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Blog | Brewster County

Brewster County Car & Truck Accident Attorneys | 18-Wheelers, Commercial Trucks, Rideshare Crashes | Former Insurance Defense — We Know Their Playbook | $2.5M+ Recoveries | Attorney911 — The Firm Insurers Fear | Serving US-90, US-385, FM 170 | Se Habla Español | 1-888-ATTY-911

January 24, 2026 24 min read
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Car Accidents in Alpine, Brewster County, Texas: Legal Help When You Need It Most

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Alpine, Brewster County, Texas, you’re not alone. Texas sees a crash every 57 seconds, and Alpine’s roads are no exception. Whether you were hit on Highway 90, at a busy intersection downtown, or on the scenic drives through the Davis Mountains, a serious accident can turn your life upside down in an instant.

At Attorney911, we understand what you’re going through. Founded by Ralph Manginello, who has over 25 years of experience fighting for accident victims across Texas, our firm has helped hundreds of clients in Brewster County and beyond recover the compensation they deserve. We know Alpine’s courts, the local judges, and the insurance adjusters who handle claims in this area. When you call 1-888-ATTY-911, you’re calling your neighbors—attorneys who are part of the West Texas community.

The Reality of Car Accidents in Alpine and Brewster County

Texas is one of the most dangerous states for drivers, with 251,977 people injured in motor vehicle crashes in 2024 alone. In Brewster County, car accidents are a constant risk, whether you’re commuting to work, driving through Big Bend National Park, or simply running errands in Alpine.

Common causes of car accidents in our area include:

  • Distracted driving (texting, phone use, or other distractions)
  • Speeding, especially on rural highways like US-90 or FM 170
  • Failure to yield at intersections
  • Drunk or impaired driving
  • Poor road conditions, particularly during flash floods or winter weather

No matter how your accident happened, if someone else was at fault, you have the right to seek compensation for your injuries, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Common Injuries from Car Accidents

Car accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, from minor to life-altering. Some of the most common injuries we see in Alpine and Brewster County include:

  • Whiplash and soft tissue injuries: These are common in rear-end collisions and can cause long-term pain if not properly treated.
  • Herniated or bulging discs: The force of a collision can damage the discs in your spine, leading to chronic pain and requiring surgery.
  • Broken bones and fractures: Arms, legs, ribs, and facial bones are often broken in serious crashes.
  • Traumatic brain injuries (TBI): Even a mild concussion can have lasting effects, while severe TBIs can cause permanent disability.
  • Spinal cord injuries: These can lead to partial or complete paralysis, requiring lifelong medical care.
  • Internal injuries: Damage to organs or internal bleeding may not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening.
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD): Many accident victims develop anxiety, depression, or PTSD after a serious crash.

In a recent case, our client suffered a leg injury in a car accident in Alpine. During treatment, staff infections developed, leading to a partial amputation. This case settled in the millions, showing that we don’t back down from challenging cases.

Why Insurance Companies Are Already Working Against You

After an accident, you might think the other driver’s insurance company is there to help. The truth is, they’re already building a case against you. Their adjusters are trained to seem friendly while gathering evidence to deny or minimize your claim.

Some of their tactics include:

  • Quick settlement offers: They’ll offer you a small amount of money right away, hoping you’ll accept before you realize the full extent of your injuries.
  • Recorded statements: They’ll ask you to give a statement about the accident, using your own words to undermine your claim.
  • “Independent” medical exams: They’ll send you to a doctor of their choosing, who will likely downplay your injuries.
  • Surveillance: They may hire private investigators to follow you and record your activities, looking for any excuse to say you’re not really injured.

At Attorney911, we know these tactics because our attorney Lupe Peña used them for years while working for a national insurance defense firm. Now, he uses that insider knowledge to fight for victims like you. As Lupe 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.”

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Alpine Car Accident Case

When you’re injured in a car accident in Brewster County, you need an attorney who knows the local courts, understands the insurance companies’ tactics, and has a proven track record of success. Here’s why Attorney911 is the right choice for your case:

1. Insurance Defense Insider Advantage

Lupe Peña worked for years at a national defense firm, learning firsthand how large insurance companies value claims. He knows:

  • How they calculate settlement offers
  • Which doctors they send you to (and why)
  • How to counter their arguments about pre-existing conditions
  • When they’re lowballing you (and how to demand more)

This insider knowledge is a game-changer for your case.

2. Multi-Million Dollar Results

Our firm has recovered millions for car accident victims across Texas. Some of our results include:

  • A multi-million dollar settlement for a client who suffered a brain injury with vision loss
  • A case where our client’s leg injury led to a partial amputation, which settled in the millions
  • Numerous cases where we’ve helped families recover millions after wrongful death accidents

As client Chavodrian Miles shared: “Leonor got me into the doctor the same day…it only took 6 months amazing.” We fight for every dollar our clients deserve.

3. Federal Court Experience

Ralph Manginello is admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas. This means we can handle complex cases that other firms can’t, including those involving:

  • Trucking accidents with federal regulations
  • Cases against out-of-state defendants
  • Disputes over insurance coverage

We were also one of the few firms in Texas involved in the BP explosion litigation, showing our capability to take on billion-dollar corporations.

4. Personal Attention You Can Trust

Unlike high-volume firms where you’re just a case number, at Attorney911, you work directly with Ralph or Lupe. As client Chad Harris said:

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

We treat every client with the care and respect they deserve.

5. No Fee Unless We Win

We work on a contingency fee basis—you pay nothing unless we win your case. There are no upfront costs, and we advance all expenses. As client Kiimarii Yup shared:

“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.”

What to Do After a Car Accident in Alpine

If you’ve been in a car accident in Brewster County, here’s what you should do:

Immediately After the Accident:

  1. Call 911 and report the accident, especially if anyone is injured.
  2. Seek medical attention even if you feel fine. Adrenaline can mask injuries, and some symptoms don’t appear right away.
  3. Document everything:
    • Take photos of all vehicle damage, injuries, and the accident scene
    • Get the other driver’s name, phone number, address, and insurance information
    • Get contact information for any witnesses
  4. Do NOT give a recorded statement to any insurance company without talking to an attorney first.
  5. Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate legal guidance.

In the Days Following the Accident:

  1. Follow up with your doctor and follow all treatment recommendations.
  2. Keep all receipts for medical expenses, towing, rental cars, and other accident-related costs.
  3. Don’t post on social media about the accident or your injuries. Insurance companies monitor these sites.
  4. Refer all insurance calls to Attorney911. We’ll handle all communications with the insurance companies.

Why You Should Call Attorney911 Immediately

Evidence disappears quickly after an accident:

  • Surveillance footage from nearby businesses is typically deleted within 7-30 days
  • Witness memories fade over time
  • Vehicle data (like black box information) can be lost

We send preservation letters immediately to ensure critical evidence is saved. As client MONGO SLADE shared:

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

Texas Car Accident Laws You Need to Know

Statute of Limitations

In Texas, you have 2 years from the date of your accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. If you miss this deadline, you lose your right to compensation forever.

Comparative Negligence

Texas uses a “modified comparative negligence” rule. This means:

  • If you were 50% or less at fault, you can recover damages, but your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
  • If you were 51% or more at fault, you cannot recover anything.

Insurance companies will try to blame you for the accident to reduce their payment. Having an experienced attorney on your side can make all the difference.

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
  • $25,000 for property damage

However, many drivers carry only the minimum, which may not be enough to cover your damages. That’s why uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage is so important.

Types of Compensation You Can Recover

If you’ve been injured in a car accident, you may be entitled to compensation for:

Economic Damages

  • Past and future medical expenses
  • Lost wages and lost earning capacity
  • Property damage (vehicle repair or replacement)
  • Out-of-pocket expenses (transportation, household help, etc.)

Non-Economic Damages

  • Pain and suffering
  • Mental anguish
  • Physical impairment (loss of enjoyment of life)
  • Disfigurement (scarring, permanent injuries)
  • Loss of consortium (impact on your relationships)

Punitive Damages

In cases of gross negligence (like drunk driving), you may be entitled to punitive damages, which are designed to punish the at-fault party.

How Much Is Your Alpine Car Accident Case Worth?

The value of your case depends on several factors, including:

  • The severity of your injuries
  • The cost of your medical treatment
  • How the accident has impacted your daily life
  • Whether you’ll need future medical care
  • The strength of the evidence proving the other driver’s fault

While every case is unique, here are some general settlement ranges for common injuries:

Injury Type Medical Treatment Costs Settlement Range
Soft tissue injuries (whiplash, sprains) $6,000-$16,000 $15,000-$60,000
Broken bones (simple fractures) $10,000-$20,000 $35,000-$95,000
Broken bones (requiring surgery) $47,000-$98,000 $132,000-$328,000
Herniated disc (conservative treatment) $22,000-$46,000 $70,000-$171,000
Herniated disc (surgery required) $96,000-$205,000 $346,000-$1,205,000
Traumatic brain injury (moderate to severe) $198,000-$638,000+ $1,548,000-$9,838,000
Spinal cord injury/paralysis $500,000-$750,000 (first year) $4,770,000-$25,880,000
Amputation $170,000-$480,000 $1,945,000-$8,630,000
Wrongful death Varies by circumstances $1,910,000-$9,520,000

Remember, these are just general ranges. The actual value of your case depends on your specific circumstances. At Attorney911, we fight to get you the maximum compensation possible.

Other Types of Motor Vehicle Accidents We Handle in Alpine

While car accidents are the most common, we also handle other types of motor vehicle accidents, including:

Trucking Accidents

Truck accidents are often catastrophic due to the size and weight of commercial vehicles. In Texas, there were 39,393 commercial motor vehicle crashes in 2024, resulting in 608 fatalities. If you’ve been hit by a truck on Highway 90 or any other road in Brewster County, we can help.

Drunk Driving Accidents

Drunk driving is a major problem in Texas, with 1,053 alcohol-impaired driving deaths in 2024. If you’ve been hit by a drunk driver, you may be entitled to punitive damages. We can also pursue a claim against the bar or restaurant that served the driver under Texas’s dram shop laws.

Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents often result in serious injuries due to the lack of protection. In 2024, there were 585 motorcyclist fatalities in Texas. If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, we can help you fight against the insurance company’s attempts to blame you for the crash.

Pedestrian and Bicycle Accidents

Pedestrians and cyclists are extremely vulnerable on the road. In 2024, there were 6,095 pedestrian crashes in Texas, resulting in 768 deaths. If you’ve been hit while walking or biking in Alpine, you have the right to seek compensation.

Hit and Run Accidents

Hit and run accidents are frustrating and can leave you feeling helpless. However, your own uninsured motorist (UM) coverage can compensate you if the at-fault driver is never found. We can help you navigate this process.

Rideshare Accidents (Uber/Lyft)

Rideshare accidents can be complicated due to the multiple insurance policies involved. We understand the different coverage phases and can help you recover the compensation you deserve.

Why Alpine Residents Trust Attorney911

At Attorney911, we’re proud to serve the Alpine community and all of Brewster County. Here’s what some of our clients have said about working with us:

“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

“Ralph Manginello is indeed the best attorney I ever had..He cares greatly about his results.” — AMAZIAH A.T

“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

We’re honored to have the trust of the Alpine community, and we’re committed to fighting for the rights of accident victims across West Texas.

Frequently Asked Questions About Car Accidents in Alpine

What should I do immediately after a car accident in Alpine?

If you’ve been in an accident in Brewster County:

  1. Call 911 and report the accident
  2. Seek medical attention, even if you feel fine
  3. Document everything with photos and witness information
  4. Do NOT give a recorded statement to any insurance company
  5. Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate legal guidance

Should I call the police even for a minor accident?

Yes. Always call the police. The police report is critical evidence for your case. In Texas, you must report accidents with injuries, deaths, or property damage over $1,000.

Should I seek medical attention if I don’t feel hurt?

Absolutely. Many serious injuries don’t show symptoms immediately, including:

  • Traumatic brain injuries
  • Internal bleeding
  • Herniated discs
  • Soft tissue injuries

Insurance companies use delays in treatment against you, so get checked immediately.

What information should I collect at the scene?

Collect the following information:

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

Should I talk to the other driver or admit fault?

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

How do I obtain a copy of the accident report?

You can obtain the police report from the responding agency or through the Texas Department of Transportation’s Crash Records Information System (CRIS).

Should I give a recorded statement to insurance?

To the other driver’s insurance: NO. Not without an attorney.
To your own insurance: You have a duty to cooperate, but call Attorney911 first. We can advise you.

What if the other driver’s insurance contacts me?

Say: “I need to speak with my attorney first.” Give only basic information (name, date of accident). Do NOT give a recorded statement. Do NOT discuss injuries or fault.

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

No. Their estimate is just an offer. It’s usually far below actual value. Attorney911 fights for what your case is really worth.

Should I accept a quick settlement offer?

NEVER accept a settlement before knowing the full extent of your injuries. Once you sign a release, you cannot get more money even if you need surgery later.

What if the other driver is uninsured/underinsured?

Your own UM/UIM coverage can compensate you. Watch our video on uninsured and underinsured motorists at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kWcNFyb-Yq8.

Why does insurance want me to sign a medical authorization?

They want unlimited access to your ENTIRE medical history to find pre-existing conditions to use against you. Never sign without attorney review.

Do I have a personal injury case?

You may have a case if:

  • Someone else was at fault (even partially)
  • You suffered injuries or damages
  • There is insurance to recover from

Watch our video: “Do I Have a Good Case?” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j-PMMP5Jims.

When should I hire a car accident lawyer?

Immediately. Evidence disappears daily. Insurance companies start building their defense against you from day one. Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911.

How much time do I have to file (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. Miss it = case barred forever.

What is comparative negligence and how does it affect me?

Texas uses the 51% bar rule. If you’re 50% or less at fault, you can recover (reduced by your fault %). If 51%+ at fault, you get nothing.

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

What happens if I was partially at fault?

You can still recover if you were 50% or less at fault. Your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault.

Will my case go to trial?

Most cases settle before trial. But Attorney911 prepares every case AS IF it’s going to trial. That’s what gives us leverage.

Watch our video: “Will Your Case Go to Trial?” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Ed5AnmCMcc.

How long will my case take to settle?

It depends on injury severity. We don’t settle until you’ve reached maximum medical improvement (MMI). Could be 6 months for minor injuries, 18-24 months for serious injuries.

What is the legal process step-by-step?

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

Watch our video: “What Is the Process for a Personal Injury Claim?” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XwzYymneDVs.

What is my case worth?

It depends on: injury severity, medical costs, lost wages, permanent impairment, pain and suffering, insurance available. Cases range from $15,000 (soft tissue) to millions (catastrophic injury).

What types of damages can I recover?

  • Medical expenses (past and future)
  • Lost wages and lost earning capacity
  • Pain and suffering
  • Mental anguish
  • Physical impairment
  • Disfigurement
  • Loss of enjoyment of life
  • Property damage

Can I get compensation for pain and suffering?

Yes. Pain and suffering is a significant component of personal injury cases in Texas. There is NO CAP on pain and suffering (except medical malpractice).

What if I have a pre-existing condition?

You can still recover if the accident aggravated or worsened your pre-existing condition. This is called the “eggshell plaintiff” rule.

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.

How is the value of my claim determined?

Based on: medical bills, future treatment costs, lost income, permanent impairment rating, comparable verdicts, severity of injuries, impact on daily life.

How much do car accident lawyers cost?

Attorney911 works on contingency: 33.33% before trial, 40% if trial. You pay nothing upfront. We don’t get paid unless we win.

Watch our video: “How Do Contingency Fees Work?” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc.

What does “no fee unless we win” mean?

You pay zero unless we recover money for you. If we don’t win, you owe us nothing. We advance all case costs.

How often will I get updates?

Attorney911 provides regular updates. As client Dame Haskett said: “Consistent communication and not one time did I call and not get a clear answer.”

Who will actually handle my case?

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

What if I already hired another attorney?

You can switch. As client Greg Garcia said: “In the beginning I had another attorney but he dropped my case although Mangiello law firm were able to help me out.”

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

YES. Immigration status does NOT affect your right to compensation for injuries. You’re entitled to full recovery regardless of immigration status. Your case is confidential. We’ve successfully represented clients of all immigration statuses. Lupe is fluent in Spanish.

What if the accident happened in a parking lot?

Parking lot accidents are fully compensable. Insurance companies love to argue “parking lot accidents are always 50/50 fault” (LIE). We prove fault through: surveillance video, witness statements, damage analysis, traffic patterns. Texas comparative negligence rules apply.

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

You can sue the driver even if you were riding with them (friend, family member, Uber driver). You’re an innocent victim. Driver’s insurance covers passengers. No comparative fault issues (you weren’t driving). These cases often settle quickly because liability is clear.

What if the other driver died in the accident?

You can still pursue a claim against the deceased driver’s estate and insurance. Death doesn’t eliminate liability. Insurance policy still applies. Estate may have assets. Wrongful death laws protect both sides. These cases are emotionally complex but legally straightforward. We handle them with sensitivity while protecting your rights.

Alpine-Specific Resources

If you’ve been in a car accident in Alpine or Brewster County, here are some local resources that may be helpful:

Local Hospitals and Medical Centers:

  • Big Bend Regional Medical Center (Alpine): The primary hospital serving Brewster County, offering emergency care and specialized treatment.
  • Pecos County Memorial Hospital (Fort Stockton): Another nearby option for emergency care, about 45 minutes from Alpine.

Local Law Enforcement:

  • Alpine Police Department: Handles accidents within the city limits.
  • Brewster County Sheriff’s Office: Handles accidents outside Alpine’s city limits.
  • Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS): Handles accidents on state highways.

Local Courts:

  • Brewster County Justice of the Peace Court: Handles minor civil cases and traffic citations.
  • Brewster County Court at Law: Handles more serious civil cases, including personal injury lawsuits.
  • 394th District Court: The primary district court serving Brewster County.

Local Towing and Repair Services:

  • Alpine Auto Body: Local auto repair shop that can help with vehicle damage assessments.
  • Brewster County Towing: Provides towing services for accident vehicles.

Call Attorney911 Today

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Alpine or anywhere in Brewster County, don’t wait to get the legal help you need. Evidence disappears daily, and insurance companies are already building their case against you.

At Attorney911, we offer:

  • A free, no-obligation consultation
  • No fee unless we win your case
  • Personal attention from Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña
  • Decades of experience fighting for accident victims
  • A proven track record of multi-million dollar results

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 help you get the compensation you deserve and the justice you need to move forward with your life.

Remember, when it comes to car accidents in Alpine, you don’t have to face this alone. Attorney911 is your legal emergency line—we answer 24/7.

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