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Bandera Car & Truck Accident Attorneys | 18-Wheelers, Commercial Trucks, Rideshare Crashes on US-83, SH-16 | Former Insurance Defense — We Know Their Playbook | $2.5M Truck Recovery | Attorney911 — The Firm Insurers Fear | Federal Court | Se Habla Español | 1-888-ATTY-911

Car Accidents in Bandera, Texas: How Attorney911 Protects Your Rights

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Bandera, Texas, you’re not alone. With one car crash occurring every 57 seconds in Texas, the roads around Bandera County—from Highway 16 to the scenic routes through the Hill Country—are becoming increasingly dangerous. At Attorney911, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a car accident can take. With over 25 years of experience fighting for accident victims across Texas, our team, led by Ralph Manginello, has recovered millions for clients who thought their cases were hopeless.

The Reality of Car Accidents in Bandera

Bandera may be known as the “Cowboy Capital of the World,” but its roads tell a different story. In 2024 alone, Texas saw 251,977 people injured in motor vehicle crashes—an alarming statistic that hits close to home for many in Bandera County. Whether you were rear-ended on Main Street, sideswiped on Highway 173, or involved in a head-on collision on FM 1077, the aftermath can be overwhelming. That’s where we come in.

At Attorney911, we’ve seen firsthand how car accidents can change lives in an instant. One moment, you’re driving home from work or heading to a weekend rodeo; the next, you’re facing mounting medical bills, lost wages, and an insurance company that’s more interested in protecting its bottom line than your recovery. That’s why we’re here—to fight for the compensation you deserve.

Common Causes of Car Accidents in Bandera

Car accidents in Bandera and the surrounding Hill Country can happen for many reasons, but some of the most common causes we see include:

  • Distracted Driving: Whether it’s texting, adjusting the radio, or simply not paying attention, distracted driving is a leading cause of accidents. In Texas, distracted driving claimed 380 lives in 2024 alone.
  • Speeding: The open roads around Bandera can tempt drivers to push the limit, but speeding reduces reaction time and increases the severity of crashes.
  • Failure to Yield: Intersections like the one at Highway 16 and Main Street can be hotspots for accidents when drivers fail to yield the right of way.
  • Drunk Driving: Despite strict laws, drunk driving remains a serious problem, especially on weekends when tourists flock to Bandera for its nightlife and events.
  • Weather Conditions: Rain, fog, and even the occasional ice can make Hill Country roads treacherous, particularly on winding routes like FM 337.

No matter the cause, if you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, you have the right to seek compensation for your injuries.

Common Injuries from Car Accidents

Car accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor to life-altering. Some of the most common injuries we see in our clients include:

  • Whiplash and Soft Tissue Injuries: These injuries may not show up on X-rays but can cause chronic pain and limit your mobility.
  • Herniated Discs: The force of a collision can cause discs in your spine to bulge or rupture, leading to severe pain and requiring surgery.
  • Broken Bones: Fractures are common in car accidents, especially in high-impact collisions.
  • Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Even a “mild” concussion can have long-term effects, including memory loss, mood swings, and difficulty concentrating.
  • Spinal Cord Injuries: These can result in partial or complete paralysis, requiring lifelong medical care.
  • Internal Organ Damage: Internal bleeding and organ damage may not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening if left untreated.

At Attorney911, we understand that your injuries are more than just medical terms—they represent pain, suffering, and a disruption to your life. That’s why we work tirelessly to ensure you receive the compensation you need to heal and move forward.

Why Insurance Companies Are Your Enemy

After a car accident, you might assume that the other driver’s insurance company will step in to cover your medical bills and other expenses. Unfortunately, that’s rarely the case. Insurance companies are businesses, and their primary goal is to minimize payouts to protect their profits. Here’s how they do it:

  • Quick Settlement Offers: Within days of your accident, an insurance adjuster may call with a lowball offer, hoping you’ll accept before you realize the full extent of your injuries.
  • Recorded Statements: Adjusters may ask you to give a recorded statement, using your own words against you to deny or reduce your claim.
  • Independent Medical Exams (IMEs): Insurance companies often require you to see a doctor of their choosing, who is more likely to downplay your injuries.
  • Surveillance: They may hire private investigators to follow you, looking for any evidence that contradicts your injury claims.
  • Delay Tactics: Insurance companies know that the longer they delay, the more desperate you’ll become—and the more likely you’ll accept a low offer.

At Attorney911, we know these tactics because our team includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who spent years working for the very companies that are now trying to deny your claim. Lupe knows their playbook inside and out, and he uses that knowledge to fight for you—not against you.

How Attorney911 Fights for You

When you hire Attorney911, you’re not just getting a lawyer—you’re getting a team of advocates who will stand by your side every step of the way. Here’s what sets us apart:

1. Insurance Defense Insider Knowledge

Lupe Peña worked for years at a national defense firm, learning firsthand how large insurance companies value claims. He knows the tactics they use to minimize payouts, and he knows how to counter them. When Lupe reviews your case, he can anticipate the insurance company’s arguments and build a strategy to defeat them.

2. Proven Results

Our results speak for themselves. In a recent case, our client’s leg was injured in a car accident, and complications during treatment led to a partial amputation. Despite the insurance company’s attempts to lowball the claim, we secured a multi-million dollar settlement for our client. We don’t settle for less than you deserve, and our track record proves it.

3. Federal Court Experience

Ralph Manginello is admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, giving us the ability to handle complex cases that other firms can’t. Whether your case involves federal regulations, multiple defendants, or catastrophic injuries, we have the experience to take it on.

4. Personal Attention

At Attorney911, you’re not just another case number. You’ll work directly with Ralph, Lupe, and our dedicated team of case managers, including Leonor, who clients consistently praise for her compassion and communication. As Stephanie Hernandez shared, “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.”

5. No Fee Unless We Win

We understand that the financial burden of a car accident can be overwhelming. That’s why we work on a contingency fee basis—you pay nothing unless we win your case. There are no upfront costs, and we advance all case expenses, so you can focus on your recovery without worrying about legal fees.

What to Do After a Car Accident in Bandera

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Bandera, the steps you take in the first 48 hours can make or break your case. Here’s what you should do:

Within the First Hour:

  • Call 911: Report the accident and request medical assistance if needed.
  • Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, some injuries, like whiplash or internal bleeding, may not be immediately apparent.
  • Document Everything: Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. Exchange information with the other driver, including insurance details and contact information.
  • Get Witness Information: If there were witnesses to the accident, ask for their names and phone numbers.
  • Call Attorney911: Before speaking to any insurance company, call us at 1-888-ATTY-911. We’ll guide you through the next steps and ensure your rights are protected.

Within 24-48 Hours:

  • Preserve Evidence: Save all photos, videos, and documents related to the accident. Do not delete anything from your phone or social media.
  • Follow Up with Medical Care: Continue documenting your injuries and follow your doctor’s recommendations.
  • Avoid Social Media: Insurance companies monitor social media for any activity that could undermine your claim. Make all profiles private and avoid posting about the accident.
  • Contact Attorney911: We’ll send preservation letters to all parties involved, ensuring critical evidence like surveillance footage isn’t deleted.

In the Weeks Following:

  • Stay Consistent with Treatment: Gaps in your medical treatment can be used against you by the insurance company.
  • Keep All Appointments: Follow your doctor’s orders and attend all follow-up appointments.
  • Communicate with Attorney911: We’ll handle all communication with the insurance company, so you can focus on your recovery.

Common Questions About Car Accidents in Bandera

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

If you’ve been in an accident in Bandera, the first step is to call 911 and report the incident. Seek medical attention, even if you feel fine, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Document the scene with photos and exchange information with the other driver. Most importantly, call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 before speaking to any insurance company.

Should I call the police even for a minor accident?

Yes. In Texas, you are required to report any accident that results in injury, death, or property damage over $1,000. The police report is a critical piece of evidence that can help establish fault and support your claim.

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

Absolutely. Many serious injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries or internal bleeding, may not show symptoms immediately. Adrenaline can mask pain at the scene, and delayed symptoms are common. Getting checked by a medical professional ensures your injuries are documented, which is crucial for your claim.

What information should I collect at the scene?

Collect the following information:

  • Other driver’s name, phone number, address, driver’s license number, and insurance details.
  • Vehicle make, model, color, and license plate number.
  • Names and phone numbers of any witnesses.
  • Photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and injuries.
  • Police officer’s name, badge number, and report number.

Should I talk to the other driver or admit fault?

No. Stick to exchanging information only. Do not discuss fault, apologize, or give your opinion on what happened. Anything you say can be used against you by the insurance company.

How do I obtain a copy of the accident report?

You can obtain a copy of the police report from the responding agency or through the Texas Department of Transportation’s Crash Records Information System (CRIS). At Attorney911, we handle this for our clients as part of our investigation process.

Should I give a recorded statement to the insurance company?

No. You are not required to give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance company, and doing so can hurt your case. Insurance adjusters are trained to ask leading questions that can be used to minimize your claim. Always consult with an attorney before giving any statement.

What if the other driver’s insurance contacts me?

Politely decline to give a statement and refer them to your attorney. Say something like, “I need to speak with my attorney first.” Provide only basic information, such as your name and the date of the accident.

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

No. Insurance companies often lowball their initial estimates. At Attorney911, we fight for what your case is truly worth, not what the insurance company wants to pay.

Should I accept a quick settlement offer?

Never accept a settlement offer before you know the full extent of your injuries. Once you sign a release, you cannot go back for more money, even if you later discover you need surgery or additional treatment. At Attorney911, we ensure you reach maximum medical improvement (MMI) before settling your case.

What if the other driver is uninsured or underinsured?

If the other driver doesn’t have enough insurance to cover your damages, your own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage can help. Texas allows inter-policy stacking, which means you can combine coverage from multiple policies. We can help you navigate this complex process.

Why does the insurance company want me to sign a medical authorization?

Insurance companies request broad medical authorizations to access your entire medical history, not just records related to the accident. They use this information to find pre-existing conditions and argue that your injuries aren’t related to the accident. Never sign a medical authorization without consulting an attorney.

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 coverage to recover from.

At Attorney911, we offer free consultations to evaluate your case and help you understand your options.

When should I hire a car accident lawyer?

Immediately. Evidence disappears daily, and insurance companies start building their defense against you from day one. The sooner you call Attorney911, the better we can protect your rights and preserve critical evidence.

How much time do I have to file a claim (statute of limitations)?

In Texas, you have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. If you miss this deadline, your case will be barred forever. Don’t wait—call Attorney911 today.

What is comparative negligence, and how does it affect me?

Texas uses a modified comparative negligence rule with a 51% bar. This means:

  • If you are 50% or less at fault, you can recover damages, but your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault.
  • If you are 51% or more at fault, you recover nothing.

Insurance companies often try to assign as much fault as possible to you to reduce their payout. At Attorney911, we know their tactics and fight to minimize your fault percentage.

Will my case go to trial?

Most cases settle before trial, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This approach gives us leverage in negotiations and shows the insurance company we’re serious about fighting for you.

How long will my case take to settle?

The timeline depends on the severity of your injuries. We don’t settle until you’ve reached maximum medical improvement (MMI), which could take 6 months for minor injuries or 18-24 months for serious injuries. Our goal is to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve, not a quick but inadequate settlement.

What is the legal process step-by-step?

  1. Investigation and Evidence Gathering: We collect police reports, medical records, witness statements, and other evidence.
  2. Medical Treatment: You continue treating until you reach MMI.
  3. Demand Letter: We send a demand letter to the insurance company outlining your damages.
  4. Negotiation: We negotiate with the insurance company for a fair settlement.
  5. Lawsuit (if necessary): If the insurance company won’t offer a fair settlement, we file a lawsuit.
  6. Discovery: Both sides exchange evidence and take depositions.
  7. Mediation: We attempt to settle the case through mediation.
  8. Trial (if needed): If mediation fails, we take your case to trial.

What is my case worth?

The value of your case depends on several factors, including:

  • The severity of your injuries.
  • Your medical expenses (past and future).
  • Lost wages and earning capacity.
  • Pain and suffering.
  • Permanent impairment or disfigurement.
  • The insurance coverage available.

At Attorney911, we use our experience and knowledge of Texas law to fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.

What types of damages can I recover?

In Texas, you can recover the following types of damages:

  • Economic Damages: Medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and out-of-pocket expenses.
  • Non-Economic Damages: Pain and suffering, mental anguish, physical impairment, disfigurement, and loss of enjoyment of life.
  • Punitive Damages: In cases of gross negligence or malice, such as drunk driving, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the defendant.

Can I get compensation for pain and suffering?

Yes. Pain and suffering is a significant component of personal injury cases in Texas, and there is no cap on these damages (except in medical malpractice cases).

What if I have a pre-existing condition?

You can still recover compensation if the accident aggravated or worsened your pre-existing condition. This is known as the “eggshell plaintiff” rule—defendants take victims as they find them. We work with medical experts to prove the difference between your condition before and after the accident.

Will I have to pay taxes on my settlement?

Generally, compensation for physical injuries is not taxable. However, punitive damages are taxable. Consult a tax professional for specific advice.

How is the value of my claim determined?

The value of your claim is determined by factors such as:

  • Your medical bills (past and future).
  • Lost income and earning capacity.
  • The severity and permanency of your injuries.
  • The impact on your daily life.
  • Comparative fault (if any).
  • The insurance coverage available.

At Attorney911, we use our knowledge of Texas law and our experience with insurance companies to maximize your recovery.

How much do car accident lawyers cost?

At Attorney911, we work on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay nothing upfront, and we only get paid if we win your case. Our fee is a percentage of the recovery, typically 33.33% before trial and 40% if the case goes to trial. We also advance all case expenses, so you don’t have to worry about out-of-pocket costs.

What does “no fee unless we win” mean?

It means you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. If we don’t win your case, you owe us nothing. This ensures you can pursue justice without financial risk.

How often will I get updates on my case?

At Attorney911, we pride ourselves on communication. As client Dame Haskett shared, “Consistent communication and not one time did I call and not get a clear answer.” You’ll receive regular updates from your dedicated case manager, and you can always reach out to us with questions.

Who will actually handle my case?

At Attorney911, you work directly with Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña, not just paralegals or case managers. As Chad Harris said, “You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.” We believe in providing personal attention to every client.

What if I already hired another attorney?

You have the right to switch attorneys at any time. If your current attorney isn’t communicating, isn’t fighting for you, or is pushing you to settle cheap, we can take over your case. As Greg Garcia shared, “In the beginning, I had another attorney, but he dropped my case, although Manginello Law Firm was able to help me out.”

What if the insurance company is my own insurance (UM/UIM claim)?

Uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) claims are against your own insurance when the other driver has no insurance or insufficient coverage. Your insurance company will fight your claim just like the other driver’s insurance would. You need an attorney to represent you in these complex cases.

How do you calculate pain and suffering?

Pain and suffering are often calculated using the multiplier method: Medical expenses × a multiplier (typically 1.5 to 5) = pain and suffering. The multiplier depends on factors like the severity of your injuries, the impact on your life, and the clarity of liability. Lupe Peña, our former insurance defense attorney, knows how to justify higher multipliers based on his years of experience calculating these values for insurance companies.

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

Government claims have special rules. You must file a notice of claim within 6 months (much shorter than the 2-year statute of limitations). Sovereign immunity protects government entities, and damage caps may apply. These cases are complex, and you need an experienced attorney. Ralph’s 25+ years of experience include government litigation, so we can handle these cases effectively.

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

If the other driver fled the scene, file a police report immediately. Your uninsured motorist (UM) coverage can compensate you if the at-fault driver is unidentified. Surveillance footage is critical in hit-and-run cases, but most footage is deleted within 7-30 days. We send preservation letters immediately to secure this evidence.

What if I’m an undocumented immigrant—can I still file a claim?

Yes. Your immigration status does not affect your right to compensation for injuries. You’re entitled to full recovery regardless of your status. Your case is confidential, and we’ve successfully represented clients of all immigration statuses. Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish, and our team includes bilingual staff like Zulema to ensure language is never a barrier.

What if the accident happened in a parking lot?

Parking lot accidents are fully compensable. Insurance companies often argue that parking lot accidents are always 50/50 fault, but this is not true. We prove fault through surveillance video, witness statements, damage analysis, and traffic patterns. Texas comparative negligence rules apply, and we’ve won many parking lot cases with clear liability findings.

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

If you were a passenger in the at-fault vehicle, you can sue the driver even if they’re a friend or family member. The driver’s insurance covers passengers, and liability is usually clear. We handle the difficult conversations so you don’t have to.

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, and we handle these cases with sensitivity while protecting your rights.

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Bandera Car Accident Case?

When you’re injured in a car accident, you need more than just a lawyer—you need a team of advocates who will fight for your rights and help you navigate the complex legal process. Here’s why Attorney911 is the right choice for your case:

1. Insurance Defense Insider Knowledge

Lupe Peña spent years working for a national defense firm, learning firsthand how large insurance companies value claims. He knows their tactics, their strategies, and their playbook. Now, he uses that knowledge to fight for you—not against you. As Lupe says, “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.”

2. Multi-Million Dollar Results

At Attorney911, we don’t settle for less than you deserve. Our results speak for themselves:

  • Multi-million dollar settlement for a client who suffered a brain injury with vision loss after a logging accident.
  • Multi-million dollar settlement for a client whose leg was injured in a car accident, leading to a partial amputation due to complications.
  • Millions recovered for families in trucking-related wrongful death cases.
  • Significant cash settlement for a client who injured his back while lifting cargo on a ship.

These results prove that we don’t accept lowball offers from insurance companies. We fight for every dollar you deserve.

3. Federal Court Experience

Ralph Manginello is admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, giving us the ability to handle complex cases that other firms can’t. Whether your case involves federal regulations, multiple defendants, or catastrophic injuries, we have the experience to take it on. Our involvement in the BP explosion litigation shows our capability to take on billion-dollar corporations and win.

4. Personal Attention

At Attorney911, you’re not just another case number. You’ll work directly with Ralph, Lupe, and our dedicated team of case managers, including Leonor, who clients consistently praise for her compassion and communication. As Stephanie Hernandez shared, “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.” This personal attention sets us apart from high-volume firms where you’re just another case on the assembly line.

5. No Fee Unless We Win

We understand that the financial burden of a car accident can be overwhelming. That’s why we work on a contingency fee basis—you pay nothing unless we win your case. There are no upfront costs, and we advance all case expenses, so you can focus on your recovery without worrying about legal fees.

6. Bilingual Services

Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish, and our team includes bilingual staff like Zulema to ensure language is never a barrier. As Celia Dominguez shared, “Especially Miss Zulema, who is always very kind and always translates.” Whether you’re more comfortable in English or Spanish, we communicate clearly and compassionately throughout your case.

7. Proven Track Record

With over 251 five-star Google reviews, our clients consistently praise our communication, results, and dedication. Here’s what some of them have to say:

  • Chavodrian Miles: “Leonor got me into the doctor the same day… It only took 6 months, amazing.”
  • Chad Harris: “You are NOT a pest to them, and you are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.”
  • Glenda Walker: “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.”
  • Kiimarii Yup: “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.”

Contact Attorney911 Today

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Bandera, Texas, don’t wait to seek legal help. Evidence disappears daily, and the insurance company is already building its case against you. At Attorney911, we’re here to fight for your rights and help you recover the compensation you deserve.

Call us today at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We don’t get paid unless we win your case, so you have nothing to lose. Let us handle the legal battle while you focus on your recovery.

Attorney911—Your Legal Emergency Lawyers™