Motor Vehicle Accident Lawyers in Bartlett, Texas | Attorney911
If You’ve Been Injured in a Car Accident in Bartlett, Texas, We’re Here to Help
Every year, thousands of Bartlett residents and visitors are injured in motor vehicle accidents on Williamson County roads. With I-35 running through the heart of our region and heavy commuter traffic on SH 95 and FM 971, Bartlett and the surrounding Williamson County area see more than its share of collisions—from rear-end crashes on the highway to intersection accidents at local crossroads. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a car, truck, or motorcycle accident in Bartlett, Texas, you need a legal team that understands both the physical and financial toll these incidents take on families.
At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for accident victims across Texas for over 25 years. Our founding attorney, Ralph Manginello, has built a reputation for aggressive representation and multi-million dollar results. But what truly sets us apart is our unique advantage: we have a former insurance defense attorney on our team. Lupe Peña spent years working for insurance companies, learning their tactics from the inside. Now, he uses that knowledge to fight for victims like you—giving us an edge no other Bartlett law firm can match.
When you call 1-888-ATTY-911, you’re not just getting a lawyer—you’re getting a team that knows how to protect your rights and maximize your compensation.
The Reality of Motor Vehicle Accidents in Bartlett and Williamson County
Texas sees a motor vehicle accident every 57 seconds. In 2024 alone, there were 251,977 people injured in Texas crashes, with one person injured every 2 minutes and 5 seconds. Bartlett and Williamson County are no exception to this dangerous trend.
Our region’s mix of rural roads, growing suburban areas, and major highways creates unique accident risks:
- I-35 Corridor: Heavy truck traffic and high speeds lead to frequent multi-vehicle collisions, especially during rush hours
- SH 95: This major route through Bartlett sees its share of distracted driving accidents and intersection collisions
- FM 971 and Local Roads: Rural two-lane roads with limited lighting and signage contribute to head-on and run-off-road crashes
- Intersection Accidents: Busy crossroads in Bartlett and nearby Taylor often see T-bone collisions from drivers running red lights or failing to yield
- Trucking Accidents: With I-35 serving as a major freight corridor, we see frequent collisions involving 18-wheelers and commercial vehicles
In just the past year, Williamson County saw hundreds of injury crashes, with many occurring right here in Bartlett and the surrounding area. These accidents don’t just cause physical pain—they bring financial stress, emotional trauma, and uncertainty about the future.
Why Bartlett Accident Victims Choose Attorney911
When you’re recovering from an accident, the last thing you need is to fight with insurance companies or navigate complex legal processes alone. That’s where Attorney911 comes in. We offer Bartlett residents:
1. A Former Insurance Defense Attorney on Your Side
“Lupe Peña worked for a number of years at a national defense firm, learning firsthand how large insurance companies value claims.”
Lupe’s insider knowledge is our secret weapon. He knows:
- How insurance companies calculate settlement offers
- Which doctors they send for “independent” medical exams (and how to counter their reports)
- When they’re lowballing you and how to push back
- How to find hidden insurance policies they don’t want you to know about
As Lupe explains: “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.”
2. Multi-Million Dollar Results for Bartlett Residents
We don’t just talk about results—we prove them with documented case outcomes:
“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.”
“Multi-million dollar settlement for a client who suffered a brain injury with vision loss when a log dropped on him at a logging company.”
“At Attorney911, our personal injury attorneys have helped numerous injured individuals and families facing trucking-related wrongful death cases recover millions of dollars in compensation.”
These aren’t just numbers on a website. They represent real Bartlett families who received the compensation they needed to rebuild their lives after devastating accidents.
3. Federal Court Experience for Complex Cases
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 cases involving:
- Trucking accidents with federal FMCSA violations
- Cases against large corporations
- Complex liability situations
- Multi-state defendants
Our firm is also one of the few in Texas to be involved in BP explosion litigation, demonstrating our ability to take on billion-dollar corporations and win.
4. Personal Attention from Day One
At Attorney911, you’re not just a case number. As client Chad Harris shared:
“You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client…You are FAMILY to them.”
Our Bartlett clients consistently praise our communication and care:
“Melanie was excellent. She kept me informed and when she said she would call me back, she did.” – Brian Butchee
“Leonor reached out to me…She took all the weight of my worries off my shoulders.” – Stephanie Hernandez
“I never felt like ‘just another case’ they were working on.” – Ambur Hamilton
5. No Fee Unless We Win
We understand that accident victims often face financial hardship. That’s why we work on a contingency fee basis:
- Free initial consultation
- No upfront costs
- We advance all case expenses
- You pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you
Common Types of Motor Vehicle Accidents in Bartlett, Texas
Car Accidents (Most Common in Bartlett)
With Bartlett’s growing population and increasing traffic on local roads, car accidents are unfortunately common. In 2024, Texas saw 251,977 people injured in motor vehicle crashes, with one crash occurring every 57 seconds.
Common causes of car accidents in Bartlett:
- Distracted driving (texting, phone use, eating)
- Speeding on rural roads and highways
- Failure to yield at intersections
- Running red lights or stop signs
- Following too closely on I-35 or SH 95
- Drunk or drugged driving
- Poor weather conditions (especially sudden Texas storms)
Common injuries:
- Whiplash and soft tissue injuries
- Herniated or bulging discs
- Broken bones and fractures
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord injuries
- Internal organ damage
- Psychological trauma and PTSD
Case example:
“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.”
What Bartlett residents say about us:
“Leonor got me into the doctor the same day…it only took 6 months amazing.” – Chavodrian Miles
“I was rear-ended and the team got right to work…I also got a very nice settlement.” – MONGO SLADE
18-Wheeler and Trucking Accidents
Bartlett sits along I-35, one of the busiest trucking corridors in the country. In 2024, Texas saw 39,393 commercial motor vehicle crashes, resulting in 608 fatalities and 1,601 serious injuries. Texas accounts for 11% of all fatal truck crashes nationwide.
Why trucking accidents are more dangerous:
- Trucks weigh up to 80,000 pounds (vs. 4,000 pounds for a car)
- Longer stopping distances
- Larger blind spots
- Potential for catastrophic cargo spills
Federal trucking regulations (FMCSA):
- Drivers limited to 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off-duty
- Cannot drive beyond 14th consecutive hour on duty
- Must take 30-minute break after 8 hours of driving
- Weekly limits of 60/70 hours
- Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) mandatory
- Commercial driver BAC limit: 0.04% (half the limit for regular drivers)
Why these cases are complex:
- Multiple liable parties (driver, trucking company, cargo loader, manufacturer)
- Higher insurance limits ($750,000 to $5,000,000+ policies)
- Federal court jurisdiction for interstate carriers
- Critical evidence (ELD data, black box) can be overwritten
Our trucking accident results:
“At Attorney911, our personal injury attorneys have helped numerous injured individuals and families facing trucking-related wrongful death cases recover millions of dollars in compensation.”
Recent Texas trucking verdicts:
- Oncor Electric: $37.5 million verdict (distracted truck driver)
- New Prime I-35 pileup: $44.1 million verdict (6 deaths)
- Ben E. Keith (Fort Worth): $35 million settlement
Drunk Driving Accidents
In 2024, Texas saw 1,053 alcohol-impaired driving deaths, accounting for 25.37% of all traffic fatalities. Williamson County has seen its share of tragic drunk driving accidents, often involving drivers coming from local bars or restaurants.
Dram shop liability (Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code § 2.02):
Bars, restaurants, and other establishments can be held liable if they serve alcohol to someone who is “obviously intoxicated” and that person later causes an accident.
Signs of obvious intoxication:
- Slurred speech
- Bloodshot or glassy eyes
- Unsteady gait or stumbling
- Impaired coordination
- Aggressive or erratic behavior
- Strong odor of alcohol
Potentially liable parties:
- Bars and nightclubs
- Restaurants serving alcohol
- Liquor stores
- Event organizers (concerts, festivals)
- Social hosts (in limited circumstances)
Why drunk driving cases often result in higher settlements:
- Punitive damages available for gross negligence
- Multiple defendants (driver + establishment)
- Criminal case can strengthen civil case
- Insurance companies have less defense against clear liability
Our criminal defense advantage:
Ralph Manginello is a member of the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association, giving us unique insight into both the criminal and civil aspects of drunk driving cases. We’ve successfully handled DWI cases that demonstrate our investigation skills:
- One case dismissed because breathalyzer machines weren’t properly maintained
- Another dismissed due to missing EMS and hospital notes
- A third dismissed when video evidence showed the client wasn’t drunk
Motorcycle Accidents
Texas saw 585 motorcyclist fatalities in 2024, with 37% of those killed not wearing helmets. Williamson County has a significant motorcycle community, and we’ve seen too many riders injured by negligent drivers.
Texas helmet law:
- Required for all riders under 21
- Riders 21+ may ride without a helmet if they’ve completed an approved safety course OR have $10,000+ in medical insurance
Common causes of motorcycle accidents in Bartlett:
- Failure to yield right of way (most common cause)
- Driver inattention or distraction
- Unsafe lane changes
- Left-turn accidents (T-bone or head-on)
- Speeding or reckless driving
- Poor road conditions
Comparative negligence challenges:
Texas uses the 51% bar rule, which means if you’re found to be 51% or more at fault, you recover nothing. Insurance companies always try to blame motorcyclists—even when they’re not at fault. Lupe’s experience defending these arguments for insurance companies now helps us counter them effectively.
Pedestrian Accidents
In 2024, Texas saw 6,095 pedestrian crashes resulting in 768 fatalities. Pedestrians account for just 1% of crashes but 19% of all roadway deaths. Bartlett’s growing downtown area and busy intersections create pedestrian risks.
Critical legal point:
Pedestrians ALWAYS have the right-of-way at intersections under Texas law—even at unmarked crosswalks. Many drivers don’t know this. The distance between any two intersecting streets is considered a crosswalk, even if it’s not marked.
Common pedestrian injuries:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Broken pelvis and legs
- Internal organ damage
- Fatalities
Rideshare Accidents (Uber/Lyft)
Rideshare services have become increasingly popular in Bartlett and the greater Austin area. With 17.4 million Uber trips daily nationwide, rideshare accidents are becoming more common.
Rideshare insurance phases (critical for determining coverage):
| Phase | Driver Status | Coverage Available |
|---|---|---|
| Period 0 – Offline | App off, personal use | Personal insurance only ($30K/$60K/$25K minimum in Texas) |
| 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 |
Why this matters:
Insurance coverage varies dramatically based on what the driver was doing at the moment of the crash. This complexity is why you need an attorney with experience navigating rideshare claims.
Who can be injured:
- 21% Riders
- 21% Drivers
- 58% Third parties (other drivers, pedestrians)
Hit and Run Accidents
Every 43 seconds, someone in the U.S. is involved in a hit-and-run accident. In Texas, hit-and-run is a serious crime with severe penalties:
| Severity | Charge | Penalty |
|---|---|---|
| Death | 2nd Degree Felony | 2-20 years prison, up to $10,000 fine |
| Serious Bodily Injury | 3rd Degree Felony | 2-10 years prison, up to $10,000 fine |
| Minor Injury | State Jail Felony | Up to 5 years, up to $5,000 fine |
| Property Damage ≥$200 | Class B Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months jail, up to $2,000 fine |
Your recovery options:
If the at-fault driver flees the scene, your own Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage can compensate you. Texas allows inter-policy stacking, which means you can combine coverage from multiple vehicles on your policy.
Evidence urgency:
- Surveillance footage deleted in 7-30 days
- Witnesses disperse quickly
- Call Attorney911 immediately: 1-888-ATTY-911
Tesla and Autonomous Vehicle Accidents
As electric and autonomous vehicles become more common in Bartlett and the Austin area, we’re seeing a rise in accidents involving these advanced technologies.
Notable Tesla/Autopilot crashes:
- May 2016: First U.S. Autopilot fatality (18-wheeler collision)
- March 2018: Apple engineer killed in Tesla crash (settled April 2024)
- August 2025: $240 million+ jury verdict against Tesla
Key liability arguments:
- Tesla marketed Full Self-Driving (FSD) and Autopilot as safer than human drivers
- Marketing created driver overconfidence and overreliance
- Tesla knew about system limitations but didn’t adequately warn drivers
- Software updates were used instead of comprehensive safety fixes
NHTSA data:
- Tesla Autopilot accounts for 70% of driver-assist crashes reported to NHTSA
- December 2023: Tesla recalled 2+ million vehicles for Autopilot safety concerns
What to Do After an Accident in Bartlett, Texas
48-Hour Immediate Action Protocol
HOUR 1-6 (IMMEDIATE CRISIS):
✅ Safety First: If you can move safely, get to a secure location away from traffic
✅ Call 911: Report the accident, request medical assistance if anyone is injured
✅ Medical Attention: If injured, get to the ER immediately. Adrenaline masks injuries—you may be hurt and not know it yet
✅ Document Everything:
- Take photos of ALL vehicle damage (every angle)
- Photograph the accident scene, road conditions, traffic signals
- Take photos of visible injuries
- Screenshot any messages visible on your phone (do NOT delete anything)
✅ Exchange Information: - Other driver’s name, phone, address
- Insurance company and policy number
- Driver’s license number
- License plate number
- Vehicle make, model, color
✅ Witnesses: - Get names and phone numbers of any witnesses
- Ask if they saw what happened
- Record their statements if possible
✅ Call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate legal guidance before speaking to ANY insurance company
HOUR 6-24 (EVIDENCE PRESERVATION):
✅ Digital Preservation:
- Preserve all texts, calls, photos, videos related to the accident
- Do NOT delete anything from your phone
- Screenshot everything relevant
- Email copies to yourself for backup
✅ Physical Evidence: - Secure damaged clothing, glasses, personal items
- Keep receipts for any expenses (towing, rental car, medications)
- Do NOT repair your vehicle yet—preserve the damage
✅ Medical Records: - Request copies of all ER/hospital records
- Keep all discharge paperwork
- Follow up with your primary care physician within 24-48 hours
✅ Insurance Communications: - Note any calls from insurance companies
- Do NOT give recorded statements yet
- Do NOT sign anything
- Do NOT accept any settlement offers
- Say: “I need to speak with my attorney first”
✅ Social Media: - Make ALL profiles private immediately
- Do NOT post about the accident
- Do NOT post photos of injuries or activities
- Tell friends/family not to tag you in posts
HOUR 24-48 (STRATEGIC DECISIONS):
✅ Legal Consultation:
- Speak with an experienced motor vehicle accident attorney
- Call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation
- Have your documentation ready
✅ Insurance Response: - If insurance contacts you, refer them to your attorney
- Say: “My attorney will be in touch with you”
- Provide only basic information: name, date of accident, that you were involved
✅ Settlement Offers: - Do NOT accept or sign anything without lawyer review
- Early offers are ALWAYS lowball offers
- You don’t know the extent of your injuries yet
✅ Evidence Backup: - Upload all screenshots and photos to cloud storage
- Email copies to yourself and a family member
- Create a written timeline of events while your memory is fresh
Evidence Deterioration Timeline (Why You Must Act Fast)
| Timeframe | What Disappears | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1-7 | Witness memories peak, then begin fading | Details forgotten, witnesses harder to locate |
| Day 7-30 | Surveillance footage DELETED | Gas stations: 7-14 days, retail stores: 30 days, traffic cameras: 30 days |
| Month 1-2 | Insurance companies solidify defense position | Adjusters build file against you, settlement position hardens |
| Month 2-6 | Trucking electronic data DELETED | ELD data: 30-180 days, black box data: can be overwritten |
| Month 6-12 | Witnesses graduate, move away, memory degrades | Harder to locate, memories less reliable |
| Month 12-24 | Approaching statute of limitations | Creates pressure to settle, evidence severely degraded |
Why Attorney911 Moves Fast
Within 24 hours of being retained, we send preservation letters to ALL parties:
- Other driver and their insurance company
- Trucking companies (for commercial vehicle accidents)
- Businesses near the scene (for surveillance footage)
- Employers (for employment records)
- Property owners (for security camera footage)
- Government entities (for traffic camera footage)
These letters LEGALLY REQUIRE evidence preservation before automatic deletion.
Texas Motor Vehicle Accident Law: What Bartlett Residents Need to Know
Statute of Limitations
Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code § 16.003
| Claim Type | Time Limit | Starts From |
|---|---|---|
| Personal Injury | 2 years | Date of accident |
| Wrongful Death | 2 years | Date of death |
| Property Damage | 2 years | Date of damage |
| Government Claims | 6 months notice | Date of incident |
| Minors | Tolled until 18 | Then 2 years |
Exceptions:
- Discovery Rule: SOL may start later if injury/cause not immediately discoverable
- Defendant Absence: Tolled if defendant leaves Texas
- Mental Incapacity: Tolled during incapacity
CRITICAL: Miss the deadline = case BARRED forever. Cannot be extended or waived.
Comparative Negligence (51% Bar Rule)
Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code § 33.001
Texas uses modified comparative negligence with a 51% bar:
- If you are 50% or less at fault → You can recover damages (reduced by your % of fault)
- If you are 51% or more at fault → You recover NOTHING
Examples:
| Your Fault % | Case Value | Your Recovery |
|---|---|---|
| 0% | $100,000 | $100,000 |
| 10% | $100,000 | $90,000 |
| 25% | $250,000 | $187,500 |
| 40% | $500,000 | $300,000 |
| 50% | $500,000 | $250,000 |
| 51% | $500,000 | $0 |
Why this matters to Bartlett residents:
Insurance companies ALWAYS try to assign maximum fault to you to reduce their payment. Even small fault percentages can cost you thousands:
- 10% fault on a $100,000 case = $10,000 less for you
- 25% fault on a $250,000 case = $62,500 less for you
- 40% fault on a $500,000 case = $200,000 less for you
Lupe’s insurance defense experience helps counter these arguments because he made them for years—now he knows how to defeat them.
Texas Minimum Auto Insurance (30/60/25)
| Coverage | Minimum Required |
|---|---|
| Bodily Injury – Per Person | $30,000 |
| Bodily Injury – Per Accident | $60,000 |
| Property Damage – Per Accident | $25,000 |
Uninsured Motorist Statistics:
- 15.4% of U.S. motorists are uninsured (approximately 1 in 7 drivers)
- UM/UIM coverage is critical for protection
- Texas allows inter-policy stacking
How Insurance Companies Try to Take Advantage of Bartlett Accident Victims
Insurance companies are not on your side. Their goal is to pay you as little as possible. Here are the tactics they use—and how Attorney911 counters them:
Tactic #1: Quick Contact & Recorded Statement (Days 1-3)
What they do:
Within hours or days of your accident, insurance adjusters will contact you—often while you’re still in the hospital or on pain medication. They’ll act friendly and helpful, saying things like:
- “We just want to help you”
- “We need to get your side of the story”
- “This is routine, everyone does this”
- “It’ll only take a few minutes”
What they’re really doing:
They’re building their defense against you with leading questions:
| Question They Ask | What They Want You to Say |
|---|---|
| “You’re feeling better now though, right?” | Trap you into saying you’re improving |
| “It wasn’t that bad of an impact, was it?” | Minimize collision severity |
| “You were able to walk away from the scene?” | Suggest injuries aren’t serious |
| “Were you distracted at all?” | Get you to admit distraction |
| “How fast were you going?” | Hope you overestimate or say “I don’t know” |
The truth:
- You are NOT required to give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance
- Giving a statement without an attorney ALMOST ALWAYS hurts your case
- Insurance companies know this—that’s why they push so hard
How Attorney911 counters:
- We tell you: DO NOT give a recorded statement without us
- Once you hire us, we become your voice
- All calls go through us
- We prepare you properly if a statement becomes necessary
- We sit with you during any statements
- We know their questions because Lupe asked them for years
Tactic #2: Quick Settlement Offer (Weeks 1-3)
What they do:
Within days or weeks, the insurance company will offer you quick money:
- Typical offers: $2,000-$5,000
- Sometimes $10,000-$15,000 if they’re scared
- It sounds good when you have zero money and mounting bills
They create artificial urgency:
- “This offer expires in 48 hours”
- “I can only get approval for this amount right now”
- “Take it or leave it”
- “This is our final offer” (it’s not)
The trap:
You don’t know the extent of your injuries yet.
What happens:
- Day 3: Insurance offers $3,500 “final settlement”
- You’re desperate, in pain, scared
- You sign the release
- Week 6: MRI shows herniated disc requiring surgery
- Surgery costs $100,000
- TOO LATE – You signed a release, can’t reopen the claim
- You pay $100,000 out of pocket
- Insurance pays nothing more
The release is PERMANENT and FINAL.
How Attorney911 counters:
- NEVER settle before Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI)
- MMI = as good as you’ll get medically
- Could be 6 months, 12 months, 24+ months depending on injuries
- Can’t know true case value until MMI
- We know offers are ALWAYS lowball
- Lupe calculated these lowball offers for years—he KNOWS they’re offering 10-20% of true value
Tactic #3: “Independent” Medical Exam (Months 2-6)
What they call it:
“Independent Medical Examination” (IME)
What it really is:
An insurance company-hired doctor to minimize your injuries
How they choose IME doctors (Lupe knows this):
- Based on who gives insurance-favorable reports (NOT who’s most qualified)
- Doctors who consistently find “no injury” or “pre-existing condition”
- Doctors paid THOUSANDS by insurance companies ($2,000-$5,000 per exam)
- Repeat business = repeat favorable reports
What happens at the IME:
- 10-15 minute “examination” (vs. your treating doctor’s thorough evaluation)
- Rarely review your complete medical records beforehand
- Ask questions designed to elicit “I’m feeling better” responses
- Look for ANY reason to minimize injuries
Common IME doctor findings:
| What They Say | What It Means |
|---|---|
| “Patient has pre-existing degenerative changes” | Everyone over 40 has some arthritis—used to deny claims |
| “Injuries consistent with minor trauma” | Minimizes your pain and suffering |
| “Patient can return to full duty work” | Eliminates lost wage claims |
| “Treatment has been excessive” | Attacks your treating doctors |
| “Subjective complaints out of proportion to objective findings” | Medical speak for calling you a LIAR |
How Attorney911 counters:
- We prepare you extensively before the exam
- We send complete medical records to the IME doctor first (forcing review)
- We challenge biased IME reports with our own medical experts
- Lupe knows these specific doctors and their biases—he hired them for years
Tactic #4: Delay and Financial Pressure (Months 6-12+)
What they do:
They drag your case out, hoping you’ll get desperate:
- “Still investigating your claim”
- “Waiting for medical records” (that we sent months ago)
- “Reviewing your file”
- “Need additional information”
- Ignore calls and emails
- Take weeks to respond to simple questions
Why delay works (on people without attorneys):
Insurance companies have:
- Unlimited time
- Unlimited resources
- No financial pressure
- Earning interest on YOUR settlement money while delaying
You have:
- Mounting bills
- Zero income
- Creditors threatening
- Need money NOW
Financial desperation makes you accept less:
- Month 1: You’d reject $5,000 offer
- Month 6: You’d seriously consider $5,000
- Month 12: You’d BEG for $5,000 just to end the nightmare
How Attorney911 counters:
- We file a lawsuit to force deadlines
- We set depositions, forcing them to produce witnesses
- We prepare for trial, showing we’re serious
- Lupe understands delay tactics because he used them—he knows when to push
Tactic #5: Surveillance and Social Media Monitoring
What they do:
They hire private investigators to:
- Video you doing daily activities
- Film from public places (your driveway, street, stores)
- Follow you to appointments, errands, social activities
- Look for ANY activity contradicting injury claims
- One video of you bending over = “Not really injured”
They monitor ALL your social media:
- Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, Twitter, YouTube, Snapchat
- Screenshot EVERYTHING: photos, posts, check-ins, comments, likes
- Monitor your friends’ profiles for posts mentioning you
- Use facial recognition to find photos you’re tagged in
- Archive your entire social media history
Examples we’ve defended:
| Example | What Happened | Insurance Claimed | Reality |
|---|---|---|---|
| Old Photo | Gym photo from 3 years ago | Presented as recent, contradicts injury | We proved metadata was pre-accident |
| Restaurant Check-in | Facebook check-in at restaurant | “Partying and having fun” | Sitting quietly having dinner |
| Friend’s Comment | Friend posted “Had fun yesterday!” | Evidence of non-injury | Client was resting at home |
| Walking Dog | Video of client walking dog slowly | “Not disabled” | Doctor RECOMMENDED short walks |
| Smiling in Photo | Family photo smiling | “Not in pain—she’s smiling!” | Everyone smiles for photos |
7 Rules for Bartlett clients:
- Make ALL profiles private immediately
- DON’T post about the accident, injuries, activities, emotions, or your case
- DON’T check in anywhere
- Tell friends/family: don’t tag you, don’t post about you
- Don’t accept friend requests from strangers (fake profiles)
- BEST: Stay off social media entirely during your case
- Assume EVERYTHING is being monitored
Tactic #6: Comparative Fault Arguments
What they do:
They try to assign you maximum fault to reduce their payment:
- “You were speeding” (without evidence)
- “You weren’t paying attention” (speculation)
- “You could have avoided this” (hindsight bias)
- “You were distracted” (guessing)
- “You contributed to this accident” (shifting blame)
Why they do this:
Texas 51% bar rule means:
- If you’re 51%+ at fault → You get NOTHING
- If you’re 50% or less at fault → Your damages are reduced by your percentage
Even small fault percentages cost you thousands:
- 10% fault on a $100,000 case = $10,000 less for you
- 25% fault on a $250,000 case = $62,500 less for you
- 40% fault on a $500,000 case = $200,000 less for you
How Attorney911 counters:
- Aggressive liability investigation
- Accident reconstruction proving the other driver’s fault
- Witness statements supporting your version
- Police report analysis emphasizing citations
- Expert testimony on perception-reaction time
- Lupe knows their fault arguments because he made them for years—now he defeats them
How Colossus Software Really Values Your Claim
Most insurance companies use a computerized system called Colossus to calculate settlement offers. Here’s how it works—and how Attorney911 beats it:
How Colossus Works:
- Data Entry: Adjuster inputs injury codes, treatment types, medical costs, lost wages, jurisdiction
- Coding: Injuries are coded using standardized medical terms
- Calculation: Software applies algorithms to determine “value”
- Range Output: System provides recommended settlement range
- Authority: Adjuster typically cannot exceed without supervisor approval
How Insurance Manipulates Colossus:
| Manipulation | Effect |
|---|---|
| Low Injury Codes | “Soft tissue strain” instead of “disc herniation” reduces value 50-100% |
| Excessive Treatment Flags | Therapy beyond “normal” range triggers reduction |
| Conservative Treatment Penalty | Chiropractic valued less than MD |
| Pre-Existing Reduction | Any prior condition used to reduce value |
| Jurisdiction Factor | Low-verdict counties get lower values |
Why Lupe’s Experience Matters:
- He knows how to code injuries properly for maximum value
- He knows which medical terms trigger higher valuations
- He knows when Colossus output is artificially low
- He knows how to present records to beat the algorithm
- He worked with these systems for years as a defense attorney
Reserve Setting Psychology:
What reserves are:
- Money insurance company sets aside for your claim
- Based on worst-case scenario (their estimate of trial verdict)
- Adjuster usually CANNOT settle for more than reserve without approval
How we increase reserves:
- Hiring experts (shows we’re investing in the case)
- Taking depositions (creates litigation expense)
- Filing a lawsuit (forces trial evaluation)
- Preparing for trial (shows we won’t back down)
Lupe understands reserve psychology and settlement authority limits—this is a GAME-CHANGING advantage.
Types of Compensation Bartlett Accident Victims Can Recover
Economic Damages (No Cap in Texas):
| Damage Type | What It Covers |
|---|---|
| Medical Expenses (Past) | ER, hospital, surgery, doctors, physical therapy, medications, medical equipment |
| Medical Expenses (Future) | Ongoing treatment, future surgeries, lifetime medications, long-term care |
| Lost Wages (Past) | Income lost from date of accident to present |
| Lost Earning Capacity (Future) | Reduced ability to earn income in the future |
| Property Damage | Vehicle repair or replacement, personal property |
| Out-of-Pocket Expenses | Transportation to medical appointments, home modifications, household help |
Non-Economic Damages (No Cap Except Medical Malpractice):
| Damage Type | What It Covers |
|---|---|
| Pain and Suffering | Physical pain from injuries, both past and future |
| Mental Anguish | Emotional distress, anxiety, depression, fear, PTSD |
| Physical Impairment | Loss of physical function, disability, limitations |
| Disfigurement | Scarring, permanent visible injuries affecting appearance |
| Loss of Consortium | Impact on marriage/family relationships, loss of companionship |
| Loss of Enjoyment of Life | Inability to participate in activities you previously enjoyed |
Punitive/Exemplary Damages (Capped):
- Available for gross negligence, fraud, or malice
- Drunk driving cases often qualify
- Cap: Greater of $200,000 OR (2x economic + 1x non-economic max $750,000)
- Purpose: Punish the defendant and deter similar conduct
Settlement Ranges for Common Injuries
Soft Tissue Injuries (Whiplash, Sprains, Strains):
Medical Treatment:
- Emergency room: $2,000-$5,000
- Follow-up doctor visits: $1,000-$3,000
- Physical therapy (6-12 weeks): $3,000-$7,000
- Medications: $300-$1,000
- Total Medical: $6,000-$16,000
Lost Wages: $2,000-$10,000 (2-6 weeks missed work)
Pain & Suffering: $8,000-$35,000
Settlement Range: $15,000-$60,000
Higher if: Permanent pain, restrictions on activities, chronic condition develops
Broken Bone (Single, Simple Fracture):
Medical Treatment:
- Emergency room and X-rays: $3,000-$6,000
- Orthopedic consultation: $500-$1,500
- Casting and follow-up: $2,000-$5,000
- Physical therapy: $3,000-$8,000
- Total Medical: $10,000-$20,000
Lost Wages: $5,000-$15,000 (4-8 weeks missed work)
Pain & Suffering: $20,000-$60,000
Settlement Range: $35,000-$95,000
Broken Bone (Requiring Surgery – ORIF):
Medical Treatment:
- Emergency room: $5,000-$10,000
- Surgery (Open Reduction Internal Fixation): $25,000-$50,000
- Hospital stay (2-3 days): $6,000-$15,000
- Follow-up care: $3,000-$8,000
- Physical therapy (3-6 months): $8,000-$15,000
- Total Medical: $47,000-$98,000
Lost Wages: $10,000-$30,000 (3-6 months)
Pain & Suffering: $75,000-$200,000
Settlement Range: $132,000-$328,000
Herniated Disc (Conservative Treatment):
Medical Treatment:
- Emergency room and initial treatment: $3,000-$6,000
- MRI: $2,000-$4,000
- Physician visits and pain management: $5,000-$12,000
- Physical therapy (3-6 months): $8,000-$15,000
- Epidural steroid injections (series of 3): $3,000-$6,000
- Medications: $1,000-$3,000
- Total Medical: $22,000-$46,000
Lost Wages: $8,000-$25,000
Pain & Suffering: $40,000-$100,000
Settlement Range: $70,000-$171,000
Herniated Disc (Surgery Required):
Medical Treatment:
- Initial treatment and diagnostics: $8,000-$15,000
- Failed conservative treatment: $10,000-$20,000
- Spinal surgery (microdiscectomy or fusion): $50,000-$100,000
- Hospital stay: $8,000-$20,000
- Post-surgical care and follow-up: $5,000-$15,000
- Physical therapy (6-12 months): $10,000-$20,000
- Pain management: $5,000-$15,000
- Total Past Medical: $96,000-$205,000
Future Medical: $30,000-$100,000 (ongoing pain management, possible revision surgery)
Lost Wages: $20,000-$50,000 (6-12 months recovery)
Lost Earning Capacity: $50,000-$400,000 (if you can’t return to physical job)
Pain & Suffering: $150,000-$450,000
Settlement Range: $346,000-$1,205,000
Traumatic Brain Injury (Moderate to Severe):
Medical Treatment:
- Emergency room and trauma care: $10,000-$30,000
- Hospital/ICU stay (1-4 weeks): $50,000-$200,000
- Neurosurgery if required: $75,000-$200,000
- Acute rehabilitation facility: $30,000-$100,000
- Neurologist follow-up care: $10,000-$30,000
- Neuropsychological testing: $3,000-$8,000
- Cognitive therapy: $15,000-$50,000
- Medications: $5,000-$20,000
- Total Past Medical: $198,000-$638,000
Future Medical (Life Care Plan): $300,000-$3,000,000+ depending on severity
Lost Wages: $50,000-$200,000
Lost Earning Capacity: $500,000-$3,000,000+
Pain & Suffering: $500,000-$3,000,000+
Settlement Range: $1,548,000-$9,838,000
Attorney911 Documented Result:
“Multi-million dollar settlement for a client who suffered a brain injury with vision loss when a log dropped on him at a logging company.”
Spinal Cord Injury / Paralysis:
Lifetime Care Costs by Level:
| Injury Level | First Year | Each Year After | Lifetime Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| High Tetraplegia (C1-C4) | $1,200,000-$1,500,000 | $200,000-$250,000 | $6,000,000-$13,000,000+ |
| Low Tetraplegia (C5-C8) | $850,000-$1,100,000 | $75,000-$100,000 | $3,700,000-$6,100,000+ |
| Paraplegia (T1-L5) | $500,000-$750,000 | $70,000-$90,000 | $2,500,000-$5,250,000+ |
Settlement Range: $4,770,000-$25,880,000
Amputation:
Medical Treatment:
- Emergency care and surgery: $80,000-$200,000
- Hospital stay: $50,000-$150,000
- Rehabilitation: $30,000-$100,000
- Initial prosthetic fitting: $10,000-$30,000
- Total Past Medical: $170,000-$480,000
Future Medical (Lifetime Prosthetics):
- Basic prosthetic leg: $5,000-$15,000 every 3-5 years
- Advanced computerized prosthetic: $50,000-$100,000 every 3-5 years
- Over lifetime (30-50 years): $500,000-$2,000,000
Settlement Range: $1,945,000-$8,630,000
Attorney911 Documented Result:
“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.”
Wrongful Death (Working Age Adult):
Economic Damages:
- Funeral and burial: $10,000-$20,000
- Medical expenses before death: $50,000-$500,000
- Lost financial support to family (present value): $1,000,000-$4,000,000
Non-Economic Damages:
- Loss of companionship, society, love: $500,000-$3,000,000
- Loss of advice and counsel: $100,000-$500,000
- Mental anguish (family members): $250,000-$1,500,000
Settlement Range: $1,910,000-$9,520,000
Attorney911 Documented Result:
“At Attorney911, our personal injury attorneys have helped numerous injured individuals and families facing trucking-related wrongful death cases recover millions of dollars in compensation.”
Recent Texas Nuclear Verdicts (Why Insurance Companies Fear Us)
Nuclear verdicts—jury awards exceeding $10 million—are on the rise in Texas. These verdicts don’t just affect the cases that go to trial; they increase settlement values across ALL serious injury cases.
Recent Texas Motor Vehicle Nuclear Verdicts:
| Year | Case | Amount | Key Facts |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Hatch v. Jones | $81,720,000 | Car accident wrongful death, punitive damages |
| 2024 | Frito-Lay Warehouse | $72,000,000 | Vehicle collision with warehouse worker |
| 2024 | Lopez v. All Points 360 | $105,000,000 | Amazon DSP driver, $63M punitive damages |
| 2024 | New Prime I-35 pileup | $44,100,000 | 6 deaths in trucking accident |
| 2024 | Oncor Electric | $37,500,000 | Distracted truck driver |
| 2024 | Ben E. Keith | $35,000,000 | Largest trucking settlement in Fort Worth history |
| 2023 | Johnson v. Union Pacific | $557,000,000 | Train accident with multiple fatalities |
| 2021 | Ramsey v. Landstar | $730,000,000 | Trucking accident, largest in Texas history |
| 2017 | Kindred v. Delbosque | $301 BILLION | Drunk driving wrongful death (largest in U.S. history) |
Why This Matters to Bartlett Residents:
Insurance companies FEAR nuclear verdicts. This fear gives us leverage in every negotiation. Attorney911’s trial readiness and multi-million dollar track record mean insurance companies know we’re not bluffing. When we say we’re prepared to go to trial, they take us seriously.
Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Bartlett Accident Case?
1. Insurance Defense Insider Advantage
“Lupe Peña worked for a number of years at a national defense firm, learning firsthand how large insurance companies value claims.”
This is our nuclear advantage. Lupe spent years working FOR insurance companies. Now he uses that knowledge FOR victims. He knows:
- How they calculate settlement offers
- Which doctors they send for “independent” medical exams
- When they’re lowballing you and how to push back
- How to find hidden insurance policies
- Their delay tactics and how to counter them
No other Bartlett law firm has this insider knowledge.
2. Multi-Million Dollar Results
We don’t just talk about results—we prove them:
“Multi-million dollar settlement for a client who suffered a 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.”
“At Attorney911, our personal injury attorneys have helped numerous injured individuals and families facing trucking-related wrongful death cases recover millions of dollars in compensation.”
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 trucking cases with FMCSA violations
- Cases against large corporations
- Multi-state defendants
- High-value catastrophic injury cases
Our firm is also one of the few in Texas to be involved in BP explosion litigation, demonstrating our ability to take on billion-dollar corporations.
4. Personal Attention from Day One
At Attorney911, you’re not just a case number. As client Chad Harris shared:
“You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client…You are FAMILY to them.”
Our Bartlett clients consistently praise our communication:
“Melanie was excellent. She kept me informed and when she said she would call me back, she did.” – Brian Butchee
“Leonor reached out to me…She took all the weight of my worries off my shoulders.” – Stephanie Hernandez
“I never felt like ‘just another case’ they were working on.” – Ambur Hamilton
5. Contingency Fee – No Risk to You
We understand that accident victims often face financial hardship. That’s why we work on a contingency fee basis:
- Free initial consultation
- No upfront costs
- We advance all case expenses
- You pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you
6. We Speak Spanish – “Hablamos Español”
Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish, and our team includes bilingual staff members like Zulema. As client Celia Dominguez shared:
“Especially Miss Zulema, who is always very kind and always translates.”
We ensure language is never a barrier to justice.
7. Proven Track Record of Success
- 251+ 5-star Google reviews
- 25+ years of experience
- Hundreds of satisfied clients
- Multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts
- Recognized by Super Lawyers
- Endorsed by Houston community leaders like Trae Tha Truth
Frequently Asked Questions About Bartlett Car Accidents
What should I do immediately after a car accident in Bartlett, Texas?
If you’ve been in an accident in Bartlett:
- Call 911 and report the accident
- Seek medical attention even if you feel fine (adrenaline masks injuries)
- Document everything: photos of damage, injuries, scene
- Exchange information with the other driver
- Get witness names and phone numbers