Motor Vehicle Accident Lawyers in Christine, Texas | Attorney911

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Christine, Texas, you’re not alone. With over 251,977 people injured in Texas motor vehicle crashes last year—one every 57 seconds—our roads are dangerous. At Attorney911, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll an accident can take. Founded by Ralph Manginello, who has over 25 years of experience fighting for accident victims, our firm is here to help you navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Why Christine, Texas Needs Experienced Car Accident Lawyers

Christine and the surrounding Atascosa County area see their share of motor vehicle accidents. Whether it’s on Highway 16 or the local roads, collisions can happen anywhere. When they do, you need a legal team that knows the local courts, understands Texas law, and has a proven track record of success. Attorney911’s Christine car accident lawyers have the experience and local knowledge to handle your case effectively.

Common Causes of Car Accidents in Christine, Texas

Car accidents in Christine and Atascosa County can happen for many reasons, including:

• Distracted Driving: Texting, talking on the phone, or even eating while driving can lead to devastating accidents.
• Speeding: Excessive speed reduces reaction time and increases the severity of injuries.
• Drunk Driving: Despite strict laws, drunk driving remains a leading cause of accidents in Texas.
• Failure to Yield: Many accidents occur at intersections when drivers fail to yield the right of way.
• Weather Conditions: Rain, fog, and even ice can make roads hazardous, especially in rural areas.

Common Injuries from Car Accidents

Car accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor to life-threatening. Some of the most common injuries we see in Christine car accident cases include:

• Whiplash and Soft Tissue Injuries: These injuries are common in rear-end collisions and can cause long-term pain.
• Herniated Discs: Damage to the spinal discs can lead to chronic pain and require surgery.
• Broken Bones: Fractures are common in high-impact collisions and may require extensive medical treatment.
• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Even a mild TBI can have long-lasting effects on cognitive function.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: These injuries can result in partial or complete paralysis.
• Internal Organ Damage: Internal bleeding and organ damage can be life-threatening if not treated immediately.

At Attorney911, we’ve helped clients with all types of injuries recover the compensation they need for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. 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 know how to fight for maximum compensation, even in complex cases.

18-Wheeler and Trucking Accidents in Christine, Texas

Trucking accidents are particularly devastating due to the size and weight of commercial vehicles. In Texas, there were 39,393 commercial motor vehicle crashes in 2024, resulting in 608 fatalities and 1,601 serious injuries. Texas accounts for 11% of all fatal truck crashes in the U.S., making it one of the most dangerous states for trucking accidents.

Why Trucking Accidents Are More Complex

Trucking accidents involve multiple liable parties, including:

• The Truck Driver: For negligent operation, fatigue, or impairment.
• The Trucking Company: For negligent hiring, training, or maintenance.
• The Cargo Loader: For improper loading that causes instability.
• The Vehicle Manufacturer: For defective parts that contribute to the accident.
• The Maintenance Company: For improper repairs that lead to mechanical failure.

At Attorney911, we have the experience to investigate all potential sources of liability. Our firm is one of the few in Texas to be involved in BP explosion litigation, demonstrating our ability to take on billion-dollar corporations. We’ve recovered millions for families facing trucking-related wrongful death cases.

Federal Regulations and Trucking Accidents

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets strict regulations for truck drivers and trucking companies, including:

• Hours of Service (HOS): Drivers are limited to 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off-duty.
• Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs): These devices track driving hours and must be preserved for at least six months.
• Drug and Alcohol Testing: Drivers are subject to pre-employment, random, and post-accident testing.
• Vehicle Maintenance: Trucking companies must maintain their vehicles to prevent accidents.

Violations of these regulations can establish negligence per se, making it easier to prove liability in your case. Ralph Manginello’s admission to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, allows us to handle complex federal cases involving FMCSA violations.

Drunk Driving Accidents in Christine, Texas

Drunk driving is a serious problem in Texas, contributing to 1,053 deaths in 2024—25.37% of all traffic fatalities. In Atascosa County and the surrounding areas, drunk driving accidents are tragically common, often resulting in catastrophic injuries or wrongful death.

Dram Shop Liability in Texas

Under Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code § 2.02, bars, restaurants, and other establishments can be held liable if they serve alcohol to someone who is obviously intoxicated and that person later 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

If you or a loved one has been injured by a drunk driver, Attorney911 can help you pursue a claim against both the driver and the establishment that served them. Our firm has successfully handled numerous dram shop cases, recovering millions for our clients.

Punitive Damages in Drunk Driving Cases

In Texas, punitive damages are available in cases involving gross negligence, such as drunk driving. These damages are designed to punish the defendant and deter similar conduct in the future. The cap for punitive damages in Texas is the greater of $200,000 or two times the economic damages plus one times the non-economic damages (capped at $750,000 for non-economic damages).

Ralph Manginello’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) gives us the expertise to handle both the criminal and civil aspects of drunk driving cases. We’ve successfully defended clients in DWI cases, giving us unique insight into how to counter insurance company tactics in civil claims.

Motorcycle Accidents in Christine, Texas

Motorcycle accidents are particularly dangerous due to the lack of protection for riders. In 2024, there were 585 motorcyclist fatalities in Texas, with 37% of those killed not wearing helmets. Atascosa County and the surrounding areas see their share of motorcycle accidents, often resulting in severe injuries or death.

Texas Helmet Law

In Texas, riders under 21 are required to wear helmets. Riders over 21 may ride without a helmet if they have completed a motorcycle safety course or have $10,000 in medical insurance coverage. However, helmets reduce the risk of death by 37% and the risk of head injury by 69%.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents often occur due to:

• Failure to Yield: Drivers failing to yield the right of way to motorcyclists.
• Distracted Driving: Drivers not paying attention to motorcycles on the road.
• Unsafe Lane Changes: Drivers changing lanes without checking for motorcycles.
• Left-Turn Accidents: Drivers turning left in front of oncoming motorcycles.
• Speeding: Excessive speed reduces reaction time and increases the severity of injuries.

Comparative Negligence in Motorcycle Accidents

Texas uses a modified comparative negligence system with a 51% bar rule. This means that if you are found to be 51% or more at fault for the accident, you cannot recover any damages. Insurance companies often try to blame motorcyclists for accidents, even when the other driver is at fault. Lupe Peña’s experience as a former insurance defense attorney gives us an advantage in countering these arguments.

Pedestrian Accidents in Christine, Texas

Pedestrian accidents are a growing problem in Texas, with 6,095 pedestrian crashes reported in 2024, resulting in 768 fatalities. Pedestrians account for just 1% of all crashes but 19% of all roadway deaths. In Christine and Atascosa County, pedestrian accidents often occur due to driver negligence, poor visibility, or lack of crosswalks.

Pedestrian Right-of-Way Laws

In Texas, pedestrians always have the right-of-way at intersections, even at unmarked crosswalks. Drivers must yield to pedestrians crossing the street, but many fail to do so, leading to serious accidents. If you’ve been injured as a pedestrian, Attorney911 can help you pursue a claim against the negligent driver.

Common Injuries in Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian accidents often result in severe injuries, including:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
• Spinal cord injuries
• Broken pelvis and legs
• Internal organ damage
• Fatalities

Rideshare Accidents (Uber/Lyft) in Christine, Texas

Rideshare accidents are becoming more common as services like Uber and Lyft grow in popularity. In 2024, there were over 11 billion rideshare trips in the U.S., and accidents involving rideshare vehicles can be complex due to the multiple insurance policies involved.

Rideshare Insurance Coverage Phases

Rideshare insurance coverage varies depending on the driver’s status at the time of the accident:

Who Can Be Injured in Rideshare Accidents?

• 21% Riders: Passengers in the rideshare vehicle.
• 21% Drivers: Rideshare drivers themselves.
• 58% Third Parties: Other drivers, pedestrians, or cyclists.

At Attorney911, we understand the complexities of rideshare insurance and can help you navigate the claims process. Lupe Peña’s experience as a former insurance defense attorney gives us the knowledge to identify the correct insurance coverage and maximize your recovery.

Hit and Run Accidents in Christine, Texas

Hit and run accidents are a serious problem in Texas, with one occurring every 43 seconds nationwide. In Christine and Atascosa County, hit and run accidents can leave victims with serious injuries and no way to recover compensation from the at-fault driver.

Texas Penalties for Hit and Run

Hit and run is a criminal offense in Texas, with penalties ranging from misdemeanors to felonies depending on the severity of the accident:

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) Coverage

If you’ve been injured in a hit and run accident, your own UM/UIM coverage can compensate you for your injuries. Texas allows inter-policy stacking, which means you can combine coverage from multiple vehicles on your policy. At Attorney911, we can help you navigate the UM/UIM claims process and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Evidence Preservation in Hit and Run Cases

Evidence disappears quickly in hit and run cases. Surveillance footage from nearby businesses is typically deleted within 7-30 days, and witness memories fade over time. At Attorney911, we send preservation letters to businesses and other parties to ensure critical evidence is preserved.

Tesla and Autopilot Accidents in Christine, Texas

Autonomous vehicle technology is rapidly evolving, but accidents involving Tesla’s Autopilot and Full Self-Driving (FSD) systems are becoming more common. In 2024, Tesla’s Autopilot was involved in 70% of all driver-assist crashes reported to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Notable Tesla Autopilot Crashes

• May 2016, Williston, FL: Joshua Brown was killed when his Tesla Model S failed to detect a white 18-wheeler crossing its path.
• March 2018, Mountain View, CA: Apple engineer Walter Huang was killed when his Tesla Model X crashed into a highway barrier. The case settled in April 2024.
• August 2025, Miami, FL: A jury awarded $240 million to the family of a victim killed in a Tesla Autopilot crash, marking a landmark verdict.

Liability in Tesla Autopilot Accidents

Tesla has faced criticism for marketing its Autopilot and FSD systems as safer than human drivers, fostering overconfidence among drivers. Key liability arguments in Tesla Autopilot cases include:

1. Misleading Marketing: Tesla’s marketing claims fostered driver overconfidence.
2. Known Defects: Tesla knew the system couldn’t detect emergency vehicles and other hazards.
3. Inadequate Recalls: Tesla used over-the-air (OTA) software updates instead of comprehensive recalls to address defects.

At Attorney911, we have the experience to handle complex product liability cases involving autonomous vehicles. Ralph Manginello’s admission to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, allows us to litigate these cases at the federal level.

What to Do After a Car Accident in Christine, Texas

If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Christine, Texas, taking the right steps immediately can protect your health and your legal rights. Here’s what you should do:

1. Call 911 and Report the Accident

Even if the accident seems minor, it’s important to call 911 and report it. The police report will be critical evidence in your case.

2. Seek Medical Attention

Adrenaline can mask injuries, so it’s important to get checked out by a medical professional even if you feel fine. Delayed symptoms are common in car accidents, and insurance companies may use delays in treatment against you.

3. Document Everything

Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. Get the names and contact information of witnesses, and exchange information with the other driver.

4. Do NOT Give a Recorded Statement to Insurance

Insurance adjusters may contact you soon after the accident and ask for a recorded statement. Do NOT give one without consulting an attorney. Insurance companies use these statements to build a case against you.

5. Call Attorney911

The sooner you call Attorney911, the better. Evidence disappears quickly, and insurance companies start building their defense from day one. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation.

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Christine, Texas Car Accident Case?

At Attorney911, we offer five unique advantages that set us apart from other law firms:

1. Insurance Defense Insider Advantage

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

Lupe Peña’s experience as a former insurance defense attorney gives us an insider’s perspective on how insurance companies operate. He knows their tactics because he used them for years—now he uses that knowledge to fight for you.

2. Multi-Million Dollar Results

Attorney911 has recovered millions for victims of car accidents, trucking accidents, and other motor vehicle collisions. 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 know how to fight for maximum compensation, even in complex cases.

3. Federal Court Experience

Ralph Manginello is admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas. This allows us to handle complex cases involving federal regulations, such as trucking accidents governed by the FMCSA.

4. Personal Attention

At Attorney911, you’ll work directly with Ralph Manginello or Lupe Peña, not a case manager assembly line. As client Chad Harris said:

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

5. Contingency Fee – No Risk

We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing unless we win your case. There are no upfront costs, and we advance all case expenses. If we don’t recover compensation for you, you owe us nothing.

Frequently Asked Questions About Car Accidents in Christine, Texas

What should I do immediately after a car accident in Christine, Texas?

If you’ve been in an accident in Christine, Texas:

• Call 911 and report the accident.
• Seek medical attention, even if you feel fine.
• Document everything: take photos, exchange information with the other driver, and get witness names and contact information.
• 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. The police report is critical evidence, and 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, such as traumatic brain injuries and internal bleeding, don’t show symptoms immediately. Adrenaline can mask pain, and delayed symptoms are common. Insurance companies use delays in treatment against you, so it’s important to get checked out right away.

What information should I collect at the scene?

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

Should I talk to the other driver or admit fault?

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

How do I obtain a copy of the accident report?

In Christine, Texas, 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. Do NOT discuss injuries or fault.

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

No. Their estimate is just an offer. It’s usually far below the actual value of your case. 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 Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage can compensate you. Texas allows inter-policy stacking, which means you can combine coverage from multiple vehicles on your policy. 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 a medical authorization 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, and 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, you have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. For wrongful death claims, you have 2 years from the date of death. Miss the deadline, and your case is barred forever.

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

Texas uses a modified comparative negligence system with a 51% bar rule. If you are 50% or less at fault, you can recover damages (reduced by your percentage of fault). If you are 51% or more at fault, you recover nothing.

Watch our video “What Is Comparative Negligence?” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=agzHKY_v9l4.

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. That’s what gives us leverage in negotiations.

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?

The timeline depends on the severity of your injuries. We don’t settle until you’ve reached Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI), which could be 6 months for minor injuries or 18-24 months for serious injuries.

What is the legal process step-by-step?

1. Investigation and evidence gathering.
2. Medical treatment to MMI.
3. Demand letter to insurance.
4. Negotiation.
5. Lawsuit if necessary.
6. Discovery.
7. Mediation.
8. Trial if needed.

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?

The value of your case depends on:

• Injury severity.
• Medical costs.
• Lost wages.
• Permanent impairment.
• Pain and suffering.
• Insurance available.

Cases range from $15,000 (soft tissue injuries) to millions (catastrophic injuries).

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 damages (except in medical malpractice cases).

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 for specific advice.

How is the value of my claim determined?

The value of your claim is 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 a contingency fee basis: 33.33% before trial, 40% if the case goes to 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 and Lupe Peña, not just paralegals. As Chad Harris said:

“You are NOT just some client…You are FAMILY to them.”

What if I already hired another attorney?

You can switch. As client Greg Garcia said:

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

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

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

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

File a police report immediately (hit and run is a criminal offense). Your Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage applies. Surveillance footage is critical—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.

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

Yes. Immigration status does not affect your right to compensation for injuries. You’re entitled to full recovery regardless of immigration status. Your case is confidential. We’ve successfully represented clients of all immigration statuses. Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish. Call 1-888-ATTY-911—we protect your rights and your privacy.

What if the accident happened in a parking lot?

Parking lot accidents are fully compensable. Insurance companies often argue that “parking lot accidents are always 50/50 fault,” but this is a lie. We prove fault through surveillance video, witness statements, damage analysis, and traffic patterns. Texas comparative negligence rules apply. We’ve won many parking lot cases with clear liability findings.

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

You can sue the driver even if you were riding with them (friend, family member, Uber driver). You’re an innocent victim. The driver’s insurance covers passengers. There are 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.

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.

Christine, Texas Car Accident Resources

Local Hospitals and Trauma Centers

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Christine, Texas, seek medical attention immediately. Here are some nearby hospitals and trauma centers:

• Methodist Hospital South: 1310 McCullough Ave, San Antonio, TX 78212
• Baptist Medical Center: 111 Dallas St, San Antonio, TX 78205
• University Hospital: 4502 Medical Dr, San Antonio, TX 78229 (Level I Trauma Center)

Local Courts

If your case goes to court, it will likely be heard in one of the following courts:

• Atascosa County Court at Law: 1 Courthouse Circle Dr, Jourdanton, TX 78026
• Atascosa County District Court: 1 Courthouse Circle Dr, Jourdanton, TX 78026

Local Law Enforcement

For reporting accidents or obtaining police reports:

• Atascosa County Sheriff’s Office: 1108 Campbell Ave, Jourdanton, TX 78026
• Christine Police Department: Contact through Atascosa County Sheriff’s Office

Contact Attorney911 Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident in Christine, Texas, don’t wait to seek legal help. Evidence disappears daily, and the statute of limitations is ticking. Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We don’t get paid unless we win your case.

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

Attorney911 | The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC
Principal Office: Houston, Texas
Serving Christine, Atascosa County, and all of Texas
Free Consultation • No Fee Unless We Win

Call Now: 1-888-ATTY-911