Car Accident Lawyers in Bartlett, Texas | Attorney911
If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Bartlett, Texas, you’re not alone. With one crash occurring every 57 seconds in Texas and over 251,000 people injured annually, car accidents are an unfortunate reality on our roads. At Attorney911, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll these accidents take on victims and their families. Our team, led by Ralph Manginello with over 25 years of experience, is here to fight for the compensation you deserve.
The Reality of Car Accidents in Bartlett, Texas
Bartlett and the surrounding Bell County area see their share of car accidents, from collisions on US-190 to incidents at busy intersections. These accidents can happen in an instant but leave lasting consequences. In a recent case, our client suffered a leg injury in a car accident that led to complications and partial amputation – a case that ultimately settled in the millions. This is just one example of how we help Bartlett residents recover from devastating accidents.
Common Causes of Car Accidents in Bartlett
Car accidents in Bartlett can occur for various reasons, including:
- Distracted driving (texting, phone use, eating)
- Speeding and reckless driving
- Failure to yield right of way
- Running red lights or stop signs
- Drunk or impaired driving
- Poor weather conditions
- Vehicle defects or maintenance issues
With Bartlett’s proximity to major highways and growing traffic, these factors contribute to many preventable accidents in our community.
Common Injuries from Car Accidents
Car accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor to life-altering:
- Whiplash and other soft tissue injuries
- Herniated or bulging discs
- Broken bones and fractures
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Internal organ damage
- Cuts, bruises, and lacerations
- Psychological trauma, including PTSD
In a recent case, our client developed serious complications from what initially seemed like a minor leg injury, ultimately requiring partial amputation. This case settled in the millions, demonstrating our commitment to fighting for maximum compensation for our clients.
Why Bartlett Residents Choose Attorney911
When you’re injured in a car accident, you need more than just a lawyer – you need a legal team with the experience and resources to take on insurance companies and fight for your rights. Here’s what sets Attorney911 apart:
Insurance Defense Insider Advantage
Our firm includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who spent years working for national insurance companies. He knows exactly how they evaluate claims, what tactics they use to minimize payouts, and how to counter their strategies. This insider knowledge is invaluable when negotiating with insurance adjusters or presenting your case in court.
“Lupe Peña worked for a number of years at a national defense firm, learning firsthand how large insurance companies value claims.”
Multi-Million Dollar Results
We’ve recovered millions for our clients, including:
- A multi-million dollar settlement for a client who suffered a brain injury with vision loss
- A case involving a car accident that led to complications and partial amputation, settling in the millions
- Numerous trucking-related wrongful death cases with multi-million dollar recoveries
As client Glenda Walker shared: “They make you feel like family and even though the process may take some time, they make it feel like a breeze. They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.”
Personal Attention from Experienced Attorneys
Unlike large firms where you’re just a case number, at Attorney911 you work directly with Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña. As Chad Harris said about his experience: “You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client…You are FAMILY to them.”
Federal Court Experience
Ralph Manginello is admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas. This federal court experience is crucial for handling complex cases, including those involving commercial vehicles, catastrophic injuries, or corporate defendants.
Contingency Fee – No Risk to You
We work on a contingency fee basis, which means:
- No upfront costs
- No hourly fees
- We only get paid if we win your case
- Free initial consultation
What to Do After a Car Accident in Bartlett
If you’ve been in a car accident in Bartlett, taking the right steps can protect your health and your legal rights:
- Call 911 – Report the accident and request medical assistance if needed
- Seek medical attention – Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not be immediately apparent
- Document everything – Take photos of the scene, vehicle damage, and your injuries
- Exchange information – Get the other driver’s name, contact information, insurance details, and license plate number
- Gather witness information – Get names and contact information from any witnesses
- Don’t admit fault – Avoid discussing who was at fault with the other driver or insurance companies
- Call Attorney911 – Before speaking to any insurance company, contact us at 1-888-ATTY-911
Evidence Preservation is Critical
Evidence disappears quickly after an accident:
- Surveillance footage from nearby businesses is typically deleted within 7-30 days
- Witness memories fade over time
- Skid marks and accident debris are cleared from the scene
- Vehicle damage may be repaired before it can be documented
We act quickly to preserve evidence by sending preservation letters to businesses, obtaining police reports, and gathering witness statements before memories fade.
Texas Car Accident Laws You Need to Know
Understanding Texas car accident laws can help protect your rights:
Statute of Limitations
In Texas, you have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This deadline is strict, and missing it can bar you from recovering compensation.
Comparative Negligence (51% Rule)
Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means:
- If you’re found to be 50% or less at fault, you can recover damages
- Your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault
- If you’re found to be 51% or more at fault, you cannot recover any damages
Insurance companies often try to shift blame to reduce their payouts. Our experience helps counter these tactics.
Minimum Insurance Requirements
Texas requires drivers to carry minimum insurance coverage of:
- $30,000 for bodily injury per person
- $60,000 for bodily injury per accident
- $25,000 for property damage
However, many drivers carry only the minimum coverage, which may not be enough to cover serious injuries. That’s why we explore all available insurance policies to maximize your recovery.
Insurance Tactics to Watch Out For
Insurance companies use various tactics to minimize payouts. Having a former insurance defense attorney on our team gives us unique insight into these strategies:
The Quick Settlement Offer
Insurance companies often make lowball settlement offers soon after an accident, hoping you’ll accept before you understand the full extent of your injuries. These early offers rarely reflect the true value of your case.
Recorded Statements
Insurance adjusters may ask you to give a recorded statement. They’ll use leading questions to get you to say things that can hurt your case. We advise our clients not to give recorded statements without legal representation.
Independent Medical Exams (IMEs)
Insurance companies may require you to see a doctor of their choosing for an “independent” medical exam. These doctors are often hired to minimize your injuries. Lupe Peña’s experience with these exams helps us counter their findings.
Surveillance
Insurance companies may hire private investigators to follow you and record your activities. They’ll use these videos to argue that your injuries aren’t as severe as you claim. We advise our clients to be cautious about their activities and social media posts during their case.
Delay Tactics
Insurance companies may delay processing your claim, hoping you’ll become desperate and accept a lower settlement. We don’t let them drag out your case – we take action to move your claim forward.
Pre-Existing Condition Arguments
Insurance companies often try to blame your injuries on pre-existing conditions. We work with medical experts to prove how the accident aggravated your condition and fight for compensation for the new or worsened injuries.
Types of Compensation Available
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, you may be entitled to various types of compensation:
Economic Damages
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost wages
- Loss of earning capacity
- Property damage
- Out-of-pocket expenses
Non-Economic Damages
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
- Physical impairment
- Disfigurement
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Loss of consortium
Punitive Damages
In cases involving gross negligence or intentional misconduct, such as drunk driving, you may be entitled to punitive damages. These are designed to punish the at-fault party and deter similar behavior.
Why Time is Critical in Your Car Accident Case
Every day that passes after your accident can impact your case:
- Evidence disappears (surveillance footage, witness memories)
- The statute of limitations clock is ticking
- Insurance companies are building their case against you
- Your injuries may worsen if not properly documented
As client Chavodrian Miles experienced: “Leonor got me into the doctor the same day…it only took 6 months amazing.” We act quickly to protect your rights and build a strong case.
How Attorney911 Handles Your Car Accident Case
When you choose Attorney911 to handle your car accident case, here’s what you can expect:
- Free Initial Consultation – We’ll review your case and explain your options
- Case Investigation – We gather evidence, interview witnesses, and build your case
- Medical Treatment – We help you get the medical care you need
- Insurance Negotiation – We handle all communication with insurance companies
- Demand Package – We prepare a comprehensive demand for compensation
- Lawsuit Filing – If necessary, we file a lawsuit to protect your rights
- Discovery – We exchange information with the other side
- Settlement Negotiation – We work to reach a fair settlement
- Trial Preparation – We prepare your case for trial if needed
Throughout the process, we keep you informed and involved. As Brian Butchee said about his experience: “Melanie was excellent. She kept me informed and when she said she would call me back, she did.”
Common Questions About Car Accidents in Bartlett
What should I do immediately after a car accident in Bartlett?
If you’ve been in a car accident in Bartlett:
- Call 911 and report the accident
- Seek medical attention, even if you feel fine
- Document the scene with photos and videos
- Exchange information with the other driver
- Get contact information from witnesses
- Don’t admit fault or discuss the accident with anyone except the police
- Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 before speaking to any insurance company
Should I call the police even for a minor accident?
Yes, you should always call the police after an accident. The police report is an important piece of evidence, and Texas law requires you to report accidents that result in injury, death, 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 or internal bleeding, may not show symptoms immediately. Adrenaline can mask pain at the scene. It’s important to get checked by a medical professional as soon as possible after an accident.
What information should I collect at the scene?
Collect the following information:
- Other driver’s name, phone number, and address
- Other driver’s insurance information
- Other driver’s license number
- Vehicle make, model, and license plate number
- Witness names and contact information
- Photos of vehicle damage, injuries, and the accident scene
Should I talk to the other driver or admit fault?
Only exchange basic information with the other driver. Don’t discuss fault, apologize, or make any statements about what happened. Stick to the facts and avoid giving your opinion on who was at fault.
How do I obtain a copy of the accident report?
In Bartlett, you can obtain the police report from the responding law enforcement agency or through the Texas Department of Transportation’s Crash Records Information System (CRIS).
Should I give a recorded statement to insurance?
We recommend that you do not give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance company without consulting an attorney first. Insurance adjusters are trained to ask questions that can minimize your claim. If your own insurance company requests a statement, you may have a duty to cooperate, but it’s still wise to consult with an attorney first.
What if the other driver’s insurance contacts me?
If the other driver’s insurance company contacts you, politely decline to give a statement and refer them to your attorney. Say something like: “I need to speak with my attorney first.” Then give them our contact information.
Do I have to accept the insurance company’s estimate?
No, you don’t have to accept the insurance company’s estimate. Their initial offer is often much lower than what your case is actually worth. We negotiate with insurance companies to get you fair compensation.
Should I accept a quick settlement offer?
Never accept a settlement offer before you know the full extent of your injuries. Once you sign a release, you can’t get more money even if you need additional medical treatment later. We recommend consulting with an attorney before accepting any settlement offer.
What if the other driver is uninsured or underinsured?
If the other driver doesn’t have insurance or doesn’t have enough insurance to cover your damages, your own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage can help compensate you. Texas allows you to stack UM/UIM coverage from multiple policies.
Why does insurance want me to sign a medical authorization?
Insurance companies want you to sign a broad medical authorization so they can access your entire medical history. They’re looking for pre-existing conditions to use against your claim. Never sign a medical authorization without consulting an attorney first.
Do I have a personal injury case?
You may have a personal injury case if:
- Someone else was at fault (even partially)
- You suffered injuries or damages
- There is insurance coverage available
When should I hire a car accident lawyer?
You should hire a car accident lawyer as soon as possible after your accident. Evidence disappears quickly, and insurance companies start building their case against you from day one. The sooner you have legal representation, the better we can protect your rights.
How much time do I have to file a lawsuit (statute of limitations)?
In Texas, you have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This deadline is strict, and missing it can bar you from recovering compensation.
What is comparative negligence and how does it affect me?
Texas uses a modified comparative negligence rule. If you’re found to be 50% or less at fault for the accident, you can recover damages, but your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. If you’re found to be 51% or more at fault, you cannot recover any damages.
What happens if I was partially at fault?
If you were partially at fault for the accident, you can still recover compensation as long as you were 50% or less at fault. Your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Will my case go to trial?
Most car accident cases settle before trial. However, we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This preparation gives us leverage in settlement negotiations and ensures we’re ready if your case does go to court.
How long will my case take to settle?
The length of your case depends on the severity of your injuries and the complexity of your case. We don’t settle your case until you’ve reached maximum medical improvement (MMI), which is the point at which your medical condition has stabilized. This could take several months to a couple of years.
What is the legal process step-by-step?
- Investigation and evidence gathering
- Medical treatment to reach maximum medical improvement
- Demand letter to the insurance company
- Negotiation with the insurance company
- Lawsuit filing if necessary
- Discovery (exchange of information with the other side)
- Mediation (attempt to reach a settlement)
- Trial if a settlement cannot be reached
What is my case worth?
The value of your case depends on various factors, including:
- The severity of your injuries
- The cost of your medical treatment
- Your lost wages and loss of earning capacity
- The impact on your daily life
- The degree of the other party’s fault
- The amount of available insurance coverage
What types of damages can I recover?
You may be able to recover:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost wages and loss of 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 in most personal injury cases.
What if I have a pre-existing condition?
You can still recover compensation if the accident aggravated or worsened your pre-existing condition. This is known as the “eggshell plaintiff” rule – the at-fault party takes you as they find you.
Will I have to pay taxes on my settlement?
Generally, compensation for physical injuries is not taxable. However, punitive damages are taxable. You should consult with a tax professional for specific advice.
How is the value of my claim determined?
The value of your claim is determined based on:
- Your medical bills
- Future medical needs
- Lost income
- Permanent impairment
- Pain and suffering
- The impact on your daily life
- Comparable verdicts and settlements
How much do car accident lawyers cost?
At Attorney911, we work on a contingency fee basis. This means:
- You pay nothing upfront
- We only get paid if we win your case
- Our fee is a percentage of your recovery
- You may still be responsible for court costs and case expenses
What does “no fee unless we win” mean?
It means you don’t pay any attorney fees unless we recover compensation for you. If we don’t win your case, you owe us nothing.
How often will I get updates on my case?
At Attorney911, we provide regular updates on your case. 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 have the right to switch attorneys if you’re unhappy with your current representation. We’ve taken over many cases from other attorneys. As Greg Garcia said: “In the beginning I had another attorney but he dropped my case although Mangiello law firm were able to help me out.”
What common mistakes can hurt my case?
Common mistakes that can hurt your case include:
- Giving a recorded statement to the insurance company without an attorney
- Accepting a quick settlement offer
- Delaying medical treatment
- Having gaps in your medical treatment
- Posting about your accident on social media
- Signing releases or authorizations without consulting an attorney
- Not documenting everything related to your accident and injuries
Should I post about my accident on social media?
No. Insurance companies monitor social media for posts that can be used against you. Make all your social media profiles private, and don’t post about your accident, injuries, or activities.
Why shouldn’t I sign anything without a lawyer?
Releases and authorizations are legally binding documents. Once you sign them, you can’t undo them. Settlement offers are also binding. Always consult with an attorney before signing anything.
What if I didn’t see a doctor right away?
It’s important to see a doctor as soon as possible after your accident, even if you don’t feel hurt. If you delayed seeking medical treatment, explain the reason for the delay to your doctor and be sure to document it.
What if I have a pre-existing condition?
You can still recover compensation if the accident aggravated your pre-existing condition. The “eggshell plaintiff” rule means the at-fault party takes you as they find you. We work with medical experts to prove how the accident worsened your condition.
Can I switch attorneys if I’m unhappy with my current lawyer?
Yes, you can fire your attorney at any time. If your current attorney isn’t communicating with you, isn’t fighting for you, or is pushing you to settle for less than your case is worth, you have the right to switch attorneys.
What if the insurance company is my own insurance (UM/UIM claim)?
If you’re making an uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) claim against your own insurance, you still need legal representation. Your insurance company will fight your claim just like the other driver’s insurance would. We have extensive experience handling UM/UIM claims.
How do you calculate pain and suffering?
Pain and suffering is often calculated using a multiplier method. Your medical expenses are multiplied by a number (typically between 1.5 and 5) based on the severity of your injuries and their impact on your life. Lupe Peña’s experience with insurance valuation methods helps us justify higher multipliers.
What if I was hit by a government vehicle?
If you were hit by a government vehicle, such as a city bus or police car, special rules apply. You typically have a shorter deadline to file a notice of claim (often 6 months), and there may be caps on damages. These cases are complex, and you need an experienced attorney.
What if the other driver fled the scene (hit and run)?
If the other driver fled the scene, file a police report immediately. Your uninsured motorist (UM) coverage can help compensate you. We act quickly to preserve evidence, such as surveillance footage, which is typically deleted within 7-30 days.
What if I’m an undocumented immigrant – can I still file a claim?
Yes, your immigration status does not affect your right to compensation for your injuries. You’re entitled to full recovery regardless of your immigration status. Your case is confidential, and we’ve successfully represented clients of all immigration statuses. Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish and can assist Spanish-speaking clients.
What if the accident happened in a parking lot?
Parking lot accidents are fully compensable. Insurance companies often try to argue that parking lot accidents are always 50/50 fault, but this isn’t true. We prove fault through surveillance video, witness statements, and damage analysis.
What if I was a passenger in the at-fault vehicle?
If you were a passenger in the at-fault vehicle, you can still pursue a claim against the driver. You’re an innocent victim, and the driver’s insurance should cover your injuries. These cases often settle quickly because liability is clear.
What if the other driver died in the accident?
You can still pursue a claim against the deceased driver’s estate and insurance. The insurance policy still applies, and the estate may have assets. These cases can be emotionally complex but are legally straightforward.
Contact Attorney911 for Your Bartlett Car Accident Case
If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Bartlett, Texas, don’t face the insurance companies alone. Our team, led by Ralph Manginello with over 25 years of experience and Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney, is here to fight for you.
Call us today at 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911) for a free consultation. We don’t get paid unless we win your case, so you have nothing to lose and everything to gain.
Remember, evidence disappears every day. The sooner you call, the better we can protect your rights and build a strong case for maximum compensation. Don’t let the insurance companies take advantage of you – call Attorney911 today.
