Motor Vehicle Accident Lawyers in Driscoll, Texas | Attorney911
If You’ve Been Injured in a Car Accident in Driscoll, Texas, We’re Here to Fight for You
Every 57 seconds, another motor vehicle crash occurs on Texas roads. In 2024 alone, 251,977 people were injured in Texas car accidents – that’s one person injured every 2 minutes and 5 seconds. If you’re reading this after an accident in Driscoll, Nueces County, or anywhere in South Texas, you’re not alone. The experienced attorneys at Attorney911 understand the physical pain, emotional stress, and financial uncertainty you’re facing. With Ralph Manginello’s 25+ years of experience handling motor vehicle accident cases across Texas, our firm has the expertise to fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.
Driscoll and the surrounding Nueces County area see more than their share of serious accidents. Whether you were injured on I-37, FM 665, or any of the busy roads connecting Corpus Christi to the rural communities of South Texas, we know the local courts, judges, and insurance adjusters who handle these cases. Our team has recovered millions for accident victims just like you, including multi-million dollar settlements for catastrophic injuries. When you call 1-888-ATTY-911, you’re not just calling a law firm – you’re calling your neighbors who are ready to fight for you.
Why Driscoll Accident Victims Choose Attorney911
At Attorney911, we don’t just handle car accident cases – we specialize in fighting insurance companies who try to minimize your injuries and lowball your claim. Our unique advantage? Lupe Peña, our associate attorney, spent years working for a national insurance defense firm. He knows exactly how insurance companies value claims because he used to calculate them himself. Now, he uses that insider knowledge to fight for victims like you.
This advantage is particularly important in Driscoll and Nueces County, where insurance companies often try to take advantage of accident victims who don’t have experienced legal representation. They know that without an attorney, many victims will accept quick settlements that don’t cover their long-term medical needs or lost wages. But with Lupe’s defense background and Ralph’s 25+ years of trial experience, we know how to counter their tactics and fight for what your case is truly worth.
Comprehensive Motor Vehicle Accident Coverage for Driscoll and Nueces County
Car Accidents in Driscoll, Texas
Car accidents are the most common type of motor vehicle collision in Driscoll and throughout Nueces County. In 2024, Texas saw 251,977 people injured in car crashes, with accidents happening every 57 seconds. Common causes in our area include:
- Distracted driving (especially on FM 665 and rural roads)
- Speeding (a major factor on I-37 and US-77)
- Failure to yield at intersections
- Drunk driving (particularly on weekends)
- Following too closely (common on busy Corpus Christi commuter routes)
Common injuries we see in Driscoll car accident cases include:
- 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.” – Attorney911 Case Result
One of our clients, Chavodrian Miles, shared: “Leonor got me into the doctor the same day…it only took 6 months amazing.” This level of personal attention and fast results is what sets Attorney911 apart from high-volume settlement mills.
18-Wheeler and Trucking Accidents
Driscoll sits along major trucking corridors including I-37, US-77, and FM 665, making trucking accidents a serious concern in our community. 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.
The size disparity between an 80,000-pound 18-wheeler and a 4,000-pound passenger car means trucking accidents often result in catastrophic injuries. Common causes in the Driscoll area include:
- Driver fatigue (violating FMCSA Hours of Service rules)
- Improper maintenance (brakes, tires, lights)
- Overloaded or improperly secured cargo
- Distracted driving (especially with electronic logging devices)
- Aggressive driving and speeding
- Failure to yield right of way
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations govern trucking operations, including:
- 11-hour driving limit after 10 consecutive hours off-duty
- 14-hour on-duty window
- 30-minute break after 8 hours of driving
- 60/70-hour weekly limits
- Electronic Logging Device (ELD) requirements
“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.” – Attorney911 Case Result
Our firm’s experience with complex litigation, including our involvement in BP explosion cases, gives us the capability to take on trucking companies and their insurance carriers. Ralph Manginello’s admission to federal court in the Southern District of Texas is particularly valuable for trucking cases, as many involve federal regulations and interstate commerce.
Drunk Driving Accidents
In 2024, Texas saw 1,053 alcohol-impaired driving deaths, accounting for 25.37% of all traffic fatalities. Drunk driving remains a serious problem in Nueces County and throughout South Texas, with bars and restaurants along FM 665 and in nearby Corpus Christi sometimes over-serving patrons.
Texas has strong dram shop laws (Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code § 2.02) that allow victims to sue establishments that serve obviously intoxicated patrons who then cause accidents. Signs of obvious intoxication include:
- Slurred speech
- Bloodshot or glassy eyes
- Unsteady gait or stumbling
- Impaired coordination
- Aggressive or erratic behavior
- Strong odor of alcohol
Potentially liable parties include:
- Bars and nightclubs
- Restaurants serving alcohol
- Liquor stores
- Event organizers
- Social hosts (in limited circumstances)
Attorney911 has successfully handled three DWI cases that were dismissed due to our thorough investigation:
- Breathalyzer machine improperly maintained – case dismissed
- No breath/blood test, missing hospital notes – dismissed day of trial
- Video evidence showed client not drunk – case dismissed
Ralph Manginello’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) gives us unique capability in handling drunk driving cases that involve both civil and criminal components.
Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents are particularly dangerous, with 585 motorcyclist fatalities in Texas in 2024. Riders face unique risks on Driscoll roads, especially at intersections and on rural highways like FM 665. Common causes include:
- Failure to yield right of way (most common cause)
- Driver inattention/distraction
- Unsafe lane changes
- Left-turn accidents
- Speeding/reckless driving
Texas law requires helmets for riders under 21 and those over 21 who haven’t completed a safety course or don’t have $10,000+ in medical insurance. However, even with helmets, motorcycle accidents often result in severe injuries including:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Road rash and severe abrasions
- Broken bones and fractures
- Internal injuries
Insurance companies often try to blame motorcyclists using Texas’ 51% comparative fault rule. Lupe Peña’s experience making these arguments for insurance companies now gives us the advantage in countering them.
Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents are particularly dangerous, with 768 pedestrian fatalities in Texas in 2024. Pedestrians account for only 1% of crashes but 19% of all roadway deaths. In Corpus Christi and surrounding areas, we see many pedestrian accidents near:
- School zones
- Busy intersections
- Parking lots
- Residential areas
Important legal point: Pedestrians ALWAYS have the right-of-way at intersections in Texas – even at unmarked crosswalks. Many drivers don’t know this, and insurance companies won’t tell you.
Common pedestrian injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Broken pelvis and legs
- Internal organ damage
- Fatalities
Rideshare Accidents (Uber/Lyft)
Rideshare accidents have become increasingly common in Driscoll and Nueces County as services like Uber and Lyft expand. The insurance coverage available depends on what the driver was doing at the time of the accident:
| Phase | Driver Status | Coverage Available |
|---|---|---|
| Period 0 – Offline | App off, personal use | Personal insurance only ($30K/$60K/$25K minimum) |
| Period 1 – Waiting | App on, no ride request | $50K/$100K/$25K contingent coverage |
| Period 2 – Accepted | Ride accepted, en route to pickup | $1,000,000 liability coverage |
| Period 3 – Transporting | Passenger in vehicle | $1,000,000 liability coverage |
This complexity is why having an attorney with insurance expertise is crucial. Lupe Peña’s background working for insurance companies gives us the knowledge to navigate these coverage phases and maximize your recovery.
Hit and Run Accidents
Hit and run accidents are particularly frustrating, with one occurring every 43 seconds nationally. In Texas, hit and run penalties are severe:
| 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 5 years, up to $5K fine |
| Property Damage ≥$200 | Class B Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months jail, up to $2K fine |
If you’re the victim of a hit and run in Driscoll or Nueces County, your own Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage can compensate you. We’ve helped many clients recover through UM claims when the at-fault driver couldn’t be identified.
Additional Accident Types We Handle
- Bicycle Accidents: 78 cyclist fatalities in Texas in 2024, with many more serious injuries
- Bus Accidents: 1,110 bus accidents in Texas in 2024, including school buses
- Work Zone Accidents: Nearly 28,000 crashes in Texas work zones in 2024
- Wrongful Death: When accidents result in fatalities, we help families pursue justice
- Delivery Vehicle Accidents: Increasing with the growth of Amazon, FedEx, and food delivery services
- Tesla/Autopilot Accidents: Emerging area of product liability law
What to Do Immediately After an Accident in Driscoll, Texas
48-Hour Immediate Action Protocol
Hour 1-6 (Immediate Crisis):
- Call 911 and report the accident
- Seek medical attention even if you feel fine (adrenaline masks injuries)
- Document everything: photos of all vehicle damage, injuries, scene, road conditions
- Exchange information with other driver(s)
- Get witness names and phone numbers
- Call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate legal guidance
Hour 6-24 (Evidence Preservation):
- Preserve all digital evidence (texts, calls, photos, videos)
- Secure physical evidence (damaged clothing, personal items)
- Request copies of medical records
- Do NOT give recorded statements to any insurance company
- Do NOT sign anything without attorney review
Hour 24-48 (Strategic Decisions):
- Consult with an experienced motor vehicle accident attorney
- If insurance contacts you, refer them to your attorney
- Do NOT accept settlement offers before knowing full extent of injuries
- Backup all evidence to cloud storage
Evidence Deterioration Timeline
| Timeframe | What Disappears |
|---|---|
| Day 1-7 | Witness memories fade, scene evidence cleared |
| Day 7-30 | Surveillance footage deleted (gas stations: 7-14 days, retail: 30 days) |
| Month 1-2 | Insurance companies solidify defense position |
| Month 2-6 | ELD/black box data overwritten (30-180 days) |
| Month 6-12 | Witnesses become unreachable, memories degrade |
| Month 12-24 | Approaching statute of limitations deadline |
“Every day you wait, evidence disappears. Surveillance footage from nearby businesses is typically deleted within 7-30 days. We immediately send preservation letters to secure this critical evidence.” – Attorney911
Texas Motor Vehicle Accident Law Framework
Statute of Limitations
Texas has strict deadlines for filing lawsuits:
| 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 |
Miss this deadline and your case is barred forever.
Comparative Negligence (51% Bar Rule)
Texas uses modified comparative negligence. 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.
| Your Fault % | Case Value | Your Recovery |
|---|---|---|
| 0% | $100,000 | $100,000 |
| 10% | $100,000 | $90,000 |
| 25% | $250,000 | $187,500 |
| 40% | $500,000 | $300,000 |
| 50% | $500,000 | $250,000 |
| 51% | $500,000 | $0 |
Insurance companies always try to assign maximum fault to you. Lupe Peña’s experience making these arguments for insurance companies now helps us counter them effectively.
Texas Minimum Auto Insurance Requirements
| Coverage | Minimum Required |
|---|---|
| Bodily Injury – Per Person | $30,000 |
| Bodily Injury – Per Accident | $60,000 |
| Property Damage – Per Accident | $25,000 |
Uninsured Motorist Statistics:
- 15.4% of US motorists are uninsured (approximately 1 in 7 drivers)
- UM/UIM coverage is critical for protection
- Texas allows inter-policy stacking
Proving Liability and Building Your Case
To win your case, we must prove four elements of negligence:
- Duty of Care: All drivers have a legal duty to operate vehicles safely
- Breach of Duty: The at-fault driver violated their duty of care
- Causation: The breach directly caused your injuries
- Damages: You suffered actual harm (physical, financial, emotional)
Evidence We Collect:
- Police accident reports
- Witness statements
- Photographs and videos
- Medical records
- Electronic data (black boxes, ELDs)
- Surveillance footage
- Expert testimony
Damages and Compensation in Texas
Types of Damages You Can Recover:
Economic Damages (No Cap in Texas):
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost wages and earning capacity
- Property damage
- Out-of-pocket expenses
Non-Economic Damages (No Cap Except Medical Malpractice):
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
- Physical impairment
- Disfigurement
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Loss of consortium
Punitive/Exemplary Damages (Capped):
- Available for gross negligence, fraud, or malice
- Cap: Greater of $200,000 OR (2x economic + 1x non-economic max $750,000)
Settlement Ranges by Injury Type:
| Injury Type | Settlement Range |
|---|---|
| Soft Tissue (Whiplash) | $15,000-$60,000 |
| Broken Bone (Simple) | $35,000-$95,000 |
| Broken Bone (Surgery) | $132,000-$328,000 |
| Herniated Disc (Conservative) | $70,000-$171,000 |
| Herniated Disc (Surgery) | $346,000-$1,205,000 |
| Traumatic Brain Injury | $1,548,000-$9,838,000 |
| Spinal Cord Injury | $4,770,000-$25,880,000 |
| Amputation | $1,945,000-$8,630,000 |
| Wrongful Death | $1,910,000-$9,520,000 |
Insurance Company Tactics Exposed
Insurance companies are not on your side. Lupe Peña spent years working for a national insurance defense firm, learning their tactics firsthand. Now, he uses that knowledge to fight for victims like you.
Tactic #1: Quick Contact & Recorded Statement
What They Do:
- Contact you within days of the accident
- Act friendly and helpful
- Ask you to give a recorded statement
What They’re Really Doing:
- Building their defense against you
- Asking leading questions designed to minimize your injuries
- Documenting everything to use against you later
How We Counter:
- Never give a recorded statement without us
- We become your voice
- We prepare you properly if a statement becomes necessary
Tactic #2: Quick Settlement Offer
What They Do:
- Offer quick money within weeks of the accident
- Create artificial urgency (“offer expires in 48 hours”)
- Pressure you to accept
The Trap:
- You don’t know the full extent of your injuries yet
- Early offers are always lowball offers
- Once you sign a release, you can’t get more money even if you need surgery later
How We Counter:
- Never settle before Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI)
- We know offers are always 10-20% of true value
- Lupe calculated these lowball offers for years – he knows how to counter them
Tactic #3: “Independent” Medical Exam (IME)
What They Call It:
“Independent Medical Examination”
What It Really Is:
An insurance company hired doctor to minimize your injuries
How They Choose IME Doctors:
- Based on who gives insurance-favorable reports
- Doctors who consistently find “no injury” or “pre-existing condition”
- Doctors paid thousands by insurance companies
Common IME Findings:
- “Patient has pre-existing degenerative changes”
- “Injuries consistent with minor trauma”
- “Patient can return to full duty work”
- “Treatment has been excessive”
- “Subjective complaints out of proportion to objective findings”
How We Counter:
- We prepare you extensively before the exam
- We send complete medical records to the IME doctor first
- We challenge biased IME reports with our own medical experts
- Lupe knows these specific doctors and their biases
Tactic #4: Delay and Financial Pressure
What They Do:
- “Still investigating your claim”
- “Waiting for medical records”
- “Reviewing your file”
- Ignore calls and emails
Why It Works:
- They have unlimited time and resources
- You have mounting bills and financial pressure
- Desperation makes you accept less
How We Counter:
- We file lawsuits to force deadlines
- We set depositions to make them produce witnesses
- We prepare for trial to show we’re serious
- Lupe understands delay tactics because he used them
Tactic #5: Surveillance and Social Media Monitoring
What They Do:
- Hire private investigators to video you
- Monitor all your social media accounts
- Look for any activity that contradicts your injury claims
What They Monitor:
- Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, Twitter, YouTube, Snapchat
- Photos, posts, check-ins, comments, likes, tagged photos
- Friends’ profiles for posts mentioning you
Examples We’ve Defended:
- Old gym photo from 3 years ago presented as recent
- Restaurant check-in used to claim “partying and having fun”
- Friend’s comment “Had fun yesterday!” used as evidence
- Video of client walking dog slowly used to claim “not disabled”
- Family photo of client smiling used to claim “not in pain”
7 Rules for Clients:
- Make all profiles private immediately
- Don’t post about accident, injuries, or activities
- Don’t check in anywhere
- Tell friends/family: don’t tag, don’t post about you
- Don’t accept friend requests from strangers
- Stay off social media entirely during your case
- Assume everything is being monitored
“I’ve reviewed hundreds of surveillance videos and social media posts as defense attorney. Here’s the truth: Insurance companies take innocent activity out of context. They freeze ONE frame of you moving ‘normally’ and ignore the 10 minutes of you struggling before and after. They’re not documenting your life – they’re building ammunition against you.” – Lupe Peña
Tactic #6: Comparative Fault Arguments
What They Do:
- Try to assign you maximum fault
- “You were speeding” (without evidence)
- “You weren’t paying attention”
- “You could have avoided this”
- “You contributed to this accident”
Why They Do This:
Texas’ 51% bar rule means:
- If you’re 51%+ at fault → You get NOTHING
- If you’re 50% or less at fault → Your damages reduced by your percentage
How We Counter:
- Aggressive liability investigation
- Accident reconstruction proving other driver’s fault
- Witness statements supporting your version
- Police report analysis
- Lupe knows their fault arguments because he made them for years
Colossus Claim Valuation Software
Insurance companies use software called Colossus to calculate the minimum they can pay you. Lupe Peña used this system when he worked for insurance companies.
How Colossus Works:
- Adjuster inputs injury codes, treatment, costs
- Software applies algorithms
- System outputs recommended settlement range
- Adjuster typically cannot exceed without approval
How They Manipulate Colossus:
- Use low injury codes (“soft tissue strain” instead of “disc herniation”)
- Flag excessive treatment to reduce value
- Penalize conservative treatment (chiropractic valued less than MD)
- Use pre-existing conditions to reduce value
- Apply low jurisdiction factors
Why Lupe’s Experience Matters:
- Knows how to code injuries properly for maximum value
- Knows which medical terms trigger higher valuations
- Knows when Colossus output is artificially low
- Worked with these systems for years as defense attorney
Medical Knowledge for Accident Victims
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
Immediate Symptoms:
- Loss of consciousness
- Confusion and disorientation
- Vomiting and nausea
- Seizures
- Severe headache
- Dilated pupils
- Slurred speech
Delayed Symptoms:
- Worsening headaches
- Repeated vomiting
- Seizures developing days later
- Personality changes
- Sleep disturbances
- Sensitivity to light and noise
Long-Term Complications:
- Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE)
- Post-Concussive Syndrome
- Increased dementia risk
- Personality and mood disorders
- Seizure disorders
Spinal Cord Injury
Injury Levels and Impact:
- Cervical (C1-C8): Quadriplegia, possible ventilator dependence
- Thoracic (T1-T12): Paraplegia, wheelchair dependent
- Lumbar (L1-L5): Varying degrees of leg weakness
ASIA Impairment Scale:
| Grade | Classification | Prognosis |
|---|---|---|
| A | Complete | No motor or sensory function below injury |
| B | Sensory Incomplete | Sensory function but no motor function |
| C | Motor Incomplete | Motor function but most muscles <3/5 strength |
| D | Motor Incomplete | Motor function with most muscles ≥3/5 strength |
| E | Normal | Full motor and sensory function |
Secondary Complications:
- Pressure sores
- Respiratory complications
- Bowel and bladder dysfunction
- Sexual dysfunction
- Depression (40-60% of patients)
Amputation
Types:
- Traumatic amputation (severed at accident scene)
- Surgical amputation (due to crush injuries or infections)
Phantom Limb Pain:
- 80% of amputees experience phantom pain
- Feeling pain in limb that’s no longer there
- Often permanent condition
Herniated Disc
Treatment Timeline:
- Acute Phase (Weeks 1-6): Medications, rest
- Conservative Treatment (Weeks 6-12): Physical therapy
- Interventional (If Conservative Fails): Epidural injections
- Surgery (If Injections Fail): Microdiscectomy or fusion
Psychological Injuries
PTSD After Motor Vehicle Accidents:
- 32-45% of accident victims develop PTSD symptoms
- Anxiety about driving again
- Fear of getting in cars
- Panic attacks near accident location
- Sleep disturbances, nightmares, flashbacks
Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Driscoll, Texas Accident Case?
1. Insurance Defense Insider Advantage
“Lupe Peña worked for a number of years at a national defense firm, learning firsthand how large insurance companies value claims.”
This is Attorney911’s most powerful advantage. Lupe spent years working FOR insurance companies, learning:
- How they value claims internally
- What settlement authority adjusters have
- How they build defense cases
- Which IME doctors they favor
- How they use surveillance and social media
Now, he uses that knowledge to fight FOR victims like you. No other law firm in Driscoll or Nueces County has this insider perspective.
2. Multi-Million Dollar Results
Our results speak for themselves:
“Multi-million dollar settlement for client who suffered brain injury with vision loss when log dropped on him at logging company”
“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”
“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”
“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”
3. Federal Court Experience
Ralph Manginello is admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas. This is crucial for:
- Complex trucking cases involving federal regulations
- Cases against out-of-state defendants
- Multi-district litigation
- High-value cases that may exceed state court limits
“Our firm is one of the few firms in Texas to be involved in BP explosion litigation”
This experience shows our capability to take on billion-dollar corporations and win.
4. Personal Attention You Deserve
At Attorney911, you’re not just a case number. As client Chad Harris said:
“You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client…You are FAMILY to them.”
Other clients agree:
“I never felt like ‘just another case’ they were working on.” – Ambur Hamilton
“Consistent communication and not one time did i call and not get a clear answer…Ralph reached out personally.” – Dame Haskett
5. Contingency Fee – No Risk to You
“We don’t get paid unless we win your case.”
- Free consultation
- No upfront costs
- No hourly billing
- We advance all case costs
- You pay nothing unless we recover for you
Frequently Asked Questions About Driscoll, Texas Car Accidents
Immediate After Accident
1. What should I do immediately after a car accident in Driscoll, Texas?
- Call 911 and report the accident
- Seek medical attention even if you feel fine
- Document everything: photos of damage, injuries, scene
- Exchange information with other driver
- Get witness names and phone numbers
- Do NOT give recorded statement to any insurance company
- Call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911
2. Should I call the police even for a minor accident?
Yes. Always call police. The police report is critical evidence. In Texas, you must report accidents with injuries, deaths, or property damage over $1,000.
3. Should I seek medical attention if I don’t feel hurt?
Absolutely. Many serious injuries don’t show symptoms immediately:
- Traumatic brain injuries can take days to manifest
- Internal bleeding may not be obvious
- Herniated discs may not cause pain for weeks
- Adrenaline masks pain at the scene
4. What information should I collect at the scene?
- Other driver: name, phone, address, driver’s license, insurance
- Vehicle: make, model, color, license plate
- Witnesses: names and phone numbers
- Photos: all vehicle damage, injuries, road conditions, traffic signals
- Police: officer name, badge number, report number
5. Should I talk to the other driver or admit fault?
- Exchange information only
- Do NOT discuss fault
- Do NOT apologize or say “I’m sorry”
- Do NOT give your opinion on what happened
- Stick to facts only
6. How do I obtain a copy of the accident report in Driscoll?
You can obtain the police report from the responding agency or through the Texas Department of Transportation’s Crash Records Information System (CRIS).
Dealing with Insurance
7. Should I give a recorded statement to insurance?
To the other driver’s insurance: NO. Not without an attorney.
To your own insurance: You have a duty to cooperate, but call Attorney911 first.
8. What if the other driver’s insurance contacts me?
Say: “I need to speak with my attorney first.” Give only basic information (name, date of accident). Do NOT give recorded statement. Do NOT discuss injuries or fault.
9. Do I have to accept the insurance company’s estimate?
No. Their estimate is just an offer. It’s usually far below actual value. Attorney911 fights for what your case is really worth.
10. Should I accept a quick settlement offer?
NEVER accept settlement before knowing full extent of injuries. Once you sign a release, you cannot get more money even if you need surgery later.
11. What if the other driver is uninsured/underinsured?
Your own UM/UIM coverage can compensate you. Watch our video: Uninsured & Underinsured Motorists
12. Why does insurance want me to sign a medical authorization?
They want unlimited access to your ENTIRE medical history to find pre-existing conditions to use against you. Never sign without attorney review.
Legal Process
13. Do I have a personal injury case?
You may have a case if:
- Someone else was at fault (even partially)
- You suffered injuries or damages
- There is insurance to recover from
Watch our video: Do I Have a Good Case?
14. When should I hire a car accident lawyer?
Immediately. Evidence disappears daily. Insurance companies start building their defense against you from day one. Call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911
15. How much time do I have to file (statute of limitations)?
In Texas: 2 years from date of accident for personal injury, 2 years from date of death for wrongful death. Miss it = case barred forever.
16. What is comparative negligence and how does it affect me?
Texas uses the 51% bar rule. If you’re 50% or less at fault, you can recover (reduced by your fault %). If 51%+ at fault, you get nothing.
Watch our video: What Is Comparative Negligence?
17. What happens if I was partially at fault?
You can still recover if you were 50% or less at fault. Your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault.
18. Will my case go to trial?
Most cases settle before trial. But Attorney911 prepares every case AS IF it’s going to trial. That’s what gives us leverage.
Watch our video: Will Your Case Go to Trial?
19. How long will my case take to settle?
Depends on injury severity. We don’t settle until you’ve reached maximum medical improvement (MMI). Could be 6 months for minor injuries, 18-24 months for serious injuries.
20. What is the legal process step-by-step?
- Investigation and evidence gathering
- Medical treatment to MMI
- Demand letter to insurance
- Negotiation
- Lawsuit if necessary
- Discovery
- Mediation
- Trial if needed
Watch our video: What Is the Process for a Personal Injury Claim?
Compensation
21. What is my case worth?
Depends on: injury severity, medical costs, lost wages, permanent impairment, pain and suffering, insurance available. Cases range from $15,000 (soft tissue) to millions (catastrophic injury).
22. What types of damages can I recover?
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost wages and earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
- Physical impairment
- Disfigurement
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Property damage
23. Can I get compensation for pain and suffering?
Yes. Pain and suffering is a significant component of personal injury cases in Texas. There is NO CAP on pain and suffering (except medical malpractice).
24. What if I have a pre-existing condition?
You can still recover if the accident aggravated or worsened your pre-existing condition. This is called the “eggshell plaintiff” rule.
25. Will I have to pay taxes on my settlement?
Generally, compensation for physical injuries is NOT taxable. Punitive damages ARE taxable. Consult a tax professional.
26. How is the value of my claim determined?
Based on: medical bills, future treatment costs, lost income, permanent impairment rating, comparable verdicts, severity of injuries, impact on daily life.
Attorney Relationship
27. How much do car accident lawyers cost?
Attorney911 works on contingency: 33.33% before trial, 40% if trial. You pay nothing upfront. We don’t get paid unless we win.
Watch our video: How Do Contingency Fees Work?
28. What does “no fee unless we win” mean?
You pay zero unless we recover money for you. If we don’t win, you owe us nothing. We advance all case costs.
29. How often will I get updates?
Attorney911 provides regular updates. As client Dame Haskett said: “Consistent communication and not one time did i call and not get a clear answer.”
30. Who will actually handle my case?
At Attorney911, you work directly with Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña, not just paralegals. As Chad Harris said: “You are NOT just some client…You are FAMILY to them.”
31. What if I already hired another attorney?
You can switch. As client Greg Garcia said: “In the beginning I had another attorney but he dropped my case although Mangiello law firm were able to help me out.”
Mistakes to Avoid
32. What common mistakes can hurt my case?
- Giving recorded statement without attorney
- Accepting quick settlement
- Delaying medical treatment
- Gaps in treatment
- Posting on social media
- Signing releases or authorizations
- Not documenting everything
Watch our video: Client Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Case
33. Should I post about my accident on social media?
NO. Make all profiles private. Don’t post about accident, injuries, or activities. Insurance monitors everything.
34. Why shouldn’t I sign anything without a lawyer?
Releases are PERMANENT. Medical authorizations give unlimited access. Settlement offers are binding. Once signed, you can’t undo it.
35. What if I didn’t see a doctor right away?
See one NOW. Explain you didn’t realize severity of injuries. Delayed symptoms are common. We can still help.
Additional Common Questions
36. What if I have a pre-existing condition?
You can still recover. If the accident AGGRAVATED your pre-existing condition, you’re entitled to compensation for the aggravation. “Eggshell plaintiff” rule: Defendant takes victim as they find them.
37. Can I switch attorneys if I’m unhappy with my current lawyer?
YES. You can fire your attorney at any time. 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.”
38. What if the insurance company is my own insurance (UM/UIM claim)?
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist claims are against YOUR insurance when 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.
39. How do you calculate pain and suffering?
Most commonly using multiplier method: Medical expenses × multiplier (1.5 to 5) = pain & suffering. Multiplier depends on: injury severity, permanency, impact on life, clear liability. Lupe calculated these for years—he knows how to justify higher multipliers.
40. What if I was hit by a government vehicle (city bus, police car, etc.)?
Government claims have special rules. You must file notice within 6 months (much shorter than 2-year statute of limitations). Sovereign immunity protects government entities. Damage caps may apply. These cases are complex—you need experienced attorney.
41. What if the other driver fled the scene (hit and run)?
File police report immediately (hit and run is criminal offense). Your Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage applies. Surveillance footage is CRITICAL—gas stations, businesses, Ring doorbells, traffic cameras. Most footage deleted 7-30 days. We send preservation letters immediately.
42. What if I’m an undocumented immigrant—can I still file a claim?
YES. Immigration status does NOT affect your right to compensation for injuries. You’re entitled to full recovery regardless of immigration status. Your case is confidential. We’ve successfully represented clients of all immigration statuses. Lupe is fluent in Spanish.
43. What if the accident happened in a parking lot?
Parking lot accidents are fully compensable. Insurance companies love to argue “parking lot accidents are always 50/50 fault” (LIE). We prove fault through: surveillance video, witness statements, damage analysis, traffic patterns.
44. What if I was a passenger in the at-fault vehicle?
You can sue the driver even if you were riding with them (friend, family member, Uber driver). You’re an innocent victim. Driver’s insurance covers passengers. No comparative fault issues (you weren’t driving). These cases often settle quickly because liability is clear.
45. What if the other driver died in the accident?
You can still pursue claim against deceased driver’s estate and insurance. Death doesn’t eliminate liability. Insurance policy still applies. Estate may have assets. Wrongful death laws protect both sides.
Driscoll, Texas Location Intelligence
Attorney911 serves Driscoll and all of Nueces County from our offices across Texas. While we’re based in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, our Texas-wide practice means we understand the unique challenges faced by accident victims in South Texas.
Driscoll and the surrounding Nueces County area have specific accident patterns we’ve observed:
- High volume of trucking traffic on I-37 and US-77
- Increased risk of drunk driving accidents near Corpus Christi entertainment districts
- Pedestrian dangers in school zones and residential areas
- Agricultural vehicle accidents on rural roads
- Weather-related accidents during coastal storms
Our team has experience with:
- Nueces County District Courts
- Corpus Christi-area hospitals including Christus Spohn Hospital Corpus Christi
- Local insurance adjusters who handle claims in this region
- The specific traffic patterns and dangerous intersections in the area
Whether your accident occurred on I-37, FM 665, or any of the roads connecting Driscoll to Corpus Christi, our attorneys travel to meet with clients throughout South Texas. We offer remote consultations and are always available at 1-888-ATTY-911.
Contact Attorney911 Today
If you’ve been injured in a motor vehicle accident in Driscoll, Texas, don’t wait. Evidence disappears every day, and insurance companies are already building their case against you.
Call our legal emergency line now: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
We offer:
- Free consultation
- No fee unless we win
- Personal attention from Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña
- Insurance defense insider advantage
- Multi-million dollar track record
“When I felt I had no hope or direction, Leonor reached out to me…She took all the weight of my worries off my shoulders.” – Stephanie Hernandez
Don’t let insurance companies take advantage of you. Call Attorney911 today and let us fight for the compensation you deserve.
Se habla español. Lupe Peña and our bilingual staff are ready to help Spanish-speaking clients.
1-888-ATTY-911 – Your legal emergency line is always open.

