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Johnson City Car & Truck Accident Attorneys | 18-Wheelers, Commercial Trucks, Rideshare, Hit-and-Run | Former Insurance Defense — We Know Their Playbook | $2.5M Truck Recovery | Attorney911 — The Firm Insurers Fear | Federal Court Experience | Se Habla Español | 1-888-ATTY-911

January 23, 2026 89 min read
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Motor Vehicle Accident Lawyers in Johnson City, Texas

If You’ve Been Injured in a Car Accident in Johnson City, Texas, We’re Here to Help

If you or a loved one has been injured in a motor vehicle accident in Johnson City, Texas, you’re not alone. Every year, thousands of Texans suffer injuries in car crashes, truck collisions, and other traffic incidents. At Attorney911, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll these accidents can take. Our experienced team, led by Ralph Manginello with over 25 years of legal expertise, is here to fight for the compensation you deserve.

Johnson City and Blanco County see their share of traffic accidents, from collisions on US-281 to incidents on local roads like FM 962. Whether you were rear-ended at a stop sign, involved in a multi-vehicle pileup, or struck by a distracted driver, our firm has the knowledge and resources to handle your case with the care and attention it deserves.

The Reality of Motor Vehicle Accidents in Johnson City, Texas

Texas consistently ranks among the states with the highest number of traffic fatalities and injuries. In 2024 alone, there were 251,977 people injured in motor vehicle crashes across the state. That’s one person injured every 2 minutes and 5 seconds. In Johnson City and the surrounding Blanco County area, residents face unique risks due to the mix of local traffic, agricultural vehicles, and through-traffic on major highways.

Common causes of accidents in our area include:

  • Distracted driving (texting, using GPS, or eating while driving)
  • Speeding, especially on rural roads with higher speed limits
  • Failure to yield at intersections and stop signs
  • Drunk or impaired driving, particularly on weekends
  • Poor weather conditions, including flash floods and fog
  • Fatigued driving, especially among commercial truck drivers

At Attorney911, we’ve seen firsthand how these accidents can change lives in an instant. Ralph Manginello, our managing partner, has been handling motor vehicle accident cases since 1998. His extensive experience, combined with our firm’s deep understanding of Texas traffic laws, makes us uniquely qualified to represent accident victims in Johnson City and throughout Blanco County.

Common Types of Motor Vehicle Accidents We Handle

Our firm handles all types of motor vehicle accidents, including:

Car Accidents

Car accidents are the most common type of motor vehicle collision we see in Johnson City. These can range from minor fender-benders to catastrophic crashes resulting in life-altering injuries.

Common causes of car accidents in Johnson City:

  • Distracted driving (texting, using GPS, or eating while driving)
  • Speeding, especially on rural roads like US-281 or FM 962
  • Failure to yield at intersections or stop signs
  • Drunk or impaired driving
  • Poor weather conditions (rain, fog, or flash floods)
  • Vehicle defects or maintenance issues

Common injuries from car accidents:

  • Whiplash and other soft tissue injuries
  • Broken bones and fractures
  • Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
  • Spinal cord injuries and herniated discs
  • Internal organ damage
  • Psychological trauma, including PTSD

Attorney911 Case Result:

“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.”

Client Testimonial:

“I was rear-ended and the team got right to work. I also got a very nice settlement.” — MONGO SLADE

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Johnson City, don’t let insurance companies minimize your claim. Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We don’t get paid unless we win your case.

Trucking and 18-Wheeler Accidents

Trucking accidents are particularly devastating due to the size and weight of commercial vehicles. An 18-wheeler can weigh up to 80,000 pounds—20 times more than the average passenger car. When these massive vehicles collide with smaller cars, the results are often catastrophic.

Texas trucking accident statistics (2024):

  • 39,393 commercial motor vehicle crashes in Texas
  • 608 fatalities and 1,601 serious injuries from truck accidents
  • Texas accounts for 11% of all fatal truck crashes nationwide
  • 549 fatal truck accidents resulted in 620 deaths

Common causes of trucking accidents in Johnson City and Blanco County:

  • Driver fatigue (violations of Hours of Service regulations)
  • Improper loading or unsecured cargo
  • Inadequate vehicle maintenance
  • Distracted or impaired driving
  • Speeding or aggressive driving
  • Poor weather conditions on rural highways

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) Regulations:
Truck drivers and trucking companies must comply with strict federal regulations, including:

  • Hours of Service (HOS) rules limiting driving time
  • Mandatory Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs)
  • Regular vehicle inspections and maintenance
  • Drug and alcohol testing
  • Proper driver training and licensing

Attorney911 Case Result:

“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.”

Why choose Attorney911 for your trucking accident case?

  • Ralph Manginello is admitted to federal court in the Southern District of Texas, where many trucking cases are heard
  • Our firm was one of the few involved in BP explosion litigation, demonstrating our ability to handle complex cases against large corporations
  • We have experience with FMCSA regulations and know how to prove violations
  • Our team includes former insurance defense attorney Lupe Peña, who understands how trucking companies and their insurers operate

Recent Texas trucking verdicts:

  • 2024 Oncor Electric: $37.5 million verdict for distracted truck driver
  • 2024 New Prime I-35 pileup: $44.1 million verdict for crash involving 6 deaths
  • 2024 Ben E. Keith (Fort Worth): $35 million settlement, largest in Fort Worth history

If you or a loved one has been injured in a trucking accident in Johnson City or anywhere in Blanco County, call Attorney911 immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911. Electronic logging data and other critical evidence can be overwritten in as little as 30 days.

Drunk Driving Accidents

Drunk driving accidents are entirely preventable, yet they continue to claim lives across Texas. In 2024, there were 1,053 alcohol-impaired driving deaths in Texas, accounting for 25.37% of all traffic fatalities.

Texas drunk driving statistics:

  • 24,000+ DWI-related crashes in 2023
  • One death every 39 minutes nationally from alcohol-impaired driving
  • Blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher is legally intoxicated in Texas

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
  • Impaired coordination
  • Aggressive or erratic behavior
  • Strong odor of alcohol

Potentially liable parties in drunk driving cases:

  • The drunk driver
  • Bars and nightclubs that over-served the driver
  • Restaurants that served alcohol to an obviously intoxicated patron
  • Liquor stores that sold alcohol to someone who appeared drunk
  • Event organizers (concerts, festivals) with alcohol service

Why drunk driving cases often result in higher settlements:

  • Punitive damages may be available for gross negligence
  • Multiple defendants can be held liable (driver + establishment)
  • Criminal case can strengthen civil case
  • Insurance companies have less room to dispute liability

Attorney911’s Criminal Defense Advantage:
Ralph Manginello is a member of the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA), giving our firm unique insight into both the criminal and civil aspects of drunk driving cases. We’ve successfully handled DWI cases, including:

“Our client was charged with drunk driving based on a breath test. Our investigation revealed that a police department employee was not properly maintaining the breathalyzer machines. The charges were dismissed.”

“Our client drove home at 2:30 a.m., hit a curb and rolled his car, injuring a passenger. We learned that 1) police conducted no breath or blood test, 2) EMS didn’t note intoxication, 3) nurse notes from hospital were missing. Case dismissed on day of trial.”

“Our client was charged with DUI/DWI, state’s primary evidence was video field sobriety test. We succeeded in having case dismissed because our client did not appear drunk in the video.”

If you or a loved one has been injured by a drunk driver in Johnson City, Texas, call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911. We’ll investigate all potential sources of compensation, including dram shop liability.

Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents often result in severe injuries due to the lack of protection afforded to riders. In 2024, there were 585 motorcyclist fatalities in Texas, with 37% of those killed not wearing helmets.

Texas motorcycle accident statistics:

  • 90%+ of fatal motorcycle accident victims are male
  • Helmets reduce the risk of death by 37%
  • Texas requires helmets for riders under 21 and those without adequate medical insurance

Common causes of motorcycle accidents in Johnson City and Blanco County:

  • Failure to yield right of way (most common cause)
  • Driver inattention or distraction
  • Unsafe lane changes
  • Left-turn accidents (T-bone collisions)
  • Speeding or reckless driving
  • Poor road conditions or debris in the roadway

Texas 51% Comparative Fault Rule:
Texas uses a modified comparative negligence system. If you are found to be 50% or less at fault for the accident, you can recover damages reduced by your percentage of fault. However, if you are 51% or more at fault, you cannot recover any damages.

Insurance companies often try to blame motorcyclists for accidents, even when the other driver is clearly at fault. Our former insurance defense attorney Lupe Peña knows these tactics and can counter them effectively.

Client Testimonial:

“Ralph Manginello guided me through the whole process with great expertise. He was tenacious, accessible, and determined throughout the 19 months.” — Jamin Marroquin

If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident in Johnson City, don’t let insurance companies blame you for the crash. Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation.

Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrians are the most vulnerable road users, and accidents involving pedestrians often result in catastrophic injuries. In 2024, there were 6,095 pedestrian crashes in Texas, resulting in 768 fatalities.

Pedestrian accident statistics:

  • Pedestrians account for only 1% of crashes but 19% of all roadway deaths
  • In Houston, 119 pedestrians were killed on city streets in 2024 (a record high)
  • Johnson City and Blanco County see pedestrian accidents at crosswalks, in parking lots, and along rural roads

Critical legal point for pedestrians:
Pedestrians ALWAYS have the right-of-way at intersections, even at unmarked crosswalks. Many drivers don’t know this, and insurance companies won’t tell you.

Common injuries in pedestrian accidents:

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

If you or a loved one has been struck by a vehicle while walking in Johnson City or Blanco County, call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911. We’ll fight to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.

Rideshare Accidents (Uber/Lyft)

Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have become increasingly popular in Texas, but accidents involving these vehicles present unique legal challenges.

Rideshare industry statistics:

  • 11 billion trips in the US since 2010
  • 17.4 million Uber trips daily
  • 118 million Uber users worldwide

Rideshare insurance coverage phases:

Phase Driver Status Coverage Available
Period 0 – Offline App off, personal use Personal insurance only (Texas minimum: $30,000/$60,000/$25,000)
Period 1 – Waiting App on, no ride request Contingent coverage: $50,000/$100,000/$25,000
Period 2 – Accepted Ride accepted, en route to pickup Full commercial: $1,000,000 liability
Period 3 – Transporting Passenger in vehicle Full commercial: $1,000,000 liability

Who can be injured in rideshare accidents?

  • 21% Riders
  • 21% Drivers
  • 58% Third parties (other drivers, pedestrians)

Why rideshare accident cases are complex:

  • Insurance coverage varies dramatically based on what the driver was doing at the time of the crash
  • Multiple insurance policies may be involved
  • Rideshare companies often try to deny responsibility

Lupe Peña’s insider knowledge:
As a former insurance defense attorney, Lupe Peña understands how rideshare companies and their insurers evaluate claims. He knows how to navigate the complex insurance landscape to maximize your recovery.

If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident in Johnson City, call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911. We’ll determine which insurance policies apply and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Hit and Run Accidents

Hit and run accidents are particularly frustrating because the at-fault driver flees the scene, leaving victims without a clear path to compensation. In Texas, hit and run is a serious crime with severe penalties.

Hit and run statistics:

  • One hit and run occurs every 43 seconds in the United States
  • Texas has strict penalties for hit and run offenses:
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

Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage:
If you’re the victim of a hit and run accident, your own UM coverage can compensate you when the at-fault driver is unidentified. This coverage is critical for hit and run victims.

Evidence preservation is crucial:

  • Surveillance footage from nearby businesses is typically deleted within 7-30 days
  • Witnesses may become difficult to locate as time passes
  • Physical evidence at the scene can be disturbed or removed

Attorney911’s YouTube video on UM/UIM coverage:
Learn more about your rights after a hit and run accident in our video: Uninsured & Underinsured Motorists

If you’ve been the victim of a hit and run accident in Johnson City, call Attorney911 immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911. We’ll send preservation letters to secure critical evidence before it’s lost forever.

Delivery Vehicle Accidents (Amazon, FedEx, UPS, DoorDash)

With the rise of online shopping and food delivery services, delivery vehicle accidents have become increasingly common.

Key delivery vehicle verdicts:

  • 2024 Georgia: $16.2 million for child struck by Amazon delivery van (Amazon 85% responsible)
  • 2024 Lopez v. All Points 360: $105 million verdict against Amazon DSP
  • Grubhub wrongful death lawsuit (Arizona): Driver distracted by app

Amazon Delivery Service Partner (DSP) Liability:

  • DSPs are contractually required to “defend and indemnify” Amazon
  • Amazon DSPs have a higher safety violation rate than average motor carriers
  • 1,879 crashes involving Amazon-related motor carriers (24 months ending August 2025)

Why delivery vehicle accidents often result in higher settlements:

  • Trucks are 3x the size and weight of passenger cars, leading to more severe injuries
  • $1 million+ liability insurance policies are typically required
  • Juries have little sympathy for corporate defendants
  • The business model often encourages dangerous behavior (tight delivery schedules)

If you’ve been injured by a delivery vehicle in Johnson City or Blanco County, call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911. We’ll investigate all potentially liable parties, including the delivery company, driver, and parent corporation.

Work Zone and Construction Zone Accidents

Work zone accidents are a growing problem in Texas, with nearly 28,000 crashes occurring in work zones in 2024. These accidents resulted in 215 deaths, representing a 12% increase over the previous year.

Work zone accident statistics:

  • 60% of highway contractors reported crashes into work zones (2025 survey)
  • 43% of contractors reported worker injuries from work zone crashes (2025 survey)
  • Work zone fatalities increased 50% nationally from 2013 to 2023

Real case example:
Katrina Bond, a college student, slowed for work zone traffic on I-35 near Fort Worth. The driver of a heavy pickup truck (who admitted to receiving a text message) rear-ended her, pushing her car into the path of another truck. The accident was fatal.

Common causes of work zone accidents:

  • Speeding through work zones
  • Distracted driving (texting, using GPS)
  • Failure to merge properly
  • Ignoring traffic control devices
  • Driver confusion in complex work zones
  • Poorly marked work zones

If you’ve been injured in a work zone accident in Johnson City or Blanco County, call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911. We’ll investigate whether proper safety measures were in place and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Tesla and Autonomous Vehicle Accidents

As autonomous vehicle technology becomes more common, accidents involving these vehicles present new legal challenges.

Notable Tesla/Autopilot crashes:

  • May 2016, Williston, FL: Joshua Brown killed when Autopilot failed to detect a white 18-wheeler
  • March 2018, Mountain View, CA: Apple engineer Walter Huang killed (case settled April 2024)
  • December 2024, California: Genesis Mendoza killed in active lawsuit
  • August 2025, Miami, FL: $240 million+ jury verdict against Tesla (landmark case)

Key liability arguments in Tesla/Autopilot cases:

  1. Tesla marketed Full Self-Driving (FSD) and Autopilot as safer than human drivers
  2. Marketing fostered driver overconfidence and overreliance on the system
  3. Tesla knew the system couldn’t detect emergency vehicles (known defect)
  4. Tesla used over-the-air (OTA) software updates instead of comprehensive fixes

NHTSA data on Tesla crashes:

  • Tesla Autopilot accounts for 70% of driver-assist crashes reported to NHTSA
  • December 2023: Tesla recalled 2+ million vehicles for Autopilot issues

Crash patterns in Tesla accidents:

  • Tractor-trailer crossings
  • Emergency vehicles with lights flashing
  • Gore points and barriers
  • Driver hands-off situations

If you’ve been injured in an accident involving a Tesla or other autonomous vehicle in Johnson City or Blanco County, call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911. Our firm has experience handling complex product liability cases against major corporations.

E-Bike and E-Scooter Accidents

E-bikes and e-scooters have become increasingly popular in Texas, but accidents involving these vehicles can result in serious injuries.

Texas e-bike classifications:

Class Max Speed Throttle Pedal Assist
Class 1 20 mph No Yes
Class 2 20 mph Yes Yes
Class 3 28 mph No Yes

Legal requirements for e-bikes in Texas:

  • No license required for standard e-bikes
  • No registration required
  • Motor limit: 750W (1 horsepower) or less
  • Speed limit: 28 mph maximum assisted speed
  • No statewide helmet requirement (some cities like Austin require helmets for riders under 17)

If an e-bike exceeds these standards:

  • Motor over 750W, speed over 28 mph, or throttle on Class 3 = NOT an “electric bicycle” under Texas law
  • May require registration as a motor vehicle
  • Different insurance and liability implications

E-bike accident liability:

  • Motorists who strike e-bike riders
  • E-bike manufacturers (product defects – battery fires, brake failures)
  • Pedestrians struck by e-bikes
  • Property owners (premises liability for poorly maintained paths)

If you’ve been injured in an e-bike or e-scooter accident in Johnson City, call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911. We’ll investigate all potentially liable parties and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Bus Accidents

Bus accidents can result in multiple injuries and complex liability issues. In 2024, there were 1,110 bus accidents in Texas, leading all states in total bus crashes.

Texas bus accident statistics:

  • 17 fatal crashes
  • 549 injury crashes
  • 2,523 school bus crashes (2023 data)
  • 11 school bus deaths
  • 63 serious injuries
  • Over 10,000 students injured during the 2021-22 school year

Potentially liable parties in bus accidents:

  • The bus driver (fatigue, distraction, impairment)
  • The bus operator/company (inadequate training, negligent maintenance)
  • The vehicle manufacturer (brake, tire, or safety equipment defects)
  • Other drivers (third-party vehicles that cause the accident)
  • Government entities (poor signage, road defects) – special notice requirements apply

If you or a loved one has been injured in a bus accident in Johnson City or Blanco County, call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911. We’ll investigate all potentially liable parties and fight for the compensation you deserve.

What to Do Immediately After a Motor Vehicle Accident in Johnson City, Texas

The actions you take in the first 48 hours after an accident can significantly impact your ability to recover compensation. Follow this 48-hour protocol to protect your rights:

Hour 1-6 (Immediate Crisis Response)

Safety First: If you can move safely, get to a secure location away from traffic. Turn on your hazard lights and set up warning triangles if you have them.

Call 911: Report the accident and request medical assistance if anyone is injured. Even if injuries seem minor, it’s important to have them documented.

Medical Attention: If you’re injured, get to the emergency room immediately. Adrenaline can mask injuries, so you may be hurt and not know it yet.

Document Everything:

  • Take photos of ALL vehicle damage (every angle)
  • Photograph the accident scene, road conditions, and traffic signals
  • Take photos of any visible injuries
  • Screenshot any messages visible on your phone (do NOT delete anything)

Exchange Information:

  • Other driver’s name, phone number, and address
  • Insurance company and policy number
  • Driver’s license number
  • License plate number
  • Vehicle make, model, and color

Witnesses:

  • Get names and phone numbers of any witnesses
  • Ask if they saw what happened
  • Record their statements if possible

Call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate legal guidance before speaking to ANY insurance company

Hour 6-24 (Evidence Preservation)

Digital Preservation:

  • Preserve all texts, calls, photos, and videos related to the accident
  • Do NOT delete anything from your phone
  • Screenshot everything relevant
  • Email copies to yourself for backup

Physical Evidence:

  • Secure damaged clothing, glasses, or personal items
  • Keep receipts for any expenses (towing, rental car, medications)
  • Do NOT repair your vehicle yet – preserve the damage

Medical Records:

  • Request copies of all ER and hospital records
  • Keep all discharge paperwork
  • Follow up with your primary care physician within 24-48 hours

Insurance Communications:

  • Note any calls from insurance companies
  • Do NOT give recorded statements yet
  • Do NOT sign anything
  • Do NOT accept any settlement offers
  • Say: “I need to speak with my attorney first”

Social Media:

  • Make ALL profiles private immediately
  • Do NOT post about the accident
  • Do NOT post photos of injuries or activities
  • Tell friends and family not to tag you in posts

Hour 24-48 (Strategic Decisions)

Legal Consultation:

  • Speak with an experienced motor vehicle accident attorney
  • Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation
  • Have your documentation ready

Insurance Response:

  • If insurance contacts you, refer them to your attorney
  • Say: “My attorney will be in touch with you”
  • Provide only basic information: name, date of accident, that you were involved

Settlement Offers:

  • Do NOT accept or sign anything without lawyer review
  • Early offers are ALWAYS lowball offers
  • You don’t know the extent of your injuries yet

Evidence Backup:

  • Upload all screenshots and photos to cloud storage
  • Email copies to yourself and a family member
  • Create a written timeline of events while your memory is fresh

Week One Priorities

Medical Follow-Up:

  • Continue documenting all injuries
  • See specialists if recommended
  • Follow ALL doctor’s recommendations (insurance companies watch for gaps in treatment)
  • Get written work restrictions if needed

Investigation Begins:

  • Attorney obtains police report
  • Preservation letters sent to all parties
  • Surveillance footage secured before deletion
  • Witness statements recorded

Communication:

  • Attorney handles ALL insurance communication
  • You focus on your recovery
  • Document any pressure from insurance or other parties

Why Evidence Disappears Quickly After an Accident

Evidence is critical to proving your case, but it disappears at an alarming rate. Here’s what you stand to lose if you wait:

Day 1-7:

  • Witness memories peak then begin fading immediately. Details become uncertain as time passes.
  • Physical evidence: Skid marks fade, debris is cleared, and the accident scene is cleaned up.

Day 7-30:

  • Surveillance footage is DELETED:
    • Gas stations: 7-14 days typical
    • Retail stores: 30 days typical
    • Ring doorbells: 30-60 days
    • Traffic cameras: 30 days
  • Once deleted, footage is GONE FOREVER – it cannot be recovered
  • Witnesses: Change jobs, move, or become unreachable
  • Scene changes: Road repairs, new striping, or adjusted traffic signals

Month 1-2:

  • Insurance companies solidify their defense position
  • Adjusters have built a file against you
  • Their settlement position hardens
  • Vehicle repairs: Evidence from vehicles is destroyed once they’re repaired

Month 2-6:

  • Trucking electronic data is DELETED:
    • ELD (Electronic Logging Device) data: 30-180 days retention
    • Black box data: Can be automatically overwritten
    • GPS/telematics: Varies by company
  • Cell phone records: Become harder to obtain as time passes
  • Social media: Posts are deleted, and accounts are deactivated

Month 6-12:

  • Witnesses: Graduate, move away, or their memories become severely degraded
  • Medical evidence: It becomes harder to link injuries to the accident
  • Treatment gaps: Are used against you by insurance companies
  • Financial desperation: Mounting bills make you vulnerable to lowball offers

Month 12-24:

  • Approaching the statute of limitations
  • Creates pressure to settle (insurance companies know you’re desperate)
  • Evidence is severely degraded
  • Case value is diminished

Call Attorney911 immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911. We send preservation letters within 24 hours to secure critical evidence before it’s lost forever.

Texas Motor Vehicle Accident Law Framework

Understanding Texas law is crucial to protecting your rights after an accident. Here are the key legal concepts you need to know:

Statute of Limitations

Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code § 16.003

Claim Type Time Limit Starts From
Personal Injury 2 years Date of accident
Wrongful Death 2 years Date of death
Property Damage 2 years Date of damage
Government Claims 6 months notice Date of incident
Minors Tolled until 18 Then 2 years from 18th birthday

Exceptions:

  • Discovery Rule: The statute of limitations may start later if the injury or its cause wasn’t immediately discoverable
  • Defendant’s Absence: The clock may be tolled if the defendant leaves Texas
  • Mental Incapacity: The clock may be tolled during periods of mental incapacity

CRITICAL: If you miss the deadline, your case is BARRED forever. You cannot file a lawsuit, and you cannot recover compensation.

Comparative Negligence (51% Bar Rule)

Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code § 33.001

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

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 to reduce their payment. Even small fault percentages can cost you thousands:

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

Lupe’s insurance defense experience helps counter these arguments because he made them for years – now he defeats them.

Texas Minimum Auto Insurance Requirements (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 (UM) 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 (combining coverage from multiple vehicles)

Texas Legal Terms Dictionary

Term Definition
Negligence Failure to act with the level of care a reasonable person would exercise. To prove negligence, you must show: duty, breach, causation, and damages.
Duty of Care The legal obligation to act reasonably (drivers must obey traffic laws, property owners must maintain safe premises).
Breach of Duty A violation of the duty of care through action or inaction.
Causation The defendant’s breach directly caused the plaintiff’s injuries (“but for” test).
Proximate Cause The injuries were a foreseeable result of the defendant’s actions.
Liability Legal responsibility for harm caused. The defendant is “liable” when proven negligent.
Economic Damages Quantifiable financial losses: medical bills, lost wages, property damage, future earnings. No cap in Texas.
Non-Economic Damages Intangible losses: pain and suffering, mental anguish, physical impairment, loss of consortium, disfigurement. No cap in Texas (except medical malpractice).
Punitive/Exemplary Damages Damages awarded to punish gross negligence or malice. Capped at the greater of $200,000 OR 2x economic damages + 1x non-economic damages (max $750,000 for non-economic portion).
Dram Shop Liability Bars and restaurants can be held liable if they serve alcohol to an obviously intoxicated person who then causes an accident. Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code § 2.02.
Respondeat Superior Employers can be held liable for their employees’ negligence when acting within the scope of their employment. Critical for trucking and rideshare cases.
Vicarious Liability One party can be held liable for another’s actions (e.g., parent company for subsidiary).
UM/UIM Coverage Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist coverage. Texas allows inter-policy stacking.
Bad Faith When an insurance company unreasonably denies or delays a valid claim. Texas Insurance Code violations.
Contingency Fee Attorney fee structure: no fee unless the case is won. Typically 33-40% of the recovery.
Subrogation A health insurer’s right to be reimbursed from your settlement for what they paid for your treatment.
Lien A third party’s claim against your settlement (medical providers, Medicare, Medicaid).
Wrongful Death A claim brought by surviving family members for the death of a loved one caused by negligence.
Survival Action A claim for damages the deceased would have recovered if they had survived (pain before death, medical bills).

How Attorney911 Proves Liability in Your Case

To win your motor vehicle accident case, we must prove four elements of negligence:

1. Duty of Care

All drivers have a legal duty to operate their vehicles safely and obey traffic laws. This includes:

  • Maintaining a proper lookout
  • Controlling speed
  • Following at a safe distance
  • Using turn signals
  • Obeying traffic signals and signs

Commercial drivers, such as truck drivers, have an even higher duty of care due to the size and weight of their vehicles. They must comply with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations.

2. Breach of Duty

The at-fault driver violated their duty of care by acting negligently. Examples include:

  • Speeding
  • Running a red light or stop sign
  • Texting while driving
  • Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
  • Failing to yield the right of way
  • Following too closely
  • Improper lane changes
  • Driving while fatigued

3. Causation

The breach of duty DIRECTLY caused your injuries. We must prove:

  • “But for” the defendant’s actions, you would not have been injured
  • Your injuries were a foreseeable result of the defendant’s negligent conduct

4. Damages

You suffered actual harm as a result of the accident, including:

  • Physical injuries
  • Financial losses (medical bills, lost wages)
  • Emotional distress
  • Property damage

Types of Evidence We Use to Prove Your Case

At Attorney911, we gather comprehensive evidence to build the strongest possible case for our clients:

Physical Evidence

  • Photographs of vehicle damage (all angles)
  • Photos of skid marks, debris, and road damage
  • Photos of the accident scene and surrounding area
  • Damaged personal property (clothing, glasses, phone)
  • Weather and road condition 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 wage claims)
  • Cell phone records (to prove distraction)
  • Insurance policies

Electronic Evidence

  • Electronic Logging Device (ELD) data from commercial trucks
  • Vehicle black box/Event Data Recorder (EDR)
  • GPS and telematics data
  • Dashcam footage
  • Social media posts (from the at-fault driver, not you)

Testimonial Evidence

  • Witness statements
  • Expert witness testimony
  • Medical expert opinions
  • Accident reconstruction specialists

Multiple Liable Parties

In many motor vehicle accident cases, more than one party may be liable for your injuries. For example:

Trucking Accidents:

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

Rideshare Accidents:

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

Drunk Driving Accidents:

  • Drunk driver
  • Bar or restaurant (dram shop liability)
  • Social host (in limited circumstances)
  • Liquor store (selling to an obviously intoxicated person)

The more liable parties we can identify, the more insurance policies we can access, increasing your potential recovery.

Types of Damages You Can Recover

If you’ve been injured in a motor vehicle accident in Johnson City, Texas, you may be entitled to several types of compensation:

Economic Damages (No Cap in Texas)

Economic damages are quantifiable financial losses you’ve incurred as a result of the accident:

Damage Type What It Covers
Medical Expenses (Past) ER visits, hospital stays, surgeries, doctor visits, physical therapy, medications, medical equipment
Medical Expenses (Future) Ongoing treatment, future surgeries, lifetime medications, long-term care
Lost Wages (Past) Income lost from the date of the accident to the present
Lost Earning Capacity (Future) Reduced ability to earn income in the future due to permanent injuries
Property Damage Vehicle repair or replacement, personal property damage
Out-of-Pocket Expenses Transportation to medical appointments, home modifications, household help

Non-Economic Damages (No Cap in Texas, Except Medical Malpractice)

Non-economic damages compensate you for intangible losses that don’t have a specific dollar value:

Damage Type What It Covers
Pain and Suffering Physical pain from your injuries, both past and future
Mental Anguish Emotional distress, anxiety, depression, fear, PTSD
Physical Impairment Loss of physical function, disability, limitations on daily activities
Disfigurement Scarring, permanent visible injuries that affect your appearance
Loss of Consortium Impact on your marriage and family relationships, loss of companionship
Loss of Enjoyment of Life Inability to participate in activities you previously enjoyed

Punitive/Exemplary Damages (Capped in Texas)

Punitive damages are awarded in cases involving gross negligence, fraud, or malice. They are designed to punish the defendant and deter similar conduct in the future.

Punitive damages are available when there is clear and convincing evidence of:

  • Fraud (intentional misrepresentation causing harm)
  • Malice (specific intent to cause substantial injury)
  • Gross negligence (conscious indifference to the rights, safety, or welfare of others)

Punitive damage caps in Texas:
The greater of:

  • $200,000, OR
  • 2x economic damages + 1x non-economic damages (capped at $750,000 for the non-economic portion)

Punitive damages are often available in:

  • Drunk driving cases
  • Cases involving extreme speeding or reckless driving
  • Cases where a company knowingly put an unsafe driver on the road

How Insurance Companies Try to Minimize Your Claim

At Attorney911, we know how insurance companies operate because our attorney Lupe Peña spent years working for them. He understands their tactics and knows how to counter them. Here are the six most common insurance tactics we see:

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

What they do:
Insurance adjusters contact you IMMEDIATELY after your accident—often while you’re still in the hospital, on pain medication, or overwhelmed by the situation. They act friendly and helpful, saying things like:

  • “We just want to help you”
  • “We need to get your side of the story to process your claim”
  • “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 designed to get you to minimize your injuries or admit fault:

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 the severity of the collision
“You were able to walk away from the scene?” Suggest your injuries aren’t serious
“Were you distracted at all?” Get you to admit to distraction
“How fast were you going?” Hope you overestimate or say “I don’t know”

The truth:

  • You are NOT required to give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance company
  • 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:

  • We advise you NOT to give a recorded statement without us
  • Once you hire Attorney911, we become your voice
  • All calls from insurance companies go through us
  • 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 they do:
Within days or weeks of your accident, the insurance company offers you quick money:

  • Typical offers: $2,000-$5,000
  • Sometimes $10,000-$15,000 if they’re scared
  • It 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. Consider this scenario:

What Happens Result
Day 3: Insurance offers $3,500 “final settlement” You’re desperate, in pain, and 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 your claim
You pay $100,000 out of pocket Insurance pays nothing more

The release is PERMANENT and FINAL.

How Attorney911 counters:

  • NEVER settle before reaching Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI)
  • MMI is the point at which you’ve recovered as much as you’re going to
  • This could take 6 months, 12 months, or even longer depending on your injuries
  • You can’t know the true value of your case until you reach MMI
  • We know their early offers are ALWAYS lowball offers
  • 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 whose job is to minimize your injuries.

How insurance companies choose IME doctors (Lupe knows this):
They select doctors 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 an IME:

  • A 10-15 minute “examination” (vs. your treating doctor’s thorough evaluation)
  • The doctor rarely reviews your complete medical records beforehand
  • They ask questions designed to elicit “I’m feeling better” responses
  • They look for ANY reason to minimize your 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 your complete medical records to the IME doctor first (forcing them to 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 they do:
Insurance companies drag your case out, hoping you’ll get desperate and accept a lowball offer:

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

Why delay works (on people without attorneys):

Insurance companies have:

  • Unlimited time
  • Unlimited resources
  • No financial pressure
  • They’re earning interest on YOUR settlement money while delaying

You have:

  • Mounting bills
  • Zero income
  • Creditors threatening you
  • A desperate need for money NOW

Financial desperation makes you accept less:

  • Month 1: You’d reject a $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—he knows when to push

Tactic #5: Surveillance and Social Media Monitoring

What they do:
Insurance companies hire private investigators to:

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

They monitor ALL your social media:

  • Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, Twitter/X, YouTube, Snapchat
  • They screenshot EVERYTHING: photos, posts, check-ins, comments, likes
  • They monitor your friends’ profiles for posts mentioning you
  • They use facial recognition to find photos you’re tagged in
  • They archive your entire social media history

Advanced surveillance techniques:

Technique How They Use It
Facial Recognition Find photos you’re tagged in across platforms
Geotagging Data Track where you’ve been based on photo metadata
Friend/Family Monitoring Monitor posts from people who might mention you
Fake Profiles Create fake accounts to send you friend requests
Archive Services Preserve deleted content through third-party tools
Subpoenas Use legal process to obtain “private” content

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 the metadata was pre-accident
Restaurant Check-in Facebook check-in at restaurant “Partying and having fun” Client was 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 where client is smiling “Not in pain—she’s smiling!” Everyone smiles for photos

7 Rules for our clients:

  1. Make ALL profiles private immediately
  2. DON’T post about the accident, injuries, activities, emotions, or your case
  3. DON’T check in anywhere
  4. Tell friends and family: don’t tag you, don’t post about you
  5. Don’t accept friend requests from strangers (they might be fake profiles)
  6. BEST: Stay off social media entirely during your case
  7. 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 they do:
Insurance companies try to assign you the MAXIMUM possible 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 uses the 51% bar rule. This means:

  • If you’re 51% or more at fault → You get NOTHING
  • If you’re 50% or less at fault → Your damages are reduced by your percentage of fault

Even small fault percentages cost you thousands:

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

How Attorney911 counters:

  • We conduct an aggressive liability investigation
  • We use accident reconstruction to prove the other driver’s fault
  • We obtain witness statements supporting your version
  • We analyze the police report to emphasize citations against the other driver
  • We use expert testimony on perception-reaction time
  • Lupe knows their fault arguments because he made them for years—now he defeats them

How Insurance Companies Actually Value Your Claim: The Colossus System

At Attorney911, we know how insurance companies REALLY evaluate your claim because our attorney Lupe Peña used to work with these systems. Here’s the inside scoop:

What is Colossus?

Colossus is a computerized claim valuation software used by major insurance companies, including:

  • Allstate
  • State Farm
  • Liberty Mutual
  • Progressive
  • GEICO
  • And many others

How Colossus Works:

  1. Data Entry: The insurance adjuster inputs information about your case, including:

    • Injury codes
    • Treatment types
    • Medical costs
    • Lost wages
    • Jurisdiction
  2. Coding: Your injuries are coded using standardized medical terms. The SAME injury can be coded in different ways:

    • “Soft tissue strain” (minor code)
    • “Disc herniation” (serious code)
    • The difference can mean a 50-100% change in valuation
  3. Calculation: The software applies algorithms to determine the “value” of your claim

  4. Range Output: The system provides a recommended settlement range

  5. Authority: The adjuster typically cannot exceed this range without supervisor approval

How Insurance Companies Manipulate Colossus:

Manipulation Effect
Low Injury Codes Using “soft tissue strain” instead of “disc herniation” reduces value by 50-100%
Excessive Treatment Flags Physical therapy beyond what Colossus considers “normal” triggers reductions
Conservative Treatment Penalty Chiropractic care is valued less than treatment from medical doctors
Pre-Existing Reduction Any prior medical condition is used to reduce your claim value
Jurisdiction Factor Low-verdict counties get lower values

Why Lupe’s Experience Matters:

  • He knows how to code injuries properly for maximum value
  • He knows which medical terms trigger higher valuations
  • He knows when Colossus output is artificially low
  • He knows how to present medical records to beat the algorithm
  • He worked with these systems for years as a defense attorney

Reserve Setting: The Hidden Game

What reserves are:

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

How we increase reserves:

  • Hiring experts (shows we’re investing in the case)
  • Taking depositions (creates litigation expenses)
  • Filing a lawsuit (forces them to evaluate the case for trial)
  • Preparing for trial (shows we’re serious and won’t back down)

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

Common Injuries from Motor Vehicle Accidents and Their Impact

Motor vehicle accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, from minor to life-altering. At Attorney911, we understand the medical aspects of these injuries and how they impact your life. Here’s what you need to know:

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

Immediate vs. Delayed Symptoms:

Immediate Symptoms (At the 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 unable to 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. We use medical experts to explain that symptom progression is NORMAL for brain injuries.

Severity classifications:

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

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% of TBI patients)
  • Increased Dementia Risk: A single moderate TBI doubles the risk of dementia later in life
  • Personality and Mood Disorders: Depression (40-50% of TBI patients), anxiety, irritability
  • Seizure Disorders: Can develop months or years after the injury
  • Cognitive Impairment: Memory problems, difficulty concentrating, slowed processing speed

Attorney911 Case Result:

“Multi-million dollar settlement for client who suffered brain injury with vision loss when a log dropped on him at a logging company.”

Spinal Cord Injury

Injury levels and impact:

Cervical Spine (C1-C8, Neck Region):

  • C1-C4 (High Cervical): Quadriplegia (paralysis of all four limbs), 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: Paralysis of the lower body, wheelchair dependent
  • Trunk control varies by level

Lumbar Spine (L1-L5, Lower Back):

  • Varying degrees of leg weakness or paralysis
  • Bowel and bladder dysfunction common
  • May be able to walk with assistive devices

ASIA Impairment Scale:

Grade Classification Prognosis
A Complete No motor or sensory function below injury – worst prognosis
B Sensory Incomplete Sensory function but no motor function below injury
C Motor Incomplete Motor function but most muscles have less than 3/5 strength
D Motor Incomplete Motor function with most muscles having 3/5 or greater strength
E Normal Full motor and sensory function (recovered)

Secondary complications:

  • Pressure sores (leading cause of hospitalization for spinal cord injury patients)
  • 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)

Amputation

Types of amputation:

  • Traumatic Amputation: Limb severed at the accident scene by the force of the collision
  • Surgical Amputation: Required due to crush injuries or infections (like our documented case)

Levels of amputation:

  • Above-Knee: More difficult, less mobility, more expensive prosthetics
  • Below-Knee: Better mobility potential, easier prosthetic use
  • Upper Extremity: Arm, hand, or finger amputations
  • Multiple Limbs: Exponentially more challenging to adapt

Phantom limb pain:

  • 80% of amputees experience phantom pain
  • Feeling pain in a limb that’s no longer there
  • Can be severe and debilitating
  • Often a permanent condition
  • Requires lifetime pain management

Attorney911 Case Result:

“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.”

Burn Injuries

Classifications of burns:

Degree Characteristics Treatment Required
First-Degree Superficial, like a sunburn, heals in 7-10 days Outpatient care
Second-Degree Blistering, severe pain, may scar Monitoring, possible hospitalization
Third-Degree Full thickness, destroys all skin layers, always scars Skin grafting required
Fourth-Degree Extends into muscle and bone Often requires amputation

Impact of body surface area burned:

% Body Burned Treatment Required
<10% Usually outpatient care
10-20% Hospitalization required
20-40% Burn center, ICU, multiple surgeries
>40% Extremely life-threatening
>60% Often fatal

Attorney911’s experience with burn injuries:
Our firm was one of the few involved in BP explosion litigation, which included many burn injury cases. We understand the unique challenges burn victims face, including:

  • Multiple surgeries and skin grafts
  • Long-term physical therapy
  • Psychological trauma
  • Permanent scarring and disfigurement

Herniated Disc

Treatment timeline:

  1. Acute Phase (Weeks 1-6): Severe pain, medications, rest. Cost: $2,000-$5,000
  2. Conservative Treatment (Weeks 6-12): Physical therapy, chiropractic care. Cost: $5,000-$12,000
  3. Interventional (If conservative treatment fails): Epidural steroid injections. Cost: $3,000-$6,000
  4. Surgery (If injections fail): Microdiscectomy or spinal fusion. Cost: $50,000-$120,000

Permanent restrictions and their impact:

  • Inability to return to physical labor jobs
  • Lost earning capacity claims
  • Ongoing pain management needs

Soft Tissue Injuries (Whiplash, Sprains, Strains)

Why insurance companies undervalue soft tissue injuries:

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

Why soft tissue injuries 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 is CRITICAL:

  • Detailed pain descriptions to doctors
  • Consistent treatment (no gaps)
  • MRI to prove 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 (as driver or passenger)
  • Panic attacks near the accident location or on similar roads
  • Sleep disturbances, nightmares, flashbacks
  • Avoidance behaviors

Compensable psychological damages:

  • Mental anguish
  • Emotional distress
  • Anxiety and depression
  • Loss of enjoyment of life
  • Fear and worry
  • Impact on relationships

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Johnson City Motor Vehicle Accident Case

When you’ve been injured in a motor vehicle accident in Johnson City, Texas, you need a law firm with the experience, resources, and dedication to fight for the compensation you deserve. Here’s why Attorney911 is the right choice for your case:

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.”

What this means for your case:

  • We know their tactics because Lupe used them for years
  • We anticipate their strategies before they deploy them
  • We know how they value claims internally
  • We know which IME (Independent Medical Exam) doctors they favor
  • We know how to beat their algorithms (like Colossus)
  • We speak their language

No other firm in Johnson City has this advantage.

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.”

2. Multi-Million Dollar Results

At Attorney911, we’ve recovered millions of dollars for our clients, including:

“Multi-million dollar settlement for client who suffered brain injury with vision loss when a log dropped on him at a logging company.”

“In a recent case, our client’s leg was injured in a car accident. Staff infections during treatment led to a partial amputation. This case settled in the millions.”

“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.”

“In a recent case, our client injured his back while lifting cargo on a ship. Our investigation revealed that he should have been assisted in this duty, and we were able to reach a significant cash settlement.”

Our results prove we don’t settle cheap.

3. Federal Court Experience

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

Why this matters:

  • Complex cases, such as those involving trucking accidents or product liability, often end up in federal court
  • Federal court requires different skills and experience than state court
  • Many personal injury attorneys are not admitted to federal court
  • Our federal court experience gives us an advantage in cases involving:
    • Trucking accidents (FMCSA regulations are federal)
    • Product liability (manufacturer defects)
    • Cases with out-of-state defendants

BP Explosion Litigation:

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

This demonstrates our ability to handle complex cases against major corporations.

4. Personal Attention from Experienced Attorneys

At Attorney911, you work directly with Ralph Manginello or Lupe Peña, not a case manager assembly line.

What our 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

“Consistent communication and not one time did I call and not get a clear answer…Ralph reached out personally.” — Dame Haskett

You’ll never be just a case number at Attorney911.

5. Contingency Fee – No Risk to You

At Attorney911, we work on a contingency fee basis:

  • Free consultation – No obligation
  • No upfront costs – We advance all case expenses
  • No fee unless we win – You pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you
  • Our fee is a percentage of your recovery – Typically 33.33% before trial, 40% if the case goes to trial

What this means for you:

  • No financial risk to pursue your case
  • We only get paid if we win for you
  • You can afford top-quality legal representation regardless of your financial situation

6. Comprehensive Case Handling

At Attorney911, we handle every aspect of your case, including:

  • Investigating the accident and gathering evidence
  • Obtaining and reviewing medical records
  • Communicating with insurance companies
  • Negotiating with adjusters
  • Filing a lawsuit if necessary
  • Preparing for trial
  • Maximizing your compensation

You focus on your recovery—we handle everything else.

7. Local Knowledge and Community Commitment

Attorney911 serves clients throughout Texas, including Johnson City and Blanco County. We understand the unique challenges faced by accident victims in our community, including:

  • Accidents on rural roads like US-281 and FM 962
  • Collisions involving agricultural vehicles
  • Accidents at local intersections and stop signs
  • The impact of tourism on local traffic patterns

We’re committed to serving our community and fighting for the rights of accident victims in Johnson City and Blanco County.

8. Bilingual Services

At Attorney911, we’re proud to serve the diverse community of Johnson City and Blanco County. Our team includes Spanish-speaking staff, including attorney Lupe Peña, ensuring that language is never a barrier to justice.

What our Spanish-speaking clients say:

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

“They solved in a couple of months what others did nothing about in two years.” — Angel Walle

Se habla español—we’re here to help.

Client Testimonials

At Attorney911, we’re proud of the results we’ve achieved for our clients and the relationships we’ve built along the way. Here’s what some of our clients have to say about their experience with our firm:

Personal Communication and 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

“Consistent communication and not one time did I call and not get a clear answer…Ralph reached out personally.” — Dame Haskett

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

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

“They went above and beyond! Special thank you to Ralph and Leanor.” — Diane Smith

Results and 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

“She had received an offer but she told me to give her one more week because she knew she could get a better offer.” — Tracey White

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

“I was rear-ended and the team got right to work…I also got a very nice settlement.” — MONGO SLADE

“I lost everything…my car was at a total loss and because of Attorney Manginello and my case worker Leonor…1 year later I have gained so much in return plus a brand new truck.” — Kiimarii Yup

Taken When Others Wouldn’t

“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

“Ralph Manginello took his bogus case and had it dismissed within a WEEK! I have been trying for over 2 years.” — Beth Bonds

“They took over my case from another lawyer and got to working on my case.” — CON3531

“They solved in a couple of months what others did nothing about in two years.” — Angel Walle

Spanish Language Services

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

“Thank you for your excellent work; I highly recommend you.” — Eduard Marin

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

“Melani, thank you for your excellent work.” — Miguel J. mayo bermudez

Ralph’s Personal Involvement

“Attorney Manginello is so knowledgeable but straight to the point…responded quickly even while he was away.” — S M

“He listened intently heard my concerns and issues and immediately began working to protect my rights.” — Ken Taylor

“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

“Ralph has kept me up to date on the case, checked in on me.” — Manraj

“Ralph is an AMAZING ATTORNEY. I have used him 2 TIMES FOR 2 separate cases the first case he got me an OFF DOCKET DISSMISSAL! And the other only 10 months probation. He gets the JOB DONE RIGHT!!!!” — Cassie Wright

Overall Excellence

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

“Very professional and got good results.” — Monty Cazier

“Mr. Manginello got us a nice result in my wife’s injury.” — Bill Spragg

“Mr. Maginello and his firm are first class. Will fight tooth and nail for you.” — Ernest Cano

“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

Celebrity Endorsements

“One of Houston’s Great Men Trae Tha Truth has recommended this law firm. So if he is vouching for them then I know they do good work.” — Jacqueline Johnson

“You know if TraeAbn tells you it’s the right way to go best attorney out here you can’t go wrong” — Erica Perales

Frequently Asked Questions About Motor Vehicle Accidents in Johnson City, Texas

Immediate After Accident

1. What should I do immediately after a car accident in Johnson City, Texas?

If you’ve been in an accident in Johnson City, Blanco County, or anywhere in Texas:

  • Call 911 and report the accident
  • Seek medical attention even if you feel fine (adrenaline can mask injuries)
  • Document everything: take photos of all vehicle damage, the accident scene, road conditions, and any visible injuries
  • Exchange information with the other driver (name, phone, address, insurance information)
  • Get names and phone numbers of any witnesses
  • Do NOT give a recorded statement to any insurance company
  • Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate legal guidance

2. 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 that involve:

  • Injuries
  • Deaths
  • 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 number, address, driver’s license number, insurance information
  • Vehicle: make, model, color, license plate number
  • Witnesses: names and phone numbers
  • Photos: all vehicle damage (every angle), the accident scene, road conditions, traffic signals
  • Police: officer’s 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” (this can be used as an admission of fault)
  • Do NOT give your opinion on what happened
  • Stick to the facts only

6. How do I obtain a copy of the accident report in Johnson City?

You can obtain the police report from the responding agency or through the Texas Department of Transportation’s Crash Records Information System (CRIS). Attorney911 can help you obtain the report as part of our investigation.

Dealing with Insurance

7. Should I give a recorded statement to the insurance company?

To the other driver’s insurance company: NO. Not without an attorney.

To your own insurance company: You have a duty to cooperate, but call Attorney911 first. We can advise you on what to say and what not to say.

8. What if the other driver’s insurance company contacts me?

Say: “I need to speak with my attorney first.” Then give only basic information:

  • Your name
  • The date of the accident
  • That you were involved in the accident

Do NOT:

  • Give a recorded statement
  • Discuss your injuries
  • Discuss fault
  • Sign anything

9. 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 claim. Attorney911 fights for what your case is really worth.

10. Should I accept a quick settlement offer?

NEVER accept a settlement before you know 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 or underinsured?

Your own Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage can compensate you. Texas allows inter-policy stacking (combining coverage from multiple vehicles).

12. Why does the insurance company 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 having an attorney review it first.

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 coverage to recover from

Watch our video: Do I Have a Good Case?

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 at 1-888-ATTY-911.

15. How much time do I have to file a lawsuit (statute of limitations)?

In Texas: 2 years from the date of the accident for personal injury, 2 years from the date of death for wrongful death. If you miss the deadline, your case is barred forever.

16. What is comparative negligence and how does it affect me?

Texas uses the 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?

17. What happens if I was partially at fault?

You can still recover if you were 50% or less at fault. Your recovery will be 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 in negotiations.

Watch our video: Will Your Case Go to Trial?

19. How long will my case take to settle?

It depends on the severity of your injuries. We don’t settle until you’ve reached Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI)—the point at which you’ve recovered as much as you’re going to. This could be:

  • 6 months for minor injuries
  • 12-24 months for serious injuries

Watch our video: What Is the Process for a Personal Injury Claim?

20. What is the legal process step-by-step?

  1. Investigation and evidence gathering
  2. Medical treatment until Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI)
  3. Demand letter to the insurance company
  4. Negotiation
  5. Lawsuit if necessary
  6. Discovery (exchange of information)
  7. Mediation
  8. Trial if needed

Compensation

21. What is my case worth?

The value of your case depends on:

  • The severity of your injuries
  • Your medical expenses (past and future)
  • Your lost wages and earning capacity
  • The impact on your daily life
  • The available insurance coverage
  • The strength of the evidence

Cases can range from $15,000 for minor soft tissue injuries to millions for catastrophic injuries.

22. What types of damages can I recover?

  • Medical expenses (past and future)
  • Lost wages and lost 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 damages (except in medical malpractice cases).

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 for specific advice.

26. How is the value of my claim determined?

The value of your claim is determined based on:

  • Your medical bills
  • Future treatment costs
  • Lost income
  • Permanent impairment rating
  • Comparable verdicts and settlements
  • The severity of your injuries
  • The impact on your daily life

Attorney Relationship

27. How much do car accident lawyers cost?

Attorney911 works on a contingency fee basis:

  • 33.33% of the recovery before trial
  • 40% if the case goes to trial
  • You pay nothing upfront
  • We advance all case expenses

Watch our video: How Do Contingency Fees Work?

28. What does “no fee unless we win” mean?

You pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. If we don’t win, you owe us nothing. We advance all case costs, and you only repay them if we win.

29. How often will I get updates on my case?

Attorney911 provides 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.”

30. Who will actually handle my case?

At Attorney911, you work directly with Ralph Manginello or Lupe Peña, not just paralegals. As Chad Harris said: “You are NOT just some client…You are FAMILY to them.”

31. What if I already hired another attorney?

You can switch attorneys at any time. 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 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 or injuries on social media
  • Signing releases or medical authorizations without attorney review
  • Not documenting everything

Watch our video: Client Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Case

33. Should I post about my accident on social media?

NO. Make all your profiles private immediately. Don’t post about:

  • The accident
  • Your injuries
  • Your activities
  • Your emotions
  • Your case

Insurance companies monitor social media and will use your posts against you.

34. Why shouldn’t I sign anything without a lawyer?

  • Releases are permanent – once you sign, you can’t undo it
  • Medical authorizations give insurance companies unlimited access to your medical history
  • Settlement offers are binding – once you accept, you can’t get more money
  • You may be signing away important rights

35. What if I didn’t see a doctor right away?

See a doctor NOW. Explain that you didn’t realize the severity of your injuries. Delayed symptoms are common in many types of injuries. We can still help.

Additional Common Questions

36. What if I have a pre-existing condition?

You can still recover compensation. If the accident aggravated your pre-existing condition, you’re entitled to compensation for the aggravation. This is called the “eggshell plaintiff” rule—defendants take victims as they find them.

For example:

  • You had mild occasional back pain before the accident
  • The accident caused a herniated disc requiring surgery
  • You can recover for the new injury, not just the pre-existing pain

We hire medical experts to prove the difference between your condition before and after the accident. Lupe Peña knows how insurance companies attack 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 current attorney:

  • Isn’t communicating with you
  • Isn’t fighting for you
  • Is pushing you to settle for less than your case is worth

…you have the right to switch to a firm that will give your case the attention it deserves.

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 your case to Attorney911.

38. What if the insurance company is my own insurance (UM/UIM claim)?

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) claims are filed against your own insurance when:

  • The other driver has no insurance, or
  • The other driver has insufficient insurance to cover your damages

Important: Your own insurance company will fight your UM/UIM claim just like the other driver’s insurance would. They will:

  • Try to minimize your injuries
  • Blame you for the accident
  • Offer lowball settlements

You need an attorney to represent you in a UM/UIM claim. Texas allows inter-policy stacking (combining UM coverage from multiple vehicles). Lupe Peña’s insurance knowledge is critical for maximizing your UM/UIM recovery.

39. How do you calculate pain and suffering?

Most commonly, we use the multiplier method:
Total Settlement = (Medical Expenses × Multiplier) + Lost Wages + Property Damage

The multiplier ranges from 1.5 to 5, depending on:

  • The severity of your injuries
  • Whether your injuries are permanent
  • The impact on your daily life
  • The clarity of liability
  • Whether you’re a sympathetic plaintiff
Injury Severity Multiplier Range
Minor injuries (soft tissue, quick recovery) 1.5 – 2
Moderate injuries (broken bones, months of recovery) 2 – 3
Severe injuries (surgery, long recovery) 3 – 4
Catastrophic injuries (permanent disability) 4 – 5+

Example:

  • Medical expenses: $100,000
  • Multiplier: 4
  • Pain and suffering: $400,000
  • Lost wages: $50,000
  • Total: $550,000

Lupe Peña calculated these multipliers for years as an insurance defense attorney. He knows:

  • When to push for higher multipliers (4-5 vs. 2-3)
  • Which factors insurance companies weigh most heavily
  • How to document cases to justify higher multipliers
  • When the multiplier method undervalues a case (catastrophic injuries)

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

Accidents involving government vehicles present unique legal challenges because of sovereign immunity. This is a legal doctrine that protects government entities from lawsuits.

Special rules for government claims:

  • You must file a notice of claim within 6 months of the accident (much shorter than the 2-year statute of limitations)
  • There are damage caps on how much you can recover
  • The process is more complex and requires strict compliance with procedural rules

Examples of government vehicles:

  • City buses
  • Police cars
  • Fire trucks
  • Ambulances
  • School buses
  • Municipal vehicles (street sweepers, garbage trucks)

Ralph Manginello has over 25 years of experience handling cases against government entities. We know how to navigate the complex rules and maximize your recovery.

If you were hit by a government vehicle in Johnson City or Blanco County, call Attorney911 immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911. The 6-month notice deadline is strict.

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

Hit and run accidents are particularly frustrating because the at-fault driver flees, leaving you without a clear path to compensation. However, you still have options.

Steps to take after a hit and run:

  1. Call 911 and report the accident
  2. Get medical attention
  3. Document everything (photos, witness statements)
  4. File a police report (hit and run is a crime)
  5. Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911

How you can recover compensation:

  • Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage: Your own insurance policy can compensate you when the at-fault driver is unidentified
  • Collision coverage: Can pay for vehicle repairs
  • Medical payments coverage: Can pay for medical expenses

Evidence preservation is critical:

  • Surveillance footage from nearby businesses is typically deleted within 7-30 days
  • Witnesses may become difficult to locate as time passes
  • Physical evidence at the scene can be disturbed or removed

Attorney911 sends preservation letters to businesses near the accident scene to secure surveillance footage before it’s deleted.

Texas hit and run penalties:
Hit and run is a serious crime in Texas with severe penalties:

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

If you’ve been the victim of a hit and run accident in Johnson City or Blanco County, call Attorney911 immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911. Time is critical to preserve evidence.

42. 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 injuries caused by someone else’s negligence.

Important points:

  • You are 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 and can communicate with you in your preferred language
  • We work with clients throughout Texas, including Johnson City and Blanco County

What to know:

  • You do not need a Social Security number to file a claim
  • You do not need to be a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident
  • Insurance companies cannot deny your claim based on immigration status
  • We will protect your privacy throughout the process

What our Spanish-speaking clients say:

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

If you’re an undocumented immigrant who has been injured in a motor vehicle accident in Johnson City, call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911. We’ll fight for your rights and protect your privacy.

43. What if the accident happened in a parking lot?

Parking lot accidents are fully compensable under Texas law. However, insurance companies often try to argue that parking lot accidents are always 50/50 fault. This is not true.

Common types of parking lot accidents:

  • One vehicle backing into another
  • Two vehicles colliding while backing up
  • One vehicle striking a parked car
  • Pedestrians being struck by vehicles
  • Vehicles colliding at intersections within parking lots

Determining fault in parking lot accidents:
Fault is determined based on:

  • Who had the right of way
  • Whether either driver was speeding
  • Whether either driver was distracted
  • Whether either driver failed to yield
  • Whether either driver was under the influence

Evidence to prove fault:

  • Surveillance footage from the parking lot or nearby businesses
  • Witness statements
  • Vehicle damage patterns
  • Skid marks or other physical evidence
  • Traffic patterns within the parking lot

Attorney911 has successfully handled many parking lot accident cases. We know how to prove fault and fight for the compensation you deserve.

If you’ve been injured in a parking lot accident in Johnson City, call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911.

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

If you were a passenger in a vehicle driven by someone who caused an accident, you can still pursue a claim against the driver. You are an innocent victim, and the driver’s insurance should cover your injuries.

Key points:

  • You can sue the driver even if you were riding with them (friend, family member, Uber driver)
  • 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

What to do:

  • Get medical attention
  • Document your injuries
  • Get the driver’s insurance information
  • Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911

We handle the difficult conversation with the driver 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 their insurance company. The driver’s death does not eliminate their liability.

How it works:

  • The insurance policy still applies
  • The estate may have assets
  • Wrongful death laws protect both sides
  • These cases can be emotionally complex but are legally straightforward

Steps to take:

  1. Get medical attention
  2. Document your injuries
  3. Obtain the police report
  4. Identify the deceased driver’s insurance company
  5. Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911

We handle these cases with sensitivity while protecting your rights.

Contact Attorney911 Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a motor vehicle accident in Johnson City, Texas, don’t wait to get the legal help you need. Evidence disappears daily, and the insurance company is already building its case against you.

Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911) for a free consultation.

We’re available 24/7 to answer your questions and help you understand your rights. There’s no obligation, and we don’t get paid unless we win your case.

Remember:

  • Free consultation
  • No fee unless we win
  • We advance all case costs
  • Hablamos español
  • Serving Johnson City and all of Blanco County

Don’t let the insurance company take advantage of you. Call Attorney911 today.

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