Motor Vehicle Accident Lawyers in Cottonwood Shores, Texas

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Cottonwood Shores, Texas, you’re not alone. The roads in Burnet County see thousands of accidents each year, leaving victims with painful injuries, mounting medical bills, and uncertainty about their future. At Attorney911, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a motor vehicle accident 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.

Every 57 seconds, a motor vehicle crash occurs in Texas, resulting in 251,977 injuries annually. In Cottonwood Shores and the surrounding areas, accidents happen on familiar roads like Highway 281 and FM 1431, often leaving victims overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. That’s where we come in. As Cottonwood Shores’ trusted motor vehicle accident lawyers, we provide the guidance and aggressive representation you need during this difficult time.

Why Cottonwood Shores Residents Choose Attorney911

When you’re recovering from injuries, the last thing you want to worry about is navigating complex legal processes or battling insurance companies. That’s why Cottonwood Shores residents turn to Attorney911. Our firm offers:

• Local Expertise: We understand the unique challenges of motor vehicle accidents in Cottonwood Shores and Burnet County. Whether your accident occurred on the winding roads near Lake LBJ or in town, we know how to build a strong case for you.

• Insurance Defense Insider: Our team includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how insurance companies evaluate claims. This insider knowledge gives us an unfair advantage when negotiating with adjusters who try to minimize your injuries.

• Proven Results: We’ve recovered millions for accident victims across Texas. In a recent case, our client suffered a leg injury in a car accident that led to complications and partial amputation. This case settled in the millions, demonstrating our ability to handle even the most complex injury claims.

• Personal Attention: Unlike large firms where you’re just a number, we treat every client like family. As Chad Harris, one of our satisfied clients, shared: “You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client…You are FAMILY to them.”

• No Fee Unless We Win: We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. This ensures you can focus on your recovery without worrying about upfront legal costs.

Common Types of Motor Vehicle Accidents in Cottonwood Shores

Cottonwood Shores and Burnet County see a variety of motor vehicle accidents. Our attorneys handle all types of cases, including:

Car Accidents

Car accidents are the most common type of motor vehicle crash in Cottonwood Shores. Whether it’s a rear-end collision on Highway 281 or a T-bone accident at a busy intersection, these incidents can cause serious injuries like whiplash, herniated discs, broken bones, and traumatic brain injuries.

In a recent case, our client was injured in a car accident that led to complications and a partial amputation. This case settled in the millions, showing our commitment to fighting for maximum compensation.

Trucking Accidents

With Highway 281 running through Burnet County, trucking accidents are a serious concern. These crashes often result in catastrophic injuries due to the size and weight of commercial vehicles. We have extensive experience handling trucking accident cases and understand the complex regulations that govern the trucking industry.

At Attorney911, we’ve helped numerous families recover millions in trucking-related wrongful death cases. Our firm is one of the few in Texas to be involved in BP explosion litigation, demonstrating our capability to take on large corporations and complex cases.

Drunk Driving Accidents

Drunk driving accidents are tragically common in Texas, accounting for 25.37% of all traffic fatalities. These preventable crashes often result in severe injuries or death. Our team has a unique advantage in these cases because we understand both the criminal and civil aspects of drunk driving accidents.

Ralph Manginello’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) gives us the expertise to handle cases involving both criminal charges and civil claims. We’ve successfully had multiple DWI cases dismissed, showing our ability to thoroughly investigate and build strong cases.

Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle riders face unique risks on Cottonwood Shores roads. With no protective barrier, riders are vulnerable to serious injuries in even minor collisions. We understand the specific challenges motorcyclists face and know how to counter insurance company tactics that try to blame the rider.

Pedestrian and Bicycle Accidents

Pedestrians and cyclists are at high risk in Cottonwood Shores, especially near busy roads and intersections. These accidents often result in severe injuries due to the lack of protection. Under Texas law, pedestrians always have the right-of-way at intersections, even unmarked ones. Many drivers don’t realize this, but we do, and we’ll fight to protect your rights.

Hit and Run Accidents

Hit and run accidents leave victims feeling helpless and unsure of how to recover compensation. If you’re the victim of a hit and run in Cottonwood Shores, your own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage can provide compensation. We’ve helped many clients navigate these complex claims and recover the compensation they deserve.

Rideshare Accidents (Uber/Lyft)

Rideshare accidents present unique challenges because insurance coverage varies depending on what the driver was doing at the time of the crash. We understand the different phases of rideshare coverage and know how to identify the correct insurance to maximize your recovery.

What to Do After a Motor Vehicle Accident in Cottonwood Shores

The moments after an accident can be chaotic and confusing. Here’s what you should do to protect your health and your legal rights:

1. Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, get checked by a medical professional. Many injuries, like traumatic brain injuries or internal bleeding, may not show symptoms immediately.

2. Document Everything: Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. Get contact information from witnesses and exchange information with the other driver.

3. Report the Accident: Call the police and file an accident report. This document is crucial evidence for your claim.

4. Don’t Give Recorded Statements: Insurance adjusters may contact you quickly, but don’t give a recorded statement without consulting an attorney. These statements can be used against you later.

5. Call Attorney911: Contact us at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We’ll guide you through the next steps and start protecting your rights immediately.

Why Insurance Companies Are Not on Your Side

After an accident, insurance companies may seem helpful, but their goal is to minimize your claim. They use several tactics to reduce or deny your compensation:

• Quick Settlement Offers: They may offer you a quick, lowball settlement before you know the full extent of your injuries. These offers are almost always far below what your case is truly worth.

• Recorded Statements: Adjusters may ask you to give a recorded statement, hoping you’ll say something that can be used to deny your claim.

• Independent Medical Exams (IMEs): They may require you to see a doctor of their choosing, who is likely to minimize your injuries.

• Delay Tactics: Insurance companies may drag out your claim, hoping you’ll become desperate and accept a low offer.

• Surveillance: They may hire private investigators to follow you and record your activities, looking for any evidence to dispute your injuries.

Lupe Peña, our former insurance defense attorney, knows all these tactics because he used them for years. Now, he uses that knowledge to fight for you.

How Attorney911 Fights for You

At Attorney911, we take a comprehensive approach to every motor vehicle accident case:

1. Immediate Action: We start working on your case right away, sending preservation letters to all parties to ensure critical evidence isn’t lost.

2. Thorough Investigation: We gather all available evidence, including police reports, witness statements, medical records, and surveillance footage.

3. Medical Coordination: We help you get the medical treatment you need and document your injuries to build a strong case.

4. Insurance Negotiation: We handle all communications with insurance companies, fighting for a fair settlement.

5. Trial Preparation: We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial, which gives us leverage in negotiations and ensures we’re ready if the case goes to court.

Common Injuries in Motor Vehicle Accidents

Motor vehicle accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, from minor to catastrophic. Some of the most common injuries we see include:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): These can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage. Symptoms may not appear immediately, which is why it’s crucial to seek medical attention after any accident.

• Spinal Cord Injuries: These can result in partial or complete paralysis. The lifetime cost of care for spinal cord injuries can exceed millions of dollars.

• Herniated Discs: These painful injuries often require extensive treatment, including physical therapy, injections, or surgery.

• Broken Bones: Fractures can take months to heal and may require surgery or physical therapy.

• Soft Tissue Injuries: These include whiplash, sprains, and strains. While they may seem minor, they can cause chronic pain and limit your ability to work.

• Internal Injuries: These can be life-threatening and may not show symptoms immediately.

• Amputations: In severe accidents, limbs may be severed or require surgical amputation due to complications.

In a recent case, our client suffered a leg injury in a car accident that led to complications and partial amputation. This case settled in the millions, demonstrating our ability to handle even the most complex injury claims.

Compensation You May Be Entitled To

In a motor vehicle accident case, you may be entitled to various types of compensation, including:

• Medical Expenses: This includes past and future medical bills related to your injuries.

• Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you can recover compensation for lost income.

• Lost Earning Capacity: If your injuries affect your ability to earn income in the future, you may be entitled to compensation for this loss.

• Pain and Suffering: This compensates you for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by your injuries.

• Mental Anguish: This includes anxiety, depression, and other emotional impacts of the accident.

• Physical Impairment: If your injuries result in permanent disability or limitations, you may be entitled to compensation.

• Disfigurement: This compensates you for permanent scars or other visible injuries.

• Loss of Consortium: This compensates your spouse for the impact of your injuries on your relationship.

• Punitive Damages: In cases of gross negligence, such as drunk driving, you may be entitled to punitive damages to punish the at-fault party.

Texas Motor Vehicle Accident Laws You Need to Know

Understanding Texas motor vehicle accident laws is crucial to protecting your rights:

• Statute of Limitations: In Texas, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to compensation.

• Comparative Negligence: Texas uses a modified comparative negligence rule. If you’re found to be 50% or less at fault for the accident, you can still recover compensation, but your award will be reduced by your percentage of fault. If you’re found to be 51% or more at fault, you cannot recover any compensation.

• Minimum Insurance Requirements: Texas requires drivers to carry minimum insurance coverage of $30,000 for bodily injury per person, $60,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 for property damage.

• Dram Shop Liability: If a bar or restaurant serves alcohol to an obviously intoxicated person who then causes an accident, they may be held liable for damages.

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Cottonwood Shores Motor Vehicle Accident Case

When you’re injured in a motor vehicle accident, you need a law firm that combines local knowledge with statewide expertise. Here’s why Cottonwood Shores residents choose Attorney911:

1. Insurance Defense Insider: Lupe Peña, our associate attorney, spent years working for insurance companies. He knows their tactics and how to counter them.

2. Proven Results: We’ve recovered millions for our clients, including multi-million dollar settlements for catastrophic injuries.

3. Federal Court Experience: Ralph Manginello is admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas. This experience is crucial for complex cases, including those involving trucking accidents and product liability claims.

4. BP Explosion Litigation: Our firm is one of the few in Texas to be involved in BP explosion litigation, demonstrating our ability to handle complex cases against large corporations.

5. Personal Attention: We treat every client like family. As Chad Harris shared, “You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client…You are FAMILY to them.”

6. Contingency Fee Basis: We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case. This ensures you can focus on your recovery without worrying about upfront legal costs.

7. Bilingual Services: Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish, and our staff includes bilingual team members like Zulema, ensuring language is never a barrier to quality legal representation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Motor Vehicle Accidents in Cottonwood Shores

What should I do immediately after a car accident in Cottonwood Shores?

After a car accident in Cottonwood Shores, call 911 and report the accident. Seek medical attention even if you feel fine, as some injuries may not show symptoms immediately. Document everything by taking photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. Exchange information with the other driver and get contact information from witnesses. Most importantly, call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate legal guidance.

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 crucial evidence for your claim. In Texas, you’re required to report accidents that result in injuries, deaths, or property damage over $1,000.

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

Absolutely. Many serious injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries or internal bleeding, may not show symptoms immediately. Adrenaline can mask pain at the scene, so it’s important to get checked by a medical professional as soon as possible. Insurance companies often use delays in treatment to minimize or deny claims.

What information should I collect at the scene?

Collect the following information:

• 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

Should I talk to the other driver or admit fault?

Only exchange basic information with the other driver. Do not discuss fault, apologize, or give your opinion on what happened. Stick to the facts and avoid saying anything that could be interpreted as an admission of fault.

How do I obtain a copy of the accident report?

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

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. Insurance adjusters are trained to ask questions that can be used to minimize or deny your claim. At Attorney911, we handle all communications with insurance companies to protect your rights.

What if the other driver’s insurance contacts me?

If the other driver’s insurance company contacts you, politely decline to give a statement and refer them to your attorney. Say something like, “I need to speak with my attorney first.” Then, contact Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911.

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 usually far below what your case is truly worth. At Attorney911, we fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.

Should I accept a quick settlement offer?

Never accept a quick settlement offer 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. Let Attorney911 evaluate your case and negotiate a fair settlement on your behalf.

What if the other driver is uninsured or underinsured?

If the other driver is uninsured or underinsured, 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. We can help you navigate these complex claims.

Why does insurance want me to sign a medical authorization?

Insurance companies want you to sign a broad medical authorization so they can access your entire medical history. They’re looking for pre-existing conditions to use against your claim. Never sign a medical authorization without having it reviewed by an attorney.

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

We offer free consultations to evaluate your case. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 to speak with an experienced attorney.

When should I hire a car accident lawyer?

You should hire a car accident lawyer as soon as possible after the accident. Evidence disappears quickly, and insurance companies start building their case against you from day one. The sooner you call Attorney911, the better we can protect your rights.

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

In Texas, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. If you miss this deadline, your case will be barred forever. It’s crucial to act quickly to preserve your rights.

What is comparative negligence, and how does it affect me?

Texas uses a modified comparative negligence rule. If you’re found to be 50% or less at fault for the accident, you can still recover compensation, but your award will be reduced by your percentage of fault. If you’re found to be 51% or more at fault, you cannot recover any compensation.

What happens if I was partially at fault?

If you were partially at fault, you can still recover compensation as long as you were 50% or less at fault. Your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you were 20% at fault, your compensation would be reduced by 20%.

Will my case go to trial?

Most cases settle before trial, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This approach gives us leverage in negotiations and ensures we’re ready if the case goes to court.

How long will my case take to settle?

The timeline for your case depends on the severity of your injuries and the complexity of your claim. We don’t settle cases until you’ve reached maximum medical improvement (MMI), which could take anywhere from a few months to a couple of years. Our goal is to ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve.

What is the legal process step-by-step?

The legal process typically involves:

1. Investigation and evidence gathering
2. Medical treatment to reach maximum medical improvement (MMI)
3. Demand letter to the insurance company
4. Negotiation with the insurance company
5. Filing a lawsuit if necessary
6. Discovery (exchange of information between parties)
7. Mediation (attempt to settle the case)
8. Trial if the case doesn’t settle

What is my case worth?

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

• The severity of your injuries
• The cost of your medical treatment
• The impact of your injuries on your daily life
• Your lost wages and earning capacity
• The available insurance coverage

Every case is unique, and we’ll evaluate your specific circumstances to determine the potential value of your claim.

What types of damages can I recover?

You may be entitled to recover the following types of damages:

• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost wages and earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Mental anguish
• Physical impairment
• Disfigurement
• Loss of consortium
• Punitive damages (in cases of gross negligence)

Can I get compensation for pain and suffering?

Yes, you can get compensation for pain and suffering in Texas. There is no cap on pain and suffering damages in most personal injury cases.

What if I have a pre-existing condition?

You can still recover compensation if the accident aggravated or worsened your pre-existing condition. This is known as the “eggshell plaintiff” rule, which means the at-fault party takes the victim as they find them.

Will I have to pay taxes on my settlement?

Generally, compensation for physical injuries is not taxable. However, punitive damages are taxable as ordinary income. Consult a tax professional for specific advice about your situation.

How is the value of my claim determined?

The value of your claim is determined by several factors, including:

• The cost of your medical treatment
• The severity and permanence of your injuries
• The impact of your injuries on your daily life
• Your lost wages and earning capacity
• The available insurance coverage
• Comparable verdicts and settlements in similar cases

How much do car accident lawyers cost?

At Attorney911, we work on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay nothing upfront, and we only get paid if we win your case. Our fee is a percentage of the recovery, typically 33.33% before trial and 40% if the case goes to trial. You may still be responsible for court costs and case expenses regardless of the outcome.

What does “no fee unless we win” mean?

“No fee unless we win” means you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. If we don’t win your case, you owe us nothing. This ensures you can focus on your recovery without worrying about upfront legal costs.

How often will I get updates on my case?

At Attorney911, we provide regular updates on your case. As client Dame Haskett shared, “Consistent communication and not one time did I call and not get a clear answer.”

Who will actually handle my case?

At Attorney911, you’ll 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.”

What if I already hired another attorney?

You can switch attorneys at any time. If your current attorney isn’t communicating with you or fighting for your best interests, you have the right to change representation. Attorney911 has taken over many cases from other attorneys and achieved successful outcomes. As Greg Garcia shared, “In the beginning, I had another attorney, but he dropped my case although Mangiello Law Firm was able to help me out.”

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

Uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) claims are made against your own insurance company when the at-fault driver has no insurance or insufficient coverage. Your insurance company will fight your claim just like the other driver’s insurance would. You need an experienced attorney to protect your rights in these complex claims.

How do you calculate pain and suffering?

Pain and suffering is often calculated using the multiplier method: Medical expenses × multiplier (1.5 to 5) = pain and suffering. The multiplier depends on factors such as the severity of your injuries, the permanence of your injuries, and the impact on your daily life. Lupe Peña, our former insurance defense attorney, knows how insurance companies calculate these values and can help maximize your compensation.

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

Claims against government entities have special rules and shorter deadlines. You typically have only six months to file a notice of claim. These cases can be complex, so it’s crucial to contact an experienced attorney immediately.

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

If the other driver fled the scene, file a police report immediately. Your uninsured motorist (UM) coverage can compensate you for your injuries. We can help you navigate these claims and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

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. We’ve successfully represented clients of all immigration statuses and will protect your rights and privacy.

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 is not true. We can prove fault through surveillance video, witness statements, and damage analysis.

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

If you were a passenger in the at-fault vehicle, you can still pursue a claim against the driver. The driver’s insurance covers passengers, and liability is typically clear since you weren’t driving. We can handle the difficult conversations with the driver’s insurance company so you don’t have to.

What if the other driver died in the accident?

You can still pursue a claim against the deceased driver’s estate and insurance. The death of the at-fault driver doesn’t eliminate liability. The insurance policy still applies, and the estate may have assets that can be used to compensate you.

What if I have a pre-existing condition?

You can still recover compensation if the accident aggravated your pre-existing condition. The “eggshell plaintiff” rule means the at-fault party takes the victim as they find them. We’ll hire medical experts to prove the difference between your condition before and after the accident.

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 your best interests, or is pushing you to settle for less than you deserve, you have the right to change representation. Attorney911 has taken over many cases from other attorneys and achieved successful outcomes.

What if the other driver’s insurance claims limited coverage?

Insurance companies often claim they have limited coverage, but they may be hiding additional policies. We investigate all available coverage, including umbrella policies, commercial policies, and corporate coverage. In one case, we discovered that what was initially claimed as a $30,000 policy was actually over $8 million in available coverage.

How do gaps in treatment affect my case?

Insurance companies scrutinize your medical records for gaps in treatment. They may argue that gaps show you weren’t really injured or that your injuries resolved during the gap. However, there are often legitimate reasons for gaps, such as financial difficulties, transportation issues, or doctor availability. We document these reasons and explain them to the insurance company or jury.

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

If you didn’t see a doctor right away, see one now and explain that you didn’t realize the severity of your injuries. Delayed symptoms are common in many types of injuries, including traumatic brain injuries and soft tissue injuries. We can still help you build a strong case.

Contact Attorney911 Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a motor vehicle accident in Cottonwood Shores or anywhere in Burnet County, don’t wait to get the help you need. Evidence disappears every day, and insurance companies are already building their case against you. Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We don’t get paid unless we win your case, so you have nothing to lose and everything to gain.

At Attorney911, we’re more than just lawyers—we’re your neighbors, your advocates, and your strongest allies during this difficult time. Let us fight for the compensation you deserve while you focus on your recovery. Call us today at 1-888-ATTY-911. Se habla español.