Car Accident Lawyers in Bartlett, Texas | Attorney911
If You’ve Been Injured in a Bartlett Car Accident, We’re Here to Help
Every 57 seconds, another car accident occurs on Texas roads. If you’ve been injured in a Bartlett car crash, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. At Attorney911, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a car accident can take. With over 25 years of experience fighting for accident victims across Texas, our Bartlett car accident lawyers are ready to stand by your side and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Bartlett sits at the crossroads of major Texas highways, making our roads busy and sometimes dangerous. Whether you were rear-ended on US-95, involved in a T-bone collision at the intersection of FM 487 and FM 971, or hit by a distracted driver on any of Bartlett’s streets, we know how to build a strong case for you. Our firm has recovered millions for car accident victims, including a multi-million dollar settlement for a client whose leg injury led to a partial amputation after complications during treatment.
When you call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911, you’re reaching a legal emergency line, not a call center. We offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis—meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case.
Why Bartlett Car Accidents Happen—and How We Can Help
Car accidents in Bartlett can occur for many reasons, but some of the most common causes we see include:
- Distracted driving – Texting, using GPS, or even eating while driving takes a driver’s attention off the road. Texas law prohibits texting while driving, but many drivers still engage in this dangerous behavior.
- Speeding – Excessive speed reduces reaction time and increases the severity of crashes. On rural roads like FM 487 or FM 971, speeding can be especially dangerous due to sharp curves and limited visibility.
- Failure to yield – Many accidents at Bartlett intersections occur when drivers fail to yield the right of way, particularly at busy crossings.
- Drunk or drugged driving – Despite strict DUI laws, impaired driving remains a leading cause of accidents, especially on weekends and holidays.
- Fatigued driving – Long commutes or late-night drives can lead to drowsy driving, which impairs judgment and reaction time as much as alcohol.
- Poor weather conditions – Texas weather can change quickly, and rain, fog, or even sudden temperature drops can create hazardous driving conditions.
- Vehicle defects – Faulty brakes, tire blowouts, or other mechanical failures can lead to serious accidents.
No matter how your accident happened, our Bartlett car accident attorneys will thoroughly investigate the cause and identify all liable parties. We’ll gather evidence, interview witnesses, and work with accident reconstruction experts to build a strong case on your behalf.
Common Injuries in Bartlett Car Accidents
Car accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor to life-altering. Some of the most common injuries we see in Bartlett car accident cases include:
- Whiplash and soft tissue injuries – Often dismissed as minor, these injuries can cause chronic pain and require extensive physical therapy.
- Herniated discs – These spinal injuries can lead to numbness, weakness, and severe pain that may require surgery.
- Broken bones – Fractures to the arms, legs, ribs, or pelvis can require surgery and months of recovery.
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) – Even a mild concussion can have long-term effects, while severe TBIs can cause permanent cognitive impairment.
- Spinal cord injuries – These devastating injuries can result in partial or complete paralysis, requiring lifelong medical care.
- Internal injuries – Damage to organs or internal bleeding may not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening.
- Lacerations and scarring – Deep cuts can lead to permanent scarring and disfigurement, which may require cosmetic surgery.
- Psychological trauma – PTSD, anxiety, and depression are common after serious accidents and can be just as debilitating as physical injuries.
One of our clients, Chavodrian Miles, shared his experience: “Leonor got me into the doctor the same day…it only took 6 months amazing.” At Attorney911, we ensure you get the medical care you need right away and fight for compensation that covers all your injuries—both physical and emotional.
Who’s Liable for Your Bartlett Car Accident?
Determining liability is crucial to your case. In Texas, the at-fault driver is typically responsible for compensating accident victims. However, other parties may also share liability, including:
- The other driver – If they were negligent (speeding, distracted, drunk, etc.)
- Vehicle owners – If the at-fault driver was operating someone else’s vehicle with permission
- Employers – If the at-fault driver was working at the time of the accident (e.g., delivery drivers, truckers)
- Government entities – If poor road design, lack of signage, or unmaintained roads contributed to the crash
- Vehicle manufacturers – If a defective part (brakes, tires, airbags) caused or worsened the accident
- Bars or restaurants – If they served alcohol to an obviously intoxicated driver (dram shop liability)
Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning you can still recover damages even if you were partially at fault—as long as you were 50% or less responsible. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you’re found 20% at fault for an accident with $100,000 in damages, you can recover $80,000.
Insurance companies often try to shift blame onto victims to reduce their payouts. That’s where our firm’s unique advantage comes in. Lupe Peña, one of our attorneys, previously worked for a national insurance defense firm. He knows exactly how insurance companies try to minimize claims—and how to counter their tactics.
Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Bartlett Car Accident Case?
When you’re injured in a car accident, you need more than just a lawyer—you need a legal team with the experience, resources, and dedication to fight for the maximum compensation you deserve. Here’s what sets Attorney911 apart:
1. We Know How Insurance Companies Work—Because We Used to Work for Them
Lupe Peña spent years working for a national insurance defense firm, learning firsthand how large insurance companies value claims, deploy tactics, and try to minimize payouts. Now, he uses that insider knowledge to fight for accident victims like you. 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.”
This unique perspective gives us an unfair advantage. We know their playbook because we used to write it.
2. We’ve Recovered Millions for Car Accident Victims
Our track record speaks for itself. We’ve helped clients recover millions in compensation, including:
- A multi-million dollar settlement for a client who suffered a brain injury with vision loss after a logging accident.
- A recent case where our client’s leg was injured in a car accident, leading to staff infections and a partial amputation. This case settled in the millions.
- Numerous rear-end collision cases where clients received significant settlements for their injuries.
As client MONGO SLADE shared: “I was rear-ended and the team got right to work…I also got a very nice settlement.”
3. We’re Ready for Trial—And Insurance Companies Know It
While most car accident cases settle out of court, we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This approach gives us leverage in negotiations and forces insurance companies to take our demands seriously. Ralph Manginello, our managing partner, is admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas, giving us the ability to handle complex cases in federal court when necessary.
Our trial readiness is one reason we’ve been involved in high-stakes litigation, including the BP Texas City explosion case—one of the few firms in Texas to take on such a massive corporation and win.
4. You’ll Work Directly with Our Attorneys, Not Case Managers
At many large firms, you’re passed off to paralegals or case managers. At Attorney911, you work directly with Ralph Manginello, Lupe Peña, or one of our experienced attorneys. 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.”
We believe in personalized attention. When you call 1-888-ATTY-911, you’re reaching us—not a call center.
5. No Fee Unless We Win Your Case
We understand that accident victims are often facing financial hardship. That’s why we work on a contingency fee basis. You pay nothing upfront, and we only get paid if we recover compensation for you. There’s no risk to you—just the promise that we’ll fight tirelessly for your rights.
What to Do After a Car Accident in Bartlett
The steps you take immediately after a car accident can significantly impact your ability to recover compensation. Here’s what you should do:
At the Scene:
- Call 911 – Report the accident and request medical assistance if anyone is injured.
- Check for injuries – Even if you feel fine, adrenaline can mask pain. Get checked by EMS.
- Move to safety – If possible, move your vehicle out of traffic to prevent further accidents.
- Exchange information – Get the other driver’s name, contact information, insurance details, and license plate number.
- Document the scene – Take photos of vehicle damage, skid marks, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
- Talk to witnesses – Get names and contact information from anyone who saw the accident.
- Call Attorney911 – Before speaking to any insurance company, call us at 1-888-ATTY-911.
After Leaving the Scene:
- Seek medical attention – Visit a doctor or hospital as soon as possible, even if you don’t feel injured. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal bleeding, may not be immediately apparent.
- Follow your doctor’s orders – Attend all follow-up appointments and follow your treatment plan. Gaps in treatment can be used against you by insurance companies.
- Preserve evidence – Keep all medical records, receipts, and documentation related to the accident.
- Avoid social media – Insurance companies monitor social media for posts that could undermine your claim. Avoid posting about the accident or your injuries.
- Don’t give recorded statements – Insurance adjusters may call and ask for a recorded statement. Politely decline and refer them to your attorney.
- Don’t accept early settlement offers – Insurance companies often offer quick, lowball settlements to close cases before victims realize the full extent of their injuries.
Within 48 Hours:
- Contact Attorney911 – The sooner you call us, the sooner we can start preserving evidence and building your case.
- We’ll send preservation letters – To ensure critical evidence (like surveillance footage) isn’t deleted.
- We’ll handle all communication with insurance companies – So you can focus on your recovery.
As client Kiimarii Yup shared:
“I lost everything…my car was at a total loss and because of Attorney Manginello and my case worker Leonor…1 year later I have gained so much in return plus a brand new truck.”
How Much Is Your Bartlett Car Accident Case Worth?
The value of your car accident case depends on several factors, including:
- Medical expenses – Both current and future medical costs related to your injuries.
- Lost wages – Income you’ve lost due to time off work, as well as any reduction in earning capacity if your injuries prevent you from returning to your previous job.
- Pain and suffering – Compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.
- Property damage – The cost to repair or replace your vehicle and any other damaged property.
- Permanent disability or disfigurement – If your injuries result in long-term or permanent impairment.
- Loss of enjoyment of life – Compensation for the impact the accident has had on your ability to enjoy daily activities and hobbies.
- Punitive damages – In cases involving gross negligence (e.g., drunk driving), punitive damages may be awarded to punish the at-fault party.
Settlement Ranges for Common Injuries:
| Injury Type | Medical Costs | Lost Wages | Pain & Suffering | Total Settlement Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Soft Tissue (Whiplash, Sprains) | $6,000-$16,000 | $2,000-$10,000 | $8,000-$35,000 | $15,000-$60,000 |
| Broken Bone (Simple Fracture) | $10,000-$20,000 | $5,000-$15,000 | $20,000-$60,000 | $35,000-$95,000 |
| Broken Bone (Surgery Required) | $47,000-$98,000 | $10,000-$30,000 | $75,000-$200,000 | $132,000-$328,000 |
| Herniated Disc (Conservative Treatment) | $22,000-$46,000 | $8,000-$25,000 | $40,000-$100,000 | $70,000-$171,000 |
| Herniated Disc (Surgery Required) | $96,000-$205,000 | $20,000-$50,000 | $150,000-$450,000 | $346,000-$1,205,000 |
| Traumatic Brain Injury (Moderate to Severe) | $198,000-$638,000 | $50,000-$200,000 | $500,000-$3,000,000 | $1,548,000-$9,838,000 |
| Spinal Cord Injury (Paralysis) | $500,000-$750,000 (first year) | $50,000-$200,000 | $2,000,000-$5,000,000 | $4,770,000-$25,880,000 |
| Amputation | $170,000-$480,000 | $20,000-$50,000 | $500,000-$2,000,000 | $1,945,000-$8,630,000 |
| Wrongful Death | $50,000-$500,000 | $1,000,000-$4,000,000 | $1,000,000-$5,000,000 | $1,910,000-$9,520,000 |
These ranges are estimates and can vary based on the specifics of your case. Insurance companies often use software like Colossus to calculate settlement offers, but these programs are designed to minimize payouts. Lupe Peña, our former insurance defense attorney, knows how to counter these lowball offers and fight for the true value of your case.
Insurance Tactics to Watch Out For
Insurance companies are not on your side. Their goal is to pay you as little as possible—or nothing at all. Here are some of the tactics they use to minimize or deny your claim:
1. The Quick Cash Trap
Within days of your accident, the insurance company may offer you a quick settlement—often just a few thousand dollars. They’ll say things like:
- “This is our best offer—take it or leave it.”
- “This offer expires in 48 hours.”
- “We can close your claim today if you sign this.”
Why it’s a trap: You don’t yet know the full extent of your injuries. What seems like a fair offer now could be a fraction of what you’ll need for future medical care. Once you sign a release, you can’t go back for more money—even if you need surgery later.
2. The Recorded Statement Trap
The insurance adjuster will call and ask for a recorded statement, saying:
- “We just need your side of the story.”
- “This is routine—everyone does it.”
- “It’ll only take a few minutes.”
Why it’s a trap: They’ll ask leading questions designed to get you to say things that hurt your case, like:
- “You’re feeling better now, though, right?” (Traps you into minimizing your injuries.)
- “It wasn’t that bad of an impact, was it?” (Minimizes the severity of the accident.)
- “Were you distracted at all?” (Tries to shift blame onto you.)
What to do instead: Politely decline and say, “I need to speak with my attorney first.”
3. The IME (Independent Medical Exam) Scam
The insurance company may ask you to see a doctor of their choosing for an “independent” medical exam. They’ll say:
- “We just need a second opinion.”
- “This is standard procedure.”
- “It’s just a quick checkup.”
Why it’s a scam: These doctors are hired and paid by the insurance company. Their job is to find reasons to minimize your injuries. They may:
- Spend only 10-15 minutes with you.
- Ignore your medical records.
- Claim your injuries are “pre-existing” or “not that serious.”
- Say you can return to work immediately.
What to do instead: If you’re asked to attend an IME, call us immediately. We’ll prepare you for the exam and challenge any biased findings.
4. The Surveillance Trap
Insurance companies hire private investigators to follow accident victims and film them doing everyday activities. They’re looking for any evidence they can use to claim you’re not as injured as you say.
What they look for:
- You bending over to pick something up.
- You carrying groceries.
- You walking without a limp.
- You smiling or laughing in a photo.
Why it’s a trap: They’ll take one frame out of context and ignore the rest. For example, they might show a photo of you smiling at a family gathering but ignore the fact that you were in pain the entire time.
What to do instead: Assume you’re being watched. Avoid posting on social media, and don’t do anything that could be misconstrued.
5. The Delay and Deny Game
Insurance companies know that the longer they drag out your claim, the more desperate you’ll become. They may:
- Ignore your calls and emails.
- “Lose” your paperwork.
- Claim they’re still “investigating” your claim.
- Offer less money the longer you wait.
Why it works: After months of mounting bills and no income, you may be tempted to accept a lowball offer just to get some money.
What to do instead: Hire an attorney early. We’ll keep the pressure on the insurance company and move your case forward.
6. The Pre-Existing Condition Blame
If you’ve ever had an injury to the same part of your body, the insurance company will try to blame your current pain on a pre-existing condition. They’ll say:
- “Your back pain is from that old injury, not the accident.”
- “You had arthritis before the crash.”
- “Your MRI shows degenerative changes.”
Why it’s unfair: Even if you had a pre-existing condition, you’re entitled to compensation if the accident made it worse. This is known as the “eggshell plaintiff” rule—defendants take victims as they find them.
What to do instead: We’ll hire medical experts to prove that your current injuries are a direct result of the accident.
How We Prove Liability in Your Bartlett Car Accident Case
To win your case, we must prove that the other driver was negligent and that their negligence caused your injuries. Here’s how we do it:
1. Gathering Evidence
We collect all available evidence to build a strong case, including:
- Police reports – These often contain important details about fault and citations issued.
- Photographs and videos – From the scene, surveillance cameras, or dashcams.
- Witness statements – We interview witnesses while their memories are fresh.
- Medical records – To document your injuries and link them to the accident.
- Expert testimony – Accident reconstructionists, medical experts, and economists can provide critical insights.
- Electronic data – For example, black box data from vehicles or cell phone records.
2. Establishing Negligence
We must prove that the other driver breached their duty of care. Common examples of negligence include:
- Speeding or reckless driving.
- Running a red light or stop sign.
- Failing to yield the right of way.
- Driving while distracted (texting, eating, etc.).
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
- Failing to maintain a safe following distance.
3. Proving Causation
We must show that the other driver’s negligence directly caused your injuries. This can be challenging if you had pre-existing conditions or if the insurance company argues that your injuries were caused by something else.
Our team works with medical experts to establish a clear link between the accident and your injuries. We’ll gather medical records, imaging studies, and expert opinions to prove that your injuries were caused by the crash.
4. Calculating Damages
We work with economists, vocational experts, and life care planners to calculate the full extent of your damages, including:
- Medical expenses – Both past and future.
- Lost wages – Including future earning capacity if you can’t return to your previous job.
- Pain and suffering – Compensation for the physical and emotional toll of your injuries.
- Property damage – The cost to repair or replace your vehicle.
Why Bartlett Accident Victims Trust Attorney911
When you’re injured in a car accident, you need a law firm that combines legal expertise with genuine compassion. Here’s what our clients say about working with us:
“Melanie was excellent. She kept me informed and when she said she would call me back, she did. I got to speak with Ralph Manginello once and knew quickly the way his Firm was ran.” — Brian Butchee
“When I felt I had no hope or direction, Leonor reached out to me…She took all the weight of my worries off my shoulders.” — Stephanie Hernandez
“Special thank you to my attorney, Mr. Pena, for your kindness and patience with my repeated questions.” — Chelsea Martinez
“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
“This place feels like having a family over your case. And communication with you every step of the way. That’s how you know you’re in good hands.” — Kiwi Potato
“Ralph is an AMAZING ATTORNEY. I have used him 2 TIMES FOR 2 separate cases the first case he got me an OFF DOCKET DISSMISSAL! And the other only 10 months probation. He gets the JOB DONE RIGHT!!!!” — Cassie Wright
Frequently Asked Questions About Bartlett Car Accidents
1. What should I do immediately after a car accident in Bartlett?
If you’ve been in an accident in Bartlett, follow these steps:
- Call 911 and report the accident.
- Seek medical attention, even if you feel fine.
- Document the scene with photos and videos.
- Exchange information with the other driver.
- Get contact information from any witnesses.
- Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 before speaking to any insurance company.
2. Should I call the police even for a minor accident?
Yes. Always call the police after an accident, no matter how minor it seems. The police report will be critical evidence in your case. In Texas, you’re required to report any accident that results in injury, death, or property damage over $1,000.
3. Should I seek medical attention if I don’t feel hurt?
Absolutely. Many serious injuries, like traumatic brain injuries or internal bleeding, don’t show symptoms immediately. Adrenaline can mask pain, so you may not feel the full extent of your injuries until days or even weeks later. Seeing a doctor right away also creates a record of your injuries, which is important for your claim.
4. What information should I collect at the scene?
Collect the following information:
- The other driver’s name, phone number, address, and driver’s license number.
- The other driver’s insurance company and policy number.
- The make, model, color, and license plate number of the other vehicle.
- Names and contact information of any witnesses.
- Photos of the scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries.
- The name and badge number of the responding police officer.
5. Should I talk to the other driver or admit fault?
Exchange information, but do not discuss fault or apologize. Anything you say can be used against you later. Stick to the facts and avoid giving your opinion on what happened.
6. How do I obtain a copy of the accident report?
In Bartlett, you can obtain a copy of the police report from the Bartlett Police Department or through the Texas Department of Transportation’s Crash Records Information System (CRIS).
7. Should I give a recorded statement to insurance?
No. You are not required to give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance company. Politely decline and say, “I need to speak with my attorney first.” Even your own insurance company may try to use your statement against you, so it’s best to have an attorney present.
8. What if the other driver’s insurance contacts me?
Refer them to your attorney. Say something like, “My attorney will be in touch with you.” Do not discuss your injuries, the accident, or your case with them.
9. Do I have to accept the insurance company’s estimate?
No. Insurance companies often lowball their initial estimates. Their goal is to pay you as little as possible. We’ll fight for a fair settlement that covers all your damages.
10. Should I accept a quick settlement offer?
Never accept a settlement offer before you know the full extent of your injuries. Early offers are almost always too low and may not cover future medical expenses. Once you sign a release, you can’t go back for more money—even if you need surgery later.
11. What if the other driver is uninsured or underinsured?
If the other driver doesn’t have insurance or doesn’t have enough coverage, your own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage can compensate you. Texas allows inter-policy stacking, which means you can combine coverage from multiple policies. Watch our video on UM/UIM claims here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kWcNFyb-Yq8.
12. Why does insurance want me to sign a medical authorization?
Insurance companies ask for broad medical authorizations so they can dig through your entire medical history for pre-existing conditions to use against you. Never sign a medical authorization without consulting an attorney first.
13. Do I have a personal injury case?
You may have a case if:
- Someone else was at fault (even partially).
- You suffered injuries or damages.
- There is insurance coverage to recover from.
Watch our video “Do I Have a Good Case?” here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j-PMMP5Jims.
14. When should I hire a car accident lawyer?
Immediately. Evidence disappears daily, and insurance companies start building their defense against you from day one. The sooner you call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911, the sooner we can start preserving evidence and protecting your rights.
15. How much time do I have to file a lawsuit (statute of limitations)?
In Texas, you have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. If you miss this deadline, your case will be barred forever. For wrongful death claims, the deadline is 2 years from the date of death.
16. What is comparative negligence, and how does it affect me?
Texas uses a modified comparative negligence rule. If you’re found to be 50% or less at fault for the accident, you can still recover damages—but your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. If you’re found to be 51% or more at fault, you can’t recover anything.
For example:
- If you’re 20% at fault for an accident with $100,000 in damages, you can recover $80,000.
- If you’re 51% at fault, you recover nothing.
Insurance companies often try to shift blame onto victims to reduce their payouts. Lupe Peña, our former insurance defense attorney, knows how to counter these arguments.
17. Will my case go to trial?
Most car accident cases settle out of court. However, we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This approach gives us leverage in negotiations and forces insurance companies to take our demands seriously. Watch our video “Will Your Case Go to Trial?” here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Ed5AnmCMcc.
18. How long will my case take to settle?
The timeline depends on the severity of your injuries and the complexity of your case. We don’t settle until you’ve reached maximum medical improvement (MMI), which could take 6 months to 2 years or more. We won’t rush your case—we’ll fight for the full compensation you deserve.
19. What is the legal process step-by-step?
- Investigation – We gather evidence and build your case.
- Medical treatment – You continue treating until you reach MMI.
- Demand letter – We send a demand letter to the insurance company.
- Negotiation – We negotiate with the insurance company for a fair settlement.
- Lawsuit (if necessary) – If negotiations fail, we file a lawsuit.
- Discovery – Both sides exchange evidence and take depositions.
- Mediation – We attempt to settle the case through mediation.
- Trial (if necessary) – If we can’t reach a settlement, we take your case to trial.
Watch our video “What Is the Process for a Personal Injury Claim?” here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XwzYymneDVs.
20. What types of damages can I recover?
You may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses (past and future).
- Lost wages and lost earning capacity.
- Pain and suffering.
- Mental anguish and emotional distress.
- Physical impairment or disability.
- Disfigurement (scarring, permanent injuries).
- Loss of enjoyment of life.
- Property damage.
- Punitive damages (in cases of gross negligence, like drunk driving).
21. 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 damages (except in medical malpractice cases).
22. What if I have a pre-existing condition?
You can still recover compensation if the accident aggravated or worsened your pre-existing condition. This is known as the “eggshell plaintiff” rule—defendants take victims as they find them. We’ll work with medical experts to prove the difference between your condition before and after the accident.
23. Will I have to pay taxes on my settlement?
Generally, compensation for physical injuries is not taxable. However, punitive damages and compensation for emotional distress (without physical injury) may be taxable. Consult a tax professional for specific advice.
24. How is the value of my claim determined?
The value of your claim is determined by:
- The severity of your injuries.
- The cost of your medical treatment (past and future).
- Your lost wages and lost earning capacity.
- The impact of your injuries on your daily life.
- The strength of the evidence in your case.
- The insurance coverage available.
25. How much do car accident lawyers cost?
At Attorney911, we work on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay nothing upfront, and we only get paid if we recover compensation for you. Our fee is a percentage of your recovery, typically 33.33% before trial and 40% if the case goes to trial. Watch our video “How Do Contingency Fees Work?” here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc.
26. What does “no fee unless we win” mean?
It means you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. If we don’t win your case, you owe us nothing. There’s no risk to you—just the promise that we’ll fight tirelessly for your rights.
27. How often will I get updates on my case?
At Attorney911, we provide regular updates on your case. As client Dame Haskett said:
“Consistent communication and not one time did I call and not get a clear answer.”
We believe in transparency and keeping you informed every step of the way.
28. Who will actually handle my case?
At Attorney911, you work directly with Ralph Manginello, Lupe Peña, or one of our experienced attorneys—not just paralegals or case managers. As client Chad Harris shared:
“You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client…You are FAMILY to them.”
29. What if I already hired another attorney?
You can switch attorneys at any time. If your current attorney isn’t communicating with you or fighting for your best interests, you have the right to hire a new one. We’ve taken over many cases from other attorneys and achieved great results for our clients. As Greg Garcia said:
“In the beginning, I had another attorney, but he dropped my case. Although Mangiello Law Firm was able to help me out.”
30. What if the insurance company is my own insurance (UM/UIM claim)?
Uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) claims are made against your own insurance when the other driver doesn’t have enough coverage. Unfortunately, your own insurance company will fight your claim just as hard as the other driver’s insurance would. You need an attorney to represent you in these cases. Lupe Peña’s insurance defense background is especially valuable in UM/UIM claims.
31. How do you calculate pain and suffering?
Most insurance companies use a multiplier method to calculate pain and suffering. They multiply your medical expenses by a number (usually between 1.5 and 5) based on the severity of your injuries. For example:
- $10,000 in medical expenses × 3 (moderate injury) = $30,000 for pain and suffering.
The multiplier depends on factors like:
- The severity of your injuries.
- Whether your injuries are permanent.
- The impact on your daily life.
- The clarity of liability (who was at fault).
Lupe Peña, our former insurance defense attorney, knows how insurance companies calculate these multipliers—and how to justify higher multipliers for our clients.
32. What if the other driver fled the scene (hit and run)?
If the other driver fled the scene, your uninsured motorist (UM) coverage can compensate you. We’ll also investigate to identify the at-fault driver, if possible. Surveillance footage from nearby businesses is critical in hit-and-run cases, as it’s typically deleted within 7-30 days. We send preservation letters immediately to secure this evidence.
33. What if I was a passenger in the at-fault vehicle?
If you were a passenger in the at-fault vehicle, you can still pursue a claim against the driver’s insurance. You’re an innocent victim, and the driver’s insurance should cover your injuries. These cases often settle quickly because liability is clear.
34. What if the accident happened in a parking lot?
Parking lot accidents are fully compensable. Insurance companies often try to argue that parking lot accidents are always 50/50 fault, but this is not true. We’ll investigate the accident and prove fault through surveillance video, witness statements, and damage analysis.
35. What if I’m an undocumented immigrant—can I still file a claim?
Yes. Your immigration status does not affect your right to compensation for your injuries. You’re entitled to full recovery regardless of your immigration status. Your case is confidential, and we’ve successfully represented clients of all immigration statuses. Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish, and our team includes bilingual staff members like Zulema.
36. What if the other driver died in the accident?
You can still pursue a claim against the deceased driver’s estate and their insurance company. The driver’s death doesn’t eliminate their liability. Their insurance policy will still cover your damages.
37. Can I switch attorneys if I’m unhappy with my current lawyer?
Yes. You can fire your attorney at any time if you’re unhappy with their representation. If your attorney isn’t communicating with you, isn’t fighting for you, or is pushing you to settle for less than you deserve, you have the right to switch. We’ve taken over many cases from other attorneys and achieved great results for our clients.
38. What if I was hit by a government vehicle (city bus, police car, etc.)?
Government claims have special rules. You must file a notice of claim within 6 months of the accident (much shorter than the 2-year statute of limitations for most personal injury claims). Government entities also have sovereign immunity, which can limit your recovery. These cases are complex, and you need an experienced attorney to navigate them.

