Motor Vehicle Accident Attorney in Seabrook, Texas – Attorney911

Legal Emergency Lawyers™ Serving Seabrook and Chambers County

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Seabrook, Texas, you need more than just a lawyer – you need a legal emergency response team. At Attorney911, we understand that a motor vehicle accident can turn your life upside down in an instant. One moment you’re driving down NASA Road 1 or FM 518, and the next you’re dealing with injuries, insurance adjusters, and mounting medical bills.

With 251,977 people injured in Texas motor vehicle crashes in 2024 alone – that’s one person injured every 2 minutes and 5 seconds – you’re not alone in this crisis. In Chambers County and the greater Houston-Galveston area, accidents happen daily on our busy roads like I-45, SH 146, and the Gulf Freeway. When they do, you need attorneys who know the local courts, understand the insurance tactics, and have the experience to fight for maximum compensation.

Ralph Manginello, our founding attorney with 25+ years of experience, leads our team with a commitment to justice that’s earned the trust of Seabrook residents. As one client, Glenda Walker, shared: “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.”

Why Seabrook Accident Victims Choose Attorney911

We Know Insurance Companies from the Inside

What sets Attorney911 apart from other Seabrook law firms is our former insurance defense attorney, Lupe Peña. Lupe spent years working for a national defense firm, learning firsthand how large insurance companies value claims. He knows their playbook because he wrote it.

“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.”

This insider knowledge gives our Seabrook clients an unfair advantage. We anticipate the insurance company’s tactics before they deploy them, and we know how to counter their strategies to maximize your compensation.

Proven Results for Seabrook Accident Victims

Our track record speaks for itself:

Multi-million dollar settlement for a client who suffered a brain injury with vision loss when a log dropped on him at a logging company
Settled in the millions for a Seabrook client whose leg was injured in a car accident, leading to staff infections and partial amputation
Recovered millions for families facing trucking-related wrongful death cases
Significant cash settlement for a client who injured his back while lifting cargo on a ship – a case with direct relevance to our maritime community

As client Kiimarii Yup shared: “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.”

Local Knowledge of Seabrook and Chambers County

We know Seabrook’s unique accident patterns:

Highway dangers: I-45 and SH 146 see frequent accidents, especially near the Fred Hartman Bridge
Industrial traffic: Heavy truck traffic from the Port of Houston and nearby refineries
Tourist season: Increased accidents during summer months with Galveston visitors
Maritime risks: Boat accidents in Galveston Bay and Clear Lake
Work zone hazards: Construction on NASA Road 1 and FM 518

Our familiarity with Chambers County courts, local judges, and insurance adjusters gives our clients an edge in negotiations and litigation.

Common Types of Motor Vehicle Accidents in Seabrook

Car Accidents – The Most Common but Often Misunderstood

With 1 crash occurring every 57 seconds in Texas, car accidents are the most common type of motor vehicle collision in Seabrook. Whether it’s a fender-bender at the intersection of NASA Road 1 and FM 518 or a serious crash on I-45, these accidents can cause life-altering injuries.

Common causes in Seabrook:

Distracted driving (380 deaths in Texas in 2024)
Speeding on local roads and highways
Failure to yield at intersections
Running red lights
Following too closely
DUI/DWI, especially near bars and restaurants

Common injuries we see:

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

“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.”

What to do after a Seabrook car accident:

Call 911 and report the accident
Seek medical attention immediately – adrenaline masks injuries
Document everything with photos and videos
Exchange information with the other driver
Get witness names and contact information
Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 before speaking to any insurance company

Chavodrian Miles, a satisfied client, said: “Leonor got me into the doctor the same day…it only took 6 months amazing.” This kind of prompt attention and results is what sets Attorney911 apart.

Trucking Accidents – Catastrophic Consequences for Seabrook Families

With Seabrook’s proximity to the Port of Houston and major highways like I-45 and SH 146, trucking accidents are a serious concern. 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.

Why trucking accidents are more dangerous:

Trucks weigh up to 80,000 pounds compared to 4,000 pounds for a typical car
Longer stopping distances
Limited visibility
Driver fatigue
Improper loading

Federal regulations we enforce:

Hours of Service (HOS): Maximum 11 hours driving after 10 consecutive hours off-duty
30-minute break: Required after 8 hours of driving
Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs): Mandatory to track driving hours
Commercial driver BAC limit: 0.04% (half the limit for regular drivers)

Multiple liable parties in trucking cases:

The truck driver
The trucking company (for negligent hiring, training, or maintenance)
The cargo loader (for improper loading)
The vehicle manufacturer (for defective parts)
The maintenance company (for improper repairs)

Our advantage in trucking cases:

Federal court experience: Ralph Manginello is admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, where many FMCSA cases are heard
BP explosion litigation: Our involvement in this billion-dollar case shows we can take on massive corporations
Nuclear verdict capability: We reference recent Texas trucking verdicts like the $37.5 million Oncor Electric verdict and $44.1 million New Prime I-35 pileup verdict to demonstrate our leverage in negotiations

Drunk Driving Accidents – Holding All Responsible Parties Accountable

With 1,053 alcohol-impaired driving deaths in Texas in 2024 (25.37% of all fatalities), drunk driving remains a serious problem in Seabrook and Chambers County. These preventable tragedies devastate families and communities.

Texas Dram Shop Liability (TABC § 2.02):
We can hold bars, restaurants, and other establishments liable if they served alcohol to someone who was obviously intoxicated and that person then caused an accident.

Signs of obvious intoxication:

Slurred speech
Bloodshot or glassy eyes
Unsteady gait or stumbling
Impaired coordination
Aggressive or erratic behavior
Strong odor of alcohol

Potentially liable parties:

The drunk driver
Bars and nightclubs
Restaurants serving alcohol
Liquor stores
Event organizers (concerts, festivals)
Social hosts (in limited circumstances)

Why drunk driving cases often result in higher settlements:

Punitive damages are available for gross negligence
Multiple defendants increase available insurance coverage
Criminal case strengthens the civil case
Insurance cannot defend the indefensible – drunk driving is hard to justify

Our criminal defense advantage:
Ralph Manginello’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) gives us unique insight into DWI cases. We’ve successfully defended DWI cases, giving us insider knowledge of how to build strong civil cases:

DWI Case #1: Charges dismissed when we proved the police department wasn’t properly maintaining breathalyzer machines
DWI Case #2: Charges dismissed day of trial when we showed no breath or blood test was conducted and hospital notes were missing
DWI Case #3: Charges dismissed when video evidence showed our client wasn’t drunk

This criminal defense experience translates directly to stronger civil cases for drunk driving accident victims.

Motorcycle Accidents – Fighting Bias Against Riders

With 585 motorcyclist fatalities in Texas in 2024, motorcycle accidents are particularly devastating. In Chambers County and along the Gulf Coast, riders face unique risks on roads like SH 146 and FM 518.

Texas helmet law:

Required for all riders under 21
Riders 21+ may ride without a helmet if they’ve completed a safety course OR have $10,000+ in medical insurance

Common causes of motorcycle accidents in Seabrook:

Failure to yield right of way (most common cause)
Driver inattention or distraction
Unsafe lane changes
Left-turn accidents (T-bone or head-on collisions)
Speeding or reckless driving

The comparative negligence challenge:
Texas uses the 51% bar rule for comparative negligence. This means:

If you’re 50% or less at fault, you can recover damages (reduced by your percentage of fault)
If you’re 51% or more at fault, you recover NOTHING

Insurance companies always try to blame the motorcyclist. They’ll argue:

“You were speeding”
“You weren’t paying attention”
“You could have avoided the accident”
“You were lane splitting” (which is illegal in Texas)

Our advantage in motorcycle cases:
Lupe Peña’s experience as an insurance defense attorney is particularly valuable here. He knows exactly how insurance companies build comparative fault arguments against motorcyclists – because he made those arguments for years. Now he uses that knowledge to defeat those arguments and protect our clients’ rights.

Pedestrian Accidents – Protecting Seabrook’s Most Vulnerable

With 6,095 pedestrian crashes in Texas in 2024 resulting in 768 deaths, pedestrian accidents are a serious concern in Seabrook. Pedestrians account for just 1% of crashes but 19% of all roadway deaths.

Critical legal point for Seabrook pedestrians:
Pedestrians ALWAYS have the right-of-way at intersections under Texas law – even at unmarked crosswalks. Many drivers don’t know this, and insurance companies won’t tell you.

“Anytime there’s an intersection of two streets, the distance between them is a crosswalk – even if it’s unmarked.”

Common locations for pedestrian accidents in Seabrook:

Crosswalks at NASA Road 1 and FM 518
Parking lots near shopping centers
Residential areas where children play
Near schools and parks
Along SH 146 and FM 2094

Common injuries in pedestrian accidents:

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

Houston’s record pedestrian deaths:
In 2024, 119 pedestrians were killed on Houston streets – a record number. This statistic highlights the dangers pedestrians face in our region, including Seabrook.

Rideshare Accidents – Navigating the Insurance Maze

With rideshare services like Uber and Lyft operating throughout Seabrook and the Clear Lake area, rideshare accidents are becoming more common. These cases involve complex insurance issues that most attorneys don’t understand.

The rideshare insurance problem:
Insurance coverage varies dramatically depending on what the driver was doing at the time of the crash:

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

Who can be injured in rideshare accidents:

21% Riders (passengers in Uber/Lyft)
21% Drivers (Uber/Lyft drivers)
58% Third parties (other drivers, pedestrians, passengers in other vehicles)

Why these cases are complex:

Determining which phase the driver was in at the time of the accident
Identifying all available insurance policies
Navigating multiple insurance companies
Dealing with Uber/Lyft’s claims process

Our advantage in rideshare cases:
Lupe Peña’s insurance defense background gives us unique insight into how rideshare insurance works. He understands the coverage phases, knows how to identify all available insurance, and can navigate the complex claims process to maximize your recovery.

Hit and Run Accidents – When the At-Fault Driver Flees

With one hit-and-run accident occurring every 43 seconds in the United States, these cases are unfortunately common in Seabrook. When the at-fault driver flees, victims often feel helpless – but you still have options.

Texas hit and run penalties:

Severity	Charge	Penalty
Death	2nd Degree Felony	2-20 years in prison, up to $10,000 fine
Serious Bodily Injury	3rd Degree Felony	2-10 years in prison, up to $10,000 fine
Minor Injury	State Jail Felony	Up to 5 years in jail, up to $5,000 fine
Property Damage ≥$200	Class B Misdemeanor	Up to 6 months in jail, up to $2,000 fine

Your recovery options after a hit and run:

Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage: Pays for your injuries when the at-fault driver is unidentified
Underinsured Motorist (UIM) coverage: Provides additional coverage if the at-fault driver has insufficient insurance
Personal Injury Protection (PIP): Covers medical expenses regardless of fault
Collision coverage: Covers vehicle damage

Evidence preservation is critical:

Surveillance footage is typically deleted within 7-30 days
Witnesses become harder to locate as time passes
Physical evidence at the scene disappears quickly

What we do immediately in hit and run cases:

Send preservation letters to all nearby businesses to secure surveillance footage
File a police report and follow up on the investigation
Identify all available insurance policies (UM/UIM, PIP, health insurance)
Begin our own investigation to identify the at-fault driver
Handle all communications with insurance companies

Learn more about UM/UIM coverage in our video: Uninsured & Underinsured Motorists

Boat and Maritime Accidents – Unique Risks for Seabrook Residents

With Seabrook’s location on Galveston Bay and Clear Lake, boat and maritime accidents are a significant concern. Whether it’s a recreational boating accident, a commercial fishing incident, or a dockside injury, these cases involve unique laws and regulations.

Common types of maritime accidents in Seabrook:

Recreational boating collisions
Jet ski accidents
Fishing vessel incidents
Dockside injuries
Commercial shipping accidents
Cruise ship injuries (for Seabrook residents traveling to Galveston)

Unique aspects of maritime law:

Jones Act: Protects seamen injured due to employer negligence
Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act: Covers dock workers and other maritime employees
Death on the High Seas Act: Applies to fatalities occurring beyond 3 nautical miles from shore
General Maritime Law: Provides remedies for negligence, unseaworthiness, and maintenance and cure

Common injuries in maritime accidents:

Drowning and near-drowning incidents
Traumatic brain injuries from falls or collisions
Spinal cord injuries from heavy lifting or falls
Broken bones from equipment accidents
Hypothermia and exposure
Chemical exposure

“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.”

Our maritime accident experience:
With our involvement in BP explosion litigation and our experience handling maritime injury cases, we have the expertise to navigate the complex world of maritime law. Whether you’re a recreational boater, a commercial fisherman, or a dock worker, we can help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.

What to Do Immediately After an Accident in Seabrook

The 48-Hour Evidence Preservation Protocol

HOUR 1-6 (Immediate Crisis Response):

✅ Safety First: If you can move safely, get to a secure location away from traffic. In Seabrook, this might mean moving to the shoulder of NASA Road 1 or finding a safe spot near a business on FM 518.

✅ Call 911: Report the accident and request medical assistance if anyone is injured. In Seabrook, emergency responders will typically arrive from the Seabrook Fire Department or the Seabrook Police Department.

✅ Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, get checked out immediately. Adrenaline masks injuries, and some serious conditions like traumatic brain injuries or internal bleeding may not show symptoms right away. In Seabrook, you can go to:

Houston Methodist St. John Hospital (18300 St. John Dr, Nassau Bay, TX 77058)
Clear Lake Regional Medical Center (500 Medical Center Blvd, Webster, TX 77598)
For serious injuries, you may be transported to Memorial Hermann-Texas Medical Center or Ben Taub Hospital in Houston

✅ Document Everything:

Take photos of ALL vehicle damage from multiple angles
Photograph the accident scene, including road conditions, traffic signals, and skid marks
Take photos of visible injuries
Screenshot any messages visible on your phone (do NOT delete anything)
In Seabrook, pay special attention to documenting:
- Water conditions if the accident occurred near the bay
- Industrial traffic if near refineries or the port
- Construction zones on NASA Road 1 or FM 518

✅ Exchange Information:

Other driver’s full name, phone number, and address
Insurance company name and policy number
Driver’s license number
License plate number
Vehicle make, model, and color

✅ Witnesses:

Get names and phone numbers of any witnesses
Ask if they saw what happened
Record their statements if possible using your phone
In Seabrook, witnesses might include:
- Other drivers
- Pedestrians
- Business owners or employees
- Dock workers if near the water

✅ Call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate legal guidance before speaking to ANY insurance company

HOUR 6-24 (Evidence Preservation):

✅ Digital Preservation:

Preserve all texts, calls, photos, videos related to the accident
Do NOT delete anything from your phone
Screenshot everything relevant
Email copies to yourself for backup

✅ Physical Evidence:

Secure damaged clothing, glasses, personal items
Keep receipts for any expenses (towing, rental car, medications)
Do NOT repair your vehicle yet – preserve the damage
In Seabrook, you might need to:
- Get your vehicle towed to a secure location
- Preserve any maritime equipment if it’s a boat accident
- Document any water damage or environmental factors

✅ Medical Records:

Request copies of all ER/hospital records
Keep all discharge paperwork
Follow up with your primary care physician within 24-48 hours
In Seabrook, consider seeing:
- Your regular doctor
- A specialist (orthopedist, neurologist) if recommended
- A physical therapist for ongoing treatment

✅ Insurance Communications:

Note any calls from insurance companies
Do NOT give recorded statements yet
Do NOT sign anything
Do NOT accept any settlement offers
Say: “I need to speak with my attorney first”

✅ Social Media:

Make ALL profiles private immediately
Do NOT post about the accident
Do NOT post photos of injuries or activities
Tell friends and family not to tag you in posts
Remember: Insurance companies monitor social media to find reasons to deny your claim

HOUR 24-48 (Strategic Decisions):

✅ Legal Consultation:

Speak with an experienced motor vehicle accident attorney
Call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation
Have your documentation ready

✅ 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

✅ Settlement Offers:

Do NOT accept or sign anything without lawyer review
Early offers are ALWAYS lowball offers
You don’t know the extent of your injuries yet

✅ 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:

✅ Medical Follow-Up:

Continue documenting all injuries
See specialists if recommended
Follow ALL doctor recommendations (insurance companies watch for gaps in treatment)
Get written work restrictions if needed

✅ Investigation Begins:

Attorney obtains police report
Preservation letters sent to all parties
Surveillance footage secured before deletion
Witness statements recorded

✅ Communication:

Attorney handles ALL insurance communication
You focus on recovery
Document any pressure from insurance or other parties

Why Evidence Disappears So Quickly in Seabrook

The Evidence Deterioration Timeline

Day 1-7:

Witness memories peak but begin fading immediately
Details become uncertain or forgotten
Physical evidence: Skid marks fade, debris is cleared, accident scene is cleaned
In Seabrook, road crews and port authorities may quickly clean up accident scenes

Day 7-30:

Surveillance footage DELETED:
- Gas stations: 7-14 days typical
- Retail stores: 30 days typical
- Ring doorbells: 30-60 days
- Traffic cameras: 30 days
- Once deleted = GONE FOREVER – cannot be recovered
Witnesses: Change jobs, move, become unreachable
Scene changes: Road repairs, new striping, traffic signals adjusted

Month 1-2:

Insurance companies solidify their defense position
Adjusters have built their file against you
Settlement position hardens
Vehicle repairs: Evidence from vehicles is destroyed once repairs are made

Month 2-6:

Trucking electronic data DELETED:
- ELD (Electronic Logging Device) data: 30-180 days retention
- Black box data: Can be automatically overwritten
- GPS/telematics: Varies by company
Cell phone records: Harder to obtain as time passes
Social media: Posts deleted, accounts deactivated

Month 6-12:

Witnesses: Graduate, move away, memory severely degraded
Medical evidence: Harder to link injuries to the accident
Treatment gaps: Used against you by insurance companies
Financial desperation: Mounting bills make you vulnerable to lowball offers

Month 12-24:

Approaching the statute of limitations
Creates pressure to settle (insurance companies know you’re desperate)
Evidence is severely degraded
Case value is diminished

How Attorney911 Preserves Evidence

Within 24 hours of being retained, we send preservation letters to:

Other driver and their insurance company
Trucking companies (for commercial vehicle accidents)
Businesses near the scene (for surveillance footage)
Employers (if the accident was work-related)
Property owners (for security camera footage)
Government entities (for traffic camera footage)
Vehicle manufacturers (for black box/EDR data)
Rideshare companies (for driver status and GPS data)

These letters LEGALLY REQUIRE evidence preservation before automatic deletion.

Texas Motor Vehicle Law: What Seabrook Accident Victims Need to Know

Statute of Limitations – The Absolute Deadline

Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code § 16.003

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

Exceptions:

Discovery Rule: Statute may start later if injury/cause wasn’t immediately discoverable
Defendant Absence: Tolled if defendant leaves Texas
Mental Incapacity: Tolled during incapacity

CRITICAL: Miss the deadline and your case is BARRED FOREVER. You cannot file a lawsuit, and you cannot recover any compensation.

Comparative Negligence – The 51% Bar Rule

Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code § 33.001

Texas uses modified comparative negligence with a 51% bar:

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

Examples:

Your Fault %	Case Value	Your Recovery
0%	$100,000	$100,000
10%	$100,000	$90,000
25%	$250,000	$187,500
40%	$500,000	$300,000
50%	$500,000	$250,000
51%	$500,000	$0

Why this matters in Seabrook:
Insurance companies always try to assign maximum fault to you to reduce their payment. Even small fault percentages cost you thousands:

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

Lupe’s insider knowledge helps counter these arguments because he made them for years as an insurance defense attorney.

Texas Minimum Auto Insurance Requirements

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

Uninsured Motorist Statistics:

15.4% of Texas drivers are uninsured (approximately 1 in 7 drivers)
UM/UIM coverage is critical for protecting yourself
Texas allows inter-policy stacking (combining coverage from multiple vehicles)

Dram Shop Liability – Holding Establishments Accountable

Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code § 2.02

Elements to prove:

The establishment served alcohol to someone who was obviously intoxicated
The over-service was the proximate cause of the accident and damages

Signs of obvious intoxication:

Slurred speech
Bloodshot or glassy eyes
Unsteady gait or stumbling
Impaired coordination
Aggressive or erratic behavior
Strong odor of alcohol
Difficulty standing or walking
Making inappropriate comments

Potentially liable parties in Seabrook:

Bars and nightclubs
Restaurants serving alcohol
Liquor stores
Event organizers (concerts, festivals)
Hotels with bars or room service
Social hosts (in limited circumstances)

Why this matters for Seabrook:
With numerous bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues in the Clear Lake area, dram shop liability is an important consideration in drunk driving cases. Establishments along NASA Road 1, FM 518, and in the Kemah Boardwalk area may be held accountable if they over-serve patrons who then cause accidents.

Proving Liability: Building a Strong Case for Seabrook Accident Victims

To win your motor vehicle accident case in Texas, you must prove four elements of negligence:

1. Duty of Care

All drivers have a legal duty to operate their vehicles safely. This includes:

Obeying traffic laws
Maintaining a proper lookout
Controlling speed
Adapting to road conditions

Special duties in Seabrook:

Commercial drivers have heightened duties under FMCSA regulations
Boat operators must follow maritime safety rules
Property owners must maintain safe premises (important for parking lot accidents)

2. Breach of Duty

The at-fault party violated their duty of care through:

Speeding
Running red lights or stop signs
Distracted driving (texting, using phone)
Driving under the influence
Failure to yield
Unsafe lane changes
Following too closely
Failure to maintain vehicle (bald tires, broken lights)

3. Causation

The breach of duty directly caused your injuries. This includes:

But-for test: But for the defendant’s actions, you would not have been injured
Proximate cause: The injuries were a foreseeable result of the negligent conduct

4. Damages

You suffered actual harm, which can include:

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

Types of Evidence We Gather for Seabrook Cases

Physical Evidence

Vehicle damage photographs (all angles)
Skid marks, debris, and road damage
Damaged personal property (clothing, glasses, phone)
Weather and road conditions at the time of the accident
In Seabrook, we also look for:
- Water conditions for maritime accidents
- Industrial equipment for workplace accidents
- Construction zone signage for work zone accidents

Documentary Evidence

Police accident report
911 call recordings
Traffic camera footage
Surveillance footage from nearby businesses
Medical records and bills
Employment records (for lost wage claims)
Cell phone records (to prove distraction)
Insurance policies

Electronic Evidence

ELD (Electronic Logging Device) data from commercial trucks
Vehicle black box/EDR (Event Data Recorder) for speed, braking, and impact data
GPS and telematics data from vehicles and smartphones
Dashcam footage from your vehicle or other vehicles
Social media posts (theirs, not yours – we never recommend posting about your case)

Testimonial Evidence

Witness statements
Expert witness testimony
Medical expert opinions
Accident reconstruction analysis
Economic expert testimony

Multiple Liable Parties – Increasing Your Recovery

In many Seabrook accidents, more than one party may be responsible:

Trucking accidents may involve:

The truck driver (for negligent operation)
The trucking company (for negligent hiring, training, or maintenance)
The cargo loader (for improper loading)
The vehicle manufacturer (for defective parts)
The maintenance company (for improper repairs)

Rideshare accidents may involve:

The rideshare driver
The rideshare company (Uber/Lyft)
Other at-fault drivers
The vehicle owner (if different from the driver)

Drunk driving accidents may involve:

The drunk driver
Bars or restaurants (dram shop liability)
Social hosts (in limited circumstances)
Liquor stores

Maritime accidents may involve:

The boat operator
The boat owner
The employer (for Jones Act cases)
The manufacturer (for defective equipment)
The dock owner (for premises liability)

More liable parties = more insurance policies = higher potential recovery.

Damages You Can Recover After a Seabrook Accident

Economic Damages (No Cap in Texas)

Damage Type	What It Covers	Examples for Seabrook Victims
Medical Expenses (Past)	Costs already incurred	ER visits, hospital stays, surgeries, doctor visits, physical therapy, medications, medical equipment
Medical Expenses (Future)	Estimated future costs	Ongoing treatment, future surgeries, lifetime medications, long-term care
Lost Wages (Past)	Income lost from date of accident to present	Time off work for medical appointments, recovery time, temporary disability
Lost Earning Capacity (Future)	Reduced ability to earn income in the future	Permanent disability, career change, reduced work hours
Property Damage	Repair or replacement of damaged property	Vehicle repair or replacement, personal property inside vehicle, damaged clothing or electronics
Out-of-Pocket Expenses	Other accident-related costs	Transportation to medical appointments, home modifications, household help, childcare

Non-Economic Damages (No Cap in Texas, except medical malpractice)

Damage Type	What It Covers	Examples for Seabrook Victims
Pain and Suffering	Physical pain from injuries	Chronic pain, discomfort, limitations on daily activities
Mental Anguish	Emotional distress	Anxiety, depression, fear, PTSD, sleep disturbances
Physical Impairment	Loss of physical function	Disability, limitations on mobility, inability to perform certain activities
Disfigurement	Permanent visible injuries	Scarring, burns, amputations, other visible injuries
Loss of Consortium	Impact on marriage/family	Loss of companionship, affection, support, intimacy
Loss of Enjoyment of Life	Inability to participate in activities	Hobbies, sports, travel, family activities, social events

Punitive/Exemplary Damages (Capped in Texas)

Available for gross negligence, fraud, or malice, including:

Drunk driving accidents
Extreme speeding
Reckless driving
Knowing violations of safety regulations

Cap in Texas:
The greater of:

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

Purpose: To punish the defendant and deter similar conduct.

Settlement Ranges for Common Injuries in Seabrook

Soft Tissue Injuries (Whiplash, Sprains, Strains)

Medical Treatment:

Emergency room: $2,000-$5,000
Follow-up doctor visits: $1,000-$3,000
Physical therapy (6-12 weeks): $3,000-$7,000
Medications: $300-$1,000
Total Medical: $6,000-$16,000

Lost Wages: $2,000-$10,000 (2-6 weeks missed work)
Pain & Suffering: $8,000-$35,000

SETTLEMENT RANGE: $15,000-$60,000
Higher if: Permanent pain, restrictions on activities, chronic condition develops

Broken Bone (Single, Simple Fracture)

Medical Treatment:

Emergency room and X-rays: $3,000-$6,000
Orthopedic consultation: $500-$1,500
Casting and follow-up: $2,000-$5,000
Physical therapy: $3,000-$8,000
Total Medical: $10,000-$20,000

Lost Wages: $5,000-$15,000 (4-8 weeks missed work)
Pain & Suffering: $20,000-$60,000

SETTLEMENT RANGE: $35,000-$95,000

Broken Bone (Requiring Surgery – ORIF)

Medical Treatment:

Emergency room: $5,000-$10,000
Surgery (Open Reduction Internal Fixation): $25,000-$50,000
Hospital stay (2-3 days): $6,000-$15,000
Follow-up care: $3,000-$8,000
Physical therapy (3-6 months): $8,000-$15,000
Total Medical: $47,000-$98,000

Lost Wages: $10,000-$30,000 (3-6 months)
Pain & Suffering: $75,000-$200,000

SETTLEMENT RANGE: $132,000-$328,000

Herniated Disc (Conservative Treatment)

Medical Treatment:

Emergency room and initial treatment: $3,000-$6,000
MRI: $2,000-$4,000
Physician visits and pain management: $5,000-$12,000
Physical therapy (3-6 months): $8,000-$15,000
Epidural steroid injections (series of 3): $3,000-$6,000
Medications: $1,000-$3,000
Total Medical: $22,000-$46,000

Lost Wages: $8,000-$25,000
Pain & Suffering: $40,000-$100,000

SETTLEMENT RANGE: $70,000-$171,000

Herniated Disc (Surgery Required)

Medical Treatment:

Initial treatment and diagnostics: $8,000-$15,000
Failed conservative treatment: $10,000-$20,000
Spinal surgery (microdiscectomy or fusion): $50,000-$100,000
Hospital stay: $8,000-$20,000
Post-surgical care and follow-up: $5,000-$15,000
Physical therapy (6-12 months): $10,000-$20,000
Pain management: $5,000-$15,000
Total Past Medical: $96,000-$205,000

Future Medical: $30,000-$100,000 (ongoing pain management, possible revision surgery)
Lost Wages: $20,000-$50,000 (6-12 months recovery)
Lost Earning Capacity: $50,000-$400,000 (if unable to return to physical job)
Pain & Suffering: $150,000-$450,000

SETTLEMENT RANGE: $346,000-$1,205,000

Traumatic Brain Injury (Moderate to Severe)

Medical Treatment:

Emergency room and trauma care: $10,000-$30,000
Hospital/ICU stay (1-4 weeks): $50,000-$200,000
Neurosurgery if required: $75,000-$200,000
Acute rehabilitation facility: $30,000-$100,000
Neurologist follow-up care: $10,000-$30,000
Neuropsychological testing: $3,000-$8,000
Cognitive therapy: $15,000-$50,000
Medications: $5,000-$20,000
Total Past Medical: $198,000-$638,000

Future Medical (Life Care Plan): $300,000-$3,000,000+ depending on severity
Lost Wages: $50,000-$200,000
Lost Earning Capacity: $500,000-$3,000,000+
Pain & Suffering: $500,000-$3,000,000+

SETTLEMENT RANGE: $1,548,000-$9,838,000

Attorney911 Documented Result:

“Multi-million dollar settlement for client who suffered brain injury with vision loss when log dropped on him at logging company”

Spinal Cord Injury / Paralysis

Lifetime Care Costs by Level:

Injury Level	First Year	Each Year After	Lifetime Total
High Tetraplegia (C1-C4)	$1,200,000-$1,500,000	$200,000-$250,000	$6,000,000-$13,000,000+
Low Tetraplegia (C5-C8)	$850,000-$1,100,000	$75,000-$100,000	$3,700,000-$6,100,000+
Paraplegia (T1-L5)	$500,000-$750,000	$70,000-$90,000	$2,500,000-$5,250,000+

SETTLEMENT RANGE: $4,770,000-$25,880,000

Amputation

Medical Treatment:

Emergency care and surgery: $80,000-$200,000
Hospital stay: $50,000-$150,000
Rehabilitation: $30,000-$100,000
Initial prosthetic fitting: $10,000-$30,000
Total Past Medical: $170,000-$480,000

Future Medical (Lifetime Prosthetics):

Basic prosthetic leg: $5,000-$15,000 every 3-5 years
Advanced computerized prosthetic: $50,000-$100,000 every 3-5 years
Over lifetime (30-50 years): $500,000-$2,000,000

SETTLEMENT RANGE: $1,945,000-$8,630,000

Attorney911 Documented Result:

“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”

Wrongful Death (Working Age Adult)

Economic Damages:

Funeral and burial: $10,000-$20,000
Medical expenses before death: $50,000-$500,000
Lost financial support to family (present value): $1,000,000-$4,000,000

Non-Economic Damages:

Loss of companionship, society, love: $500,000-$3,000,000
Loss of advice and counsel: $100,000-$500,000
Mental anguish (family members): $250,000-$1,500,000

SETTLEMENT RANGE: $1,910,000-$9,520,000

Attorney911 Documented Result:

“At Attorney911, our personal injury attorneys have helped numerous injured individuals and families facing trucking-related wrongful death cases recover millions