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Sweeny Car & Truck Accident Lawyers | 18-Wheelers, Commercial Trucks, Uber/Lyft Crashes | Former Insurance Defense — We Know Their Playbook | $2.5M Truck Recovery | Attorney911 — The Firm Insurers Fear | Federal Court Experience | Se Habla Español | 1-888-ATTY-911

Motor Vehicle Accident Attorney in Sweeny, Texas | Attorney911

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Sweeny, Texas, you’re not alone. With Texas experiencing a crash every 57 seconds and one person injured every 2 minutes and 5 seconds, motor vehicle accidents are an unfortunate reality on our roads. At Attorney911, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll these accidents can take on you and your family. Our experienced Sweeny car accident lawyers are here to fight for the compensation you deserve while you focus on your recovery.

Why Sweeny Residents Choose Attorney911 After a Car Accident

Sweeny’s location along major highways and its proximity to industrial areas mean our community faces unique traffic challenges. Whether you were injured on Highway 35, FM 521, or any of the busy roads in Brazoria County, our team knows the local courts, judges, and insurance adjusters who handle claims in this area. With over 25 years of experience serving Texas accident victims, The Manginello Law Firm brings unmatched expertise to your case.

Ralph Manginello, our managing partner, has been protecting the rights of injured Texans since 1998. His deep roots in the Houston area and admission to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, mean he’s equipped to handle even the most complex cases. But what truly sets our firm apart is our insurance defense advantage – we know how insurance companies value claims because our attorney Lupe Peña used to calculate them for years at a national defense firm.

Common Types of Motor Vehicle Accidents in Sweeny

Car Accidents in Sweeny, Texas

With 251,977 people injured in Texas motor vehicle crashes in 2024 alone, car accidents remain the most common type of collision. In Sweeny and Brazoria County, we see accidents caused by:

  • Distracted driving (a factor in 380 Texas deaths in 2024)
  • Speeding on Highway 35 or FM 521
  • Failure to yield at intersections like Highway 35 and FM 524
  • Drunk driving incidents, particularly on weekends
  • Following too closely on congested roads

These accidents often result in serious injuries, including:

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

One of our recent cases involved a client whose leg was injured in a car accident. During treatment, staff infections developed, leading to a partial amputation. This case settled in the millions, demonstrating our commitment to fighting for maximum compensation even in complex cases with complications.

“Leonor got me into the doctor the same day…it only took 6 months amazing.” – Chavodrian Miles

18-Wheeler and Trucking Accidents

Sweeny’s location near major highways and industrial areas means we see more than our share of trucking accidents. In 2024, Texas experienced 39,393 commercial motor vehicle crashes, resulting in 608 fatalities and 1,601 serious injuries. Texas accounts for 11% of all fatal truck crashes nationwide.

Trucking accidents are particularly devastating due to the size and weight disparity between commercial trucks (up to 80,000 pounds) and passenger vehicles (around 4,000 pounds). Common causes in our area include:

  • Driver fatigue (violating FMCSA Hours of Service regulations)
  • Improper loading or secured cargo
  • Equipment failures and poor maintenance
  • Distracted or impaired driving
  • Aggressive driving and speeding

At Attorney911, we have extensive experience handling trucking cases. Our personal injury attorneys have helped numerous injured individuals and families facing trucking-related wrongful death cases recover millions of dollars in compensation. Ralph Manginello’s federal court admission is particularly valuable in these cases, as trucking regulations are federal and cases often end up in federal court.

We also have unique experience in complex litigation against large corporations. Our firm is one of the few in Texas to be involved in BP explosion litigation, demonstrating our capability to take on billion-dollar corporations and win.

Drunk Driving Accidents in Sweeny

Alcohol-impaired driving remains a serious problem in Texas, with 1,053 alcohol-related deaths in 2024 (25.37% of all traffic fatalities). In Brazoria County and surrounding areas, we see far too many preventable drunk driving accidents.

Texas has strong laws against drunk driving, including:

  • A legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit of 0.08% for most drivers
  • Enhanced penalties for drivers with BAC of 0.15% or higher
  • Dram shop liability (Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code § 2.02) that allows victims to sue bars and restaurants that over-serve patrons

Our firm has unique expertise in handling drunk driving cases. Ralph Manginello’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) means we can handle both the criminal and civil aspects of these cases. We’ve successfully had multiple DWI cases dismissed, demonstrating our investigation skills:

  1. A case where the breathalyzer machine was improperly maintained
  2. A case where no breath or blood test was conducted and EMS notes were missing
  3. A case where video evidence showed the client was not drunk

These skills directly benefit our personal injury clients by ensuring thorough investigations and strong evidence collection.

Motorcycle Accidents in Brazoria County

Texas saw 585 motorcyclist fatalities in 2024, with 37% of those killed not wearing helmets. While helmet use reduces the risk of death by 37%, Texas law only requires helmets for riders under 21 or those who haven’t completed a safety course or don’t have adequate medical insurance.

Common causes of motorcycle accidents in our area include:

  • Drivers failing to yield the right of way to motorcyclists
  • Distracted driving
  • Unsafe lane changes
  • Left-turn accidents at intersections
  • Speeding and aggressive driving

Insurance companies often try to blame motorcyclists for accidents, citing Texas’s 51% comparative fault rule. Having Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney, on our team gives us an advantage in countering these arguments.

Pedestrian Accidents in Sweeny

With 6,095 pedestrian crashes in Texas in 2024 resulting in 768 fatalities, pedestrian safety is a serious concern. Pedestrians account for only 1% of crashes but 19% of all roadway deaths. In the Houston area, we’ve seen record numbers of pedestrian fatalities.

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

Common pedestrian injuries include:

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

Rideshare Accidents (Uber/Lyft)

Rideshare services have transformed transportation in Sweeny and across Texas, but they’ve also created complex insurance situations when accidents occur. The insurance coverage available depends on what the driver was doing at the time of the crash:

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

This complexity is why having an experienced attorney is crucial. Lupe Peña’s insurance defense background means he understands how to navigate these coverage phases and maximize your recovery.

Hit and Run Accidents

Hit and run accidents are particularly frustrating because the at-fault driver flees the scene. Nationally, someone is involved in a hit-and-run every 43 seconds. In Texas, hit and run penalties are severe:

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

If you’re the victim of a hit and run in Sweeny, your own Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage can compensate you. We’ve helped many clients recover substantial settlements through UM claims. Time is critical in these cases – surveillance footage from nearby businesses is typically deleted within 7-30 days.

Work Zone Accidents

Nearly 28,000 crashes occurred in Texas work zones in 2024, resulting in 215 deaths – a 12% increase over the previous year. Work zone fatalities have increased 50% nationally over the past decade.

One tragic case involved Katrina Bond, a college student who slowed for work zone traffic on I-35 near Fort Worth. The driver of a heavy pickup truck, who admitted to receiving a text message, rear-ended her. The force pushed her car into the path of another truck, resulting in a fatal accident.

If you’ve been injured in a work zone accident in Sweeny or Brazoria County, it’s important to act quickly. Evidence can disappear, and determining liability can be complex.

What to Do Immediately After a Car Accident in Sweeny

The actions you take in the first 48 hours after an accident can significantly impact your ability to recover compensation. Here’s our 48-hour protocol for Sweeny accident victims:

Hour 1-6: Immediate Crisis Response

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

Hour 6-24: Evidence Preservation

  1. Digital Preservation:
    • Preserve all texts, calls, photos, and videos related to the accident
    • Do not delete anything from your phone
    • Screenshot everything relevant
    • Email copies to yourself for backup
  2. Physical Evidence:
    • Secure damaged clothing, glasses, or personal items
    • Keep receipts for any accident-related expenses
    • Do not repair your vehicle yet – preserve the damage
  3. Medical Records:
    • Request copies of all ER and hospital records
    • Keep all discharge paperwork
    • Follow up with your primary care physician within 24-48 hours
  4. 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”
  5. Social Media:
    • Make all profiles private immediately
    • Do not post about the accident, injuries, or activities
    • Do not check in at locations
    • Tell friends and family not to tag you in posts

Hour 24-48: Strategic Decisions

  1. Legal Consultation:
    • Speak with an experienced motor vehicle accident attorney
    • Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation
    • Have your documentation ready
  2. 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
  3. Settlement Offers:
    • Do not accept or sign anything without lawyer review
    • Early offers are always lowball offers
    • You don’t know the full extent of your injuries yet
  4. 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

  1. Medical Follow-Up:
    • Continue documenting all injuries
    • See specialists if recommended
    • Follow all doctor’s recommendations
    • Get written work restrictions if needed
  2. Investigation Begins:
    • Attorney obtains police report
    • Preservation letters sent to all parties
    • Surveillance footage secured before deletion
    • Witness statements recorded
  3. Communication:
    • Attorney handles all insurance communication
    • You focus on recovery
    • Document any pressure from insurance or other parties

Texas Motor Vehicle Accident Law: What Sweeny Residents Need to Know

Statute of Limitations

In Texas, you have 2 years from the date of your accident to file a personal injury lawsuit (Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code § 16.003). For wrongful death claims, the 2-year clock starts from the date of death. Missing this deadline means your case will be barred forever.

Comparative Negligence (51% Bar Rule)

Texas uses a modified comparative negligence system. This means:

  • If you are 50% or less at fault, you can recover damages (reduced by your percentage of fault)
  • If you are 51% or more at fault, you recover nothing

Insurance companies always try to assign maximum fault to victims to reduce their payouts. Even small percentages can cost you thousands:

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

Lupe Peña’s insurance defense background gives us an advantage in countering these arguments.

Texas Minimum Auto Insurance Requirements

Texas requires all drivers to carry minimum insurance coverage:

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

However, 15.4% of Texas drivers are uninsured. This is why Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage is so important.

How Insurance Companies Try to Minimize Your Claim

At Attorney911, we know how insurance companies operate because Lupe Peña used to work for them. Here are the tactics they use to minimize your claim:

1. Quick Contact and Recorded Statement Trap

Within days of your accident, insurance adjusters 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”
  • “This is routine, everyone does this”

What they’re really doing is building their defense against you with leading questions:

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 company. Everything you say will be documented, recorded, and used against you.

2. Quick Settlement Offer Trap

Within weeks of your accident, the insurance company may offer you a quick settlement – typically $2,000-$5,000, sometimes up to $15,000 if they’re worried about your case. 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. What happens if you accept $3,500 today and then discover you need surgery that costs $100,000? Once you sign the release, you can’t reopen your claim.

3. “Independent” Medical Exam (IME) Scheme

Insurance companies will often require you to see a doctor of their choosing for an “Independent Medical Examination” (IME). In reality, these doctors are hired and paid by insurance companies to minimize your injuries.

How they choose IME doctors:

  • Based on who gives insurance-favorable reports
  • Doctors who consistently find “no injury” or “pre-existing condition”
  • Doctors paid $2,000-$5,000 per exam by insurance companies
  • Repeat business = repeat 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:

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

Lupe Peña knows these specific doctors and their biases because he hired them for years when he worked for insurance companies.

4. Delay and Financial Pressure

Insurance companies will drag your case out, hoping you’ll get desperate:

  • “Still investigating your claim”
  • “Waiting for medical records” (that you sent months ago)
  • “Reviewing your file”
  • “Need additional information”

Why delay works:

  • Insurance companies have unlimited time and resources
  • You have mounting bills, no income, and creditors threatening
  • Financial desperation makes you accept less

What we do:

  • File lawsuits to force deadlines
  • Set depositions to compel witness testimony
  • Prepare for trial to show we’re serious

5. Surveillance and Social Media Monitoring

Insurance companies will:

  • Hire private investigators to video you doing daily activities
  • Monitor all your social media accounts (Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, etc.)
  • Use facial recognition to find photos you’re tagged in
  • Archive your entire social media history

Examples we’ve defended:

Example What Happened Insurance Claimed Reality
Old Gym Photo Gym photo from 3 years ago Presented as recent We proved metadata was pre-accident
Restaurant Check-in Facebook check-in “Partying and having fun” Sitting quietly having dinner
Friend’s Comment Friend posted “Had fun yesterday!” Evidence of non-injury Client was resting at home
Walking Dog Video of client walking dog slowly “Not disabled” Doctor recommended short walks
Smiling in Photo Family photo smiling “Not in pain” Everyone smiles for photos

Lupe’s insider quote:

“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.”

6. Comparative Fault Arguments

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

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

Why this matters: Even small fault percentages can cost you thousands. Lupe knows these arguments because he made them for years – now he defeats them.

Colossus: How Insurance Companies Actually Value Your Claim

Most major insurance companies use a software system called Colossus to calculate claim values. Lupe Peña used this system for years when he worked for insurance companies.

How Colossus works:

  1. Adjuster inputs injury codes, treatment types, costs, and jurisdiction
  2. Injuries are coded using standardized medical terms
  3. Software applies algorithms to determine “value”
  4. System provides recommended settlement range
  5. Adjuster typically cannot exceed this range without supervisor approval

How insurance companies manipulate Colossus:

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

Why Lupe’s experience matters:

  • He knows how to code injuries properly for maximum value
  • He knows which medical terms trigger higher valuations
  • He knows when Colossus output is artificially low
  • He knows how to present records to beat the algorithm

Types of Compensation Available for Sweeny Accident Victims

Economic Damages (No Cap in Texas)

Damage Type What It Covers
Medical Expenses (Past) ER visits, hospital stays, surgery, doctor visits, 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 damage
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 Sweeny Car 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 our most powerful competitive advantage. Lupe spent years working for insurance companies, learning:

  • How they value claims (Colossus software)
  • Their settlement authority structures
  • Their delay and financial pressure tactics
  • How they select IME doctors
  • Their surveillance and investigation methods
  • Their comparative fault arguments

Now he uses that knowledge to fight for victims, not against them. No other firm in Sweeny has this advantage.

2. Multi-Million Dollar Results

At Attorney911, we’ve recovered millions for victims of:

  • Brain injuries: “Multi-million dollar settlement for client who suffered brain injury with vision loss when log dropped on him at logging company”
  • Amputations: “In a recent case, our client’s leg was injured in a car accident. Staff infections during treatment led to a partial amputation. This case settled in the millions”
  • Trucking wrongful death: “At Attorney911, our personal injury attorneys have helped numerous injured individuals and families facing trucking-related wrongful death cases recover millions of dollars in compensation”
  • Maritime injuries: “In a recent case, our client injured his back while lifting cargo on a ship. Our investigation revealed that he should have been assisted in this duty, and we were able to reach a significant cash settlement”

“I lost everything… my car was at a total loss and because of Attorney Manginello and my case worker Leonor… 1 year later I have gained so much in return plus a brand new truck.” – Kiimarii Yup

3. Federal Court Experience

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

  • Complex cases that end up in federal court
  • Trucking cases involving FMCSA regulations
  • Cases against out-of-state defendants
  • Cases with high damages that may exceed state court limits

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

4. Personal Attention from Experienced Attorneys

Unlike high-volume firms where you’re just a case number, at Attorney911 you work directly with Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña.

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

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

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 Car Accidents in Sweeny

What should I do immediately after a car accident in Sweeny, Texas?

If you’ve been in an accident in Sweeny:

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

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.

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

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

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

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

What information should I collect at the scene?

  • Other driver: name, phone, address, driver’s license, insurance 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

Should I talk to the other driver or admit fault?

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

How do I obtain a copy of the accident report?

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

Should I give a recorded statement to insurance?

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

What if the other driver’s insurance contacts me?

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

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

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

Should I accept a quick settlement offer?

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

What if the other driver is uninsured/underinsured?

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

Why does insurance want me to sign a medical authorization?

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

Do I have a personal injury case?

You may have a case if:

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

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

When should I hire a car accident lawyer?

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

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

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

What is comparative negligence and how does it affect me?

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

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

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.

Will my case go to trial?

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

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

How long will my case take to settle?

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

What is the legal process step-by-step?

  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

What is my case worth?

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

What types of damages can I recover?

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

Can I get compensation for pain and suffering?

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

What if I have a pre-existing condition?

You can still recover if the accident aggravated or worsened your pre-existing condition. This is called the “eggshell plaintiff” rule.

Will I have to pay taxes on my settlement?

Generally, compensation for physical injuries is NOT taxable. Punitive damages ARE taxable. Consult a tax professional.

How is the value of my claim determined?

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

How much do car accident lawyers cost?

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

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

What does “no fee unless we win” mean?

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

How often will I get updates?

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

Who will actually handle my case?

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

What if I already hired another attorney?

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

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 2-year statute of limitations). Sovereign immunity protects government entities. Damage caps may apply. These cases are complex – you need an experienced attorney. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately – the 6-month deadline is strict.

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

File a police report immediately (hit and run is a criminal offense). Your Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage applies. Surveillance footage is critical – most footage is deleted within 7-30 days. We send preservation letters immediately.

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

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

What if the accident happened in a parking lot?

Parking lot accidents are fully compensable. Insurance companies often argue “parking lot accidents are always 50/50 fault,” but this is not true. We prove fault through: surveillance video, witness statements, damage analysis, and traffic patterns.

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

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

What if the other driver died in the accident?

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

Sweeny, Texas: Our Community, Your Legal Team

Sweeny, Texas, is more than just a place on the map – it’s our community. Located in Brazoria County, Sweeny is home to hardworking families, thriving businesses, and a rich history. Our firm understands the unique challenges faced by Sweeny residents after motor vehicle accidents.

Whether you were injured on Highway 35, FM 521, or any of the roads in Brazoria County, our team knows the local courts, judges, and insurance adjusters who handle claims in this area. We’re familiar with the local hospitals like CHI St. Joseph Health Brazosport and the medical providers who treat accident victims in our community.

Sweeny’s economy is diverse, with major employers in healthcare, education, and local businesses. We understand how accidents can impact your ability to work and provide for your family. Our goal is to help you recover the compensation you need to get your life back on track.

At Attorney911, we’re proud to serve Sweeny and the surrounding communities in Brazoria County. When you call 1-888-ATTY-911, you’re calling neighbors who understand what you’re going through and are ready to fight for you.

Contact Attorney911 Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a motor vehicle accident in Sweeny, Texas, don’t wait. Evidence disappears daily, and the insurance company is already building their case against you.

Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We don’t get paid unless we win your case.

The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC
Attorney911
3200 Travis St, Suite 220
Houston, TX 77006
1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
https://attorney911.com

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

“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

Don’t let the insurance company take advantage of you. Call Attorney911 – your Sweeny car accident lawyers – today.