Car Accident Lawyers in Pearland, Texas: Protecting Your Rights After a Crash
If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Pearland, Texas, you’re not alone. With over 251,977 people injured in Texas motor vehicle crashes in 2024 alone, car accidents are a constant threat on our roads. Every 57 seconds, another crash occurs in Texas, and every 2 minutes and 5 seconds, someone is injured. These aren’t just numbers—they represent real people whose lives have been disrupted by the negligence of others.
At Attorney911, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a car accident can take. Our team, led by Ralph Manginello with over 25 years of experience, is here to fight for the compensation you deserve. We know Pearland’s roads, from the busy intersections along FM 518 to the high-speed corridors of Highway 288. When you call 1-888-ATTY-911, you’re reaching a legal emergency line staffed by experienced attorneys who are ready to protect your rights.
The Reality of Car Accidents in Pearland
Pearland’s rapid growth has brought increased traffic and, unfortunately, more accidents. Whether you’re commuting to work, taking your kids to school, or running errands, the risk of being involved in a collision is ever-present. The Texas Department of Transportation reports that in 2024, there was a reportable crash every 57 seconds in our state. That means while you’re reading this, another accident is happening somewhere in Texas.
In Brazoria County, where Pearland is located, car accidents are all too common. The mix of local traffic, commuters heading to Houston, and commercial vehicles traveling to and from the Port of Houston creates a complex driving environment. Dangerous intersections, distracted drivers, and the ever-present threat of drunk driving make our roads hazardous.
Common Causes of Car Accidents in Pearland
Understanding the common causes of car accidents can help you stay safe on the road and know what to look for if you’ve been injured:
-
Distracted Driving: With 380 deaths in Texas attributed to distracted driving in 2024, this remains a leading cause of accidents. Texting, eating, adjusting the radio, or even talking to passengers can take your attention off the road.
-
Speeding: Driving too fast for conditions or exceeding posted speed limits reduces reaction time and increases the severity of crashes.
-
Failure to Yield: Many accidents occur when drivers fail to yield the right of way at intersections, stop signs, or when merging.
-
Running Red Lights and Stop Signs: These violations often result in T-bone collisions, which can be particularly dangerous.
-
Following Too Closely: Tailgating reduces the time you have to react if the car in front of you stops suddenly.
-
Driving Under the Influence: Despite strict laws, drunk driving continues to claim lives. In 2024, alcohol-impaired driving accounted for 25.37% of all traffic fatalities in Texas.
-
Fatigue: Drowsy driving can be as dangerous as drunk driving, impairing reaction time and decision-making.
-
Weather Conditions: While Pearland doesn’t experience extreme weather often, rain can create slick roads and reduce visibility.
-
Vehicle Defects: Mechanical failures like brake malfunctions or tire blowouts can lead to accidents.
At Attorney911, we’ve seen firsthand how these factors can lead to devastating accidents. As client Chavodrian Miles shared, “Leonor got me into the doctor the same day…it only took 6 months amazing.” We’re committed to helping you navigate the aftermath of your accident, no matter the cause.
Common Injuries from Car Accidents
Car accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor to life-altering. Some of the most common injuries we see at Attorney911 include:
-
Whiplash and Soft Tissue Injuries: These are among the most common injuries in car accidents. Whiplash occurs when the head is suddenly jerked forward and backward, straining the neck muscles and ligaments. While often considered “minor,” these injuries can cause chronic pain and require extensive treatment.
-
Herniated Discs: The force of a collision can cause the discs between your vertebrae to bulge or rupture. This can lead to severe pain, numbness, and even paralysis if the disc presses on a nerve.
-
Broken Bones and Fractures: The impact of a crash can easily break bones. Common fractures include broken ribs, arms, legs, wrists, and ankles. Some fractures may require surgery and extensive rehabilitation.
-
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Even a “mild” concussion can have serious long-term effects. TBIs can result from the head striking an object or from the brain moving violently within the skull. Symptoms may not appear immediately but can include headaches, dizziness, memory problems, and personality changes.
-
Spinal Cord Injuries: These can result in partial or complete paralysis. The severity depends on where the spine is injured and how badly it’s damaged.
-
Internal Organ Damage: The force of a collision can cause internal bleeding or damage to organs like the liver, spleen, or kidneys. These injuries can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention.
-
Lacerations and Contusions: Broken glass, metal, or other debris can cause cuts and bruises. While these may seem minor, they can lead to scarring, infections, or complications.
-
Psychological Injuries: The emotional impact of a car accident can be just as devastating as physical injuries. Many victims experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and fear of driving.
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. While not every case results in such severe injuries, it underscores the importance of seeking immediate medical attention and legal representation after an accident.
Why You Need an Experienced Car Accident Lawyer
After a car accident, you may be approached by insurance adjusters offering quick settlements. It’s important to remember that insurance companies are not on your side. Their goal is to minimize payouts and protect their bottom line. This is where having an experienced car accident lawyer like those at Attorney911 can make a significant difference.
Here’s what we bring to your case:
-
Knowledge of Texas Law: We understand the complexities of Texas personal injury law, including the statute of limitations, comparative negligence rules, and how to calculate damages.
-
Experience with Insurance Companies: Our team includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney. He knows the tactics insurance companies use to minimize claims because he used them himself. Now, he uses that knowledge to fight for victims.
-
Resources to Build Your Case: We have access to accident reconstruction experts, medical professionals, and other specialists who can help prove the extent of your injuries and the other driver’s negligence.
-
Negotiation Skills: We know how to negotiate with insurance companies to get you the compensation you deserve. We won’t accept lowball offers.
-
Trial Experience: While most cases settle out of court, we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This approach gives us leverage in negotiations and ensures we’re ready if your case does go to court.
-
Contingency Fee Basis: We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing unless we win your case. This allows you to focus on your recovery without worrying about upfront legal fees.
As client MONGO SLADE shared, “I was rear-ended and the team got right to work…I also got a very nice settlement.” We’re committed to fighting for every client as if they were family.
The Legal Process After a Car Accident in Pearland
Understanding the legal process can help alleviate some of the stress and uncertainty you may be feeling after an accident. Here’s what you can expect when you work with Attorney911:
-
Free Consultation: We’ll review the details of your case and explain your legal options. This consultation is free and comes with no obligation.
-
Investigation: We’ll gather evidence, including police reports, witness statements, medical records, and any available video footage. We’ll also send preservation letters to ensure critical evidence isn’t lost or destroyed.
-
Medical Treatment: We’ll help you get the medical care you need and ensure your treatment is properly documented. This is crucial for proving the extent of your injuries.
-
Demand Letter: Once you’ve reached maximum medical improvement (MMI), we’ll send a demand letter to the insurance company outlining your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
-
Negotiation: We’ll negotiate with the insurance company to reach a fair settlement. If they refuse to offer a reasonable amount, we’re prepared to take your case to trial.
-
Settlement or Trial: Most cases settle out of court, but if necessary, we’ll take your case to trial to fight for the compensation you deserve.
Throughout this process, we’ll keep you informed and involved. As client Dame Haskett said, “Consistent communication and not one time did I call and not get a clear answer.”
Texas Car Accident Laws You Need to Know
Understanding Texas car accident laws can help you protect your rights. Here are some key laws to be aware of:
-
Statute of Limitations: In Texas, you have two years from the date of your accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This is known as the statute of limitations. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to compensation.
-
Comparative Negligence: Texas follows a “modified comparative negligence” rule. This means that if you’re found to be partially at fault for the accident, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. However, if you’re found to be 51% or more at fault, you won’t be able to recover any compensation.
-
Minimum Insurance Requirements: Texas requires drivers to carry minimum liability insurance of $30,000 for bodily injury per person, $60,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 for property damage. However, many drivers carry only the minimum, which may not be enough to cover your damages.
-
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: This coverage protects you if you’re hit by a driver who doesn’t have insurance or doesn’t have enough insurance to cover your damages. We recommend carrying this coverage on your own policy.
-
Dram Shop Law: Under Texas law, bars and restaurants can be held liable if they serve alcohol to someone who is obviously intoxicated and that person later causes an accident.
At Attorney911, we understand these laws inside and out. Lupe Peña’s experience as a former insurance defense attorney gives us a unique advantage in navigating these complex legal issues.
How Insurance Companies Try to Minimize Your Claim
Insurance companies have a playbook of tactics they use to minimize payouts. Here are some of the most common tactics and how we counter them:
-
The Quick Settlement Offer: Insurance adjusters may contact you soon after your accident with a quick settlement offer. They hope you’ll accept before you realize the full extent of your injuries. We advise our clients not to accept any settlement offers without consulting an attorney first.
-
Recorded Statements: Adjusters may ask you to give a recorded statement about the accident. They’ll use your words against you to minimize your claim. We handle all communication with insurance companies to protect your rights.
-
Independent Medical Exams (IMEs): Insurance companies may require you to see a doctor of their choosing for an “independent” medical exam. These doctors are often biased and may downplay your injuries. We prepare our clients for these exams and challenge biased reports.
-
Surveillance: Insurance companies may hire private investigators to follow you and record your activities. They’re looking for any evidence that contradicts your injury claims. We advise our clients to be cautious about their activities and social media posts.
-
Delay Tactics: Insurance companies may drag out the claims process, hoping you’ll get desperate and accept a lowball offer. We keep the pressure on and are prepared to take your case to trial if necessary.
-
Pre-Existing Conditions: Insurance companies may try to blame your injuries on pre-existing conditions. We work with medical experts to prove that your accident aggravated any pre-existing conditions.
Lupe Peña, our associate attorney, knows these tactics well. He spent years working for insurance companies, learning their strategies from the inside. Now, he uses that knowledge to fight for victims. As he says, “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.”
What to Do After a Car Accident in Pearland
If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Pearland, taking the right steps can protect your health and your legal rights. Here’s what you should do:
-
Call 911: Report the accident and request medical assistance if anyone is injured. Even if you don’t think you’re hurt, it’s important to get checked out. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal bleeding, may not be immediately apparent.
-
Move to Safety: If you can do so safely, move your vehicle out of traffic to prevent further accidents.
-
Exchange Information: Get the other driver’s name, phone number, address, driver’s license number, license plate number, and insurance information. Also, get the names and contact information of any witnesses.
-
Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, any visible injuries, and road conditions. This evidence can be crucial for your case.
-
Do Not Admit Fault: Be careful what you say at the scene. Even saying “I’m sorry” can be misconstrued as an admission of fault. Stick to the facts when talking to the police and other parties.
-
Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, see a doctor as soon as possible. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, and having a medical record of your injuries is important for your case.
-
Report the Accident: In Texas, you must report an accident to the police if it results in injury, death, or property damage over $1,000.
-
Contact Attorney911: Before speaking to any insurance company, call us at 1-888-ATTY-911. We can guide you through the next steps and protect your rights.
What NOT to Do After a Car Accident
Just as important as knowing what to do is knowing what NOT to do after a car accident:
-
Don’t Leave the Scene: Leaving the scene of an accident, especially if someone is injured, is a crime in Texas.
-
Don’t Give a Recorded Statement: Insurance adjusters may ask you to give a recorded statement. Politely decline and refer them to your attorney.
-
Don’t Sign Anything: Don’t sign any documents from the insurance company without consulting an attorney first.
-
Don’t Accept a Quick Settlement: Insurance companies may offer you a quick settlement. These offers are usually lowball and don’t account for the full extent of your injuries.
-
Don’t Post on Social Media: Insurance companies monitor social media for evidence to use against you. Avoid posting about your accident or injuries.
-
Don’t Delay Medical Treatment: Even if you feel fine, see a doctor as soon as possible. Delaying treatment can hurt your health and your case.
-
Don’t Talk to the Other Driver’s Insurance Company: Refer all communication to your attorney.
How Much Is My Car Accident Case Worth?
One of the most common questions we hear is, “How much is my case worth?” The answer depends on several factors, including:
-
Medical Expenses: This includes both past and future medical costs related to your injuries.
-
Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you can recover lost wages. This also includes lost earning capacity if you’re unable to return to your previous job.
-
Pain and Suffering: This compensates you for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by your injuries.
-
Property Damage: This covers the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle and any other property damaged in the accident.
-
Other Damages: Depending on your case, you may also be entitled to compensation for loss of consortium, disfigurement, or punitive damages.
Here’s a general idea of settlement ranges based on injury severity:
- Soft Tissue Injuries (Whiplash, Sprains, Strains): $15,000 – $60,000
- Broken Bones (Single, Simple Fracture): $35,000 – $95,000
- Broken Bones Requiring Surgery: $132,000 – $328,000
- Herniated Disc (Conservative Treatment): $70,000 – $171,000
- Herniated Disc Requiring Surgery: $346,000 – $1,205,000
- Traumatic Brain Injury: $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
These ranges are general estimates and can vary significantly based on the specific circumstances of your case. At Attorney911, we’ve recovered millions for our clients. 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.
Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Pearland Car Accident Case
When you’re injured in a car accident, choosing the right attorney can make all the difference. Here’s why Attorney911 is the right choice for Pearland residents:
-
Insurance Defense Insider: Our team includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney. He knows how insurance companies value claims because he used to calculate them. Now, he uses that knowledge to fight for victims.
-
Multi-Million Dollar Results: We’ve recovered millions for our clients, including multi-million dollar settlements for brain injuries, amputations, and wrongful death cases.
-
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, including those involving federal regulations or out-of-state defendants.
-
BP Explosion Litigation: Our firm is one of the few in Texas to be involved in BP explosion litigation. This experience demonstrates our ability to take on billion-dollar corporations and win.
-
Personal Attention: At Attorney911, you’re not just a case number. You’ll work directly with Ralph Manginello or Lupe Peña, not a case manager assembly line. As client Chad Harris said, “You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client…You are FAMILY to them.”
-
Contingency Fee Basis: We don’t get paid unless we win your case. This means you can focus on your recovery without worrying about upfront legal fees.
-
Bilingual Services: Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish, and our staff includes bilingual team members. We can communicate with you in the language you’re most comfortable with.
-
Proven Track Record: With over 251 five-star Google reviews and decades of experience, we have a proven track record of success.
-
Local Knowledge: We know Pearland’s courts, judges, and local insurance adjusters. This local knowledge gives us an advantage in your case.
-
24/7 Availability: When you call 1-888-ATTY-911, you’re reaching a legal emergency line that’s always open.
As client Glenda Walker shared, “They make you feel like family and even though the process may take some time, they make it feel like a breeze. They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.”
Frequently Asked Questions About Car Accidents in Pearland
1. What should I do immediately after a car accident in Pearland?
If you’ve been in a car accident in Pearland, the first thing to do is ensure your safety and the safety of others. Call 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance if needed. Exchange information with the other driver, including names, phone numbers, addresses, driver’s license numbers, license plate numbers, and insurance information. Document the scene by taking photos and getting witness contact information. Most importantly, call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 before speaking to any insurance company.
2. Should I call the police even for a minor accident?
Yes, you should always call the police after an accident, even if it seems minor. The police report is an important piece of evidence for your case. In Texas, you’re required to report an accident if it results in injury, death, or property damage over $1,000.
3. Should I seek medical attention if I don’t feel hurt?
Absolutely. Many serious injuries, like traumatic brain injuries or internal bleeding, may not show symptoms immediately. Adrenaline can mask pain at the scene. Seeing a doctor creates a record of your injuries, which is crucial for your case. Insurance companies often use delays in treatment to argue that your injuries aren’t serious.
4. What information should I collect at the scene?
Collect as much information as possible, including:
- Other driver’s name, phone number, address, driver’s license number, and insurance information
- Vehicle make, model, color, and license plate number
- Names and phone numbers of witnesses
- Photos of all vehicle damage, injuries, road conditions, and traffic signals
- Police officer’s name, badge number, and report number
5. Should I talk to the other driver or admit fault?
Exchange information with the other driver, but don’t discuss fault or apologize. Even saying “I’m sorry” can be misconstrued as an admission of fault. Stick to the facts when talking to the police and other parties.
6. How do I obtain a copy of the accident report?
In Pearland, you can obtain the police report from the Pearland Police Department or through the Texas Department of Transportation’s Crash Records Information System (CRIS).
7. Should I give a recorded statement to insurance?
No, you should not give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance company without consulting an attorney first. Insurance adjusters are trained to ask questions that can minimize your claim. At Attorney911, we handle all communication with insurance companies to protect your rights.
8. What if the other driver’s insurance contacts me?
If the other driver’s insurance company contacts you, politely decline to give a statement and refer them to your attorney. You can provide basic information like your name and the date of the accident, but don’t discuss your injuries or the details of the accident.
9. Do I have to accept the insurance company’s estimate?
No, you don’t have to accept the insurance company’s estimate. Their initial offer is often lower than what your case is actually worth. At Attorney911, we fight for the full compensation you deserve.
10. Should I accept a quick settlement offer?
Never accept a settlement offer before knowing the full extent of your injuries. Once you sign a release, you can’t get more money even if you need additional treatment. At Attorney911, we ensure you reach maximum medical improvement before considering any settlement offers.
11. What if the other driver is uninsured or underinsured?
If the other driver doesn’t have insurance or doesn’t have enough insurance to cover your damages, your own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage can compensate you. Texas allows inter-policy stacking, which means you can combine coverage from multiple policies.
12. Why does insurance want me to sign a medical authorization?
Insurance companies want you to sign a medical authorization so they can access your entire medical history. They’re looking for pre-existing conditions to use against your claim. Never sign a medical authorization without consulting an attorney first.
13. Do I have a personal injury case?
You may have a personal injury case if someone else was at fault for your accident and you suffered injuries or damages. The best way to determine if you have a case is to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney like those at Attorney911.
14. When should I hire a car accident lawyer?
You should hire a car accident lawyer as soon as possible after your accident. Evidence disappears quickly, and insurance companies start building their case against you from day one. At Attorney911, we offer free consultations to help you understand your legal options.
15. How much time do I have to file a lawsuit (statute of limitations)?
In Texas, you have two years from the date of your accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This is known as the statute of limitations. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to compensation.
16. What is comparative negligence and how does it affect me?
Texas follows a “modified comparative negligence” rule. This means that if you’re found to be partially at fault for the accident, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. However, if you’re found to be 51% or more at fault, you won’t be able to recover any compensation.
17. Will my case go to trial?
Most car accident cases settle out of court. However, at Attorney911, we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This approach gives us leverage in negotiations and ensures we’re ready if your case does go to court.
18. How long will my case take to settle?
The length of your case depends on several factors, including the severity of your injuries and the complexity of your case. We don’t settle until you’ve reached maximum medical improvement (MMI), which could take anywhere from a few months to a couple of years.
19. What is the legal process step-by-step?
The legal process typically involves:
- Investigation and evidence gathering
- Medical treatment to reach maximum medical improvement
- Demand letter to the insurance company
- Negotiation with the insurance company
- Lawsuit filing if necessary
- Discovery process
- Mediation
- Trial if needed
20. How much do car accident lawyers cost?
At Attorney911, we work on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay nothing unless we win your case. Our fee is a percentage of your recovery, and we advance all case costs. This allows you to focus on your recovery without worrying about upfront legal fees.
21. What does “no fee unless we win” mean?
“No fee unless we win” means that you don’t pay any attorney fees unless we recover compensation for you. If we don’t win your case, you owe us nothing. We also advance all case costs, so you don’t have to worry about upfront expenses.
22. How often will I get updates on my case?
At Attorney911, we believe in consistent communication. As client Dame Haskett said, “Consistent communication and not one time did I call and not get a clear answer.” You’ll receive regular updates on your case, and we’re always available to answer your questions.
23. Who will actually handle my case?
At Attorney911, you’ll work directly with Ralph Manginello or Lupe Peña, not just paralegals. As client Chad Harris said, “You are NOT just some client…You are FAMILY to them.”
24. What if I already hired another attorney?
You can switch attorneys at any time. At Attorney911, we’ve taken over many cases from other attorneys. 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.”
25. What if I have a pre-existing condition?
You can still recover compensation if your accident aggravated your pre-existing condition. This is known as the “eggshell plaintiff” rule, which means the defendant takes you as they find you. At Attorney911, we work with medical experts to prove the difference between your condition before and after the accident.
26. Can I switch attorneys if I’m unhappy with my current lawyer?
Yes, you can fire your attorney at any time. If your current attorney isn’t communicating with you, isn’t fighting for you, or is pushing you to settle cheap, you have the right to switch. At Attorney911, we’ve taken over many cases from other attorneys and are committed to providing the personal attention you deserve.
27. What if the insurance company is my own insurance (UM/UIM claim)?
If you’re making an uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) claim against your own insurance, you still need an attorney. Your insurance company will fight your claim just like the other driver’s insurance would. At Attorney911, we have experience handling UM/UIM claims and can help you maximize your recovery.
28. How do you calculate pain and suffering?
Pain and suffering is typically calculated using a multiplier method. Your medical expenses are multiplied by a number (usually between 1.5 and 5) based on the severity of your injuries. The more severe and long-lasting your injuries, the higher the multiplier.
29. What if I was hit by a government vehicle (city bus, police car, etc.)?
If you were hit by a government vehicle, you have a limited time to file a claim. In Texas, you must file a notice of claim within six months of the accident. These cases can be complex due to sovereign immunity laws, so it’s important to consult with an experienced attorney.
30. What if the other driver fled the scene (hit and run)?
If the other driver fled the scene, you can still recover compensation through your own uninsured motorist (UM) coverage. It’s important to file a police report and contact an attorney as soon as possible. Evidence disappears quickly, so time is of the essence.
31. What if I’m an undocumented immigrant—can I still file a claim?
Yes, your immigration status does not affect your right to compensation for your injuries. You’re entitled to full recovery regardless of your immigration status. At Attorney911, we’ve successfully represented clients of all immigration statuses, and Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish.
32. What if the accident happened in a parking lot?
Parking lot accidents are fully compensable. Insurance companies often try to argue that parking lot accidents are always 50/50 fault, but this isn’t true. At Attorney911, we’ve won many parking lot cases with clear liability findings.
33. What if I was a passenger in the at-fault vehicle?
If you were a passenger in the at-fault vehicle, you can still sue the driver. You’re an innocent victim, and the driver’s insurance should cover your injuries. These cases often settle quickly because liability is clear.
34. What if the other driver died in the accident?
You can still pursue a claim against the deceased driver’s estate and insurance. The insurance policy still applies, and the estate may have assets. These cases can be emotionally complex but are legally straightforward.
35. What common mistakes can hurt my case?
Common mistakes that can hurt your case include:
- Giving a recorded statement to the insurance company without an attorney
- Accepting a quick settlement offer
- Delaying medical treatment
- Having gaps in your medical treatment
- Posting about your accident or injuries on social media
- Signing releases or authorizations from the insurance company
- Not documenting everything related to your accident and injuries
36. Should I post about my accident on social media?
No, you should not post about your accident on social media. Insurance companies monitor social media for evidence to use against you. Even innocent posts can be taken out of context. At Attorney911, we advise our clients to make all their social media profiles private and avoid posting about their accident or injuries.
37. Why shouldn’t I sign anything without a lawyer?
Releases are permanent and final. Medical authorizations give the insurance company unlimited access to your medical history. Settlement offers are binding. Once you sign something, you can’t undo it. At Attorney911, we review all documents before you sign anything.
38. What if I didn’t see a doctor right away?
If you didn’t see a doctor right away, see one now. Explain that you didn’t realize the severity of your injuries at first. Delayed symptoms are common in car accidents. At Attorney911, we can still help you pursue your claim.
39. What if I have a pre-existing condition?
You can still recover compensation if your accident aggravated your pre-existing condition. This is known as the “eggshell plaintiff” rule. At Attorney911, we work with medical experts to prove the difference between your condition before and after the accident.
40. Can I switch attorneys if I’m unhappy with my current lawyer?
Yes, you can fire your attorney at any time. If your current attorney isn’t communicating with you, isn’t fighting for you, or is pushing you to settle cheap, you have the right to switch. At Attorney911, we’ve taken over many cases from other attorneys and are committed to providing the personal attention you deserve.
41. What if the insurance company is my own insurance (UM/UIM claim)?
If you’re making an uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) claim against your own insurance, you still need an attorney. Your insurance company will fight your claim just like the other driver’s insurance would. At Attorney911, we have experience handling UM/UIM claims and can help you maximize your recovery.
42. How do you calculate pain and suffering?
Pain and suffering is typically calculated using a multiplier method. Your medical expenses are multiplied by a number (usually between 1.5 and 5) based on the severity of your injuries. The more severe and long-lasting your injuries, the higher the multiplier. Lupe Peña, our associate attorney, knows how insurance companies calculate these values because he used to calculate them for insurance companies.
43. What if I was hit by a government vehicle (city bus, police car, etc.)?
If you were hit by a government vehicle, you have a limited time to file a claim. In Texas, you must file a notice of claim within six months of the accident. These cases can be complex due to sovereign immunity laws, so it’s important to consult with an experienced attorney like those at Attorney911.
44. What if the other driver fled the scene (hit and run)?
If the other driver fled the scene, you can still recover compensation through your own uninsured motorist (UM) coverage. It’s important to file a police report and contact an attorney as soon as possible. Evidence disappears quickly, so time is of the essence. At Attorney911, we’ve handled many hit and run cases and can help you navigate the UM claims process.
45. What if I’m an undocumented immigrant—can I still file a claim?
Yes, your immigration status does not affect your right to compensation for your injuries. You’re entitled to full recovery regardless of your immigration status. At Attorney911, we’ve successfully represented clients of all immigration statuses. Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish, and we have bilingual staff members who can communicate with you in the language you’re most comfortable with.
Contact Attorney911 Today
If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Pearland, don’t wait to get the legal help you need. Evidence disappears quickly, and the sooner you call, the sooner we can start building your case. At Attorney911, we offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis—you pay nothing unless we win your case.
Call us today at 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911) or visit our website at https://attorney911.com to schedule your free consultation. We’re here to fight for you and help you get the compensation you deserve.
Remember, when you call 1-888-ATTY-911, you’re reaching a legal emergency line staffed by experienced attorneys who are ready to protect your rights. Don’t let the insurance companies take advantage of you—call Attorney911 today.