Motor Vehicle Accident Lawyers in Palestine, Texas

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Palestine, Texas, you’re not alone. Every year, thousands of Texans suffer injuries in motor vehicle crashes—many right here in Anderson County. At Attorney911, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll an accident can take on you and your family. Our experienced team, led by Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña, is here to fight for the compensation you deserve.

Why Palestine Accident Victims Choose Attorney911

Palestine, Texas, is a vibrant community with unique traffic challenges. Whether you’re driving on US-79, US-84, or one of our local roads, accidents can happen in an instant. When they do, you need a law firm that knows Palestine and understands Texas law.

Our Palestine Advantage:

Local Knowledge: We’re familiar with Anderson County courts, judges, and local accident patterns.
Insurance Expertise: Lupe Peña, our associate attorney, spent years working for insurance companies—now he uses that knowledge to fight for you.
Proven Results: We’ve recovered millions for accident victims, including cases settling in the millions for catastrophic injuries.
Personal Attention: Unlike large firms, you’ll work directly with Ralph or Lupe, not a case manager.

Common Types of Motor Vehicle Accidents in Palestine

Car Accidents (Most Common)

With over 250,000 people injured in Texas car crashes annually, accidents are an unfortunate reality on Palestine roads. Common causes include:

Distracted driving (texting, phone use)
Speeding and aggressive driving
Failure to yield at intersections
Drunk or impaired driving
Weather-related accidents

Common Injuries:

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

“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

Trucking Accidents (Most Dangerous)

Palestine sits at the intersection of major highways, making trucking accidents a serious concern. In Texas, there are nearly 40,000 commercial vehicle crashes annually, resulting in over 600 fatalities.

Why Trucking Accidents Are Different:

Trucks weigh up to 80,000 pounds—20 times more than passenger vehicles
Multiple liable parties (driver, trucking company, cargo loader, manufacturer)
Federal regulations (FMCSA) govern trucking operations
Higher insurance limits ($1,000,000+ policies common)

Critical Evidence in Trucking Cases:

Electronic Logging Device (ELD) data
Driver qualification files
Maintenance records
Black box data
Hours of Service (HOS) logs

“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

Drunk Driving Accidents (Preventable Tragedies)

Texas has one of the highest rates of drunk driving fatalities in the nation. In 2024, alcohol-impaired driving caused over 1,000 deaths in Texas—25% of all traffic fatalities.

Texas Dram Shop Law (TABC § 2.02):
Bars, restaurants, and liquor stores can be held liable if they serve alcohol to an obviously intoxicated person who then causes an accident. Signs of obvious intoxication include:

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

Punitive Damages Available:
Drunk driving cases often qualify for punitive damages, which punish the defendant and deter similar conduct. Texas caps punitive damages at the greater of $200,000 or 2x economic damages + 1x non-economic damages (capped at $750,000).

Motorcycle Accidents (High Risk)

Motorcycle riders face unique risks on Palestine roads. In 2024, there were 585 motorcyclist fatalities in Texas—37% of those killed weren’t wearing helmets.

Texas Helmet Law:

Required for riders under 21
Riders 21+ may ride without a helmet if they:
- Completed an approved safety course, OR
- Have $10,000+ in medical insurance coverage

Common Causes:

Failure to yield right of way (most common)
Driver inattention/distraction
Unsafe lane changes
Left-turn accidents
Speeding

Pedestrian Accidents (Most Vulnerable)

Pedestrians are at high risk in Palestine, especially near busy intersections and shopping areas. In Texas, pedestrians account for 1% of crashes but 19% of all roadway deaths.

Critical Legal Point:
Pedestrians ALWAYS have the right-of-way at intersections—even at unmarked crosswalks. Many drivers don’t know this.

Common Injuries:

Traumatic brain injuries
Spinal cord injuries
Broken pelvis and legs
Internal organ damage
Fatalities

Hit and Run Accidents (Leaving Victims Behind)

Hit and run accidents are particularly frustrating because the at-fault driver flees the scene. In Texas, leaving the scene of an accident is a crime:

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

Your Recovery Options:

Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage from your own policy
Underinsured Motorist (UIM) coverage if the at-fault driver is found but has insufficient insurance
Personal Injury Protection (PIP) for immediate medical expenses

“Leonor got me into the doctor the same day…it only took 6 months amazing.” – Chavodrian Miles

What to Do After an Accident in Palestine

The 48-Hour Protocol (Evidence Disappears Fast)

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 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 texts, calls, photos, videos related to the accident
Secure damaged clothing, glasses, personal items
Keep receipts for any expenses (towing, rental car, medications)
Do NOT repair your vehicle yet (preserve the damage)
Request copies of all medical records
Note any calls from insurance companies
Do NOT give recorded statements
Do NOT sign anything
Do NOT accept settlement offers

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 or sign anything without lawyer review
Backup all evidence (upload photos to cloud storage)

Week One Priorities:

Continue documenting all injuries
See specialists if recommended
Follow ALL doctor recommendations
Get written work restrictions if needed
Attorney obtains police report
Preservation letters sent to all parties
Surveillance footage secured before deletion
Witness statements recorded

Evidence Deterioration Timeline (Why Time is Critical)

Timeframe	What Disappears	Why It Matters
Day 1-7	Witness memories peak then fade	Details forgotten, witnesses harder to locate
Day 7-30	Surveillance footage deleted	Gas stations (7-14 days), stores (30 days), traffic cameras (30 days)
Month 1-2	Insurance builds case against you	Adjusters solidify defense position
Month 2-6	Trucking ELD data deleted	Can be overwritten in 30-180 days
Month 6-12	Witnesses become unreachable	Graduate, move away, memory severely degraded
Month 12-24	Approaching statute of limitations	Creates pressure to settle cheap

Call Attorney911 NOW: 1-888-ATTY-911

Texas Motor Vehicle Law Framework

Statute of Limitations (Deadline to File)

Personal Injury: 2 years from date of accident
Wrongful Death: 2 years from date of death
Property Damage: 2 years from date of damage
Government Claims: 6 months notice required

Exception: Discovery Rule – SOL may start later if injury/cause not immediately discoverable.

Critical: Miss the deadline = case BARRED forever. Cannot be extended or waived.

Comparative Negligence (51% Bar Rule)

Texas uses modified comparative negligence. This means:

If you are 50% or less at fault → You can recover damages (reduced by your % of fault)
If you are 51% or more at fault → You recover NOTHING

Examples:

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

Why This Matters:
Insurance companies ALWAYS try to assign maximum fault to you. Even small fault percentages cost you thousands.

Texas Minimum Auto Insurance (30/60/25)

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 & 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 their vehicles safely.
Breach of Duty: The at-fault driver violated their duty of care (speeding, distracted driving, etc.).
Causation: The breach of duty directly caused your injuries.
Damages: You suffered actual harm (physical, financial, emotional).

Evidence Types and Sources

Physical Evidence:

Vehicle damage photographs (all angles)
Skid marks, debris, road damage
Damaged personal property (clothing, glasses, phone)
Weather and road conditions documentation

Documentary Evidence:

Police accident report
911 call recordings
Traffic camera footage
Surveillance footage from nearby businesses
Medical records and bills
Employment records (for lost wages)
Cell phone records (proving distraction)

Electronic Evidence:

ELD (Electronic Logging Device) data from trucks
Vehicle black box/EDR (Event Data Recorder)
GPS/telematics data
Dashcam footage
Social media posts (theirs, not yours)

Testimonial Evidence:

Witness statements
Expert witness testimony
Medical expert opinions
Accident reconstruction specialists

Multiple Liable Parties (Increases Your Recovery)

Trucking Accidents Can Involve:

Truck driver (negligent operation)
Trucking company (negligent hiring, supervision, maintenance)
Cargo loader (improper loading causing instability)
Vehicle manufacturer (defective parts)
Maintenance company (improper repairs)

Rideshare Accidents Can Involve:

Rideshare driver
Rideshare company (Uber/Lyft)
Other at-fault drivers
Vehicle owner (if different from driver)

Drunk Driving Accidents Can Involve:

Drunk driver
Bar/restaurant (dram shop liability)
Social host (limited circumstances)
Liquor store (serving obviously intoxicated person)

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

Damages & Compensation You Can Recover

Types of Damages

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
Drunk driving cases often qualify
Cap: Greater of $200,000 OR (2x economic + 1x non-economic max $750,000)

Settlement Ranges by Injury Type

Soft Tissue Injuries (Whiplash, Sprains, Strains):

Medical Treatment: $6,000-$16,000
Lost Wages: $2,000-$10,000
Pain & Suffering: $8,000-$35,000
Settlement Range: $15,000-$60,000

Broken Bone (Single, Simple Fracture):

Medical Treatment: $10,000-$20,000
Lost Wages: $5,000-$15,000
Pain & Suffering: $20,000-$60,000
Settlement Range: $35,000-$95,000

Broken Bone (Requiring Surgery):

Medical Treatment: $47,000-$98,000
Lost Wages: $10,000-$30,000
Pain & Suffering: $75,000-$200,000
Settlement Range: $132,000-$328,000

Herniated Disc (Conservative Treatment):

Medical Treatment: $22,000-$46,000
Lost Wages: $8,000-$25,000
Pain & Suffering: $40,000-$100,000
Settlement Range: $70,000-$171,000

Herniated Disc (Surgery Required):

Medical Treatment: $96,000-$205,000
Future Medical: $30,000-$100,000
Lost Wages: $20,000-$50,000
Lost Earning Capacity: $50,000-$400,000
Pain & Suffering: $150,000-$450,000
Settlement Range: $346,000-$1,205,000

Traumatic Brain Injury (Moderate to Severe):

Medical Treatment: $198,000-$638,000
Future Medical: $300,000-$3,000,000+
Lost Wages: $50,000-$200,000
Lost Earning Capacity: $500,000-$3,000,000+
Pain & Suffering: $500,000-$3,000,000+
Settlement Range: $1,548,000-$9,838,000

Spinal Cord Injury / Paralysis:

Lifetime Care Costs: $2,500,000-$25,000,000+
Settlement Range: $4,770,000-$25,880,000

Amputation:

Medical Treatment: $170,000-$480,000
Future Medical (Prosthetics): $500,000-$2,000,000
Settlement Range: $1,945,000-$8,630,000

“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.” – Attorney911 Case Result

Wrongful Death (Working Age Adult):

Funeral and burial: $10,000-$20,000
Medical expenses before death: $50,000-$500,000
Lost financial support: $1,000,000-$4,000,000
Loss of companionship: $500,000-$3,000,000
Mental anguish: $250,000-$1,500,000
Settlement Range: $1,910,000-$9,520,000

“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

Settlement Multiplier Method (How Insurance Calculates)

The Formula:
Total Settlement = (Medical Expenses × Multiplier) + Lost Wages + Property Damage

Multiplier Range: 1.5 to 5

Injury Severity	Multiplier Range
Minor injuries (soft tissue, quick recovery)	1.5 – 2
Moderate injuries (broken bones, months recovery)	2 – 3
Severe injuries (surgery, long recovery)	3 – 4
Catastrophic injuries (permanent disability)	4 – 5+

Factors That Increase Multiplier:

Permanent injury or disability
Scarring or disfigurement
Long recovery time (12+ months)
Surgery required
Ongoing pain management needed
Clear liability (other driver 100% at fault)
Sympathetic plaintiff (child, elderly, pregnant)
Defendant’s conduct egregious (drunk driving, hit and run)
Strong evidence (video, witnesses)
Permanent restrictions on work/activities

Factors That Decrease Multiplier:

Soft tissue injury only
Quick recovery (under 3 months)
No surgery required
Disputed liability (comparative fault)
Gaps in medical treatment
Pre-existing conditions
Minor property damage
No permanent injury

Why Lupe’s Experience Matters:
Lupe calculated these multipliers for years using insurance company formulas. He knows:

When to push for higher multiplier (4-5 vs. 2-3)
Which factors insurance weighs most heavily
How to document cases to justify higher multipliers
When multiplier method undervalues case (catastrophic injuries)
When to abandon multiplier and demand policy limits

Insurance Tactics Exposed (Lupe’s Insider Knowledge)

At Attorney911, we have a unique advantage: Lupe Peña, our associate attorney, spent years working for insurance companies. He knows their tactics because he used them. Now he uses that knowledge to fight for you.

Tactic #1: Quick Contact & Recorded Statement (Days 1-3)

What Insurance Companies Do:
Within days of your accident, insurance adjusters will contact you—often while you’re:

Still in the hospital
On pain medication
Confused and scared
Overwhelmed by medical bills

They Act Friendly and Helpful:

“We just want to help you”
“We need to get your side of the story”
“This is routine, everyone does this”
“It’ll only take a few minutes”

What They’re Really Doing:
They’re building their defense against you with leading questions:

Question They Ask	What They Want You to Say
“You’re feeling better now though, right?”	Trap you into saying you’re improving
“It wasn’t that bad of an impact, was it?”	Minimize collision severity
“You were able to walk away from the scene?”	Suggest injuries not serious
“Were you distracted at all?”	Get you to admit distraction
“How fast were you going?”	Hope you overestimate or say “I don’t know”

Everything is documented, recorded, transcribed, and WILL be used against you.

The Truth:

You are NOT required to give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance
Giving a statement without an attorney ALMOST ALWAYS hurts your case
Insurance companies know this—that’s why they push so hard

How Attorney911 Counters:

DO NOT give a recorded statement without us
Once you hire Attorney911, we become your voice
All calls go through us
You don’t talk to adjusters
We prepare you properly if a statement becomes absolutely necessary
We sit with you during any statements

We know their questions because Lupe asked them for years.

Tactic #2: Quick Settlement Offer (Weeks 1-3)

What Insurance Companies Do:
Within days or weeks of your accident, insurance companies will offer quick money:

Typical offers: $2,000-$5,000
Sometimes $10,000-$15,000 if they’re scared
Sounds good when you have zero money and mounting bills

They Create Artificial Urgency:

“This offer expires in 48 hours”
“I can only get approval for this amount right now”
“Take it or leave it”
“This is our final offer” (it’s not)

The Trap:
You don’t know the extent of your injuries yet.

What Happens	Result
Day 3: Insurance offers $3,500 “final settlement”	You’re desperate, in pain, scared
You sign the release	You think it’s over
Week 6: MRI shows herniated disc requiring surgery	Surgery costs $100,000
TOO LATE	You signed the release, can’t reopen claim
You pay $100,000 out of pocket	Insurance pays nothing more

RELEASE IS PERMANENT AND FINAL.

How Attorney911 Counters:
NEVER settle before Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI)

MMI = as good as you’ll get medically
Could be 6 months, 12 months, 24+ months depending on injuries
Can’t know true case value until MMI
We know offers are ALWAYS lowball
Lupe calculated these lowball offers for years—he KNOWS they’re offering 10-20% of true value

Tactic #3: “Independent” Medical Exam (Months 2-6)

What They Call It:
“Independent Medical Examination” (IME)

What It Really Is:
An insurance company-hired doctor to minimize your injuries.

How Insurance Companies Choose IME Doctors (Lupe Knows This):

Selection Criteria:

Based on who gives insurance-favorable reports (NOT who’s most qualified)
Doctors who consistently find “no injury” or “pre-existing condition”
Doctors paid THOUSANDS by insurance companies ($2,000-$5,000 per exam)
Repeat business = repeat favorable reports

What Happens at IME:
10-15 Minute “Examination”:

Cursory physical exam (vs. your treating doctor’s thorough evaluation)
Rarely review your complete medical records beforehand
Ask questions designed to elicit “I’m feeling better” responses
Look for ANY reason to minimize injuries

Common IME Doctor Findings:

What They Say	What It Means
“Patient has pre-existing degenerative changes”	Everyone over 40 has some arthritis—used to deny claims
“Injuries consistent with minor trauma”	Minimizes your pain and suffering
“Patient can return to full duty work”	Eliminates lost wage claims
“Treatment has been excessive”	Attacks your treating doctors
“Subjective complaints out of proportion to objective findings”	Medical speak for calling you a LIAR

How Attorney911 Counters:

We prepare you extensively before the exam
We send complete medical records to the IME doctor first (forcing review)
We challenge biased IME reports with our own medical experts
Lupe knows these specific doctors and their biases—he hired them for years

Tactic #4: Delay and Financial Pressure (Months 6-12+)

What Insurance Companies Do:
Drag your case out hoping you get desperate:

“Still investigating your claim”
“Waiting for medical records” (that we sent months ago)
“Reviewing your file”
“Need additional information”
Ignore calls and emails
Take weeks to respond to simple questions

Why Delay Works (On People Without Attorneys):

Insurance Companies Have:

Unlimited time
Unlimited resources
No financial pressure
Earning interest on YOUR settlement money while delaying

You Have:

Mounting bills
Zero income
Creditors threatening
Need money NOW

Financial Desperation Makes You Accept Less:

Month 1: You’d reject $5,000 offer
Month 6: You’d seriously consider $5,000
Month 12: You’d BEG for $5,000 just to end the nightmare

How Attorney911 Counters:

We file a lawsuit to force deadlines
We set depositions forcing them to produce witnesses
We prepare for trial showing we’re serious
Lupe understands delay tactics because he used them—knows when to push

Tactic #5: Surveillance & Social Media Monitoring

What Insurance Companies Do:
They hire private investigators to:

Video you doing daily activities
Film from public places (your driveway, street, stores)
Follow you to appointments, errands, social activities
Look for ANY activity contradicting injury claims
One video of you bending over = “Not really injured”

They Monitor ALL Your Social Media:

Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, Twitter, YouTube, Snapchat
Screenshot EVERYTHING: photos, posts, check-ins, comments, likes
Monitor your friends’ profiles for posts mentioning you
Use facial recognition to find photos you’re tagged in
Archive your entire social media history

Examples We’ve Defended:

Example	What Happened	Insurance Claimed	Reality
Old Photo	Gym photo from 3 YEARS AGO	Presented as recent, contradicts injury	We proved metadata was pre-accident
Restaurant Check-in	Facebook check-in at restaurant	“Partying and having fun”	Sitting quietly having dinner
Friend’s Comment	Friend posted “Had fun yesterday!”	Evidence of non-injury	Client was resting at home
Walking Dog	Video of client walking dog slowly	“Not disabled”	Doctor RECOMMENDED short walks
Smiling in Photo	Family photo smiling	“Not in pain—she’s smiling!”	Everyone smiles for photos

7 Rules for Clients:

Make ALL profiles private immediately
DON’T post about accident, injuries, activities, emotions, case
DON’T check in anywhere
Tell friends/family: don’t tag, don’t post about you
Don’t accept friend requests from strangers (fake profiles)
BEST: Stay off social media entirely during your case
Assume EVERYTHING is being monitored

Lupe’s Insider Quote:

“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.”

Tactic #6: Comparative Fault Arguments

What Insurance Companies Do:
Try to assign you MAXIMUM fault to reduce their payment:

“You were speeding” (without evidence)
“You weren’t paying attention” (speculation)
“You could have avoided this” (hindsight bias)
“You were distracted” (guessing)
“You contributed to this accident” (shifting blame)

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

Even Small Fault Percentages Cost Thousands:

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

How Attorney911 Counters:
Aggressive Liability Investigation:

Accident reconstruction proving other driver’s fault
Witness statements supporting your version
Police report analysis emphasizing citations
Expert testimony on perception-reaction time

Lupe knows their fault arguments because he made them for years—now he defeats them.

Colossus & Claim Valuation Software (Lupe’s Insider Knowledge)

How Insurance Companies ACTUALLY Value Your Claim:

Lupe knows this from the inside—he used these systems.

Colossus Software System:

Used by Allstate, State Farm, Liberty Mutual, and others
Computerized claim valuation system
Adjuster inputs: Injury codes, treatment types, medical costs, lost wages, jurisdiction
Software outputs: Recommended settlement range
Problem: Programmed to undervalue serious injuries

How It’s Manipulated:

Injury Coding:

Your SAME injury can be coded different ways
“Soft tissue strain” (minor code) vs. “disc herniation” (serious code)
SAME injury, different code = 50-100% difference in valuation
Adjusters trained to use LOWEST possible codes

Why Lupe’s Experience Matters:

Knows how to present medical records showing true injury severity
Knows which medical terms trigger higher valuations
Knows how to beat the algorithm with proper documentation
Knows when Colossus valuation is artificially low

Reserve Setting:

What Reserves Are:

Money insurance company sets aside for your claim
Based on worst-case scenario (their estimate of trial verdict)
Adjuster usually CANNOT settle for more than reserve without approval

How We Increase Reserves:

Hiring experts (shows we’re investing in the case)
Taking depositions (creating litigation expense)
Filing a lawsuit (forces trial evaluation)
Preparing for trial (shows we won’t back down)

Lupe understands reserve psychology and settlement authority limits—this is a GAME-CHANGING advantage.

Medical Knowledge: Understanding Your Injuries

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

Immediate vs. Delayed Symptoms:

Immediate Symptoms (At Accident Scene or Within Hours):

Loss of consciousness (even brief—seconds to minutes)
Confusion and disorientation (“Where am I? What happened?”)
Vomiting and nausea
Seizures
Severe headache
Dilated pupils
Slurred speech
Weakness or numbness

Delayed Symptoms (Hours to Days Later—CRITICAL):

Worsening headaches that don’t respond to medication
Repeated vomiting
Seizures developing days later
Slurred speech or difficulty speaking
Personality changes and mood swings
Sleep disturbances (sleeping much more or can’t sleep)
Sensitivity to light and noise
Confusion and memory problems worsening

Why Delayed Symptoms Matter Legally:
Insurance companies claim delayed symptoms aren’t from the accident. Attorney911 uses medical experts to explain that symptom progression is NORMAL for brain injuries.

Severity Classifications:

Classification	Characteristics
Mild TBI / Concussion	Brief LOC (seconds to minutes), GCS 13-15, may seem “fine” initially but can have serious long-term effects
Moderate TBI	LOC minutes to hours, GCS 9-12, lasting cognitive impairment, requires hospitalization
Severe TBI	Extended unconsciousness or coma, GCS 3-8, permanent disability likely, lifetime care needs

Long-Term Complications:

Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE): Progressive brain degeneration, personality changes, dementia
Post-Concussive Syndrome: Headaches, dizziness lasting months or years (affects 10-15%)
Increased Dementia Risk: Single moderate TBI doubles dementia risk later in life
Personality and Mood Disorders: Depression (40-50% of TBI patients), anxiety, irritability
Seizure Disorders: Can develop months or years after injury
Cognitive Impairment: Memory problems, difficulty concentrating, slowed processing

Spinal Cord Injury

Injury Levels and Impact:

Cervical Spine (C1-C8, Neck Region):

C1-C4 (High Cervical): Quadriplegia (all four limbs paralyzed), possible ventilator dependence, 24/7 care required
C5-C8 (Low Cervical): Quadriplegia with some arm/hand function, wheelchair dependent

Thoracic Spine (T1-T12, Mid-Back):

Paraplegia: Lower body paralysis, wheelchair dependent
Trunk control varies by level

Lumbar Spine (L1-L5, Lower Back):

Varying degrees of leg weakness/paralysis
Bowel/bladder dysfunction common
May walk with assistive devices

ASIA Impairment Scale:

Grade	Classification	Prognosis
A	Complete	No motor or sensory function below injury—worst
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 (recovered)

Secondary Complications:

Pressure sores (leading cause of hospitalization)
Respiratory complications (pneumonia—leading cause of death)
Bowel and bladder dysfunction
Sexual dysfunction
Autonomic dysreflexia (life-threatening blood pressure crisis)
Depression (40-60% of patients)
Shortened life expectancy (5-15 years on average)

Herniated Disc

Treatment Timeline:

Acute Phase (Weeks 1-6): Severe pain, medications, rest. Cost: $2,000-$5,000
Conservative Treatment (Weeks 6-12): Physical therapy, chiropractic. Cost: $5,000-$12,000
Interventional (If Conservative Fails): Epidural steroid injections. Cost: $3,000-$6,000
Surgery (If Injections Fail): Microdiscectomy or fusion. Cost: $50,000-$120,000

Permanent Restrictions Impact:

Can’t return to physical labor jobs
Lost earning capacity claims
Ongoing pain management needs

Whiplash and Soft Tissue Injuries

Why Insurance Undervalues Soft Tissue:

No broken bones or surgery = appears “minor”
Difficult to see on X-rays
Symptoms are subjective (pain, stiffness)

Why Soft Tissue Can Be SERIOUS:

15-20% develop chronic pain
Can prevent return to physical jobs
Whiplash can cause permanent problems
Often misdiagnosed initially (rotator cuff tears thought to be sprains)

Proper Documentation CRITICAL:

Detailed pain descriptions to doctors
Consistent treatment (no gaps)
MRI proving injury
Physical therapy records
Work restrictions documented

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
Avoidance behaviors

Compensable Psychological Damages:

Mental anguish
Emotional distress
Anxiety and depression
Loss of enjoyment of life
Fear and worry
Relationship impacts

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Palestine Accident Case

The 5 Unique Advantages That Set Us Apart

Advantage 1: Insurance Defense Insider

“Lupe Peña worked for a number of years at a national defense firm, learning firsthand how large insurance companies value claims.”

What This Means for Your Case:

We know their tactics because Lupe used them
We anticipate their strategies before they deploy them
We know how they value claims internally
We know which IME doctors they favor
We know how to beat their algorithms
We speak their language

No other firm in Palestine has this advantage.

Advantage 2: Multi-Million Dollar Results

Attorney911 has recovered millions for victims of:

Brain injuries: “Multi-million dollar settlement for client who suffered brain injury with vision loss”
Amputations: “This case settled in the millions”
Trucking wrongful death: “Recovered millions of dollars in compensation”
Maritime injuries: “Significant cash settlement”

Our results prove we don’t settle cheap.

Advantage 3: Federal Court Experience

Ralph Manginello is admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas.

Why This Matters:

Complex cases often end up in federal court
FMCSA trucking regulations are federal
Diversity jurisdiction for out-of-state defendants
Federal court requires different skills than state court

BP Explosion Litigation: “Our firm is one of the few firms in Texas to be involved in BP explosion litigation”

Advantage 4: Personal Attention

What Clients Say:

“You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client…You are FAMILY to them.” – Chad Harris

“I never felt like ‘just another case’ they were working on.” – Ambur Hamilton

“Ralph reached out personally.” – Dame Haskett

“Consistent communication and not one time did i call and not get a clear answer.” – Dame Haskett

You work directly with Ralph or Lupe, not a case manager assembly line.

Advantage 5: Contingency Fee – No Risk

“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

What Our Clients Say About Attorney911

Communication & Care:

“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

“Special thank you to my attorney, Mr. Pena, for your kindness and patience with my repeated questions.” – Chelsea Martinez

“Leonor and Amanda were amazing, they walked me through everything with my car accident.” – Kelly Hunsicker

Results & Speed:

“One company said they would not except my case. Then I got a call from Manginello…I got a call to come pick up this handsome check.” – Donald Wilcox

“Leonor is the best!!! She was able to assist me with my case within 6 months.” – Tymesha Galloway

“Mariela and Zulema have done such a fantastic job…gone above and beyond to get my case settled quickly!” – Hannah Garcia

“Highly recommend! They moved fast and handled my case very efficiently.” – Nina Graeter

Switching From Other Attorneys:

“In the beginning I had another attorney but he dropped my case although Mangiello law firm were able to help me out.” – Greg Garcia

“Leonor is absolutely phenomenal. She truly cares about her clients.” – Madison Wallace

Spanish Language Services:

“The support provided at Manginello Law Firm was excellent…They worked hard to do their best.” – Maria Ramirez

“Especially Miss Zulema, who is always very kind and always translates.” – Celia Dominguez

Ralph’s Personal Involvement:

“Mr. Manginello guided me through the whole process with great expertise…tenacious, accessible, and determined throughout the 19 months.” – Jamin Marroquin

“Ralph Manginello is indeed the best attorney I ever had..He cares greatly about his results.” – AMAZIAH A.T

Overall Excellence:

“Best lawyers in the city…fast return..and they really care about their clients.” – Dean Jones

“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.” – Glenda Walker

“This place feels like having a family over your case. And communication with you every step of the way. That’s how you know you’re in good hands.” – Kiwi Potato

Frequently Asked Questions About Motor Vehicle Accidents in Palestine

Immediate After Accident

1. What should I do immediately after a car accident in Palestine, Texas?
If you’ve been in an accident in Palestine:

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 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

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

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” (can be used as admission)
Do NOT give your opinion on what happened
Stick to facts only

6. How do I obtain a copy of the accident report in Palestine?
You can obtain the police report from the Palestine Police Department 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. We can advise you.

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 a 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 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.

11. What if the other driver is uninsured/underinsured?
Your own UM/UIM coverage can compensate you. Watch our video: “Uninsured & Underinsured Motorists” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kWcNFyb-Yq8

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?” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j-PMMP5Jims

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?” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=agzHKY_v9l4

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?” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Ed5AnmCMcc

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?” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XwzYymneDVs

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?” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc

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” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY

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. Example: You had mild occasional back pain. Accident caused herniated disc requiring surgery. You recover for the NEW injury, not just the pre-existing pain. We hire medical experts to prove the difference. Lupe knows how insurance attacks pre-existing conditions—he used this defense for years.

37. 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.” Call 1-888-ATTY-911 to discuss switching.

38. 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. Texas allows inter-policy stacking (combining multiple UM policies). Lupe’s insurance knowledge is critical for maximizing UM/UIM recovery.

39. 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, clear liability. Example: $100,000 medical × 4 multiplier = $400,000 pain & suffering. Lupe calculated these for years—he knows how to justify higher multipliers. See Section G for detailed breakdown.

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 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—the 6-month deadline is strict.

41. 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 within 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.

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. Call 1-888-ATTY-911—we protect your rights and your privacy.

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. Texas comparative negligence rules apply. We’ve won many parking lot cases with clear liability findings.

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. 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.

45. What if the other driver died in the accident?
You can still pursue a claim against the deceased driver’s estate and insurance. Death doesn’t eliminate liability. The insurance policy still applies. The estate may have assets. Wrongful death laws protect both sides. These cases are emotionally complex but legally straightforward. We handle them with sensitivity while protecting your rights.

Palestine, Texas: Our Community Commitment

At Attorney911, we’re proud to serve the Palestine community. Our deep Texas roots and commitment to justice make us the right choice for accident victims in Anderson County.

Why Local Matters:

Court Familiarity: We know the Anderson County courts and judges, giving us an advantage in your case.
Community Connections: We understand the unique challenges of driving in Palestine, from busy intersections to rural roads.
Accessibility: While our main office is in Houston, we’re committed to serving Palestine residents with the same level of care and attention.
Local Resources: We can connect you with trusted medical providers, auto repair shops, and other resources in the Palestine area.

Common Accident Locations in Palestine:

US-79 and US-84 Intersection: A busy crossroads where many accidents occur.
Loop 256: High traffic volume increases accident risk.
Downtown Palestine: Pedestrian and vehicle interactions.
Local Shopping Areas: Parking lot accidents near stores and restaurants.
Rural Roads: Accidents on less-traveled county roads can be particularly dangerous.

Our Promise to Palestine:

When you call Attorney911, you’re not just getting a law firm—you’re getting a team that cares about Palestine and its residents. We’ll fight tirelessly to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.

Call Attorney911 Now: 1-888-ATTY-911

If you’ve been injured in a motor vehicle accident in Palestine, Texas, don’t wait. Evidence disappears daily, and the insurance company is already building its case against you.

Why Call Us:

Free Consultation: No cost, no obligation to discuss your case.
No Fee Unless We Win: You pay nothing upfront. We only get paid if we recover compensation for you.
Insurance Defense Insider: Lupe Peña’s experience gives us an unfair advantage.
Proven Results: We’ve recovered millions for accident victims.
Personal Attention: You’ll work directly with Ralph or Lupe, not a case manager.
24/7 Availability: Call 1-888-ATTY-911 anytime—it’s a legal emergency line, not a marketing gimmick.

What Happens When You Call:

We’ll listen to your story and answer your questions.
We’ll explain your legal options in plain language.
If we take your case, we’ll start protecting your rights immediately.
We’ll handle all communication with insurance companies.
We’ll fight for maximum compensation while you focus on recovery.

Don’t Let Insurance Companies Take Advantage of You

Remember:

They have teams of lawyers working against you.
They use software like Colossus to minimize your claim.
They hire doctors to say you’re not really injured.
They delay and deny to pressure you into accepting less.

We know their playbook because Lupe used it for years. Now he’s on YOUR side.

Call Now: 1-888-ATTY-911

Se habla español. Lupe Peña and our team are ready to help Spanish-speaking clients.

Hablamos Español. No deje que las compañías de seguros se aprovechen de usted. Llame al 1-888-ATTY-911 para una consulta gratuita.

Your recovery starts with one call.