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Austin Car & Truck Accident Attorneys | I-35, MoPac, US-183 Crashes | 18-Wheelers, Uber/Lyft, Commercial Vehicles | Former Insurance Defense — We Know Their Playbook | $2.5M Truck Recovery | Attorney911 — The Firm Insurers Fear | Federal Court | Se Habla Español | 1-888-ATTY-911

Car Accidents in Austin: How Attorney911 Fights for Maximum Compensation

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Austin, you’re not alone. With over 251,977 people injured in Texas motor vehicle crashes last year alone, Austin’s roads are more dangerous than ever. One crash happens every 57 seconds in Texas, and one person is injured every 2 minutes and 5 seconds. These aren’t just statistics—they represent real Austin residents whose lives have been disrupted by negligent drivers on our highways and city streets.

At Attorney911, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a car accident can take. Founded by Ralph Manginello, who brings over 25 years of legal experience to every case, our firm has helped countless Austin residents recover the compensation they deserve after devastating collisions. Whether you were rear-ended on I-35, T-boned at a busy intersection, or involved in a multi-vehicle pileup on MoPac, we have the expertise to fight for your rights.

The Reality of Car Accidents in Austin

Austin’s rapid growth has led to increased traffic congestion and a higher risk of accidents. From the bustling downtown streets to the expanding suburbs, our city’s roads see thousands of crashes each year. Some of the most dangerous areas include:

  • I-35 corridor – High-speed collisions and frequent congestion
  • US-183 (Research Boulevard) – Heavy commuter traffic and complex interchanges
  • Loop 1 (MoPac Expressway) – Limited access points causing sudden stops
  • Intersections along Lamar Boulevard and Guadalupe Street – Busy pedestrian and vehicle traffic

These accidents aren’t just fender-benders. They often result in severe injuries that can change your life forever. The aftermath can be overwhelming, from mounting medical bills to lost wages and the pain of recovery. That’s why having an experienced Austin car accident lawyer on your side is crucial.

Common Injuries from Car Accidents

Car accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, some of which may not be immediately apparent. Common injuries we see in our Austin clients include:

  • Whiplash and soft tissue injuries – Neck and back pain that can persist for months or years
  • Herniated discs – Spinal injuries that may require surgery and long-term treatment
  • Broken bones and fractures – Often requiring casts, surgery, and physical therapy
  • Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) – Can range from mild concussions to severe, life-altering damage
  • Spinal cord injuries – Potentially leading to partial or complete paralysis
  • Internal organ damage – Often requiring emergency surgery
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) – Anxiety and fear related to driving or being in vehicles

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, demonstrating our ability to secure substantial compensation even in complex cases with severe complications.

Why Insurance Companies Are Your Adversary

After an accident, you might expect the at-fault driver’s insurance company to treat you fairly. Unfortunately, that’s rarely the case. Insurance companies are businesses focused on protecting their profits, not your well-being. They employ sophisticated tactics to minimize or deny your claim, often starting their investigation the moment your accident is reported.

At Attorney911, we know these tactics because our team includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who spent years working for insurance companies. He understands exactly how they evaluate claims, calculate settlements, and build cases against victims. Now, he uses that insider knowledge to fight for you.

Insurance adjusters may seem friendly and helpful, but their goal is to gather information that can be used against you. They might:

  • Ask for a recorded statement to trap you into saying something that hurts your case
  • Offer a quick, lowball settlement before you realize the full extent of your injuries
  • Send you to an “independent” medical exam with a doctor they’ve hired to minimize your injuries
  • Delay your claim in hopes you’ll become desperate and accept less
  • Use surveillance to catch you in moments that can be taken out of context
  • Argue that you were partially at fault to reduce their payment

Having a former insurance defense attorney on your side means we know their playbook inside and out. We anticipate their strategies and counter them effectively to maximize your compensation.

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Austin Car Accident Case

When you’re recovering from a car accident, you need an attorney who will fight aggressively for your rights while providing the personal attention you deserve. Here’s what sets Attorney911 apart:

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 their tactics because he used them for years. Now, he uses that knowledge to fight for victims like you. This insider perspective is invaluable when negotiating with insurance companies or presenting your case in court.

2. Multi-Million Dollar Results

Our track record speaks for itself. We’ve recovered millions of dollars for our clients, including:

  • 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 trucking-related wrongful death cases where we’ve recovered millions for families

As client Chavodrian Miles shared: “Leonor got me into the doctor the same day…it only took 6 months amazing.” We don’t just promise results—we deliver them.

3. Federal Court Experience

Ralph Manginello is admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas. This federal court admission is crucial for complex cases, especially those involving commercial vehicles, multiple defendants, or catastrophic injuries. Our experience in federal court sets us apart from many other firms that handle only state court cases.

4. Personal Attention from Start to Finish

At Attorney911, you’re not just another case number. You work directly with Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña, not a team of case managers. As client Chad Harris put it: “You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client…You are FAMILY to them.”

Our clients consistently praise our communication and responsiveness. Dame Haskett said: “Consistent communication and not one time did I call and not get a clear answer…Ralph reached out personally.”

5. Contingency Fee – No Risk to You

We understand that you may be facing financial hardship after an accident. That’s why we work on a contingency fee basis. You pay nothing upfront, and we only get paid if we win your case. As client Ambur Hamilton shared: “I never felt like ‘just another case’ they were working on.”

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Austin, don’t face the insurance companies alone. Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We’ll review your case, explain your rights, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

What to Do After a Car Accident in Austin

The actions you take in the hours and days following a car accident can significantly impact your ability to recover compensation. Here’s what you should do:

Immediately After the Accident:

  1. Call 911 – Report the accident and request medical assistance if anyone is injured.
  2. Seek medical attention – Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
  3. Document everything – Take photos of vehicle damage, injuries, road conditions, and traffic signals.
  4. Exchange information – Get the other driver’s name, phone number, address, insurance information, and license plate number.
  5. Get witness information – Collect names and contact information from any witnesses.
  6. Call Attorney911 – Before speaking to any insurance company, call 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate legal guidance.

In the Days Following the Accident:

  1. Follow up with medical treatment – Attend all doctor’s appointments and follow their recommendations.
  2. Preserve evidence – Keep all medical records, receipts, and documentation related to the accident.
  3. Don’t give recorded statements – Insurance companies may try to use your words against you.
  4. Don’t sign anything – Never sign a release or settlement offer without consulting an attorney.
  5. Be cautious on social media – Insurance companies monitor social media for posts that can be used to minimize your claim.

Why Time Is Critical

Evidence disappears quickly after an accident. Surveillance footage from nearby businesses is typically deleted within 7-30 days. Witness memories fade, and crucial details can be lost. That’s why it’s essential to contact Attorney911 as soon as possible. We’ll send preservation letters to secure evidence and begin building your case immediately.

Common Causes of Car Accidents in Austin

Understanding the common causes of car accidents can help you stay safe on Austin’s roads. Some of the most frequent causes include:

  • Distracted driving – Texting, talking on the phone, or using navigation systems while driving
  • Speeding – Exceeding the speed limit or driving too fast for conditions
  • Failure to yield – Not yielding the right-of-way at intersections or when merging
  • Running red lights or stop signs – Ignoring traffic signals and signs
  • Following too closely – Tailgating other vehicles
  • Driving under the influence (DUI) – Operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs
  • Fatigued driving – Driving while tired or drowsy
  • Poor weather conditions – Rain, fog, or ice that reduces visibility and traction
  • Vehicle defects – Mechanical failures or design flaws that contribute to accidents

Regardless of the cause, if another driver’s negligence caused your accident, you have the right to seek compensation for your injuries and damages.

How Attorney911 Builds Your Case

At Attorney911, we take a comprehensive approach to building your car accident case. Our process includes:

1. Thorough Investigation

We leave no stone unturned when investigating your accident. This includes:

  • Obtaining and analyzing the police report
  • Interviewing witnesses
  • Reviewing medical records
  • Examining vehicle damage
  • Consulting with accident reconstruction experts
  • Securing surveillance footage before it’s deleted

2. Proving Liability

To recover compensation, we must prove that the other driver was at fault. This involves demonstrating:

  • The other driver owed you a duty of care
  • They breached that duty through negligent actions
  • Their negligence caused your injuries
  • You suffered damages as a result

3. Documenting Your Damages

We work to ensure all your damages are properly documented, including:

  • Medical expenses – Past and future medical bills related to your injuries
  • Lost wages – Income you’ve lost due to your inability to work
  • Lost earning capacity – Future income you may lose if your injuries affect your ability to work
  • Pain and suffering – Physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident
  • Property damage – Costs to repair or replace your vehicle

4. Negotiating with Insurance Companies

Armed with the evidence we’ve gathered, we negotiate aggressively with the insurance companies to secure the maximum compensation possible. Lupe’s insider knowledge of how insurance companies evaluate claims gives us a significant advantage in these negotiations.

5. Preparing for Trial

While most cases settle out of court, we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This approach shows the insurance companies that we’re serious about fighting for your rights and often leads to better settlement offers.

What to Expect During Your Case

The legal process can seem overwhelming, especially when you’re recovering from injuries. Here’s what you can expect when you work with Attorney911:

  1. Free Consultation – We’ll review your case and explain your legal options.
  2. Case Investigation – We’ll gather evidence and build your case.
  3. Medical Treatment – You’ll continue receiving medical care for your injuries.
  4. Demand Letter – We’ll send a demand letter to the insurance company outlining your damages.
  5. Negotiation – We’ll negotiate with the insurance company for a fair settlement.
  6. Lawsuit (if necessary) – If we can’t reach a fair settlement, we’ll file a lawsuit on your behalf.
  7. Discovery – Both sides exchange information and evidence.
  8. Mediation – A neutral third party helps facilitate settlement negotiations.
  9. Trial (if necessary) – If we still can’t reach a fair settlement, we’ll take your case to trial.

Throughout this process, we’ll keep you informed and involved. As client Brian Butchee shared: “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.”

Frequently Asked Questions About Car Accidents in Austin

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

If you’ve been in an accident in Austin:

  • Call 911 and report the accident
  • Seek medical attention, even if you feel fine
  • Document everything with photos and notes
  • Exchange information with the other driver
  • Get witness contact information
  • Do NOT give a recorded statement to any insurance company
  • 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 that can take days to manifest
  • Internal bleeding that may not be obvious
  • Herniated discs that may not cause pain for weeks
  • Adrenaline that masks pain at the scene

Insurance companies use delays in treatment against you. Get checked immediately.

What information should I collect at the scene?

Collect the following information:

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

Should I talk to the other driver or admit fault?

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

How do I obtain a copy of the accident report?

In Austin, 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 or underinsured?

Your own UM/UIM coverage can compensate you. Watch our video: “Uninsured & Underinsured Motorists” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kWcNFyb-Yq8

Why does insurance want me to sign a medical authorization?

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

Do I have a personal injury case?

You may have a case if:

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

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

When should I hire a car accident lawyer?

Immediately. Evidence disappears daily. Insurance companies start building their defense against you from day one. Call Attorney911 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?

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?

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

What types of damages can I recover?

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

Can I get compensation for pain and suffering?

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

What if I have a pre-existing condition?

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

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 common mistakes can hurt my case?

  • Giving recorded statement without attorney
  • Accepting quick settlement
  • Delaying medical treatment
  • Gaps in treatment
  • Posting on social media
  • Signing releases or authorizations
  • Not documenting everything

Watch our video: “Client Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Case” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY

Should I post about my accident on social media?

NO. Make all profiles private. Don’t post about accident, injuries, or activities. Insurance monitors everything.

Why shouldn’t I sign anything without a lawyer?

Releases are PERMANENT. Medical authorizations give unlimited access. Settlement offers are binding. Once signed, you can’t undo it.

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

See one NOW. Explain you didn’t realize the severity of your injuries. Delayed symptoms are common. We can still help.

What if I have a pre-existing condition?

You can still recover. If the accident AGGRAVATED your pre-existing condition, you’re entitled to compensation for the aggravation. “Eggshell plaintiff” rule: Defendant takes victim as they find them.

Example: You had mild occasional back pain. Accident caused herniated disc requiring surgery. You recover for the NEW injury, not just the pre-existing pain. We hire medical experts to prove the difference. Lupe knows how insurance attacks pre-existing conditions—he used this defense for years.

Can I switch attorneys if I’m unhappy with my current lawyer?

YES. You can fire your attorney at any time. If your attorney isn’t communicating, isn’t fighting for you, or is pushing you to settle cheap, you have the right to switch. Attorney911 has taken over many cases from other attorneys. 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.

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

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist claims are against YOUR insurance when the other driver has no insurance or insufficient insurance. Your insurance company will fight your claim just like the other driver’s insurance would. You need attorney representation. Texas allows inter-policy stacking (combining multiple UM policies). Lupe’s insurance knowledge is critical for maximizing UM/UIM recovery.

How do you calculate pain and suffering?

Most commonly using the multiplier method: Medical expenses × multiplier (1.5 to 5) = pain & suffering. The multiplier depends on: injury severity, permanency, impact on life, clear liability. Example: $100,000 medical × 4 multiplier = $400,000 pain and suffering. Lupe calculated these for years—he knows how to justify higher multipliers. See Section G for a detailed breakdown.

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

Government claims have special rules. You must file notice within 6 months (much shorter than the 2-year statute of limitations). Sovereign immunity protects government entities. Damage caps may apply. These cases are complex—you need an experienced attorney. Ralph’s 25+ years includes government litigation. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately—the 6-month deadline is strict.

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

File a police report immediately (hit and run is a criminal offense). Your Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage applies. Surveillance footage is CRITICAL—gas stations, businesses, Ring doorbells, traffic cameras. Most footage is deleted within 7-30 days. We send preservation letters immediately. Texas allows UM stacking. We’ve recovered substantial settlements in hit and run cases through UM claims.

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. Call 1-888-ATTY-911—we protect your rights and your privacy.

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. We’ve won many parking lot cases with clear liability findings.

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. The driver’s insurance covers passengers. No comparative fault issues (you weren’t driving). These cases often settle quickly because liability is clear. We handle the difficult conversation 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. Death doesn’t eliminate liability. The insurance policy still applies. The 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.

Other Types of Motor Vehicle Accidents in Austin

While car accidents are the most common, Austin’s roads see many other types of motor vehicle accidents. Attorney911 handles all types of cases, including:

18-Wheeler and Trucking Accidents

With I-35 running through Austin, trucking accidents are unfortunately common. These crashes often result in catastrophic injuries due to the size and weight of commercial vehicles. In 2024 alone, there were 39,393 commercial motor vehicle crashes in Texas, resulting in 608 fatalities and 1,601 serious injuries.

Trucking accidents are complex because multiple parties may be liable, including:

  • The truck driver
  • The trucking company
  • The cargo loader
  • The vehicle manufacturer
  • The maintenance company

Attorney911 has recovered millions for victims of trucking accidents. Our federal court experience is particularly valuable in these cases, as they often involve federal regulations and may be filed in federal court.

Drunk Driving Accidents

Austin’s vibrant nightlife unfortunately contributes to a high number of drunk driving accidents. In 2024, there were 1,053 alcohol-impaired driving deaths in Texas, accounting for 25.37% of all traffic fatalities.

Drunk driving accidents often involve punitive damages, which are designed to punish the at-fault driver and deter similar conduct. Additionally, Texas’s dram shop laws allow victims to sue bars, restaurants, and other establishments that served alcohol to an obviously intoxicated person who then caused an accident.

At Attorney911, we have extensive experience with drunk driving cases. Ralph Manginello’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) is particularly valuable, as it allows us to handle both the criminal and civil aspects of these cases.

Motorcycle Accidents

Austin’s warm weather and scenic routes make it a popular destination for motorcyclists. Unfortunately, this also means a higher risk of motorcycle accidents. In 2024, there were 585 motorcyclist fatalities in Texas, with 37% of those killed not wearing helmets.

Motorcycle accidents often result in severe injuries due to the lack of protection for riders. Insurance companies frequently try to blame motorcyclists for accidents, arguing that they were speeding or not paying attention. Texas’s 51% comparative fault rule can significantly impact your ability to recover compensation.

Having a former insurance defense attorney on our team gives us an advantage in countering these arguments. Lupe Peña knows exactly how insurance companies try to shift blame to motorcyclists, and he knows how to defeat these tactics.

Pedestrian Accidents

With Austin’s growing population and increasing pedestrian traffic, pedestrian accidents are a significant concern. In 2024, there were 6,095 pedestrian crashes in Texas, resulting in 768 fatalities. Pedestrians account for only 1% of crashes but 19% of all roadway deaths.

Pedestrians always have the right-of-way at intersections, even at unmarked crosswalks. Many drivers don’t know this, and insurance companies often try to blame pedestrians for accidents. At Attorney911, we know how to prove liability in pedestrian accident cases and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Rideshare Accidents (Uber/Lyft)

Rideshare services have become increasingly popular in Austin, but they’ve also introduced new complexities to accident cases. Rideshare drivers are independent contractors, and their insurance coverage varies depending on their status at the time of the accident.

Rideshare insurance phases:

  • Period 0 (Offline): App off, personal use – Personal insurance only (Texas minimum: $30k/$60k/$25k)
  • Period 1 (Waiting): App on, no ride request – Contingent coverage: $50k/$100k/$25k
  • 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

Lupe Peña’s insurance expertise is invaluable in navigating these complex insurance structures to ensure you receive the maximum compensation possible.

Hit and Run Accidents

Hit and run accidents are particularly frustrating because the at-fault driver is unknown. In Texas, hit and run is a criminal offense, with penalties ranging from a Class B misdemeanor to a 2nd degree felony, depending on the severity of the accident.

If you’re the victim of a hit and run accident, your Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage can compensate you. However, evidence disappears quickly in these cases. Surveillance footage is typically deleted within 7-30 days, and witnesses become harder to locate as time passes.

At Attorney911, we act quickly to preserve evidence and build your case. We send preservation letters to nearby businesses to secure surveillance footage before it’s deleted, and we work to identify the at-fault driver whenever possible.

Tesla and Autonomous Vehicle Accidents

As Austin becomes a hub for technology companies, we’re seeing an increase in accidents involving Tesla vehicles and other autonomous or semi-autonomous cars. These cases present unique legal challenges, as liability may fall on the vehicle manufacturer, software developer, or human driver.

Notable Tesla-related incidents include:

  • The first US Autopilot fatality in 2016, where a Tesla failed to detect a white 18-wheeler
  • A 2018 incident where an Apple engineer was killed in a Tesla crash (settled in 2024)
  • A 2025 case that resulted in a $240 million jury verdict against Tesla

At Attorney911, we stay up-to-date on the latest developments in autonomous vehicle technology and the legal implications of these accidents.

E-Scooter and E-Bike Accidents

Austin’s growing popularity of e-scooters and e-bikes has led to an increase in related accidents. These vehicles are classified based on their speed and features:

  • Class 1: Max 20 mph, pedal assist only
  • Class 2: Max 20 mph, throttle and pedal assist
  • Class 3: Max 28 mph, pedal assist only

Accidents involving e-scooters and e-bikes can result in serious injuries, and liability may fall on the rider, other motorists, or even the scooter/bike manufacturer if a defect contributed to the accident.

Bus Accidents

Austin’s public transportation system, including Capital Metro buses, serves thousands of residents daily. While bus accidents are less common than car accidents, they can result in serious injuries, especially for pedestrians and passengers in smaller vehicles.

In 2024, there were 1,110 bus accidents in Texas, with 17 resulting in fatalities. Texas leads all states in total bus crashes. Bus accident cases can be complex, as they may involve government entities, which have special notice requirements and potential immunity defenses.

Construction Zone Accidents

With Austin’s ongoing construction and roadwork, construction zone accidents are a significant concern. In 2024, there were nearly 28,000 crashes in Texas work zones, resulting in 215 deaths—a 12% increase from the previous year.

Construction zone accidents can involve multiple liable parties, including:

  • The at-fault driver
  • The construction company
  • The government entity responsible for the roadwork
  • Equipment manufacturers

Distracted Driving Accidents

Distracted driving is a growing problem in Austin and across Texas. In 2024, distracted driving contributed to 380 deaths in Texas. Modern distractions include not only texting and talking on the phone but also using navigation systems, streaming music, and even watching videos while driving.

Weather-Related Accidents

While Austin enjoys relatively mild weather, we do experience occasional severe weather that can contribute to accidents. Rain, fog, and even rare ice storms can create hazardous driving conditions. Drivers who don’t adjust their speed and following distance for weather conditions can be held liable for accidents.

Intersection Accidents

Intersection accidents are common in Austin, especially at busy crossroads. In 2024, there were 1,050 deaths at intersections in Texas. These accidents often involve T-bone collisions or left-turn accidents, which can result in severe injuries.

Boat and Maritime Accidents

While not as common as car accidents, boat accidents do occur on Austin’s lakes and waterways. These accidents can involve recreational boats, jet skis, or even commercial vessels. 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.

Why Austin Residents Trust Attorney911

Austin is a unique city with its own legal landscape. From the bustling downtown streets to the expanding suburbs, our community faces specific challenges when it comes to motor vehicle accidents. Here’s why Austin residents choose Attorney911:

  1. Local Expertise – We know the Austin courts, judges, and insurance adjusters who handle claims in this area.
  2. Community Connection – We’re part of the Austin community, not a national firm with a local office.
  3. Cultural Understanding – Austin’s diverse population includes tech workers, students, musicians, and long-time residents. We understand the unique needs of our community.
  4. Bilingual Services – Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish, and our team includes bilingual staff members to serve Austin’s Hispanic community.
  5. Accessibility – We’re available to meet with clients at our Austin office or at a location convenient for you.

As client Celia Dominguez shared: “Especially Miss Zulema, who is always very kind and always translates.” We’re committed to serving all members of our community, regardless of language barriers.

The Attorney911 Difference

When you choose Attorney911, you’re not just hiring a law firm—you’re gaining a team of advocates who will fight tirelessly for your rights. Here’s what sets us apart:

We Know the Insurance Playbook

Lupe Peña spent years working for insurance companies, learning their tactics from the inside. He knows:

  • How they value claims
  • Which doctors they send victims to for “independent” medical exams
  • How they calculate settlement offers
  • When they’re bluffing about policy limits
  • How to counter their comparative fault arguments

This insider knowledge is invaluable in maximizing your compensation.

We Prepare Every Case for Trial

While most cases settle out of court, we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This approach shows the insurance companies that we’re serious about fighting for your rights and often leads to better settlement offers.

We Have a Proven Track Record

Our results speak for themselves:

  • Multi-million dollar settlements for catastrophic injuries
  • Successful outcomes in complex trucking cases
  • Millions recovered for victims of drunk driving accidents
  • Favorable results in hit and run cases through UM/UIM claims

We Provide Personal Attention

At Attorney911, you work directly with Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña, not a team of case managers. We take the time to understand your unique situation and tailor our approach to your specific needs.

As client Jamin Marroquin said: “Mr. Manginello guided me through the whole process with great expertise…tenacious, accessible, and determined throughout the 19 months.”

We Fight for Maximum Compensation

We don’t accept lowball settlement offers. We know the true value of your case and fight for every dollar you deserve. Our multi-million dollar results prove that we don’t settle cheap.

We’re Available When You Need Us

When you call 1-888-ATTY-911, you’re calling a legal emergency line, not a marketing gimmick. We’re here to help when you need us most.

Don’t Wait – Call Attorney911 Today

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Austin, time is critical. Evidence disappears daily, and the insurance companies are already building their case against you. Don’t face this challenging time alone.

Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’ll review your case, explain your rights, and outline your legal options. There’s no risk to you—we work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing unless we win your case.

Remember, the insurance companies have teams of adjusters and attorneys working to minimize your claim. You need a team of experienced advocates on your side to level the playing field. At Attorney911, we have the knowledge, experience, and resources to fight for the compensation you deserve.

Don’t let the insurance companies take advantage of you. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 today and let us fight for your rights. We’re here to help Austin residents recover from car accidents and get their lives back on track.