Car Accident Lawyers in La Marque, Texas: Protecting Your Rights After a Crash

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in La Marque, Texas, you’re not alone. With over 251,977 people injured in Texas motor vehicle crashes last year alone – that’s one person injured every 2 minutes and 5 seconds – the roads in Galveston County remain dangerous. At Attorney911, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a car accident can take on you and your family. Our experienced La Marque car accident lawyers are here to fight for the compensation you deserve.

Why La Marque Drivers Need Experienced Legal Representation

La Marque sits along critical transportation corridors including I-45 and FM 1765, making our community vulnerable to serious accidents. Whether you were rear-ended on FM 1765 near the La Marque High School, involved in a T-bone collision at the intersection of FM 519 and FM 1765, or struck by a distracted driver on I-45 near the La Marque exit, our team has the local knowledge and legal expertise to protect your rights.

Ralph Manginello, our founding attorney with over 25 years of experience, has handled countless car accident cases in Galveston County courts. As one client, Jamin Marroquin, shared: “Mr. Manginello guided me through the whole process with great expertise…tenacious, accessible, and determined throughout the 19 months.” This level of personal attention sets Attorney911 apart from high-volume firms where you’re just a case number.

The Reality of Car Accidents in La Marque

Texas saw a reportable crash every 57 seconds last year, with many occurring right here in Galveston County. Common causes of car accidents in our area include:

• Distracted driving (380 deaths statewide from distraction)
• Speeding on I-45 and local roads
• Failure to yield at busy intersections
• Running red lights
• Following too closely
• Drunk driving (1,053 alcohol-impaired driving deaths in Texas)

These accidents often result in serious injuries that can change your life forever. We’ve seen clients suffer:

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

In one recent case, our client’s leg was injured in a car accident on I-45. During treatment, staff infections developed that ultimately led to a partial amputation. This case settled in the millions, demonstrating our ability to handle even the most complex cases.

Insurance Companies Are Not Your Friend

After an accident, insurance adjusters will contact you quickly – often while you’re still in the hospital or on pain medication. They’ll sound friendly and helpful, but remember: their job is to minimize your claim.

Lupe Peña, our associate attorney who previously worked for a national insurance defense firm, knows their tactics inside and out. As he explains: “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.”

Common insurance tactics we protect our clients from include:

1. The Quick Cash Trap: They’ll offer you $2,000-$5,000 within days of your accident, hoping you’ll accept before you realize the full extent of your injuries. Never accept any settlement without consulting an attorney.

2. Recorded Statement Trap: Adjusters will ask you to give a recorded statement about the accident. They’ll use leading questions to get you to minimize your injuries or admit partial fault.

3. IME (Independent Medical Exam) Scheme: They’ll send you to a doctor they hire who will almost always find that your injuries aren’t as serious as your treating doctors say.

4. Surveillance: Insurance companies hire private investigators to follow you and film your daily activities, looking for any evidence to minimize your claim.

5. Delay, Deny, Defend: They’ll drag out your claim for months or years, hoping you’ll get desperate and accept a lowball offer.

6. Pre-Existing Condition Blame: They’ll dig through your medical history to find any prior injuries and claim your current pain is from something that happened years ago.

What to Do After a Car Accident in La Marque

If you’ve been in an accident in La Marque, follow these critical steps:

At the Scene:

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

In the First 48 Hours:

• Preserve all evidence (photos, videos, texts, social media)
• Keep all damaged clothing and personal items
• Request copies of all medical records
• Note any calls from insurance companies
• Do NOT post about the accident on social media
• Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate legal guidance

In the Following Weeks:

• Continue documenting all injuries and treatments
• Follow all doctor’s recommendations
• Keep track of all expenses related to the accident
• Do NOT accept any settlement offers without consulting us

How Attorney911 Protects La Marque Accident Victims

When you hire Attorney911, we immediately take action to protect your rights:

1. Evidence Preservation: We send legal preservation letters to all parties involved, including businesses near the accident scene, to ensure critical evidence like surveillance footage isn’t deleted.

2. Medical Care Coordination: We help you get the medical treatment you need, even if you can’t afford it upfront. We work with doctors who will treat you now and wait for payment from your settlement.

3. Insurance Navigation: We handle all communication with insurance companies so you don’t have to deal with their tactics.

4. Case Building: We gather all necessary evidence including police reports, medical records, witness statements, and expert testimony to build a strong case.

5. Fight for Maximum Compensation: We calculate the full value of your claim including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future care needs.

Types of Compensation Available for La Marque Car Accident Victims

In Texas, car accident victims may be entitled to recover:

Economic Damages (No Cap):

• Past and future medical expenses
• Lost wages and lost earning capacity
• Property damage
• Out-of-pocket expenses (transportation, home modifications, etc.)

Non-Economic Damages (No Cap):

• Pain and suffering
• Mental anguish
• Physical impairment
• Disfigurement
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Loss of consortium

Punitive Damages (Capped):

• Available in cases of gross negligence or malice (such as drunk driving)
• Capped at the greater of $200,000 or 2x economic damages + 1x non-economic damages (max $750,000 for non-economic portion)

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your La Marque Car Accident Case

1. Insurance Defense Insider Advantage: Lupe Peña worked for years at a national insurance defense firm. He knows how they value claims, what tactics they use, and how to beat them. This insider knowledge is invaluable in maximizing your settlement.

2. Proven Results: We’ve recovered millions for car accident victims, including multi-million dollar settlements for catastrophic injuries. As client Glenda Walker shared: “They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.”

3. Federal Court Experience: Ralph Manginello is admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas. This experience is crucial for complex cases that may end up in federal court.

4. Personal Attention: Unlike high-volume firms where you’re just a case number, at Attorney911 you work directly with Ralph and Lupe. As Chad Harris said: “You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client…You are FAMILY to them.”

5. No Fee Unless We Win: We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. As client Tymesha Galloway experienced: “Leonor is the best!!! She was able to assist me with my case within 6 months.”

6. Local Knowledge: We know the La Marque courts, judges, and local insurance adjusters. This local expertise helps us navigate your case more effectively.

7. Bilingual Services: Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish, and we have staff who can assist Spanish-speaking clients. As Celia Dominguez shared: “Especially Miss Zulema, who is always very kind and always translates.”

Common Types of Car Accidents We Handle in La Marque

Our La Marque car accident lawyers handle all types of motor vehicle collisions, including:

Rear-End Collisions
These are among the most common accidents in La Marque, often occurring on FM 1765 during rush hour or at stoplights. Even “minor” rear-end collisions can cause serious injuries like whiplash and herniated discs.

T-Bone/Intersection Accidents
Dangerous intersections in La Marque, such as FM 519 and FM 1765 or the intersection of I-45 and FM 646, are common sites for T-bone collisions. These accidents often result in severe injuries due to the lack of protection on the sides of vehicles.

Head-On Collisions
These catastrophic accidents often occur on two-lane roads like FM 646 or when drivers cross the median on I-45. The force of impact in head-on collisions frequently results in life-altering injuries or fatalities.

Drunk Driving Accidents
Galveston County has seen its share of drunk driving accidents, with 1,053 alcohol-impaired driving deaths across Texas last year. When a drunk driver injures you, we can pursue compensation from both the driver and any establishment that over-served them.

Distracted Driving Accidents
With the prevalence of smartphones, distracted driving has become a major problem on La Marque roads. Texting while driving is particularly dangerous and has been responsible for 380 deaths in Texas.

Hit and Run Accidents
If you’re the victim of a hit and run in La Marque, your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage may provide compensation. We can help you navigate this complex process.

Multi-Vehicle Pileups
These often occur on I-45, especially during foggy conditions or when traffic slows suddenly. Determining liability in these complex accidents requires experienced legal representation.

The Legal Process for Your La Marque Car Accident Claim

When you hire Attorney911, here’s what you can expect:

1. Free Consultation: We’ll review your case at no cost and explain your legal options.

2. Investigation: We’ll gather all evidence, interview witnesses, and build your case.

3. Medical Treatment: We’ll help you get the medical care you need while documenting your injuries.

4. Demand Letter: Once you’ve reached maximum medical improvement, we’ll send a demand letter to the insurance company outlining your damages.

5. Negotiation: We’ll negotiate with the insurance company to reach a fair settlement.

6. Lawsuit (if necessary): If the insurance company won’t offer a fair settlement, we’ll file a lawsuit and prepare your case for trial.

7. Resolution: Most cases settle before trial, but we’re always prepared to take your case to court if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions About Car Accidents in La Marque

What should I do immediately after a car accident in La Marque?
Call 911, seek medical attention, document the scene, exchange information with the other driver, and call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911. Do not give a recorded statement to any insurance company without consulting an attorney first.

Should I call the police even for a minor accident?
Yes. Always call the police after an accident in La Marque. The police report will be critical evidence for your claim. 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. Adrenaline can mask pain at the scene, and some injuries like traumatic brain injuries or internal bleeding may not be obvious for days. Insurance companies use delays in treatment against victims, so get checked immediately.

What information should I collect at the scene?
Collect the other driver’s name, phone number, address, driver’s license number, insurance information, and vehicle details (make, model, color, license plate). Also get names and phone numbers of any witnesses, and take photos of all vehicle damage, injuries, and the accident scene.

Should I talk to the other driver or admit fault?
Exchange information only. Do not discuss fault or apologize, as this can be used against you later. Stick to the facts and avoid giving your opinion on what happened.

How do I obtain a copy of the accident report?
In La Marque, you can obtain the police report from the La Marque Police Department or through the Texas Department of Transportation’s Crash Records Information System (CRIS).

Should I give a recorded statement to insurance?
No. Never give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance company without consulting an attorney. Your own insurance company may require cooperation, but call Attorney911 first for guidance.

What if the other driver’s insurance contacts me?
Say: “I need to speak with my attorney first.” Give only basic information (your name and the date of the accident). Do not discuss your injuries or who was at fault.

Do I have to accept the insurance company’s estimate?
No. Their estimate is just an offer and is usually far below the actual value of your claim. Attorney911 will fight 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. As client Donald Wilcox experienced: “One company said they would not accept my case. Then I got a call from Manginello…I got a call to come pick up this handsome check.”

What if the other driver is uninsured or underinsured?
Your own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage can compensate you when the other driver has no insurance or insufficient insurance. Texas allows inter-policy stacking, which can increase your available coverage.

Why does insurance want me to sign a medical authorization?
They want unlimited access to your entire medical history to find pre-existing conditions to use against you. Never sign a medical authorization without having an attorney review it first.

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, and there is insurance coverage available. Watch our video “Do I Have a Good Case?” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j-PMMP5Jims for more information.

When should I hire a car accident lawyer?
Immediately. Evidence disappears daily, and insurance companies start building their defense against you from day one. As client Chavodrian Miles said: “Leonor got me into the doctor the same day…it only took 6 months amazing.”

How much time do I have to file a lawsuit (statute of limitations)?
In Texas, you have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. For wrongful death claims, you have 2 years from the date of death. Miss this deadline and your case is barred forever.

What is comparative negligence and how does it affect me?
Texas uses the 51% bar rule for comparative negligence. 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.

What happens if I was partially at fault?
You can still recover compensation if you were 50% or less at fault. Your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you were 20% at fault in a $100,000 case, you would recover $80,000.

Will my case go to trial?
Most cases settle before trial. However, Attorney911 prepares every case as if it’s going to trial. This preparation gives us leverage in negotiations. Watch our video “Will Your Case Go to Trial?” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Ed5AnmCMcc to learn more.

How long will my case take to settle?
The timeline depends on the severity of your injuries. We don’t settle your case until you’ve reached maximum medical improvement (MMI), which could be 6 months for minor injuries or 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 company
4. Negotiation
5. Lawsuit if necessary
6. Discovery (exchange of information)
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 for more details.

What is my case worth?
The value of your case depends on factors including the severity of your injuries, your medical costs, lost wages, permanent impairment, pain and suffering, and the available insurance coverage. Cases range from $15,000 for soft tissue injuries to millions for catastrophic injuries.

What types of damages can I recover?
You may be entitled to recover:

• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost wages and lost 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 damages in most car accident cases.

What if I have a pre-existing condition?
You can still recover compensation if the accident aggravated or worsened your pre-existing condition. This is known as the “eggshell plaintiff” rule – defendants must take victims as they find them.

Will I have to pay taxes on my settlement?
Generally, compensation for physical injuries is not taxable. However, punitive damages are taxable as ordinary income. Consult a tax professional for advice specific to your situation.

How is the value of my claim determined?
The value of your claim is determined based on factors including:

• Your medical bills
• Future treatment costs
• Lost income
• Permanent impairment rating
• Comparable verdicts and settlements
• The severity of your injuries
• The impact on your daily life

How much do car accident lawyers cost?
Attorney911 works on a contingency fee basis. Our fee is 33.33% of the recovery before trial and 40% if the case goes to trial. You pay nothing upfront, and we don’t get paid unless we win your case. Watch our video “How Do Contingency Fees Work?” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc for more information.

What does “no fee unless we win” mean?
It means you pay zero unless we recover money for you. If we don’t win your case, you owe us nothing. We advance all case costs and only get paid if we recover compensation for you.

How often will I get updates on my case?
Attorney911 provides regular updates on your case. As client Dame Haskett said: “Consistent communication and not one time did I call and not get a clear answer.” We believe in keeping our clients informed every step of the way.

Who will actually handle my case?
At Attorney911, you work directly with Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña, not just paralegals. As Chad Harris shared: “You are NOT just some client…You are FAMILY to them.”

What if I already hired another attorney?
You can switch attorneys at any time if you’re unhappy with your current representation. 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.”

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 isn’t true. We can prove fault through surveillance video, witness statements, and damage analysis.

What if I was a passenger in the at-fault vehicle?
You can sue the driver even if you were riding with them (whether it was a friend, family member, or rideshare driver). As a passenger, you’re an innocent victim and the driver’s insurance should cover your injuries.

What if the other driver died in the accident?
You can still pursue a claim against the deceased driver’s estate and insurance. The driver’s death doesn’t eliminate liability, and their insurance policy still applies. These cases can be emotionally complex but are legally straightforward.

What if I’m an undocumented immigrant – can I still file a claim?
Yes. Your immigration status does not affect your right to compensation for injuries. You’re entitled to full recovery regardless of immigration status. Your case is confidential, and we’ve successfully represented clients of all immigration statuses. Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish and can assist Spanish-speaking clients.

La Marque Car Accident Resources

Local Hospitals:

• Mainland Medical Center (Texas City)
• University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) Galveston
• Houston Methodist St. John Hospital (Nassau Bay)

Local Courts:

• Galveston County Justice of the Peace Courts
• Galveston County District Courts
• Southern District of Texas (Federal Court)

Local Law Enforcement:

• La Marque Police Department
• Galveston County Sheriff’s Office
• Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS)

Contact Attorney911 Today

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in La Marque, Texas, don’t wait to get the legal help you need. Evidence disappears daily, and insurance companies are 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.

Our La Marque car accident lawyers are ready to fight for the compensation you deserve. With offices serving Galveston County and the entire Houston metro area, we’re here to protect your rights and help you recover from your injuries. Remember, when you call 1-888-ATTY-911, you’re calling your neighbors – attorneys who understand La Marque and are committed to serving our community.

Don’t let insurance companies take advantage of you. Call Attorney911 today and let us put our experience, our insider knowledge, and our commitment to justice to work for you. Hablamos Español – we’re here to help all members of our La Marque community.