OR have $10,000+ in medical insurance
  • Helmets reduce the risk of death by 37% and head injury by 69%

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents:

  • Failure to yield right of way (most common cause)
  • Driver inattention or distraction
  • Unsafe lane changes
  • Left-turn accidents (T-bone collisions)
  • Speeding or reckless driving
  • Road hazards (potholes, debris)

Comparative Negligence Challenges:
Texas uses a modified comparative negligence system with a 51% bar rule. This means if you’re found 51% or more at fault for the accident, you cannot recover any compensation. Insurance companies often try to blame motorcyclists for accidents, arguing that riders were speeding, lane-splitting, or otherwise at fault.

Our firm’s insurance defense background gives us unique insight into these tactics. Lupe Peña, our associate attorney, spent years working for insurance companies and knows exactly how they try to shift blame onto accident victims.

Pedestrian Accidents in Thrall

Pedestrian accidents are particularly dangerous, with Texas seeing 6,095 pedestrian crashes in 2024, resulting in 768 fatalities. While Thrall may not have the pedestrian traffic of larger cities, our community still faces risks, especially near schools, parks, and busy intersections.

Critical Legal Point for Pedestrians:
Pedestrians ALWAYS have the right-of-way at intersections, even at unmarked crosswalks. Texas law states that “anytime there’s an intersection of two streets, the distance between them is a crosswalk”—even if it’s not painted. Many drivers don’t know this, and insurance companies won’t tell you.

Common Pedestrian Injuries:

  • Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
  • Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
  • Broken pelvis and legs
  • Internal organ damage
  • Fatalities

Rideshare Accidents (Uber/Lyft)

Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have become common in Williamson County, but they’ve also created complex insurance situations when accidents occur. With 17.4 million daily Uber trips worldwide, rideshare accidents are increasingly common.

Critical: Rideshare Insurance Phases

The amount of insurance coverage available depends on what the driver was doing at the time of the crash:

Phase Driver Status Coverage Available
Period 0 – Offline App off, personal use Personal insurance only (Texas minimum: $30K/$60K/$25K)
Period 1 – Waiting App on, no ride request Contingent coverage: $50K/$100K/$25K
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)

This complex insurance structure makes rideshare accident claims particularly challenging. Our firm’s insurance defense background gives us unique insight into navigating these claims and maximizing your recovery.

What to Do Immediately After an Accident in Thrall

Hour 1-6 (Immediate Crisis Response)

If you’re involved in an accident in Thrall or anywhere in Williamson County:

Safety First: If you can move safely, get to a secure location away from traffic

Call 911: Report the accident and request medical assistance if anyone is injured

Medical Attention: Get checked immediately, even if you feel fine. Adrenaline masks injuries, and some symptoms may not appear for hours or days

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, 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

Texas Motor Vehicle Accident Law Framework

Statute of Limitations

Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code § 16.003

Claim Type Time Limit Starts From
Personal Injury 2 years Date of accident
Wrongful Death 2 years Date of death
Property Damage 2 years Date of damage
Government Claims 6 months notice Date of incident
Minors Tolled until 18 Then 2 years

Critical: Miss the deadline and your case is BARRED forever—you cannot file a lawsuit after this time period.

Comparative Negligence (51% Bar Rule)

Texas uses modified comparative negligence with a 51% bar:

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

Examples:

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

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

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

Texas Minimum Auto Insurance Requirements

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

Uninsured Motorist Statistics:

  • 15.4% of US motorists are uninsured (approximately 1 in 7 drivers)
  • Texas allows inter-policy stacking of UM/UIM coverage

How Insurance Companies Try to Minimize Your Claim

At Attorney911, we know how insurance companies operate because our team includes a former insurance defense attorney. Lupe Peña spent years working for a national defense firm, learning firsthand how large insurance companies value claims and build cases against accident victims.

Tactic #1: Quick Contact & Recorded Statement (Days 1-3)

What Insurance Companies Do:
Within days of your accident, insurance adjusters will contact you—often while you’re still in the hospital, on pain medication, or overwhelmed by the situation. They’ll act friendly and helpful, saying things like:

  • “We just want to help you”
  • “We need to get your side of the story”
  • “This is routine, everyone does this”
  • “It’ll only take a few minutes”

What They’re Really Doing:
They’re building their defense against you with leading questions designed to minimize your injuries and shift blame:

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 collision severity
“You were able to walk away from the scene?” Suggest injuries aren’t serious
“Were you distracted at all?” Get you to admit distraction
“How fast were you going?” Hope you overestimate or say “I don’t know”

The Truth:

  • You are NOT required to give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance
  • Giving a statement without an attorney ALMOST ALWAYS hurts your case
  • Insurance companies know this—that’s why they push so hard

“Lupe Peña worked for a number of years at a national defense firm, learning firsthand how large insurance companies value claims.”

Tactic #2: Quick Settlement Offer (Weeks 1-3)

What Insurance Companies Do:
Within days or weeks of your accident, they’ll offer you a quick settlement:

  • Typical offers: $2,000-$5,000
  • Sometimes $10,000-$15,000 if they’re concerned about liability
  • They’ll create artificial urgency: “This offer expires in 48 hours”

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

  • Day 3: Insurance offers $3,500 “final settlement”
  • You sign the release, thinking it’s over
  • Week 6: MRI shows herniated disc requiring surgery ($100,000+ cost)
  • TOO LATE—you signed a release and can’t reopen your claim

Releases are PERMANENT and FINAL.

Tactic #3: “Independent” Medical Exam (Months 2-6)

What They Call It:
“Independent Medical Examination” (IME)

What It Really Is:
An insurance company-hired doctor whose job is to minimize your injuries.

How Insurance Companies Choose IME Doctors:
They select doctors based on:

  • Who gives insurance-favorable reports (not who’s most qualified)
  • Doctors who consistently find “no injury” or “pre-existing condition”
  • Doctors paid thousands by insurance companies ($2,000-$5,000 per exam)

What Happens at the IME:

  • 10-15 minute “examination”
  • Rarely review your complete medical records
  • Ask questions designed to elicit “I’m feeling better” responses
  • Look for any reason to minimize your injuries

Common IME Doctor Findings:

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

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

Tactic #4: Delay and Financial Pressure (Months 6-12+)

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

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

Why Delay Works:
Insurance companies have:

  • Unlimited time
  • Unlimited resources
  • No financial pressure
  • Earning interest on YOUR settlement money

You have:

  • Mounting bills
  • Zero income
  • Creditors threatening
  • Need for money NOW

Financial desperation makes you accept less. What you’d reject at Month 1, you’d consider at Month 6, and beg for at Month 12.

Tactic #5: Surveillance and Social Media Monitoring

What Insurance Companies Do:
They hire private investigators to:

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

They Monitor ALL Your Social Media:

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

Examples of How They Use Social Media Against You:

Example What They Claim Reality
Old gym photo from 3 years ago Presented as recent, contradicts injury claim Actually pre-accident
Restaurant check-in “Partying and having fun” Just sitting quietly having dinner
Friend’s comment: “Had fun yesterday!” Evidence of non-injury You were resting at home
Video of you walking dog slowly “Not disabled” Doctor recommended short walks
Family photo where you’re smiling “Not in pain—she’s smiling!” Everyone smiles for photos

7 Rules for Clients:

  1. Make ALL profiles private immediately
  2. DON’T post about the accident, injuries, activities, or emotions
  3. DON’T check in anywhere
  4. Tell friends/family: don’t tag you, don’t post about you
  5. Don’t accept friend requests from strangers (could be fake profiles)
  6. BEST: Stay off social media entirely during your case
  7. 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:

  • “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’ 51% bar rule means:

  • If you’re 51%+ at fault → You get NOTHING
  • If you’re 50% or less at fault → Your damages are reduced by your percentage

Even small fault percentages cost you thousands:

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

Our firm’s insurance defense background gives us unique insight into these tactics. Lupe knows exactly how insurance companies try to shift blame because he used these arguments for years—now he defeats them.

Types of Compensation Available in Texas

Economic Damages (No Cap in Texas)

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

Non-Economic Damages (No Cap Except Medical Malpractice)

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

Punitive/Exemplary Damages (Capped)

Available for gross negligence, fraud, or malice. Common in drunk driving cases. Capped at the greater of:

  • $200,000, OR
  • 2x economic damages + 1x non-economic damages (capped at $750,000 for non-economic portion)

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Thrall Accident Case

1. Insurance Defense Insider Advantage

“Lupe Peña worked for a number of years at a national defense firm, learning firsthand how large insurance companies value claims.”

What this means for your case:

  • We know their tactics because Lupe used them for years
  • We anticipate their strategies before they deploy them
  • We know how they value claims internally
  • We know which IME doctors they favor
  • We know how to beat their algorithms
  • We speak their language

No other firm in Thrall or Williamson County has this advantage.

2. Multi-Million Dollar Results

Attorney911 has recovered millions for victims of:

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

Our results prove we don’t settle cheap.

3. Federal Court Experience

Ralph Manginello is admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas.

Why this matters:

  • Complex cases often end up in federal court
  • FMCSA trucking regulations are federal
  • Diversity jurisdiction applies for out-of-state defendants
  • Federal court requires different skills than state court

BP Explosion Litigation: “Our firm is one of the few firms in Texas to be involved in BP explosion litigation”

4. Personal Attention

What our clients say:

“You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client…You are FAMILY to them.” – Chad Harris

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

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

You work directly with Ralph or Lupe, not a case manager assembly line.

5. Contingency Fee – No Risk to You

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

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Thrall Car Accidents

Immediate After Accident

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

If you’ve been in an accident in Thrall or anywhere in Williamson County:

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

2. Should I call the police even for a minor accident?

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

3. Should I seek medical attention if I don’t feel hurt?

ABSOLUTELY. Many serious injuries don’t show symptoms immediately:

  • Traumatic brain injuries can take days to manifest
  • Internal bleeding may not be obvious
  • Herniated discs may not cause pain for weeks
  • Adrenaline masks pain at the scene

Insurance companies use delays in treatment against you. Get checked immediately.

4. What information should I collect at the scene?

  • Other driver: name, phone, address, driver’s license, insurance
  • 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” (can be used as admission)
  • Do NOT give your opinion on what happened
  • Stick to facts only

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

In Thrall and Williamson County, you can obtain the police report from the responding agency or through the Texas Department of Transportation’s Crash Records Information System (CRIS).

Dealing with Insurance

7. Should I give a recorded statement to insurance?

To the other driver’s insurance: NO. Not without an attorney.
To your own insurance: You have a duty to cooperate, but call Attorney911 first. We can advise you.

8. What if the other driver’s insurance contacts me?

Say: “I need to speak with my attorney first.” Give only basic information (name, date of accident). Do NOT give a recorded statement. Do NOT discuss injuries or fault.

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

No. Their estimate is just an offer. It’s usually far below actual value. 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/underinsured?

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

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

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

Legal Process

13. Do I have a personal injury case?

You may have a case if:

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

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

14. When should I hire a car accident lawyer?

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

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

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

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

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

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

17. What happens if I was partially at fault?

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

18. Will my case go to trial?

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

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?

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

20. What is the legal process step-by-step?

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

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?

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

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 (except medical malpractice).

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.

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.

26. How is the value of my claim determined?

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

Attorney Relationship

27. How much do car accident lawyers cost?

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

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

28. What does “no fee unless we win” mean?

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

29. How often will I get updates?

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

30. Who will actually handle my case?

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

31. What if I already hired another attorney?

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

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 monitors everything.

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

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

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

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

Additional Common Questions

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

You can still recover. If the accident AGGRAVATED your pre-existing condition, you’re entitled to compensation for the aggravation. “Eggshell plaintiff” rule: Defendant takes victim as they find them. Example: You had mild occasional back pain. Accident caused a herniated disc requiring surgery. You recover for the NEW injury, not just the pre-existing pain. We hire medical experts to prove the difference. Lupe knows how insurance attacks pre-existing conditions—he used this defense for years.

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

YES. You can fire your attorney at any time. If your attorney isn’t communicating, isn’t fighting for you, or is pushing you to settle cheap, you have the right to switch. Attorney911 has taken over many cases from other attorneys. As Greg Garcia said: “In the beginning I had another attorney but he dropped my case although Mangiello law firm were able to help me out.” Call 1-888-ATTY-911 to discuss switching.

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

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist claims are against YOUR insurance when the other driver has no insurance or insufficient insurance. Your insurance company will fight your claim just like the other driver’s insurance would. You need attorney representation. Texas allows inter-policy stacking (combining multiple UM policies). Lupe’s insurance knowledge is critical for maximizing UM/UIM recovery.

39. How do you calculate pain and suffering?

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

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

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

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

File a police report immediately (hit and run is a criminal offense). Your Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage applies. Surveillance footage is CRITICAL—gas stations, businesses, Ring doorbells, traffic cameras. Most footage is deleted within 7-30 days. We send preservation letters immediately. Texas allows UM stacking. We’ve recovered substantial settlements in hit and run cases through UM claims.

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

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

43. What if the accident happened in a parking lot?

Parking lot accidents are fully compensable. Insurance companies love to argue “parking lot accidents are always 50/50 fault” (LIE). We prove fault through: surveillance video, witness statements, damage analysis, traffic patterns. Texas comparative negligence rules apply. We’ve won many parking lot cases with clear liability findings.

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

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

45. What if the other driver died in the accident?

You can still pursue a claim against the deceased driver’s estate and insurance. Death doesn’t eliminate liability. The insurance policy still applies. The estate may have assets. Wrongful death laws protect both sides. These cases are emotionally complex but legally straightforward. We handle them with sensitivity while protecting your rights.

Thrall-Specific Legal Resources

Local Hospitals and Trauma Centers

For accident victims in Thrall and Williamson County:

  • St. David’s Georgetown Hospital (Georgetown, TX) – Primary trauma center for the area
  • Scott & White Medical Center – Round Rock (Round Rock, TX) – Level III trauma center
  • Dell Seton Medical Center (Austin, TX) – Level I trauma center (30-40 minutes from Thrall)
  • St. David’s Medical Center (Austin, TX) – Level II trauma center

Williamson County Courts

  • Williamson County Justice of the Peace Courts – Handle minor cases and small claims
  • Williamson County Court at Law – Handle misdemeanor criminal cases and civil cases up to $250,000
  • 26th and 368th District Courts – Handle felony criminal cases and civil cases over $250,000
  • Western District of Texas (Austin Division) – Federal court for complex cases

Local Law Enforcement

  • Thrall Police Department – Handles accidents within city limits
  • Williamson County Sheriff’s Office – Handles accidents in unincorporated areas
  • Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) – Handles accidents on state highways

Dangerous Roads and Intersections in Williamson County

While Thrall itself is a small community, Williamson County has several dangerous roads and intersections that require extra caution:

  • I-35 corridor – High truck traffic and frequent accidents
  • Highway 79 – Heavy commuter traffic between Thrall, Taylor, and Round Rock
  • FM 1660 – Rural road with high-speed limits and limited shoulders
  • US 79 and FM 1105 – Intersection with frequent crashes
  • I-35 and US 79 – Major interchange with heavy traffic

Call Attorney911 Now: 1-888-ATTY-911

If you’ve been injured in a motor vehicle accident in Thrall or anywhere in Williamson County, don’t wait—call Attorney911 now. Evidence disappears daily, and insurance companies are already building their case against you.

Why Call Now:

  • Evidence disappears within days (surveillance footage, witness memories)
  • The 2-year statute of limitations is running
  • Insurance companies start their investigation immediately
  • Medical treatment should begin right away
  • Peace of mind knowing your rights are protected

What You Get When You Call:

  • Free, no-obligation consultation
  • Honest assessment of your case
  • Immediate action plan
  • No fee unless we win
  • Personal attention from our attorneys

Our Promise to You:

  • We’ll handle all communication with insurance companies
  • We’ll gather and preserve critical evidence
  • We’ll fight for maximum compensation
  • We’ll be with you every step of the way
  • You’ll never feel like just another case

Thrall Office: While our main office is in Houston, we serve clients throughout Texas, including Thrall and Williamson County. We offer remote consultations and can travel to you for in-person meetings when needed.

Call Now: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)

Se habla español. Lupe Peña y nuestro equipo están listos para ayudar a clientes hispanohablantes.

Don’t let insurance companies take advantage of you. Call Attorney911—the legal emergency response team that Thrall accident victims trust.