Car Accident Lawyers in Austin, Travis County, Texas

If You’ve Been Injured in an Austin Car Accident, Attorney911 Is Here to Fight for You

Every 57 seconds, another car accident occurs on Texas roads. In 2024 alone, over 251,977 people were injured in motor vehicle crashes across our state – and Austin, Travis County has seen its share of these devastating incidents. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a car accident in Austin, you’re not just facing physical pain – you’re facing financial uncertainty, emotional distress, and an insurance system designed to minimize your claim.

At Attorney911, we understand what you’re going through. Our firm, founded by Ralph Manginello with over 25 years of experience, has helped countless Austin residents recover millions in compensation after car accidents. Unlike high-volume firms where you’re just another case number, we provide personal attention from attorneys who know the Austin court system inside and out. When you call our legal emergency line at 1-888-ATTY-911, you’ll speak directly with our team – not a call center.

The Reality of Car Accidents in Austin

Austin’s growing population and expanding roadways create a dangerous combination. With over 1.3 million residents in Travis County and major highways like I-35, US-183, and Loop 1 (MoPac) handling heavy traffic, accidents are an unfortunate reality. In 2024, Texas saw:

1 crash every 57 seconds
1 person injured every 2 minutes and 5 seconds
4,150 fatalities across the state

Many of these accidents occur right here in Austin, from downtown intersections to suburban neighborhoods. Whether you were rear-ended on Mopac, T-boned at a busy intersection, or involved in a multi-vehicle pileup on I-35, the aftermath can be overwhelming.

Common Causes of Car Accidents in Austin

Austin’s unique traffic patterns contribute to specific types of accidents:

Distracted driving – With Austin’s tech workforce and constant phone use, distracted driving causes 380 deaths annually in Texas
Speeding – Austin’s mix of urban and rural roads encourages speeding, especially on highways like SH 130
Failure to yield – Common at Austin’s many unmarked intersections and busy merge points
Running red lights – Particularly dangerous at high-traffic intersections like Lamar and Guadalupe
Following too closely – Frequent on congested roads like I-35 during rush hour
DUI/DWI – Austin’s vibrant nightlife contributes to alcohol-related crashes
Weather-related accidents – Sudden rainstorms and flash flooding create hazardous conditions

Common Injuries from Austin Car Accidents

Car accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, from minor to life-altering:

Whiplash and soft tissue injuries – Common in rear-end collisions, often underestimated initially
Herniated discs – Frequently requiring surgery, especially in high-impact crashes
Broken bones and fractures – Arms, legs, ribs, and facial bones are particularly vulnerable
Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) – Can occur even without direct head impact due to sudden acceleration/deceleration
Spinal cord injuries – Potentially resulting in partial or complete paralysis
Internal organ damage – Often not immediately apparent but life-threatening
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) – Many accident victims develop anxiety about driving or riding in vehicles

The Insurance Reality in Texas

Texas is an at-fault state, meaning the driver who caused the accident is responsible for damages. However, insurance companies often try to minimize payouts through various tactics. This is where our unique advantage comes in: Lupe Peña, our associate attorney, spent years working for insurance defense firms. He knows exactly how they value claims and build cases against victims.

With Texas’ 51% comparative fault rule, insurance companies frequently try to assign blame to victims. If you’re found 51% or more at fault, you recover nothing. Even being 10% at fault on a $100,000 case costs you $10,000. Having a former insurance defense attorney on your side means we know their playbook and can counter their arguments effectively.

Why Austin Residents Choose Attorney911 for Car Accidents

When you’re recovering from a car accident in Austin, you need more than just a lawyer – you need a legal team that understands both the medical and legal complexities of your case. Here’s what sets us apart:

1. Insurance Defense Insider Knowledge

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 medical codes trigger higher valuations
How to counter their comparative fault arguments
Which IME (Independent Medical Exam) doctors they favor

This insider knowledge is your unfair advantage.

2. Multi-Million Dollar Results

Our track record speaks for itself:

“Multi-million dollar settlement for client who suffered brain injury with vision loss”
“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”
Hundreds of satisfied clients, including Chavodrian Miles who said: “Leonor got me into the doctor the same day…it only took 6 months amazing”

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 experience is crucial for complex car accident cases, especially those involving:

Out-of-state defendants
Commercial vehicles
Product liability claims (like defective auto parts)
Cases with catastrophic injuries

4. Personal Attention from Experienced Attorneys

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.”

5. Contingency Fee – No Risk to You

We don’t get paid unless we win your case. There are:

No upfront costs
No hourly fees
No financial risk to you
Free consultations

What to Do After a Car Accident in Austin

The actions you take in the first 48 hours after an accident can significantly impact your case:

Immediately After the Accident:

Call 911 – Report the accident and request medical assistance if needed
Document everything – Take photos of vehicle damage, injuries, road conditions, and traffic signals
Exchange information – Get the other driver’s name, phone number, address, insurance information, and license plate number
Get witness information – Names and phone numbers of anyone who saw the accident
Don’t discuss fault – Stick to facts only, don’t admit fault or apologize
Call Attorney911 – 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate legal guidance

In the First 24 Hours:

Seek medical attention – Even if you feel fine, get checked. Adrenaline can mask serious injuries.
Preserve evidence – Don’t delete any photos, videos, or messages related to the accident
Don’t give recorded statements – Insurance companies will call quickly. Politely decline and tell them your attorney will be in touch.
Don’t post on social media – Insurance companies monitor your accounts for anything that could hurt your claim.

In the First 48 Hours:

Contact Attorney911 – The sooner we get involved, the better we can protect your rights
Follow medical advice – Attend all recommended appointments and follow treatment plans
Document everything – Keep a journal of your symptoms, medical visits, and how the accident affects your daily life

How Attorney911 Handles Your Austin Car Accident Case

When you hire us, we immediately go to work protecting your rights:

Immediate Evidence Preservation – We send preservation letters to all parties to prevent evidence destruction
Comprehensive Investigation – We gather police reports, witness statements, medical records, and any available video footage
Medical Coordination – We help you get the treatment you need and document your injuries thoroughly
Insurance Negotiation – We handle all communication with insurance companies to protect you from their tactics
Legal Strategy Development – We build the strongest possible case for maximum compensation
Trial Preparation – While most cases settle, we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial to maximize leverage

What Our Austin Clients Say About Us

Don’t just take our word for it – here’s what our clients say:

“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

“Leonor is the best!!! She was able to assist me with my case within 6 months.” – Tymesha Galloway

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

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

“They make you feel like family and even though the process may take some time, they make it feel like a breeze. They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.” – Glenda Walker

Common Questions About Austin Car Accidents

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

If you’ve been in an accident in Austin:

Call 911 to report the accident
Seek medical attention, even if you feel fine
Document everything with photos and witness information
Exchange information with the other driver
Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for legal guidance

Should I call the police even for a minor accident?

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

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

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

Traumatic brain injuries can take days to manifest
Internal bleeding may not be obvious
Herniated discs may not cause pain for weeks
Adrenaline masks pain at the scene

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

What information should I collect at the scene?

Collect:

Other driver: name, phone, address, driver’s license, insurance information
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?

Only exchange basic information. Do NOT:

Discuss fault
Apologize or say “I’m sorry” (can be used as admission)
Give your opinion on what happened
Admit any responsibility

How do I obtain a copy of the accident report in Austin?

You can obtain the police report from the Austin Police Department 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 for guidance.

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 recorded statement
Discuss injuries or fault
Sign anything

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

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

Should I accept a quick settlement offer?

NEVER accept settlement before knowing full extent of 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 (Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist) coverage can compensate you. Texas allows inter-policy stacking. Lupe’s insurance knowledge is critical for maximizing UM/UIM recovery.

How is the value of my claim determined?

Based on:

Medical bills (past and future)
Lost wages and earning capacity
Pain and suffering
Permanent impairment
Impact on daily life
Clear liability

How much do car accident lawyers cost in Austin?

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

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 on my case?

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 in Austin?

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?

Avoid these mistakes:

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

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 severity of 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. We hire medical experts to prove the difference.

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

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

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

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist claims are against YOUR insurance when 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.

How do you calculate pain and suffering?

Most commonly using multiplier method: Medical expenses × multiplier (1.5 to 5) = pain & suffering. Multiplier depends on injury severity, permanency, and impact on life. Lupe calculated these for years – he knows how to justify higher multipliers.

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 2-year statute of limitations). Sovereign immunity protects government entities. These cases are complex – you need experienced attorney. Ralph’s 25+ years includes government litigation.

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

File police report immediately (hit and run is criminal offense). Your Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage applies. Surveillance footage is CRITICAL – most footage deleted 7-30 days. We send preservation letters immediately.

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. Lupe is fluent in Spanish.

What if the accident happened in a parking lot?

Parking lot accidents are fully compensable. Insurance companies often argue “parking lot accidents are always 50/50 fault” – this is false. We prove fault through surveillance video, witness statements, and damage analysis.

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

You can sue the driver even if you were riding with them. You’re an innocent victim. Driver’s insurance covers passengers. These cases often settle quickly because liability is clear.

What if the other driver died in the accident?

You can still pursue claim against deceased driver’s estate and insurance. Death doesn’t eliminate liability. Insurance policy still applies. These cases are emotionally complex but legally straightforward.

Why Austin Residents Trust Attorney911

When you’re injured in a car accident in Austin, you need more than just a lawyer – you need a legal team that understands the unique challenges of our city. Here’s why Austin residents choose Attorney911:

We’re Austin’s Legal Emergency Line – When you call 1-888-ATTY-911, you’re calling your neighbors. We know the Austin court system, local judges, and the insurance adjusters who handle claims in Travis County.
Insurance Defense Insider Advantage – Lupe Peña spent years working for insurance companies. He knows their tactics because he used them. Now he uses that knowledge to fight FOR you.
Multi-Million Dollar Results – Our results speak for themselves. We’ve recovered millions for Austin car accident victims, including cases involving brain injuries, amputations, and wrongful death.
Federal Court Experience – Ralph Manginello is admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas. This federal court experience is crucial for complex cases.
Personal Attention – Unlike high-volume firms, you’ll work directly with Ralph or Lupe. As client Chad Harris said: “You are NOT just some client…You are FAMILY to them.”
No Fee Unless We Win – We don’t get paid unless we recover compensation for you. There are no upfront costs or hidden fees.
Bilingual Services – Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish, and our staff includes bilingual team members. We ensure language is never a barrier to justice.
Community Trust – From downtown Austin to Round Rock, Cedar Park to Pflugerville, our firm is known for fighting for the rights of accident victims throughout Travis County.

Austin’s Dangerous Roads and Intersections

Austin has several high-risk areas where accidents frequently occur:

I-35 Corridor – Particularly dangerous between downtown and Round Rock, with frequent rear-end collisions and multi-vehicle pileups
US-183 (Research Boulevard) – High traffic volume and frequent lane changes create accident risks
Loop 1 (MoPac Expressway) – Limited access points and heavy commuter traffic lead to congestion and accidents
I-35 and US-290 Interchange – Complex merge zones create dangerous conditions
Downtown Intersections – Lamar and Guadalupe, Congress and 6th, and other busy downtown intersections see frequent pedestrian and vehicle accidents
SH 130 – While less congested, the high speed limit (85 mph sections) creates severe accident risks
Riverside Drive – Heavy traffic and frequent lane changes contribute to accidents

Austin’s Trauma Centers

If you’re seriously injured in an Austin car accident, you may be taken to one of these trauma centers:

Dell Seton Medical Center – Level I trauma center serving Austin and Central Texas
St. David’s Medical Center – Level II trauma center with comprehensive emergency services
Ascension Seton Medical Center Austin – Level II trauma center providing advanced care

These facilities handle the most severe injuries from Austin car accidents, including traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and multiple fractures.

Don’t Let Insurance Companies Take Advantage of You

After a car accident in Austin, insurance companies will contact you quickly – often while you’re still in the hospital or on pain medication. They’ll sound friendly and helpful, but their goal is to minimize your claim. Here’s what they’re really doing:

Quick Contact & Recorded Statement – They’ll call within days, sometimes hours, asking for your “side of the story.” Everything you say will be recorded and used against you.
Quick Settlement Offer – They’ll offer a few thousand dollars quickly, hoping you’re desperate for money. These offers are always far below what your case is worth.
“Independent” Medical Exam – They’ll send you to a doctor they hire, who will minimize your injuries. Lupe knows these doctors – he hired them when he worked for insurance companies.
Delay and Financial Pressure – They’ll drag out your claim, hoping you’ll get desperate and accept a low offer.
Surveillance – They’ll monitor your social media and may even hire private investigators to video you.
Comparative Fault Arguments – They’ll try to blame you for the accident to reduce their payment.

Having a former insurance defense attorney on your side means we know all these tactics and how to counter them. Lupe understands their playbook because he wrote it.

Call Attorney911 Today

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Austin, Travis County, don’t wait – evidence disappears daily. Call our legal emergency line at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We don’t get paid unless we win your case.

Our Austin-area offices serve clients throughout Travis County, including Austin, Pflugerville, Round Rock, Cedar Park, Bee Cave, Lakeway, and surrounding communities. We also serve clients throughout Central Texas from our Austin office.

Remember: every day you wait, evidence disappears. Surveillance footage from nearby businesses is typically deleted within 7-30 days. Witness memories fade. Insurance companies are already building their case against you.

Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911. We’re here to fight for you.