Motor Vehicle Accident Lawyers in Santa Fe, Texas – Attorney911 Fights for You

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Santa Fe, Texas, you’re not alone. Every year, thousands of Texans suffer serious injuries in motor vehicle crashes—many right here in Galveston County. At Attorney911, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll an accident can take on you and your family. That’s why we’re committed to fighting for the compensation you deserve after a crash in Santa Fe, League City, Texas City, or anywhere in the Houston-Galveston area.

With over 25 years of experience handling car accident cases across Texas, our team at The Manginello Law Firm has recovered millions for accident victims just like you. We know Santa Fe’s roads, from the busy intersections along FM 1764 to the high-speed dangers of I-45. Whether you were rear-ended on FM 646, sideswiped on Highway 146, or involved in a serious collision near the intersection of FM 1764 and FM 517, we have the local knowledge and legal expertise to handle your case.

Why Santa Fe Accident Victims Choose Attorney911

Santa Fe may be a smaller community, but accidents here can be just as devastating as those in larger cities. The roads connecting Santa Fe to Houston, League City, and Texas City see heavy traffic from commuters, commercial trucks, and local drivers. When accidents happen, the consequences can be life-changing.

What sets Attorney911 apart is our unique combination of experience and insider knowledge. Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how insurance companies evaluate claims—and how to beat their tactics. This insider advantage means we can anticipate the strategies insurance adjusters will use to minimize your claim and counter them effectively.

We also understand the specific challenges Santa Fe accident victims face. Whether you were injured while driving to work at one of the local refineries, taking your kids to Santa Fe High School, or just running errands at the Santa Fe Town Center, we know how to build a strong case that reflects the true impact of your injuries.

Common Types of Motor Vehicle Accidents in Santa Fe

Santa Fe’s location along major highways and its mix of local roads create unique accident risks. Here are some of the most common types of motor vehicle accidents we handle for Santa Fe residents:

Car Accidents in Santa Fe

With over 251,977 people injured in Texas motor vehicle crashes in 2024 alone, car accidents remain the most common type of crash in Santa Fe and throughout Galveston County. The Texas Department of Transportation reports that someone is injured in a crash every 2 minutes and 5 seconds in our state.

Common causes of car accidents in Santa Fe include:

• Distracted driving (texting, eating, or using navigation systems)
• Speeding on FM 1764 or Highway 146
• Failure to yield at intersections like FM 1764 and FM 517
• Running red lights or stop signs
• Following too closely on I-45 or Highway 6
• Drunk or drugged driving, especially on weekends

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

Common injuries from Santa Fe car accidents include:

• 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

As client Chavodrian Miles shared: “Leonor got me into the doctor the same day…it only took 6 months amazing.” This kind of prompt medical attention and efficient case handling is what sets Attorney911 apart.

18-Wheeler and Trucking Accidents

Santa Fe’s proximity to major highways like I-45 and Highway 146 means heavy truck traffic passes through our community daily. In 2024, Texas saw 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 in Santa Fe often occur:

• On I-45 near the Santa Fe exit
• Along Highway 146 between Santa Fe and Texas City
• At the intersection of FM 1764 and FM 517
• In construction zones on Highway 6

These accidents are particularly devastating due to the size and weight disparity between trucks (up to 80,000 pounds) and passenger vehicles (typically 4,000 pounds). Common injuries include traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, amputations, and 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. Our firm’s involvement in BP explosion litigation demonstrates our capability to take on large corporations in complex cases.

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations that trucking companies must follow include:

• Hours of Service (HOS) rules limiting driving time
• Electronic Logging Device (ELD) requirements
• Regular vehicle maintenance and inspections
• Driver qualification and drug testing standards

When trucking companies violate these regulations, it can establish negligence per se, making your case stronger.

Drunk Driving Accidents

In 2024, Texas saw 1,053 alcohol-impaired driving deaths, accounting for 25.37% of all traffic fatalities. Drunk driving accidents are 100% preventable, yet they continue to devastate families in Santa Fe and across Galveston County.

Texas has strong dram shop laws (Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code § 2.02) that allow victims to hold bars, restaurants, and other establishments liable if they served alcohol to someone who was obviously intoxicated. Signs of obvious intoxication include:

• Slurred speech
• Bloodshot or glassy eyes
• Unsteady gait or stumbling
• Strong odor of alcohol
• Aggressive or inappropriate behavior
• Difficulty counting money or handling objects

Drunk driving accidents often qualify for punitive damages, which are designed to punish the defendant for gross negligence and deter similar conduct. These damages can significantly increase your compensation.

Our firm’s criminal defense background gives us unique insight into these cases. Ralph Manginello’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) means we can handle both the civil and criminal aspects of drunk driving accidents.

Motorcycle Accidents

With 585 motorcyclist fatalities in Texas in 2024, motorcycle accidents remain a serious concern in Santa Fe and Galveston County. While Santa Fe may not have the same volume of motorcycle traffic as larger cities, our proximity to scenic routes and popular riding destinations means these accidents still occur.

Common causes of motorcycle accidents in our area include:

• Drivers failing to yield right-of-way
• Distracted drivers not seeing motorcycles
• Unsafe lane changes on I-45 or Highway 146
• Left-turn accidents at intersections
• Speeding or reckless driving

Texas law requires helmets for riders under 21 and for those over 21 who haven’t completed a safety course or don’t have adequate medical insurance. However, helmets reduce the risk of death by 37% and head injuries by 69%, so wearing one is always recommended.

Insurance companies often try to blame motorcyclists for accidents, using Texas’s 51% comparative fault rule to reduce or deny claims. Our team knows how to counter these arguments and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Pedestrian Accidents

In 2024, Texas saw 6,095 pedestrian crashes, resulting in 768 fatalities. Pedestrians account for just 1% of all crashes but 19% of all roadway deaths. Houston alone saw 119 pedestrian fatalities in 2024, a record high.

Santa Fe’s pedestrian accident risks include:

• Crosswalks along FM 1764 and FM 517
• School zones near Santa Fe ISD campuses
• Shopping areas like the Santa Fe Town Center
• Residential neighborhoods with poor lighting

Under Texas law, pedestrians always have the right-of-way at intersections, even at unmarked crosswalks. Many drivers don’t realize that the distance between two intersecting streets constitutes a crosswalk, whether marked or not.

Common pedestrian injuries include:

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

Rideshare Accidents (Uber/Lyft)

With the growth of rideshare services in the Houston-Galveston area, rideshare accidents have become more common in Santa Fe. Uber and Lyft accidents present unique insurance challenges due to the different coverage phases:

Phase	Driver Status	Coverage Available
Period 0	App off, personal use	Personal insurance only ($30K/$60K/$25K minimum in Texas)
Period 1	App on, no ride request	Contingent coverage: $50K/$100K/$25K
Period 2	Ride accepted, en route to pickup	Full commercial: $1,000,000 liability
Period 3	Passenger in vehicle	Full commercial: $1,000,000 liability

Determining which phase the driver was in at the time of the accident is crucial for maximizing your compensation. Our team knows how to navigate these complex insurance structures to ensure you receive the full compensation you’re entitled to.

Hit and Run Accidents

Hit and run accidents are particularly frustrating because the at-fault driver flees the scene. In Texas, hit and run is a criminal offense with penalties ranging from misdemeanors to felonies depending on the severity:

Severity	Charge	Penalty
Death	2nd Degree Felony	2-20 years prison, up to $10K fine
Serious Bodily Injury	3rd Degree Felony	2-10 years prison, up to $10K fine
Minor Injury	State Jail Felony	Up to 2 years, up to $10K fine
Property Damage ≥$200	Class B Misdemeanor	Up to 180 days jail, up to $2K fine

If you’re the victim of a hit and run in Santa Fe, your own Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage can provide compensation. We’ve helped many Santa Fe clients recover compensation through UM/UIM claims after hit and run accidents.

Tesla and Autonomous Vehicle Accidents

As electric and autonomous vehicles become more common in the Houston-Galveston area, we’re seeing an increase in accidents involving these technologies. Tesla’s Autopilot system has been involved in numerous high-profile crashes, including:

• A 2016 fatality in Florida where Autopilot failed to detect a white 18-wheeler
• A 2018 crash in California that killed an Apple engineer (settled in 2024)
• A 2025 jury verdict of $240 million against Tesla for a fatal Autopilot crash

These cases often involve complex product liability claims against vehicle manufacturers. Our team has the experience to handle these sophisticated cases, including our involvement in the BP explosion litigation against a multinational corporation.

Work Zone and Construction Zone Accidents

With ongoing construction on I-45, Highway 146, and other roads in the Houston-Galveston area, work zone accidents are a growing concern. In 2024, Texas saw nearly 28,000 crashes in work zones, resulting in 215 deaths—a 12% increase from the previous year.

Work zone accidents often occur due to:

• Speeding through construction zones
• Failure to merge properly
• Confusion about lane shifts
• Distracted driving
• Poor signage or lighting

These accidents can be particularly devastating for construction workers, who are at risk of being struck by vehicles while working.

What to Do After an Accident in Santa Fe

If you’ve been injured in an accident in Santa Fe, taking the right steps immediately can protect your health and your legal rights:

In the First 24 Hours:

1. Call 911 and report the accident
2. Seek medical attention even if you feel fine—adrenaline can mask injuries
3. Document everything with photos of vehicle damage, injuries, and the scene
4. Exchange information with the other driver(s)
5. Get witness names and contact information
6. Do NOT give a recorded statement to any insurance company
7. Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate legal guidance

In the First 48 Hours:

1. Preserve all evidence (photos, videos, text messages, etc.)
2. Secure physical evidence (damaged clothing, vehicle parts, etc.)
3. Request copies of medical records from the ER or hospital
4. Note any calls from insurance companies but don’t engage with them
5. Make all social media profiles private and don’t post about the accident

In the First Week:

1. Continue documenting your injuries and medical treatment
2. Follow all doctor’s recommendations (insurance companies watch for treatment gaps)
3. Contact Attorney911 if you haven’t already—we’ll handle all insurance communications
4. Document any pressure from insurance companies or other parties

Texas Motor Vehicle Accident Laws You Need to Know

Understanding Texas law is crucial for protecting your rights after an accident in Santa Fe:

Statute of Limitations

You have 2 years from the date of your accident to file a personal injury lawsuit in Texas (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% Rule)

Texas uses a modified comparative negligence system. If you’re found to be 50% or less at fault for the accident, you can recover damages reduced by your percentage of fault. If you’re 51% or more at fault, you recover nothing.

For example:

• If you’re 20% at fault and your damages are $100,000, you recover $80,000
• If you’re 51% at fault, you recover $0

Insurance companies often try to assign maximum fault to victims to reduce their payouts. Our team knows how to counter these arguments and protect your compensation.

Texas Minimum Auto Insurance Requirements

Texas requires all drivers to carry minimum insurance coverage of $30,000 per person, $60,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 for property damage. However, these minimums are often insufficient to cover serious injuries.

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UM/UIM)

With 15.4% of Texas drivers uninsured, UM/UIM coverage is crucial. This coverage pays for your injuries when the at-fault driver has no insurance or insufficient coverage. Texas allows “stacking” of UM/UIM coverage from multiple policies.

Dram Shop Liability

Texas law allows victims of drunk driving accidents to sue bars, restaurants, and other establishments that served alcohol to obviously intoxicated patrons (Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code § 2.02). This can provide an additional source of compensation in drunk driving cases.

How Attorney911 Proves Liability in Your Santa Fe Accident Case

To win your case, we must prove that the other party was negligent and that their negligence caused your injuries. We do this by gathering and presenting compelling evidence:

Types of Evidence We Use:

1. Physical Evidence: Vehicle damage, skid marks, road conditions, damaged personal property
2. Documentary Evidence: Police reports, medical records, employment records, insurance policies
3. Electronic Evidence: ELD data from trucks, black box/EDR data, GPS/telematics, dashcam footage
4. Testimonial Evidence: Witness statements, expert testimony, medical expert opinions
5. Digital Evidence: Cell phone records, social media posts (theirs, not yours)

Our Investigation Process:

1. Scene Investigation: We visit the accident scene to document conditions and look for additional evidence
2. Witness Interviews: We locate and interview witnesses before their memories fade
3. Expert Consultation: We work with accident reconstructionists, medical experts, and other specialists
4. Evidence Preservation: We send preservation letters to all parties to prevent evidence destruction
5. Insurance Analysis: We identify all available insurance policies, including umbrella and excess coverage

Damages You Can Recover After a Santa Fe Accident

Texas law allows accident victims to recover both economic and non-economic damages:

Economic Damages (No Cap in Texas):

• 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 Except Medical Malpractice):

• Pain and suffering
• Mental anguish
• Physical impairment
• Disfigurement
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Loss of consortium (for spouses)

Punitive Damages (Capped):

Available in cases of gross negligence or malice, such as drunk driving accidents. Capped at the greater of $200,000 or (2x economic damages + 1x non-economic damages, with a $750,000 cap on the non-economic portion).

How Insurance Companies Try to Minimize Your Claim

Insurance companies are in business to make money, not to pay fair settlements. They use sophisticated tactics to minimize or deny your claim. As a former insurance defense attorney, Lupe Peña knows these tactics inside and out:

Tactic #1: Quick Contact and Recorded Statement

Within days of your accident, an insurance adjuster will contact you, often while you’re still in the hospital or on pain medication. They’ll sound friendly and helpful, but their goal is to get you to say something that can be used against you.

Common questions they ask:

• “You’re feeling better now, right?” (Hoping you’ll say yes)
• “It wasn’t that bad of an impact, was it?” (To minimize your injuries)
• “Were you distracted at all?” (To shift blame to you)

What to do: Never give a recorded statement without consulting an attorney first.

Tactic #2: Quick Settlement Offer

Within weeks of your accident, the insurance company may offer you a quick settlement—often just a few thousand dollars. This sounds good when you’re facing medical bills and lost wages, but it’s a trap.

The problem: You don’t know the full extent of your injuries yet. What seems like a minor injury could require surgery months later. Once you accept a settlement, you can’t go back for more money—even if you need additional treatment.

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

The insurance company may require you to see a doctor of their choosing for an “independent” medical exam. In reality, these doctors are hired by insurance companies to minimize your injuries.

What happens: The IME doctor will spend 10-15 minutes with you, then write a report saying your injuries aren’t as severe as your treating doctors claim. They may say:

• “Your injuries are pre-existing”
• “Your treatment has been excessive”
• “You can return to work”

How we counter: We prepare you for the exam, send your complete medical records to the IME doctor, and challenge biased reports with our own medical experts.

Tactic #4: Delay and Financial Pressure

Insurance companies know that accident victims often face mounting bills and financial pressure. They’ll delay your claim, hoping you’ll become desperate and accept a lowball offer.

Their tactics:

• “We’re still investigating your claim”
• “We’re waiting for medical records”
• “We need more information”
• Ignoring your calls and emails

How we counter: We file lawsuits to force deadlines, set depositions, and prepare for trial to show we’re serious.

Tactic #5: Surveillance and Social Media Monitoring

Insurance companies hire private investigators to follow accident victims and monitor their social media accounts. They’re looking for any activity that contradicts your injury claims.

What they monitor:

• Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter/X, LinkedIn
• Photos, videos, check-ins, comments, likes
• Posts from friends and family that mention you

What to do:

• Make all social media profiles private
• Don’t post about your accident, injuries, or activities
• Tell friends and family not to tag you in posts
• Assume everything is being monitored

Tactic #6: Comparative Fault Arguments

Insurance companies will try to assign you as much fault as possible to reduce their payout. Even small percentages can cost you thousands of dollars.

Common arguments:

• “You were speeding”
• “You weren’t paying attention”
• “You could have avoided the accident”
• “You were distracted”

How we counter: We conduct thorough investigations to prove the other party’s fault and minimize any comparative negligence arguments.

Colossus: The Software Insurance Companies Use to Value Your Claim

Most major insurance companies use a software system called Colossus to calculate claim values. This system inputs your injury codes, treatment types, and other factors to generate a recommended settlement range.

How it’s manipulated:

• Using low injury codes (“soft tissue strain” instead of “disc herniation”)
• Flagging excessive treatment
• Applying conservative treatment penalties
• Reducing value for pre-existing conditions

Why Lupe’s experience matters: He knows how to present medical records to maximize Colossus valuations and when the software’s output is artificially low.

Common Injuries from Santa Fe Accidents and Their Impact

Understanding your injuries is crucial for building a strong case. Here are some of the most common injuries we see in Santa Fe accident cases:

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

TBIs range from mild concussions to severe brain damage. Symptoms may not appear immediately and can include:

• Headaches
• Memory problems
• Mood changes
• Sleep disturbances
• Sensitivity to light and noise

In a recent case, our client suffered a brain injury with vision loss when a log dropped on him at a logging company. This case settled for multiple millions of dollars.

Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis

Spinal cord injuries can result in partial or complete paralysis. The level of injury determines the extent of paralysis:

• Cervical (neck): Quadriplegia (all four limbs affected)
• Thoracic (mid-back): Paraplegia (lower body affected)
• Lumbar (lower back): Partial paralysis of legs

These injuries often require lifetime care, with costs ranging from $2.5 million to $13 million depending on the severity.

Herniated Discs

Herniated discs in the spine can cause severe pain, numbness, and weakness. Treatment may include:

• Physical therapy
• Pain management
• Epidural steroid injections
• Surgery (microdiscectomy or spinal fusion)

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.

Amputations

Amputations can result from traumatic accidents or complications during medical treatment. Our client’s leg was injured in a car accident, and staff infections during treatment led to a partial amputation. This case settled in the millions.

Soft Tissue Injuries

Whiplash and other soft tissue injuries are common in car accidents. While they may seem minor, they can cause chronic pain and limit your ability to work or enjoy life.

Psychological Injuries

Accidents can cause significant psychological trauma, including:

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
• Anxiety and depression
• Fear of driving
• Sleep disturbances

These injuries are just as real and compensable as physical injuries.

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Santa Fe Accident Case

With so many law firms to choose from in the Houston-Galveston area, why should you trust Attorney911 with your Santa Fe accident case? Here are five reasons we stand out:

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.”

Lupe spent years working for insurance companies, learning:

• How they calculate claim values (Colossus software)
• Their settlement authority structures
• Their delay and defense tactics
• How they select IME doctors
• Their surveillance methods

Now he uses that knowledge to fight for accident victims, not against them. This insider advantage is something no other Santa Fe law firm can offer.

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. We fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.

3. Federal Court Experience

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

• Complex trucking cases (FMCSA regulations)
• Cases against out-of-state defendants
• Product liability claims (Tesla, autonomous vehicles)
• Cases with multiple defendants

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 You Deserve

At Attorney911, you’re not just a case number. You’ll work directly with Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña, not just paralegals or case managers.

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

Other client testimonials highlight our commitment to communication:

• “Melanie was excellent. She kept me informed and when she said she would call me back, she did.” – Brian Butchee
• “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 work on a contingency fee basis, which means:

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

Our fee is a percentage of your recovery, so we only get paid when you do. This aligns our interests with yours—we’re motivated to get you the maximum compensation possible.

Frequently Asked Questions About Santa Fe Accident Cases

What should I do immediately after a car accident in Santa Fe?

If you’ve been in an accident in Santa Fe:

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

Should I call the police even for a minor accident?

Yes. Always call the police after an accident in Santa Fe. Texas law requires you to report accidents that result in:

• Injury or death
• Property damage over $1,000

The police report is critical evidence for your claim.

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?

Collect the following information:

• Other driver: name, phone, address, driver’s license number, insurance information
• Vehicle: make, model, color, license plate number
• 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 Santa Fe, you can obtain the police report from:

• The responding law enforcement agency (Santa Fe Police Department or Galveston County Sheriff’s Office)
• 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 Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage can compensate you. Texas allows inter-policy stacking (combining multiple UM policies).

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

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 the 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 damages (reduced by your fault %). If 51%+ at fault, you recover nothing.

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 in negotiations.

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

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 a contingency fee basis—you pay nothing unless we win your case. If we recover compensation for you, our fee is a percentage of the recovery. You may still be responsible for court costs and case expenses regardless of outcome. Free consultation available to discuss fee structure.

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 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

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.

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.

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.

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. We hire medical experts to prove the difference.

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.

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.

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, and impact on life.

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. These cases are complex—you need an experienced attorney.

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

File a police report immediately. 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.

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 a lie. We 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 (friend, family member, Uber driver). You’re an innocent victim. The driver’s insurance covers passengers. No comparative fault issues apply to you.

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.

Santa Fe Accident Resources

Local Hospitals and Trauma Centers:

• Mainland Medical Center (Texas City): 6801 Emmett F Lowry Expy, Texas City, TX 77591
• University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) Galveston: 301 University Blvd, Galveston, TX 77555 (Level I Trauma Center)
• Clear Lake Regional Medical Center: 500 Medical Center Blvd, Webster, TX 77598

Local Law Enforcement:

• Santa Fe Police Department: 12222 Highway 6, Santa Fe, TX 77510
• Galveston County Sheriff’s Office: 601 54th St, Galveston, TX 77551

Local Courts:

• Galveston County District Courts: 600 59th St, Galveston, TX 77551
• Galveston County Justice of the Peace Courts

Santa Fe Accident Hotspots:

• Intersection of FM 1764 and FM 517
• I-45 near the Santa Fe exit
• Highway 146 between Santa Fe and Texas City
• FM 646 near Santa Fe High School
• Highway 6 near the Santa Fe Town Center

Contact Attorney911 Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a motor vehicle accident in Santa Fe, Texas, don’t wait to get the legal help you need. Evidence disappears daily, and the insurance companies are already building their case against you.

Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911) for a free, no-obligation consultation. We don’t get paid unless we win your case, so there’s no risk to you.

Our team is ready to fight for the compensation you deserve. With offices serving the entire Houston-Galveston area, we’re never far from Santa Fe. Let us handle the legal battle while you focus on your recovery.

Remember: Every day you wait, evidence disappears. Surveillance footage from nearby businesses is typically deleted within 7-30 days. Witness memories fade quickly. Don’t let the insurance company take advantage of you—call Attorney911 today.

Hablamos Español. Lupe Peña and our bilingual staff are ready to assist Spanish-speaking clients.

1-888-ATTY-911 – Your Legal Emergency Line. We answer 24/7.