Motor Vehicle Accident Lawyers in Selma, Texas | Attorney911
If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Selma, Texas, you’re not alone. Every 57 seconds, a motor vehicle crash occurs somewhere in Texas, and Selma’s roads and highways are no exception. At Attorney911, we understand the physical pain, emotional stress, and financial uncertainty you’re facing. Our team of experienced Texas car accident lawyers is here to fight for you.
Why Selma Accident Victims Choose Attorney911
Selma’s location along major highways like I-35 and Loop 1604 makes it a high-traffic area where accidents frequently occur. Whether you were rear-ended on I-35, sideswiped in the intersection of FM 2252 and Evans Road, or hit by a distracted driver near the Forum Shopping Center, our Selma car accident attorneys have the local knowledge and legal expertise to handle your case.
Ralph Manginello, our managing partner with over 25 years of experience, leads our firm with a commitment to justice for accident victims. Our team includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how insurance companies evaluate claims – because he used to calculate them himself. This insider knowledge gives our Selma clients a significant advantage when negotiating with insurance adjusters.
Common Types of Motor Vehicle Accidents in Selma
Car Accidents in Selma
With over 251,977 people injured in Texas motor vehicle crashes in 2024 alone, car accidents are the most common type of collision we handle. In Selma, we frequently see accidents at busy intersections like:
- I-35 and FM 2252
- Evans Road and Lookout Road
- FM 2252 and Judson Road
- I-35 and Loop 1604
These accidents often result in injuries ranging from whiplash and soft tissue damage to more severe conditions like herniated discs, traumatic brain injuries, and spinal cord 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
18-Wheeler and Trucking Accidents
Selma’s proximity to major shipping routes means our roads see significant commercial truck traffic. In 2024, Texas experienced 39,393 commercial motor vehicle crashes, resulting in 608 fatalities and 1,601 serious injuries. These accidents are particularly devastating due to the size and weight disparity between trucks and passenger vehicles.
Common causes of trucking accidents in Selma include:
- Driver fatigue (violating FMCSA Hours of Service regulations)
- Improperly secured cargo
- Brake failures
- Distracted driving
- Speeding on I-35 or Loop 1604
“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
Texas continues to struggle with drunk driving, with 1,053 alcohol-impaired driving deaths in 2024 (25.37% of all traffic fatalities). In Selma and Bexar County, we see far too many lives destroyed by drunk drivers, particularly on weekend nights along I-35 and FM 2252.
Under Texas dram shop laws (TABC § 2.02), bars and restaurants can be held liable if they serve alcohol to obviously intoxicated patrons who then cause accidents. Our firm has extensive experience pursuing these claims to ensure all responsible parties are held accountable.
Motorcycle Accidents
With 585 motorcyclist fatalities in Texas in 2024, motorcycle accidents often result in catastrophic injuries. Selma’s scenic routes along the Medina River and rural roads attract many riders, but these same roads can be dangerous when other drivers fail to see motorcycles.
Pedestrian and Bicycle Accidents
Selma’s growing population means more pedestrians and cyclists sharing the roads. In 2024, Texas saw 6,095 pedestrian crashes resulting in 768 fatalities. Pedestrians always have the right-of-way at intersections, even unmarked ones, but many drivers don’t know this.
Rideshare Accidents (Uber/Lyft)
With the growth of rideshare services in San Antonio, we’re seeing more accidents involving Uber and Lyft vehicles. These cases are complex because insurance coverage depends on what the driver was doing at the time of the crash:
- Period 0 (App off): Personal insurance only ($30k/$60k/$25k minimum)
- Period 1 (App on, no ride request): $50k/$100k/$25k contingent coverage
- Period 2 (Ride accepted): $1,000,000 commercial coverage
- Period 3 (Passenger in vehicle): $1,000,000 commercial coverage
Our team knows how to navigate these complex insurance scenarios to ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
What to Do After an Accident in Selma
Immediate Steps (First 48 Hours)
If you’ve been in an accident in Selma, take these critical steps:
- Call 911 – Report the accident and request medical assistance if needed
- Seek medical attention – Even if you feel fine, some injuries don’t show symptoms immediately
- Document everything – Take photos of vehicle damage, injuries, road conditions, and traffic signals
- Exchange information – Get the other driver’s name, phone, address, insurance, and license plate
- Get witness information – Names and phone numbers of anyone who saw the accident
- Call Attorney911 – Before speaking to any insurance company, call 1-888-ATTY-911
Why Time Matters
Evidence disappears quickly after an accident:
- Surveillance footage: Deleted in 7-30 days
- Witness memories: Fade rapidly
- Black box data: Can be overwritten in 30-180 days
- Physical evidence: Road conditions change, vehicles are repaired
Our team acts fast to preserve critical evidence. Within 24 hours of being retained, we send preservation letters to:
- Other driver’s insurance company
- Businesses near the accident scene
- Trucking companies (for commercial vehicle accidents)
- Government entities (for traffic camera footage)
Texas Motor Vehicle Accident Laws You Need to Know
Statute of Limitations
You have 2 years from the date of your accident to file a personal injury lawsuit in Texas. This deadline is absolute – miss it, and you lose your right to compensation forever.
Comparative Negligence (51% Rule)
Texas uses a modified comparative negligence system. You can recover damages if you’re 50% or less at fault, but your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault. If you’re 51% or more at fault, you recover nothing.
Insurance companies will try to blame you for the accident to reduce their payment. Having a former insurance defense attorney like Lupe Peña on your side gives you a significant advantage in these negotiations.
Minimum Insurance Requirements
Texas requires all drivers to carry at least:
- $30,000 for bodily injury per person
- $60,000 for bodily injury per accident
- $25,000 for property damage
Unfortunately, many drivers carry only the minimum or no insurance at all. That’s why we always recommend carrying uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage.
How Insurance Companies Try to Minimize Your Claim
Lupe Peña spent years working for insurance companies. He knows exactly how they try to minimize claims:
1. Quick Settlement Offers
Insurance companies often make lowball offers within days of an accident, hoping you’ll accept before you know the full extent of your injuries. These early offers are almost always far below what your case is worth.
2. Recorded Statements
Adjusters will call you shortly after the accident, acting friendly and concerned. They’ll ask for a recorded statement, which they’ll use to find inconsistencies in your story. Never give a recorded statement without consulting an attorney first.
3. Independent Medical Exams (IMEs)
Insurance companies may send you to an “independent” doctor for an examination. These doctors are hired by the insurance company and often find ways to minimize your injuries.
“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.” – Lupe Peña
4. Surveillance
Insurance companies hire private investigators to follow accident victims, hoping to catch them doing activities that contradict their injury claims. They’ll also monitor your social media accounts for any posts that could be used against you.
5. Delay Tactics
Insurance companies know that financial pressure makes accident victims more likely to accept lowball offers. They’ll delay your claim, hoping you’ll become desperate and settle for less than your case is worth.
6. Blaming Pre-Existing Conditions
If you had any prior injuries or medical conditions, insurance companies will try to blame your current symptoms on those pre-existing conditions rather than the accident.
Common Injuries from Motor Vehicle Accidents
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
TBIs can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage. Symptoms may not appear immediately and can include:
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Memory problems
- Mood swings
- Sleep disturbances
- Sensitivity to light and noise
“Multi-million dollar settlement for client who suffered brain injury with vision loss when log dropped on him at logging company.” – Attorney911 Case Result
Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis
Spinal cord injuries can result in partial or complete paralysis. The lifetime costs of these injuries can exceed $5 million, depending on the level of injury.
Herniated Discs
Herniated discs often require extensive treatment, including:
- Physical therapy
- Pain management
- Epidural steroid injections
- Surgery (microdiscectomy or spinal fusion)
Broken Bones
Fractures can range from simple breaks to complex fractures requiring surgery and hardware implantation.
Amputations
“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
Soft Tissue Injuries
Whiplash and other soft tissue injuries are often dismissed by insurance companies as “minor,” but they can cause chronic pain and limit your ability to work.
Psychological Injuries
Many accident victims develop PTSD, anxiety, or depression after a serious accident.
What Your Selma Car Accident Case Might Be Worth
The value of your case depends on several factors:
Economic Damages
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost wages
- Lost earning capacity
- Property damage
- Out-of-pocket expenses
Non-Economic Damages
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
- Physical impairment
- Disfigurement
- Loss of enjoyment of life
Punitive Damages
In cases of gross negligence (like drunk driving), punitive damages may be available to punish the at-fault party.
Settlement Ranges by Injury Type
| Injury Type | Settlement Range |
|---|---|
| Soft Tissue (Whiplash) | $15,000 – $60,000 |
| Broken Bone (Simple) | $35,000 – $95,000 |
| Broken Bone (Requiring Surgery) | $132,000 – $328,000 |
| Herniated Disc (Conservative Treatment) | $70,000 – $171,000 |
| Herniated Disc (Surgery Required) | $346,000 – $1,205,000 |
| Traumatic Brain Injury (Moderate-Severe) | $1,548,000 – $9,838,000 |
| Spinal Cord Injury/Paralysis | $4,770,000 – $25,880,000 |
| Amputation | $1,945,000 – $8,630,000 |
| Wrongful Death | $1,910,000 – $9,520,000 |
Remember: Every case is unique. These ranges are based on past settlements and verdicts, but your case may be worth more or less depending on the specific circumstances.
Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Selma Car Accident Case
1. Insurance Defense Insider Knowledge
Lupe Peña worked for years at a national defense firm, learning firsthand how large insurance companies value claims. Now, he uses that knowledge to fight for accident victims like you.
“Lupe Peña worked for a number of years at a national defense firm, learning firsthand how large insurance companies value claims.” – Attorney911 Firm Background
2. Multi-Million Dollar Results
Our firm has recovered millions for accident victims:
- Multi-million dollar settlement for brain injury with vision loss
- Multi-million dollar settlement for amputation after car accident
- Millions recovered in trucking wrongful death cases
- Significant cash settlement for maritime back injury
“As client Jamin Marroquin describes: ‘Mr. Manginello guided me through the whole process with great expertise…tenacious, accessible, and determined throughout the 19 months.’ Ralph’s 25+ years of experience and federal court admission mean he’s handled cases in courtrooms most attorneys never see.” – Client Testimonial
3. Federal Court Experience
Ralph Manginello is admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas. This experience is crucial for complex cases, especially those involving commercial vehicles or out-of-state defendants.
4. Personal Attention
At Attorney911, you’re not just another case number. You’ll work directly with Ralph or Lupe, not a case manager assembly line.
“You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client…You are FAMILY to them.” – Chad Harris, Client
5. Contingency Fee – No Risk to You
We don’t get paid unless we win your case. Free consultation. No upfront costs.
“Leonor got me into the doctor the same day…it only took 6 months amazing.” – Chavodrian Miles, Client
Frequently Asked Questions About Selma Car Accidents
What should I do immediately after a car accident in Selma?
If you’ve been in an accident in Selma:
- Call 911 and report the accident
- Seek medical attention, even if you feel fine
- Document everything with photos
- Exchange information with the other driver
- Get witness names and phone numbers
- Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 before speaking to any insurance company
Should I call the police even for a minor accident?
Yes. Always call the police. The police report is critical evidence. 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 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.
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
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
How do I obtain a copy of the accident report?
In Selma, you can obtain the police report from the Selma Police Department 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.
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 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 what your case is really worth. Attorney911 fights for what your case is truly worth.
Should I accept a quick settlement offer?
NEVER accept settlement before knowing full extent of injuries. Once you sign a release, you cannot get more money even if you need surgery later.
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
Why does insurance want me to sign a medical authorization?
They want unlimited access to your ENTIRE medical history to find pre-existing conditions to use against you. Never sign without attorney review.
Do I have a personal injury case?
You may have a case if:
- Someone else was at fault (even partially)
- You suffered injuries or damages
- There is insurance to recover from
Watch our video: “Do I Have a Good Case?” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j-PMMP5Jims
When should I hire a car accident lawyer?
Immediately. Evidence disappears daily. Insurance companies start building their defense against you from day one. Call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911
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.
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
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.
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?
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.
What is the legal process step-by-step?
- Investigation and evidence gathering
- Medical treatment to MMI
- Demand letter to insurance
- Negotiation
- Lawsuit if necessary
- Discovery
- Mediation
- Trial if needed
Watch our video: “What Is the Process for a Personal Injury Claim?” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XwzYymneDVs
What is my case worth?
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).
What types of damages can I recover?
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost wages and earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
- Physical impairment
- Disfigurement
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Property damage
Can I get compensation for pain and suffering?
Yes. Pain and suffering is a significant component of personal injury cases in Texas. There is NO CAP on pain and suffering (except medical malpractice).
What if I have a pre-existing condition?
You can still recover if the accident aggravated or worsened your pre-existing condition. This is called the “eggshell plaintiff” rule.
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.
“In the beginning I had another attorney but he dropped my case although Mangiello law firm were able to help me out.” – Greg Garcia, Client
What if the insurance company is my own insurance (UM/UIM claim)?
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist claims are against YOUR insurance when 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.
How do you calculate pain and suffering?
Most commonly using multiplier method: Medical expenses × multiplier (1.5 to 5) = pain & suffering. Multiplier depends on: injury severity, permanency, impact on life, clear liability.
Lupe calculated these for years—he knows how to justify higher multipliers.
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 2-year statute of limitations). Sovereign immunity protects government entities. Damage caps may apply. These cases are complex—you need experienced attorney.
What if the other driver fled the scene (hit and run)?
File police report immediately (hit and run is criminal offense). Your Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage applies. Surveillance footage is CRITICAL—gas stations, businesses, Ring doorbells, traffic cameras. Most footage deleted 7-30 days. We send preservation letters immediately.
What if I’m an undocumented immigrant—can I still file a claim?
YES. Immigration status does NOT affect your right to compensation for injuries. 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.
“Especially Miss Zulema, who is always very kind and always translates.” – Celia Dominguez, Client
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.
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. Driver’s insurance covers passengers. No comparative fault issues (you weren’t driving). These cases often settle quickly because liability is clear.
What if the other driver died in the accident?
You can still pursue claim against deceased driver’s estate and insurance. Death doesn’t eliminate liability. Insurance policy still applies. Estate may have assets. Wrongful death laws protect both sides.
How much do car accident lawyers cost?
Attorney911 works on contingency: 33.33% before trial, 40% if trial. You pay nothing upfront. We don’t get paid unless we win.
Watch our video: “How Do Contingency Fees Work?” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc
What does “no fee unless we win” mean?
You pay zero unless we recover money for you. If we don’t win, you owe us nothing. We advance all case costs.
How often will I get updates?
Attorney911 provides regular updates.
“Consistent communication and not one time did i call and not get a clear answer.” – Dame Haskett, Client
Who will actually handle my case?
At Attorney911, you work directly with Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña, not just paralegals.
“You are NOT just some client…You are FAMILY to them.” – Chad Harris, Client
What if I already hired another attorney?
You can switch.
“In the beginning I had another attorney but he dropped my case although Mangiello law firm were able to help me out.” – Greg Garcia, Client
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
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.
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.
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.
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. We hire medical experts to prove the difference.
Can I switch attorneys if I’m unhappy with my current lawyer?
YES. 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 the insurance company is my own insurance (UM/UIM claim)?
Your Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist coverage can compensate you. Texas allows inter-policy stacking. Lupe’s insurance knowledge is critical for maximizing UM/UIM recovery.
How do you calculate pain and suffering?
Most commonly using multiplier method: Medical expenses × multiplier (1.5 to 5) = pain & suffering. Lupe calculated these for years—he knows how to justify higher multipliers.
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. Sovereign immunity protects government entities. These cases are complex—you need experienced attorney. Ralph’s 25+ years includes government litigation.
What if the other driver fled the scene (hit and run)?
File police report immediately. Your Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage applies. Surveillance footage is CRITICAL—most deleted 7-30 days. We send preservation letters immediately to gas stations, businesses, and traffic cameras.
What if I’m an undocumented immigrant—can I still file a claim?
YES. Immigration status does NOT affect your right to compensation. Your case is confidential. We’ve successfully represented clients of all immigration statuses. Lupe is fluent in Spanish.
“They solved in a couple of months what others did nothing about in two years.” – Angel Walle, Client
What if the accident happened in a parking lot?
Parking lot accidents are fully compensable. We prove fault through surveillance video, witness statements, and damage analysis. Texas comparative negligence rules apply.
What if I was a passenger in the at-fault vehicle?
You can sue the driver even if you were riding with them. You’re an innocent victim. Driver’s insurance covers passengers. These cases often settle quickly because liability is clear.
What if the other driver died in the accident?
You can still pursue claim against deceased driver’s estate and insurance. Death doesn’t eliminate liability. Insurance policy still applies. Estate may have assets. Wrongful death laws protect both sides.
Contact Attorney911 Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a motor vehicle accident in Selma, Texas, don’t wait. Evidence disappears daily, and the insurance company is already building their case against you.
Call 1-888-ATTY-911 now for a free consultation. We don’t get paid unless we win your case.
“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, Client
Attorney911 – The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC
Serving Selma and all of Bexar County, Texas
1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
Free Consultation | No Fee Unless We Win
Hablamos Español – Lupe Peña and our team are ready to help Spanish-speaking clients.
