Motor Vehicle Accident Lawyers in Elgin, Texas | Attorney911
If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Elgin, Texas, you’re not alone. Every year, thousands of Central Texas residents suffer injuries in motor vehicle crashes—many of them right here in Bastrop County. At Attorney911, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll these accidents take on victims and their families. Our team of experienced Elgin car accident lawyers is here to fight for the compensation you deserve while you focus on healing.
With over 25 years of experience handling motor vehicle accident cases across Texas, including right here in Elgin and surrounding Bastrop County communities, we’ve recovered millions of dollars for accident victims just like you. Whether you were injured in a collision on US-290, FM 1704, or any other roadway in our area, we have the local knowledge and legal expertise to protect your rights.
Why Elgin Accident Victims Trust Attorney911
Elgin may be a small town, but our roads see their share of serious accidents. From distracted drivers on US-290 to commercial trucks navigating FM 1100, the dangers are real. That’s why local residents trust Attorney911 when they need an Elgin car accident attorney who:
- Knows the local courts and judges in Bastrop County
- Understands the unique traffic patterns and accident hotspots in our area
- Has a proven track record of success in Texas motor vehicle accident cases
- Provides personal attention from attorneys, not case managers
Ralph Manginello, our founding attorney, has been practicing law in Texas since 1998. He’s admitted to practice in federal court and has handled complex cases against billion-dollar corporations. When you call Attorney911, you’re getting the same level of experience and dedication that has helped countless Elgin residents recover the compensation they need after serious accidents.
Common Types of Motor Vehicle Accidents in Elgin
Elgin’s location along major highways and rural roads creates unique accident risks. Some of the most common types of accidents we handle include:
Car Accidents in Elgin and Bastrop County
With over 251,977 people injured in Texas motor vehicle crashes last year alone, car accidents are the most common type of collision we see. In Elgin, many accidents occur at busy intersections like US-290 and Main Street or along rural roads where drivers may be less attentive.
Common causes of car accidents in our area include:
- Distracted driving (texting, using GPS, eating)
- Speeding, especially on rural roads
- Failure to yield at intersections
- Drunk or impaired driving
- Poor weather conditions
- Vehicle maintenance issues
Even seemingly minor accidents can result in serious injuries. One of our recent clients suffered what initially appeared to be a minor leg injury in a car accident. However, staff infections during treatment led to a partial amputation. This case settled in the millions, demonstrating that what might seem like a “minor” accident can have life-altering consequences.
Trucking Accidents on US-290 and I-35
Elgin sits along major trucking corridors, including US-290 and I-35, which see heavy commercial traffic. Last year, there were 39,393 commercial motor vehicle crashes in Texas, resulting in 608 fatalities and 1,601 serious injuries. These accidents are particularly devastating due to the size and weight of commercial trucks.
Trucking accidents in our area often involve:
- Fatigued drivers violating hours-of-service regulations
- Improperly loaded or secured cargo
- Poor vehicle maintenance
- Distracted or impaired truck drivers
- Failure to yield at intersections
Our firm has extensive experience handling trucking accident cases. We’ve helped numerous injured individuals and families facing trucking-related wrongful death cases recover millions of dollars in compensation. With Ralph Manginello’s federal court admission and our firm’s involvement in complex litigation like the BP explosion case, we have the resources to take on even the largest trucking companies.
Drunk Driving Accidents in Bastrop County
Sadly, drunk driving remains a serious problem in Texas. Last year, 1,053 people were killed in alcohol-impaired driving crashes in our state—that’s 25.37% of all traffic fatalities. In Bastrop County, we see too many lives destroyed by drunk drivers, especially on weekends and holidays.
Texas has strong dram shop laws that allow victims to hold bars, restaurants, and other establishments accountable when they serve alcohol to obviously intoxicated patrons. Signs of obvious intoxication include:
- Slurred speech
- Bloodshot or glassy eyes
- Unsteady gait or stumbling
- Impaired coordination
- Aggressive or erratic behavior
If you’ve been injured by a drunk driver in Elgin or anywhere in Bastrop County, we can help you pursue compensation from both the driver and any establishment that contributed to their intoxication.
Motorcycle Accidents on Rural Roads
Elgin and Bastrop County’s scenic rural roads attract motorcyclists, but these same roads can be dangerous. Last year, 585 motorcyclists were killed in Texas, with 37% not wearing helmets. Many of these accidents occur on rural roads where drivers may not expect to see motorcycles.
Common causes of motorcycle accidents in our area include:
- Drivers failing to yield to motorcycles
- Distracted or inattentive drivers
- Unsafe lane changes
- Left-turn accidents at intersections
- Speeding and reckless driving
Texas law requires all riders under 21 to wear helmets. Riders over 21 may ride without a helmet if they’ve completed a safety course or have adequate medical insurance. However, helmets reduce the risk of death by 37% and head injury by 69%, so we always recommend wearing one.
Pedestrian Accidents in Elgin’s Downtown Area
Elgin’s charming downtown area sees heavy foot traffic, but pedestrians are vulnerable when drivers aren’t paying attention. Last year, there were 6,095 pedestrian crashes in Texas, resulting in 768 fatalities. Pedestrians account for just 1% of crashes but 19% of all roadway deaths.
In Texas, pedestrians always have the right-of-way at intersections—even unmarked crosswalks. This means that any time two streets intersect, the area between them is considered a crosswalk, whether it’s marked or not. Many drivers don’t know this, which can lead to serious accidents.
If you’ve been struck by a vehicle while walking in Elgin, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries, even if you were partially at fault. Our Elgin pedestrian accident lawyers can help you understand your rights.
What to Do After an Accident in Elgin
If you’ve been involved in a motor vehicle accident in Elgin or anywhere in Bastrop County, taking the right steps immediately can protect your health and your legal rights. Here’s what to do:
At the Scene (If You’re Able)
- Call 911: Report the accident and request medical assistance if anyone is injured.
- Check for injuries: Even if you feel fine, adrenaline can mask pain. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
- Move to safety: If possible, move vehicles out of traffic to prevent further accidents.
- Document everything: Take photos of vehicle damage, injuries, road conditions, and any visible traffic signals or signs.
- Exchange information: Get the other driver’s name, phone number, address, driver’s license number, and insurance information.
- Talk to witnesses: Get names and contact information from anyone who saw the accident.
- Call Attorney911: Before speaking to any insurance company, call 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate legal guidance.
In the Hours and Days After the Accident
- Seek medical attention: Even if you didn’t go to the ER, see your doctor as soon as possible. Some injuries, like whiplash or traumatic brain injuries, may not show symptoms immediately.
- Follow your doctor’s advice: Attend all follow-up appointments and follow your treatment plan. Insurance companies look for gaps in treatment to minimize your claim.
- Preserve evidence: Keep all medical records, bills, and receipts related to your accident. Don’t repair your vehicle until it’s been thoroughly documented.
- Avoid social media: Insurance companies monitor social media for posts that could undermine your claim. Don’t post about your accident, injuries, or activities.
- Don’t give recorded statements: Insurance adjusters may call and ask for a recorded statement. Politely decline and refer them to your attorney.
- Don’t sign anything: Never sign any documents from an insurance company without having them reviewed by an attorney.
- Contact Attorney911: The sooner you call us, the better we can protect your rights. Evidence disappears quickly, and insurance companies start building their case against you from day one.
Why Insurance Companies Are Already Working Against You
When you’re injured in an accident, it’s natural to assume that the insurance company will treat you fairly. Unfortunately, that’s rarely the case. Insurance companies are businesses, and their primary goal is to protect their profits—not to help you.
Lupe Peña, one of our attorneys, knows this firsthand. Before joining Attorney911, Lupe worked for a national defense firm, learning exactly how insurance companies value claims and build cases against accident victims. Now, he uses that insider knowledge to fight for our clients.
Here are some of the tactics insurance companies use to minimize or deny your claim:
The Quick Cash Trap
Within days of your accident, the insurance company may offer you a quick settlement. These offers are almost always far below what your case is actually worth. They’re counting on you being desperate for money to cover your bills.
Why it’s a trap: Once you accept a settlement, you can’t go back and ask for more money—even if your injuries turn out to be more serious than you initially thought. We’ve seen clients who accepted early settlements only to discover later that they needed surgery or would have permanent disabilities. By then, it was too late to recover additional compensation.
Recorded Statements Designed to Hurt Your Case
Insurance adjusters may call you and ask for a recorded statement about the accident. They’ll act friendly and helpful, but their real goal is to get you to say something that hurts your case.
Common questions they ask include:
- “You’re feeling better now, though, right?”
- “It wasn’t that bad of an impact, was it?”
- “You were able to walk away from the scene?”
- “Were you distracted at all?”
- “How fast were you going?”
Everything you say will be recorded, transcribed, and used against you. You are not required to give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance company.
“Independent” Medical Exams (IMEs)
If your case involves serious injuries, the insurance company may require you to attend an “independent medical examination” (IME) with a doctor of their choosing. Don’t be fooled by the name—these exams are anything but independent.
The doctors who perform IMEs are hired and paid by the insurance company. Their job is to minimize your injuries and find reasons to deny your claim. They may:
- Claim your injuries are pre-existing
- Say your treatment has been excessive
- Argue that your symptoms are “subjective” (i.e., not real)
- Recommend that you return to work before you’re ready
Lupe Peña has years of experience with IMEs—he used to hire these doctors when he worked for the insurance companies. Now, he knows how to counter their biased reports with evidence from your treating doctors.
Surveillance and Social Media Monitoring
Insurance companies routinely hire private investigators to follow accident victims and monitor their social media accounts. They’re looking for any evidence that contradicts your injury claims.
Common surveillance tactics include:
- Filming you doing everyday activities (walking, carrying groceries, etc.)
- Taking photos of you in public
- Monitoring your social media for posts about your accident, injuries, or activities
They may take one photo of you bending over to pick something up and use it to argue that you’re not really injured. Lupe knows this tactic well—he reviewed hundreds of surveillance videos when he worked for the insurance companies. Now, he helps our clients avoid these traps.
Delay, Deny, Defend
Insurance companies know that the longer they can drag out your case, the more desperate you’ll become. They may:
- Claim they’re still “investigating” your claim
- Say they’re waiting for medical records
- Ignore your calls and emails
- Take weeks to respond to simple questions
Their goal is to wear you down until you accept a lowball settlement. We don’t let that happen. Our team stays on top of insurance companies, ensuring that your case moves forward as quickly as possible.
Pre-Existing Condition Blame
If you had any prior injuries or medical conditions, the insurance company will try to blame your current injuries on those pre-existing issues. They may argue that:
- Your back pain is from a previous injury, not the accident
- Your headaches are from a prior concussion
- Your arthritis was already causing problems
The truth is that you’re entitled to compensation if the accident aggravated a pre-existing condition. The “eggshell plaintiff” rule means that defendants take victims as they find them. If you had a pre-existing condition that was made worse by the accident, you can still recover compensation for the aggravation.
How Attorney911 Fights Back
At Attorney911, we know the insurance company’s playbook because we used to write it. Lupe Peña’s years of experience working for a national defense firm give us an insider advantage that other law firms simply don’t have. Here’s how we use that knowledge to fight for you:
We Know How They Value Claims
When Lupe worked for the insurance companies, he calculated claim values using software like Colossus. Now, he knows how to present your case to maximize its value.
Colossus is a computerized system used by many insurance companies to determine settlement offers. The software considers factors like:
- The type of injury (coded using specific medical terms)
- The amount of medical treatment
- The jurisdiction where the accident occurred
- Whether the victim had pre-existing conditions
Insurance adjusters are trained to use the lowest possible injury codes to minimize claim values. For example, they might code a herniated disc as a “soft tissue strain,” which could reduce your claim’s value by 50% or more. Lupe knows which medical terms trigger higher valuations, and he ensures that your injuries are properly documented.
We Anticipate Their Tactics
Because Lupe used to work for the insurance companies, he knows exactly what tactics they’ll use in your case. He knows:
- Which IME doctors they’ll send you to (he hired many of them)
- How they’ll try to blame you for the accident
- When they’re lowballing your settlement offer
- How to counter their arguments effectively
This insider knowledge allows us to anticipate the insurance company’s moves and stay one step ahead.
We Prepare Every Case for Trial
Most personal injury cases settle out of court, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. Why? Because insurance companies know which law firms are willing to go to court and which ones will settle for whatever they offer.
Our track record of multi-million-dollar settlements and verdicts shows insurance companies that we’re not afraid to take a case to trial if they won’t offer a fair settlement. This gives us leverage in negotiations and helps us secure better outcomes for our clients.
We Handle Everything So You Can Focus on Healing
Dealing with the aftermath of an accident is stressful enough without having to navigate the legal system on your own. When you hire Attorney911, we handle everything for you, including:
- Investigating the accident and gathering evidence
- Communicating with insurance companies
- Negotiating with adjusters
- Filing necessary paperwork
- Preparing your case for trial if needed
You focus on your recovery while we focus on getting you the compensation you deserve.
What You Can Recover in an Elgin Car Accident Case
If you’ve been injured in a motor vehicle accident in Elgin or Bastrop County, you may be entitled to compensation for:
Economic Damages
These are the financial losses you’ve suffered as a result of the accident. They include:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost wages if you’ve missed work
- Lost earning capacity if you can’t return to your previous job
- Property damage (vehicle repairs or replacement)
- Out-of-pocket expenses (transportation to medical appointments, home modifications, etc.)
Non-Economic Damages
These are the intangible losses that don’t have a specific dollar amount. They include:
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
- Physical impairment (loss of mobility, chronic pain, etc.)
- Disfigurement (scars, amputations, etc.)
- Loss of consortium (impact on your marriage or family relationships)
- Loss of enjoyment of life
Punitive Damages
In rare cases, you may be entitled to punitive damages. These are awarded to punish the defendant for particularly egregious conduct and to deter similar behavior in the future. Punitive damages are available in cases involving:
- Drunk driving
- Extreme speeding (e.g., 100+ mph)
- Gross negligence (conscious indifference to others’ safety)
Texas law caps punitive damages at the greater of $200,000 or two times the amount of economic damages plus one times the amount of non-economic damages (up to $750,000 for the non-economic portion).
How Much Is Your Elgin Car Accident Case Worth?
One of the most common questions we hear from accident victims is, “How much is my case worth?” The answer depends on several factors, including:
The Severity of Your Injuries
More serious injuries generally result in higher compensation. For example:
- Soft tissue injuries (whiplash, sprains): $15,000-$60,000
- Broken bones: $35,000-$95,000
- Herniated discs (conservative treatment): $70,000-$171,000
- Herniated discs (surgery required): $346,000-$1,205,000
- Traumatic brain injuries: $1,548,000-$9,838,000
- Spinal cord injuries/paralysis: $4,770,000-$25,880,000
- Amputations: $1,945,000-$8,630,000
- Wrongful death: $1,910,000-$9,520,000
The Cost of Your Medical Treatment
The more extensive your medical treatment, the higher your compensation is likely to be. This includes:
- Emergency room visits
- Hospital stays
- Surgeries
- Physical therapy
- Chiropractic care
- Prescription medications
- Future medical needs
Your Lost Wages and Earning Capacity
If your injuries have caused you to miss work or reduced your ability to earn income in the future, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Wages lost while recovering from your injuries
- Reduced earning capacity if you can’t return to your previous job
- Lost benefits (health insurance, retirement contributions, etc.)
The Impact on Your Daily Life
The more your injuries have affected your daily life, the higher your compensation for pain and suffering may be. Factors that increase compensation include:
- Chronic pain
- Permanent disabilities
- Inability to participate in activities you previously enjoyed
- Impact on your relationships with family and friends
Who Was at Fault
Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means:
- If you were 50% or less at fault for the accident, you can recover compensation (reduced by your percentage of fault).
- If you were 51% or more at fault, you cannot recover any compensation.
Insurance companies often try to blame accident victims to reduce their payouts. Having an experienced Elgin car accident lawyer on your side can help ensure that fault is properly assigned.
The Insurance Coverage Available
The amount of insurance coverage available can also affect your compensation. In Texas:
- The minimum auto insurance coverage is $30,000 per person/$60,000 per accident for bodily injury and $25,000 for property damage.
- Commercial vehicles (like trucks) typically have much higher coverage limits.
- If the at-fault driver was uninsured or underinsured, you may be able to recover compensation through your own UM/UIM coverage.
Common Injuries in Elgin Car Accidents
Motor vehicle accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, from minor to life-threatening. Some of the most common injuries we see in Elgin car accident cases include:
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
TBIs are among the most serious injuries that can result from a car accident. They occur when a sudden impact or jolt causes the brain to collide with the skull. TBIs can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage.
Symptoms may include:
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Memory problems
- Mood changes
- Difficulty concentrating
- Sleep disturbances
- Sensitivity to light and noise
Even mild TBIs can have long-lasting effects, and symptoms may not appear immediately after the accident. That’s why it’s important to seek medical attention right away if you’ve been in a car accident, even if you feel fine.
Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis
Spinal cord injuries can result in partial or complete paralysis. The severity of the injury depends on where along the spine the damage occurred:
- Cervical spine (neck): Can result in quadriplegia (paralysis of all four limbs)
- Thoracic spine (mid-back): Can result in paraplegia (paralysis of the lower body)
- Lumbar spine (lower back): Can result in partial paralysis of the legs
Spinal cord injuries often require extensive medical treatment, including surgery, rehabilitation, and long-term care. They can also result in significant lost wages and reduced earning capacity.
Herniated Discs
A herniated disc occurs when the soft center of a spinal disc pushes through a crack in the tougher exterior. This can irritate nearby nerves and cause pain, numbness, or weakness in the arms or legs.
Treatment for herniated discs may include:
- Physical therapy
- Chiropractic care
- Pain management
- Epidural steroid injections
- Surgery (in severe cases)
Broken Bones and Fractures
Broken bones are common in car accidents, especially in high-impact collisions. Some of the most common fractures we see include:
- Broken arms and legs
- Broken ribs
- Broken pelvis
- Broken collarbone
- Facial fractures
Treatment may include casting, bracing, or surgery, depending on the severity of the fracture.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Soft tissue injuries involve damage to muscles, ligaments, and tendons. Common soft tissue injuries include:
- Whiplash (neck strain)
- Sprains (ligament injuries)
- Strains (muscle or tendon injuries)
- Contusions (bruises)
While soft tissue injuries may seem minor, they can cause chronic pain and limit your ability to work or participate in daily activities.
Internal Injuries
Internal injuries can be life-threatening and may not be immediately apparent after an accident. Common internal injuries include:
- Internal bleeding
- Organ damage (liver, spleen, kidneys)
- Punctured lungs
- Abdominal trauma
These injuries often require emergency surgery and can result in long hospital stays.
Psychological Injuries
Car accidents can also cause psychological injuries, such as:
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Fear of driving or riding in cars
These injuries can be just as debilitating as physical injuries and may require therapy or counseling.
Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Elgin Car Accident Case?
With so many law firms to choose from, why should you trust Attorney911 with your Elgin car accident case? Here are just a few reasons:
We Have an Insider Advantage
Lupe Peña, one of our attorneys, worked for a national defense firm for years. He knows exactly how insurance companies value claims, deploy tactics, and build cases against accident victims. Now, he uses that insider knowledge to fight for our clients.
Having a former insurance defense attorney on your side is like having a spy in the enemy’s camp. Lupe knows:
- How insurance companies calculate settlement offers
- Which IME doctors they favor (he hired many of them)
- How they use surveillance and social media against claimants
- When they’re lowballing your settlement offer
This advantage allows us to anticipate the insurance company’s moves and counter them effectively.
We Have a Proven Track Record of Success
At Attorney911, we don’t just talk about results—we deliver them. Here are just a few examples of our recent case results:
- 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.
- 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.
- We’ve 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.
These results demonstrate our ability to handle even the most complex and challenging cases.
We Provide Personal Attention
At Attorney911, you’re not just another case number. You’ll work directly with Ralph Manginello or Lupe Peña, not a case manager or paralegal. We believe that personal attention leads to better results.
Here’s what our clients say about the level of care they received:
“Melanie was excellent. She kept me informed and when she said she would call me back, she did. I got to speak with Ralph Manginello once and knew quickly the way his Firm was ran.” — Brian Butchee
“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
“You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client…You are FAMILY to them.” — Chad Harris
We’re Trial-Ready
While most personal injury cases settle out of court, we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This approach gives us leverage in negotiations and helps us secure better outcomes for our clients.
Our trial readiness is one reason why insurance companies take us seriously. They know that if they don’t offer a fair settlement, we’re not afraid to take a case to court. This reputation helps us achieve better results for our clients.
We Offer Free Consultations and Contingency Fees
We believe that everyone should have access to quality legal representation, regardless of their financial situation. That’s why we offer:
- Free, no-obligation consultations
- Contingency fee representation (you pay nothing unless we win your case)
- No upfront costs (we advance all case expenses)
If we don’t recover compensation for you, you owe us nothing. This means you can focus on your recovery without worrying about legal fees.
Frequently Asked Questions About Elgin Car Accidents
What should I do immediately after a car accident in Elgin?
If you’ve been in an accident in Elgin:
- Call 911 and report the accident.
- Seek medical attention, even if you feel fine.
- Document everything: take photos of the scene, vehicle damage, and your injuries.
- Exchange information with the other driver.
- Get contact information from any witnesses.
- Do NOT give a recorded statement to any insurance company.
- Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate legal guidance.
Should I call the police even for a minor accident?
Yes. Always call the police after an accident, no matter how minor it may seem. The police report is critical evidence for your case. 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, like traumatic brain injuries or internal bleeding, may not show symptoms immediately. Adrenaline can mask pain at the scene, and some injuries take days or weeks to become apparent. Getting checked by a doctor creates a medical record that links your injuries to the accident.
What information should I collect at the scene?
Collect the following information:
- Other driver: name, phone number, address, driver’s license number, insurance information
- Vehicle: make, model, color, license plate number
- Witnesses: names and phone numbers
- Photos: all vehicle damage, injuries, road conditions, traffic signals
- Police: officer name, badge number, report number
Should I talk to the other driver or admit fault?
Exchange information only. Do NOT discuss fault, apologize, or give your opinion on what happened. Stick to the facts and avoid saying anything that could be used against you later.
How do I obtain a copy of the accident report?
In Elgin, you can obtain the police report from the responding agency 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 on what to say.
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 or discuss injuries or fault.
Do I have to accept the insurance company’s estimate?
No. Their estimate is just an offer—usually far below what your case is actually worth. 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 or underinsured?
Your own UM/UIM (Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist) coverage can compensate you. Watch our video on UM/UIM claims at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kWcNFyb-Yq8.
Why does insurance want me to sign a medical authorization?
They want unlimited access to your ENTIRE medical history to find pre-existing conditions to use against you. Never sign without attorney review.
Do I have a personal injury case?
You may have a case if:
- Someone else was at fault (even partially)
- You suffered injuries or damages
- There is insurance to recover from
Watch our video “Do I Have a Good Case?” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j-PMMP5Jims.
When should I hire a car accident lawyer?
Immediately. Evidence disappears daily. Insurance companies start building their defense against you from day one. Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911.
How much time do I have to file (statute of limitations)?
In Texas: 2 years from the date of the accident for personal injury, 2 years from the date of death for wrongful death. Miss it and your case is 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 (reduced by your fault %). If 51% or more at fault, you get nothing.
What happens if I was partially at fault?
You can still recover if you were 50% or less at fault. Your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault.
Will my case go to trial?
Most cases settle before trial. But Attorney911 prepares every case as if it’s going to trial. Watch our video “Will Your Case Go to Trial?” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Ed5AnmCMcc.
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 or 18-24 months for serious injuries.
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?” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XwzYymneDVs.
What is my case worth?
It depends on your injuries, medical costs, lost wages, permanent impairment, and other factors. Cases range from $15,000 (soft tissue) to millions (catastrophic injury).
What types of damages can I recover?
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost wages and earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
- Physical impairment
- Disfigurement
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Property damage
Can I get compensation for pain and suffering?
Yes. Pain and suffering is a significant component of personal injury cases in Texas. There is NO CAP on pain and suffering (except medical malpractice).
What if I have a pre-existing condition?
You can still recover if the accident aggravated or worsened your pre-existing condition. This is called the “eggshell plaintiff” rule.
Will I have to pay taxes on my settlement?
Generally, compensation for physical injuries is NOT taxable. Punitive damages ARE taxable. Consult a tax professional.
How is the value of my claim determined?
Based on:
- Medical bills
- Future treatment costs
- Lost income
- Permanent impairment rating
- Comparable verdicts
- Severity of injuries
- Impact on daily life
How much do car accident lawyers cost?
Attorney911 works on 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?” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc.
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 or 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). These cases are complex—you need an experienced attorney.
What if the other driver fled the scene (hit and run)?
File a police report immediately. Your Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage applies. Surveillance footage is critical—most is deleted within 7-30 days. We send preservation letters immediately.
What if I’m an undocumented immigrant—can I still file a claim?
YES. Immigration status does NOT affect your right to compensation for injuries. Your case is confidential. We’ve successfully represented clients of all immigration statuses. Lupe is fluent in Spanish.
What if the accident happened in a parking lot?
Parking lot accidents are fully compensable. Insurance companies often argue “parking lot accidents are always 50/50 fault,” but this is not true. We prove fault through surveillance video, witness statements, damage analysis, and traffic patterns.
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. These cases often settle quickly because liability is clear.
Contact Attorney911 Today
If you’ve been injured in a motor vehicle accident in Elgin, Bastrop County, or anywhere in Central Texas, don’t wait to get the legal help you need. Evidence disappears quickly, and insurance companies are already building their case against you.
At Attorney911, we offer:
- Free, no-obligation consultations
- Contingency fee representation (you pay nothing unless we win)
- Personal attention from experienced attorneys
- Insider knowledge of insurance company tactics
- A proven track record of multi-million-dollar results
Call us today at 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911) or visit our website at https://attorney911.com to schedule your free consultation. We’re here to fight for you.

