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Abernathy Car & Truck Accident Attorneys | 18-Wheelers, Commercial Trucks, Hit-and-Run | Former Insurance Defense — We Know Their Playbook | Multi-Million-Dollar Results | Attorney911 — The Firm Insurers Fear | US-385 & FM 179 Crashes | Se Habla Español | 1-888-ATTY-911

Car Accident Lawyers in Abernathy, Texas | Attorney911

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Abernathy, Texas, you’re not alone. With one crash occurring every 57 seconds in Texas and over 251,000 people injured annually, car accidents are a constant reality on our roads. At Attorney911, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll these accidents take on victims and their families. Our team, led by Ralph Manginello with over 25 years of experience, is here to fight for the compensation you deserve.

Abernathy’s location along major highways like US-87 and US-385 means our community faces unique traffic challenges. Whether you were rear-ended on Broadway Street, involved in a T-bone collision at the intersection of US-87 and FM 597, or struck by a distracted driver on one of Hale County’s rural roads, our firm has the local knowledge and legal expertise to handle your case.

Why Abernathy Car Accident Victims Choose Attorney911

When you’re recovering from injuries, the last thing you need is to navigate the complex legal system alone. Our firm offers:

  • Local expertise: We know Abernathy’s roads, courts, and insurance adjusters
  • Insurance defense advantage: Lupe Peña, our associate attorney, spent years working for insurance companies – now he uses that knowledge to fight for victims
  • Proven results: We’ve recovered millions for car accident victims across Texas
  • Personal attention: You’ll work directly with Ralph or Lupe, not a case manager
  • No fee unless we win: Free consultation, no upfront costs

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. While every case is unique, this demonstrates our commitment to fighting for maximum compensation.

Common Causes of Car Accidents in Abernathy

Abernathy’s mix of rural roads, highway traffic, and local streets creates various accident risks:

  1. Distracted driving: With the increasing use of smartphones, distracted driving is a growing problem on Abernathy’s roads
  2. Speeding: Excessive speed on US-87 and rural roads contributes to many accidents
  3. Failure to yield: Intersections like US-87 and FM 597 see frequent right-of-way violations
  4. Drunk driving: Despite being a small community, alcohol-related accidents occur
  5. Weather conditions: Rain, fog, and occasional ice can make Hale County roads hazardous
  6. Fatigued driving: Long-distance truckers and local drivers alike face fatigue risks

As client MONGO SLADE shared: “I was rear-ended and the team got right to work…I also got a very nice settlement.” This reflects our commitment to handling every case with the same level of dedication.

Common Injuries from Car Accidents

Car accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, from minor to life-altering:

  • Whiplash and soft tissue injuries: Common in rear-end collisions, these injuries can cause chronic pain
  • Herniated discs: Spinal injuries that may require surgery and long-term treatment
  • Broken bones: Arms, legs, ribs, and facial bones are frequently fractured in crashes
  • Traumatic brain injuries (TBI): Even “mild” concussions can have lasting effects
  • Spinal cord injuries: Can result in partial or complete paralysis
  • Internal injuries: Organ damage and internal bleeding may not be immediately apparent
  • Cuts and lacerations: From broken glass and metal debris
  • Psychological trauma: PTSD, anxiety, and depression are common after accidents

Chavodrian Miles experienced our commitment firsthand: “Leonor got me into the doctor the same day…it only took 6 months amazing.” This level of care is what sets our firm apart.

What to Do After a Car Accident in Abernathy

If you’re involved in an accident in Abernathy, follow these critical steps:

  1. Call 911: Report the accident and request medical assistance if needed
  2. Seek medical attention: Even if you feel fine, some injuries don’t show symptoms immediately
  3. Document everything: Take photos of vehicle damage, injuries, and the accident scene
  4. Exchange information: Get the other driver’s name, contact information, insurance details, and license plate number
  5. Get witness information: Names and phone numbers of any witnesses
  6. Do NOT give a recorded statement: Insurance companies will try to use your words against you
  7. Call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate legal guidance

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.

Texas Car Accident Laws You Need to Know

Understanding Texas law is crucial for protecting your rights:

  1. Statute of limitations: You have 2 years from the accident date to file a lawsuit
  2. Comparative negligence (51% rule): If you’re 50% or less at fault, you can recover damages (reduced by your fault percentage). If you’re 51% or more at fault, you recover nothing
  3. Minimum insurance requirements: Texas requires $30,000 per person, $60,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 for property damage
  4. Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage: Your own policy may cover you if the at-fault driver has insufficient insurance

Insurance companies will try to use the 51% rule against you. Lupe Peña’s experience working for insurance companies gives us an advantage in countering these tactics.

How Insurance Companies Try to Minimize Your Claim

Having a former insurance defense attorney on our team gives us unique insight into their tactics:

  1. Quick settlement offers: They’ll offer a small amount before you know the full extent of your injuries
  2. Recorded statements: They’ll try to get you to say something that hurts your case
  3. Independent Medical Exams (IME): They’ll send you to a doctor who works for them to minimize your injuries
  4. Surveillance: They may follow you and video your activities out of context
  5. Delay tactics: They’ll drag out your case hoping you’ll accept a low offer
  6. Comparative fault arguments: They’ll try to blame you for the accident

Lupe Peña worked for years at a national defense firm, learning firsthand how large insurance companies value claims. Now he uses that knowledge to fight for victims like you.

What Your Abernathy Car Accident Case Might Be Worth

The value of your case depends on several factors:

  • Medical expenses: Current and future medical costs
  • Lost wages: Income lost due to your injuries
  • Lost earning capacity: If your injuries affect your ability to work long-term
  • Pain and suffering: Physical pain and emotional distress
  • Property damage: Cost to repair or replace your vehicle
  • Permanent disability or disfigurement: Long-term impact on your life

While every case is unique, settlement ranges typically fall into these categories:

Injury Type Medical Costs Settlement Range
Soft tissue (whiplash, sprains) $6,000-$16,000 $15,000-$60,000
Broken bones (simple) $10,000-$20,000 $35,000-$95,000
Herniated disc (conservative) $22,000-$46,000 $70,000-$171,000
Herniated disc (surgery) $96,000-$205,000 $346,000-$1,205,000
Traumatic brain injury $198,000-$638,000 $1,548,000-$9,838,000
Spinal cord injury $500,000-$750,000 (first year) $4,770,000-$25,880,000
Amputation $170,000-$480,000 $1,945,000-$8,630,000
Wrongful death $50,000-$500,000 $1,910,000-$9,520,000

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. While we can’t guarantee specific results, this demonstrates our commitment to fighting for maximum compensation.

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Abernathy Car Accident Case

When you’re injured in a car accident, choosing the right attorney can make all the difference. Here’s why Abernathy residents trust Attorney911:

  1. Insurance defense insider: Lupe Peña spent years working for insurance companies. He knows their tactics from the inside and uses that knowledge to fight for you.
  2. Multi-million dollar results: We’ve recovered millions for car accident victims, including cases involving catastrophic injuries and wrongful death.
  3. Federal court experience: Ralph Manginello is admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, giving us the ability to handle complex cases.
  4. Personal attention: You’ll work directly with Ralph or Lupe, not a case manager. As client Chad Harris said: “You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client…You are FAMILY to them.”
  5. No fee unless we win: Free consultation, no upfront costs. We don’t get paid unless we win your case.
  6. Local knowledge: We know Abernathy’s roads, courts, and insurance adjusters.
  7. Bilingual services: Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish, and our staff includes bilingual team members to serve Abernathy’s Hispanic community.

As 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.”

Frequently Asked Questions About Car Accidents in Abernathy

What should I do immediately after a car accident in Abernathy?

If you’ve been in an accident in Abernathy:

  • Call 911 and report the accident
  • Seek medical attention even if you feel fine (adrenaline masks injuries)
  • Document everything: photos of damage, injuries, scene
  • Exchange information with the other driver
  • Get witness names and phone numbers
  • Do NOT give a recorded statement to any insurance company
  • Call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911

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.

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

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

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

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

What information should I collect at the scene?

  • Other driver: name, phone, address, driver’s license, insurance
  • Vehicle: make, model, color, license plate
  • Witnesses: names and phone numbers
  • Photos: all vehicle damage, injuries, road conditions, traffic signals
  • Police: officer name, badge number, report number

Should I talk to the other driver or admit fault?

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

How do I obtain a copy of the accident report?

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

Should I give a recorded statement to insurance?

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

What if the other driver’s insurance contacts me?

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

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

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

Should I accept a quick settlement offer?

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

What if the other driver is uninsured/underinsured?

Your own UM/UIM coverage can compensate you. Your insurance company will fight your claim just like the other driver’s insurance would. You need attorney representation. Texas allows inter-policy stacking (combining multiple UM policies). Lupe’s insurance knowledge is critical for maximizing UM/UIM recovery.

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, impact on life, and clear liability. Lupe calculated these for years—he knows how to justify higher multipliers.

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. We hire medical experts to prove the difference between your condition before and after the accident.

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. Attorney911 has taken over many cases from other attorneys. As Greg Garcia said: “In the beginning I had another attorney but he dropped my case although Mangiello law firm were able to help me out.”

What if the 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 to maximize your recovery.

How long will my case take to settle?

It depends on the severity of your injuries. We don’t settle until you’ve reached maximum medical improvement (MMI). This could be 6 months for minor injuries, 18-24 months for serious injuries. We won’t settle your case until we know the full extent of your damages.

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

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: 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 percentage). If you’re 51% or more at fault, you recover nothing.

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.

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 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.

What if the other driver died in the accident?

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

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. Assume EVERYTHING is being monitored.

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.

How much do car accident lawyers cost?

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

What does “no fee unless we win” mean?

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

How often will I get updates?

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

Who will actually handle my case?

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

What if I already hired another attorney?

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

What if I was hit by a government vehicle (city bus, police car, etc.)?

Government claims have special rules. You must file notice within 6 months (much shorter than the 2-year statute of limitations). Sovereign immunity protects government entities. Damage caps may apply. These cases are complex—you need an experienced attorney. Ralph’s 25+ years includes government litigation. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately—6-month deadline is strict.

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

File a police report immediately (hit and run is a criminal offense). Your Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage applies. Surveillance footage is CRITICAL—gas stations, businesses, Ring doorbells, traffic cameras. Most footage is deleted 7-30 days. We send preservation letters immediately. Texas allows UM stacking. We’ve recovered substantial settlements in hit and run cases through UM claims.

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 Peña is fluent in Spanish. Call 1-888-ATTY-911—we protect your rights and your privacy.

What if the accident happened in a parking lot?

Parking lot accidents are fully compensable. Insurance companies love to argue “parking lot accidents are always 50/50 fault” (LIE). We prove fault through: surveillance video, witness statements, damage analysis, traffic patterns. Texas comparative negligence rules apply. We’ve won many parking lot cases with clear liability findings.

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

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

Other Types of Motor Vehicle Accidents We Handle in Abernathy

Truck Accidents

Abernathy’s location along US-87 and US-385 means we see significant truck traffic. These accidents often result in catastrophic injuries due to the size and weight of commercial vehicles. We handle:

  • 18-wheeler accidents
  • Semi-truck collisions
  • Commercial vehicle crashes
  • Delivery truck accidents
  • Tanker truck accidents

With 39,393 commercial motor vehicle crashes in Texas in 2024, including 608 fatalities, truck accidents are a serious concern. Our firm has recovered millions for trucking-related wrongful death cases.

Drunk Driving Accidents

Despite being a small community, drunk driving remains a problem in Abernathy. In 2024, there were 1,053 alcohol-impaired driving deaths in Texas, accounting for 25.37% of all fatalities. We handle:

  • Drunk driving accidents
  • Dram shop liability cases (holding bars/restaurants accountable)
  • Wrongful death cases involving alcohol
  • Underage drinking accidents

Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code § 2.02 allows us to hold establishments liable if they served obviously intoxicated patrons who then caused accidents.

Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents often result in severe injuries. In 2024, there were 585 motorcyclist fatalities in Texas. We handle:

  • Motorcycle crashes
  • Lane splitting accidents
  • Left-turn accidents
  • Road hazard accidents
  • Helmet law cases

Insurance companies often try to blame motorcyclists. Lupe’s experience working for insurance companies helps us counter these arguments.

Pedestrian Accidents

Abernathy’s growing community means more pedestrians on our roads. In 2024, there were 6,095 pedestrian crashes in Texas, resulting in 768 fatalities. We handle:

  • Crosswalk accidents
  • Sidewalk accidents
  • Parking lot accidents
  • School zone accidents
  • Hit and run cases

Pedestrians ALWAYS have the right-of-way at intersections, even unmarked crosswalks.

Hit and Run Accidents

Hit and run accidents are particularly frustrating. Every 43 seconds, someone in the U.S. is involved in a hit-and-run. We handle:

  • Hit and run investigations
  • UM/UIM claims
  • Surveillance footage recovery
  • Witness interviews

We send preservation letters immediately to secure evidence before it’s deleted.

Rideshare Accidents (Uber/Lyft)

Rideshare accidents present unique insurance challenges. We handle:

  • Uber accidents
  • Lyft accidents
  • Insurance phase disputes
  • Driver liability cases
  • Passenger injury cases

Insurance coverage varies dramatically based on what the driver was doing at the moment of the crash.

Delivery Vehicle Accidents

With the growth of online shopping, delivery vehicle accidents are increasing. We handle:

  • Amazon delivery accidents
  • FedEx accidents
  • UPS accidents
  • Food delivery accidents
  • DSP (Delivery Service Partner) liability cases

We’ve recovered millions in delivery vehicle accident cases.

Work Zone Accidents

Work zone accidents are a growing concern. In 2024, there were nearly 28,000 crashes in Texas work zones, resulting in 215 deaths. We handle:

  • Construction zone accidents
  • Road work accidents
  • Flagman accidents
  • Equipment accidents
  • Government liability cases

Wrongful Death

Losing a loved one in a car accident is devastating. We handle:

  • Wrongful death claims
  • Survival actions
  • Fatal accident investigations
  • Family compensation claims

We’ve helped numerous families facing trucking-related wrongful death cases recover millions of dollars in compensation.

Contact Attorney911 Today

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Abernathy, don’t wait. Evidence disappears daily, and the insurance company is already building their case against you. Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We don’t get paid unless we win your case.

Our Abernathy car accident lawyers are ready to fight for you. With offices serving all of Texas, we’re never far away. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 today—your legal emergency line for car accident victims in Abernathy and across Texas.