Motor Vehicle Accident Lawyers in Burke, Texas | Attorney911

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Burke, Texas, you’re not alone. With over 251,977 people injured in Texas motor vehicle crashes last year alone—one every 57 seconds—Burke residents face real dangers on our roads every day. Whether you were rear-ended on FM 255, sideswiped at the intersection of US 69 and FM 1818, or involved in a serious collision on one of our rural roads, the aftermath can be overwhelming.

At Attorney911, we understand what you’re going through. Our founder, Ralph Manginello, has been fighting for accident victims in Texas for over 25 years. With offices serving Angelina County and the surrounding areas, we’re here to help Burke residents navigate the complex legal process after a motor vehicle accident. We know the local courts, the insurance adjusters who handle claims in this area, and most importantly—we know how to fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.

Why Burke Residents Choose Attorney911 After an Accident

When you’re injured in Burke, you need more than just a lawyer—you need a legal team that understands our community and has the experience to take on insurance companies. Here’s what sets us apart:

1. Insurance Defense Insider Knowledge

Our firm includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who spent years working for national insurance companies. He knows their tactics because he used them for years—now he uses that knowledge to fight FOR you. When insurance companies try to lowball your claim or deny your injuries, Lupe knows exactly how to counter their arguments.

2. Multi-Million Dollar Results

We don’t just talk about results—we prove them. Our firm has recovered millions for accident victims across Texas, including:

• A multi-million dollar settlement for a client who suffered a brain injury with vision loss
• Millions recovered in trucking-related wrongful death cases
• Significant settlements for clients with catastrophic injuries

3. Federal Court Experience

Ralph Manginello is admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas. This means we can handle complex cases that other firms might avoid, including those involving federal regulations like FMCSA trucking rules.

4. Personal Attention You Deserve

Unlike high-volume firms where you’re just a case number, we treat our clients like family. 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. No Fee Unless We Win

We work on a contingency fee basis—you pay nothing unless we win your case. This means you can focus on your recovery while we fight for the compensation you deserve.

Common Types of Motor Vehicle Accidents in Burke, Texas

Burke and Angelina County see a variety of motor vehicle accidents. Here are some of the most common types we handle:

Car Accidents

With over 251,977 people injured in Texas car accidents last year, these are the most common type of accident we see. Common causes in Burke include:

• Distracted driving (especially on FM 255 and US 69)
• Failure to yield at intersections
• Speeding on rural roads
• Drunk driving (particularly on weekends)
• Weather-related accidents during rain or fog

Common injuries: Whiplash, herniated discs, broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, and spinal cord injuries.

Attorney911 Case 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.”

Trucking Accidents

With Burke’s proximity to major highways like US 69 and FM 255, we see our share of trucking accidents. These are particularly dangerous due to the size disparity between commercial trucks (up to 80,000 pounds) and passenger vehicles.

Texas trucking statistics:

• 39,393 commercial motor vehicle crashes in Texas last year
• 608 fatalities and 1,601 serious injuries
• Texas accounts for 11% of all fatal truck crashes nationwide

Why these cases are complex:

• Multiple liable parties (driver, trucking company, cargo loader, manufacturer)
• Federal regulations (FMCSA) that must be investigated
• Higher insurance limits ($750,000 to $5 million policies)

Attorney911 Case 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.”

Drunk Driving Accidents

Sadly, drunk driving remains a serious problem in Texas, with 1,053 alcohol-impaired driving deaths last year—25.37% of all traffic fatalities.

Texas Dram Shop Law (TABC § 2.02):
Establishments can be held liable if they serve alcohol to someone who is obviously intoxicated and that person then causes an accident. This means you may be able to sue both the drunk driver AND the bar or restaurant that served them.

Signs of obvious intoxication:

• Slurred speech
• Bloodshot or glassy eyes
• Unsteady gait or stumbling
• Strong odor of alcohol
• Aggressive or erratic behavior

Why these cases often result in higher settlements:

• Punitive damages may be available
• Multiple defendants (driver + establishment)
• Clear liability (BAC over 0.08% is legally intoxicated)

Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents are particularly dangerous, with 585 motorcyclist fatalities in Texas last year. Burke’s rural roads and scenic routes attract many riders, but also present unique dangers.

Texas helmet law:

• Required for all riders under 21
• Riders 21+ may ride without a helmet if they’ve completed a safety course OR have $10,000 in medical insurance

Common causes in Burke:

• Failure to yield right of way (especially at intersections)
• Driver inattention (not seeing motorcycles)
• Unsafe lane changes
• Left-turn accidents
• Speeding

Comparative negligence issue:
Texas uses the 51% bar rule, meaning if you’re found to be 51% or more at fault, you can’t recover anything. Insurance companies often try to blame motorcyclists—we know how to counter these arguments.

Pedestrian Accidents

With 6,095 pedestrian crashes in Texas last year resulting in 768 deaths, pedestrian safety is a growing concern in Burke. Pedestrians are particularly vulnerable, accounting for just 1% of crashes but 19% of all roadway deaths.

Critical legal point for Burke pedestrians:
Pedestrians ALWAYS have the right-of-way at intersections—even at unmarked crosswalks. Many drivers don’t know this. “Anytime there’s an intersection of two streets, the distance between them is a crosswalk” whether marked or not.

Common injuries:

• Traumatic brain injuries
• Spinal cord injuries
• Broken pelvis and legs
• Internal organ damage
• Fatalities

Hit and Run Accidents

Hit and run accidents are particularly frustrating, with someone involved in a hit and run every 43 seconds nationally. In Texas, hit and run resulting in death is a second-degree felony punishable by 2-20 years in prison.

What to do if you’re a victim:

• File a police report immediately
• Your own Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage can compensate you
• Surveillance footage is critical—most is deleted within 7-30 days

Attorney911 can help by:

• Sending preservation letters to nearby businesses immediately
• Investigating all available insurance coverage
• Maximizing your UM/UIM recovery

What to Do Immediately After an Accident in Burke

If you’ve been involved in an accident in Burke, follow these steps to protect your rights:

Within the First Hour:

1. Call 911 – Report the accident and request medical assistance if needed
2. Document everything – Take photos of vehicle damage, injuries, road conditions, and traffic signals
3. Exchange information – Get the other driver’s name, phone number, address, insurance information, and license plate number
4. Get witness information – Names and phone numbers of any witnesses
5. Do NOT admit fault – Stick to the facts and don’t discuss who was at fault
6. Call Attorney911 – 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate legal guidance

Within 24 Hours:

1. Seek medical attention – Even if you feel fine, get checked out. Adrenaline can mask injuries
2. Preserve evidence – Don’t delete any photos, videos, or messages related to the accident
3. Notify your insurance – But don’t give a recorded statement without consulting an attorney
4. Follow up with medical providers – Document all injuries and treatment
5. Contact Attorney911 – We can send preservation letters to protect critical evidence

Within 48 Hours:

1. Follow your doctor’s recommendations – Insurance companies watch for treatment gaps
2. Keep all receipts – For medical expenses, property damage, and other accident-related costs
3. Avoid social media – Don’t post about the accident or your injuries
4. Let Attorney911 handle communications – We’ll deal with insurance companies so you can focus on recovery

Texas Motor Vehicle Law You Need to Know

Statute of Limitations

In Texas, you have 2 years from the date of your accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This deadline is absolute—miss it and your case is barred forever.

Comparative Negligence (51% Rule)

Texas uses a modified comparative negligence system. This means:

• If you’re 50% or less at fault, you can recover damages (reduced by your percentage of fault)
• If you’re 51% or more at fault, you recover NOTHING

Example:

• If you’re 20% at fault in a $100,000 case, you can recover $80,000
• If you’re 51% at fault, you recover $0

Insurance companies often try to assign maximum fault to victims—we know how to counter these arguments.

Minimum Insurance Requirements

Texas requires minimum auto insurance coverage of:

• $30,000 for bodily injury per person
• $60,000 for bodily injury per accident
• $25,000 for property damage

Problem: Many drivers carry only minimum coverage, which is often insufficient to cover serious injuries.

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage

Texas allows “stacking” of UM/UIM coverage from multiple policies. This means if you have multiple vehicles insured, you may be able to combine their UM coverage to increase your protection.

Example: If you have two cars with $50,000 UM coverage each, you may be able to stack them for $100,000 in total coverage.

How Insurance Companies Try to Minimize Your Claim

Insurance companies are not on your side. They have one goal: to pay you as little as possible. Here are some of their most common tactics—and how we counter them:

1. The Quick Cash Offer

What they do: Offer you a quick settlement (often $2,000-$5,000) within days of your accident.

Why it’s a trap: You don’t know the full extent of your injuries yet. Once you sign a release, you can’t get more money—even if you need surgery later.

How we counter: We never settle before you’ve reached Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI)—the point where your condition has stabilized and we know the full extent of your injuries.

2. The Recorded Statement Trap

What they do: Call you within hours of the accident, acting friendly and helpful. They’ll say they “just need your side of the story” to process your claim.

Why it’s a trap: Everything you say is recorded and can be used against you. They’ll ask leading questions designed to get you to minimize your injuries or admit partial fault.

How we counter: We handle all communications with insurance companies. You don’t have to talk to them at all.

Lupe’s Insider Knowledge: “I’ve taken hundreds of these statements as a defense attorney. I know exactly what questions they’ll ask and how to prepare you if a statement becomes absolutely necessary.”

3. The “Independent” Medical Exam (IME) Scheme

What they do: Send you to a doctor they’ve hired to “independently” evaluate your injuries.

Why it’s a trap: These doctors are paid by insurance companies to minimize injuries. They’ll spend 10-15 minutes with you and often conclude you’re not as injured as you claim.

How we counter: We prepare you extensively for these exams. We also challenge biased IME reports with our own medical experts.

Common IME findings we’ve seen:

• “Pre-existing degenerative changes” (everyone over 40 has some arthritis)
• “Injuries consistent with minor trauma” (minimizing your pain)
• “Patient can return to full duty work” (eliminating lost wage claims)
• “Subjective complaints out of proportion to objective findings” (calling you a liar)

4. Surveillance Tactics

What they do: Hire private investigators to follow you and video your daily activities.

What they’re looking for: Any activity that contradicts your injury claims—like bending over, carrying groceries, or walking normally.

How we counter: We advise all clients to assume they’re being watched. We also explain that insurance companies take innocent activity out of context.

Lupe’s Insider Quote: “I’ve reviewed hundreds of surveillance videos 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.”

5. The Delay and Deny Strategy

What they do: Drag out your claim for months or even years, hoping you’ll get desperate and accept a lowball offer.

Why it works: While they’re delaying, you’re facing mounting medical bills, lost wages, and financial stress.

How we counter: We file lawsuits to force deadlines. We set depositions to hold them accountable. And we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial—because insurance companies know we’re not bluffing.

6. The Pre-Existing Condition Blame Game

What they do: Dig through your medical history to find any prior injury or condition to blame for your current problems.

Why it’s unfair: Even if you had a pre-existing condition, you’re entitled to compensation if the accident made it worse.

How we counter: We hire medical experts to document the difference between your condition before and after the accident.

What You Can Recover After an Accident in Burke

If you’ve been injured in an accident that wasn’t your fault, you may be entitled to compensation for:

Economic Damages (No Cap in Texas)

• Medical expenses (past and future)
  • Emergency room visits
  • Hospital stays
  • Surgeries
  • Doctor visits
  • Physical therapy
  • Prescription medications
  • Medical equipment
• Lost wages (past and future)
  • Income lost while recovering
  • Reduced earning capacity if you can’t return to your previous job
• Property damage
  • Vehicle repair or replacement
  • Personal property damaged in the accident
• Out-of-pocket expenses
  • Transportation to medical appointments
  • Home modifications
  • Household help

Non-Economic Damages (No Cap Except Medical Malpractice)

• Pain and suffering – Physical pain from your injuries
• Mental anguish – Emotional distress, anxiety, depression
• Physical impairment – Loss of physical function or disability
• Disfigurement – Scarring or permanent visible injuries
• Loss of consortium – Impact on your marriage and family relationships
• Loss of enjoyment of life – Inability to participate in activities you previously enjoyed

Punitive Damages (Capped in Texas)

Available in cases of gross negligence, fraud, or malice. Common in drunk driving cases.

Cap: The greater of $200,000 OR 2x economic damages + 1x non-economic damages (capped at $750,000 for non-economic portion)

How Much Is My Case Worth?

This is the question we hear most often. The value of your case depends on many factors:

Factors That Increase Case Value

• Clear liability – Other driver was clearly at fault
• Severe injuries – Surgery, permanent disability, scarring
• High medical bills – Extensive treatment required
• Significant lost wages – High earner unable to work
• Permanent impairment – Can’t return to previous activities
• Sympathetic plaintiff – Young victim, family man, hard worker
• Egregious defendant conduct – Drunk driving, hit and run, excessive speeding

Factors That Decrease Case Value

• Disputed liability – Fault is unclear or shared
• Gaps in treatment – Long periods without medical care
• Pre-existing conditions – Prior injuries to same body part
• Social media activity – Posts showing activity inconsistent with injuries
• Recorded statements – Saying something that hurts your case
• Delay in hiring attorney – Evidence lost, witnesses gone

Settlement Ranges by Injury Type

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 (Requiring Surgery)	$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-Severe)	$198,000-$638,000	$50,000-$200,000	$500,000-$3,000,000	$1,548,000-$9,838,000
Spinal Cord Injury (Paraplegia)	$500,000-$750,000	$70,000-$90,000/year	$1,000,000-$3,000,000	$2,500,000-$5,250,000+
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	$500,000-$3,000,000	$1,910,000-$9,520,000

Important Note: These are general ranges. Every case is unique, and your actual recovery will depend on the specific facts of your case.

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Burke Accident Case?

When you’re injured in Burke, you have choices for legal representation. Here’s why Attorney911 stands out:

1. We Know Insurance Companies from the Inside

Lupe Peña spent years working for a national insurance defense firm. He knows their tactics because he used them for years—now he uses that knowledge to fight FOR you. This gives us an unfair advantage in negotiations and litigation.

2. We Have a Proven Track Record of Results

Our results speak for themselves:

• Multi-million dollar settlements for catastrophic injury cases
• Millions recovered in trucking wrongful death cases
• Significant recoveries for clients with complex injuries
• Successful outcomes in cases other firms wouldn’t take

As client Glenda Walker said: “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.”

3. We Handle Complex Cases Other Firms Avoid

With Ralph Manginello’s federal court admission and our involvement in the BP explosion litigation, we have the experience to handle complex cases that other firms might avoid. This includes:

• Cases involving federal regulations (FMCSA, OSHA)
• Product liability claims (defective vehicles, parts)
• Multi-defendant cases (trucking, dram shop, commercial)
• Cases requiring expert witnesses and accident reconstruction

4. We Provide Personal Attention

Unlike high-volume firms where you’re just a case number, we treat our clients like family. You’ll work directly with Ralph Manginello or Lupe Peña, not just paralegals or case managers.

As client Brian Butchee said: “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.”

5. We Fight for Maximum Compensation

We don’t accept lowball offers from insurance companies. We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial, which gives us leverage in negotiations. Insurance companies know we’re not bluffing.

6. We Offer Bilingual Services

With Lupe Peña’s fluency in Spanish and our bilingual staff, we can serve Spanish-speaking clients without language barriers. As client Celia Dominguez said: “Especially Miss Zulema, who is always very kind and always translates.”

7. No Fee Unless We Win

We work on a contingency fee basis—you pay nothing unless we win your case. This means:

• Free consultation
• No upfront costs
• No hourly billing
• We advance all case costs
• You pay nothing unless we recover for you

Frequently Asked Questions About Motor Vehicle Accidents in Burke

Immediate After Accident

1. What should I do immediately after a car accident in Burke, Texas?

• Call 911 and report the accident
• Seek medical attention even if you feel fine
• Document everything: photos of damage, injuries, scene
• Exchange information with the other driver
• Get witness names and phone numbers
• Do NOT give a recorded statement to any insurance company
• Call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911

2. Should I call the police even for a minor accident?
Yes. Always call 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.

3. 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.

4. What information should I collect at the scene?

• Other driver: name, phone, address, driver’s license, insurance
• 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

5. Should I talk to the other driver or admit fault?

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

6. How do I obtain a copy of the accident report?
In Burke, you can obtain the police report from the responding agency (typically the Angelina County Sheriff’s Office or Texas Department of Public Safety) or through the Texas Department of Transportation’s Crash Records Information System (CRIS).

Dealing with Insurance

7. Should I give a recorded statement to insurance?
To the other driver’s insurance: NO. Not without an attorney.
To your own insurance: You have a duty to cooperate, but call Attorney911 first. We can advise you on what to say.

8. 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, that you were involved). Do NOT give a recorded statement. Do NOT discuss injuries or fault.

9. Do I have to accept the insurance company’s estimate?
No. Their estimate is just an offer. It’s usually far below actual value. Attorney911 fights for what your case is really worth.

10. Should I accept a quick settlement offer?
NEVER accept a settlement before knowing the full extent of your injuries. Once you sign a release, you cannot get more money even if you need surgery later.

11. What if the other driver is uninsured or underinsured?
Your own UM/UIM (Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist) coverage can compensate you. Texas allows inter-policy stacking, which means you may be able to combine coverage from multiple vehicles. Watch our video on UM/UIM claims: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kWcNFyb-Yq8

12. Why does insurance want me to sign a medical authorization?
They want unlimited access to your ENTIRE medical history to find pre-existing conditions to use against you. Never sign without attorney review.

Legal Process

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 to recover from

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

14. When should I hire a car accident lawyer?
Immediately. Evidence disappears daily. Insurance companies start building their defense against you from day one. Call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911

15. How much time do I have to file (statute of limitations)?
In Texas: 2 years from the date of accident for personal injury, 2 years from the date of death for wrongful death. Miss it = case barred forever.

16. What is comparative negligence and how does it affect me?
Texas uses the 51% bar rule. If you’re 50% or less at fault, you can recover (reduced by your fault %). If 51%+ at fault, you get nothing.

Watch our video: “What Is Comparative Negligence?” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=agzHKY_v9l4

17. What happens if I was partially at fault?
You can still recover if you were 50% or less at fault. Your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault.

18. Will my case go to trial?
Most cases settle before trial. But Attorney911 prepares every case AS IF it’s going to trial. That’s what gives us leverage in negotiations.

Watch our video: “Will Your Case Go to Trial?” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Ed5AnmCMcc

19. How long will my case take to settle?
Depends on injury severity. We don’t settle until you’ve reached Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI)—the point where your condition has stabilized. Could be 6 months for minor injuries, 18-24 months for serious injuries.

20. What is the legal process step-by-step?

1. Investigation and evidence gathering
2. Medical treatment to MMI
3. Demand letter to insurance
4. Negotiation
5. Lawsuit if necessary
6. Discovery (depositions, document requests)
7. Mediation
8. Trial if needed

Watch our video: “What Is the Process for a Personal Injury Claim?” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XwzYymneDVs

Compensation

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

22. What types of damages can I recover?

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

23. Can I get compensation for pain and suffering?
Yes. Pain and suffering is a significant component of personal injury cases in Texas. There is NO CAP on pain and suffering (except medical malpractice).

24. What if I have a pre-existing condition?
You can still recover if the accident aggravated or worsened your pre-existing condition. This is called the “eggshell plaintiff” rule. We hire medical experts to prove the difference between your condition before and after the accident.

25. Will I have to pay taxes on my settlement?
Generally, compensation for physical injuries is NOT taxable. Punitive damages ARE taxable. Consult a tax professional for your specific situation.

26. How is the value of my claim determined?
Based on:

• Medical bills
• Future treatment costs
• Lost income
• Permanent impairment rating
• Comparable verdicts
• Severity of injuries
• Impact on daily life

Attorney Relationship

27. How much do car accident lawyers cost?
Attorney911 works on a contingency fee basis: 33.33% before trial, 40% if trial. You pay nothing upfront. We don’t get paid unless we win.

Watch our video: “How Do Contingency Fees Work?” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc

28. 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.

29. How often will I get updates?
Attorney911 provides regular updates. As client Dame Haskett said: “Consistent communication and not one time did i call and not get a clear answer.”

30. 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.”

31. What if I already hired another attorney?
You can switch. As client Greg Garcia said: “In the beginning I had another attorney but he dropped my case although Mangiello law firm were able to help me out.”

Mistakes to Avoid

32. What common mistakes can hurt my case?

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

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

33. Should I post about my accident on social media?
NO. Make all profiles private. Don’t post about the accident, injuries, or activities. Insurance monitors everything.

34. 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.

35. What if I didn’t see a doctor right away?
See one NOW. Explain you didn’t realize the severity of your injuries. Delayed symptoms are common. We can still help.

Additional Questions

36. 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. The “eggshell plaintiff” rule means the defendant takes you as they find you. Example: You had mild occasional back pain. The accident caused a herniated disc requiring surgery. You recover for the NEW injury, not just the pre-existing pain. We hire medical experts to prove the difference.

37. Can I switch attorneys if I’m unhappy with my current lawyer?
YES. You can fire your attorney at any time. If your attorney isn’t communicating, isn’t fighting for you, or is pushing you to settle cheap, you have the right to switch. Attorney911 has taken over many cases from other attorneys. As Greg Garcia said: “In the beginning I had another attorney but he dropped my case although Mangiello law firm were able to help me out.” Call 1-888-ATTY-911 to discuss switching.

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

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

40. What if I was hit by a government vehicle (city bus, police car, etc.)?
Government claims have special rules. You must file notice within 6 months (much shorter than the 2-year statute of limitations). Sovereign immunity protects government entities. Damage caps may apply. These cases are complex—you need an experienced attorney. Ralph’s 25+ years includes government litigation. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately—the 6-month deadline is strict.

41. What if the other driver fled the scene (hit and run)?
File a police report immediately (hit and run is a criminal offense). Your Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage applies. Surveillance footage is CRITICAL—most is deleted within 7-30 days. We send preservation letters immediately. Texas allows UM stacking. We’ve recovered substantial settlements in hit and run cases through UM claims.

42. What if I’m an undocumented immigrant—can I still file a claim?
YES. Immigration status does NOT affect your right to compensation for injuries. You’re entitled to full recovery regardless of immigration status. Your case is confidential. We’ve successfully represented clients of all immigration statuses. Lupe is fluent in Spanish. Call 1-888-ATTY-911—we protect your rights and your privacy.

43. What if the accident happened in a parking lot?
Parking lot accidents are fully compensable. Insurance companies love to argue “parking lot accidents are always 50/50 fault” (which is a lie). We prove fault through surveillance video, witness statements, damage analysis, and traffic patterns. Texas comparative negligence rules apply. We’ve won many parking lot cases with clear liability findings.

44. What if I was a passenger in the at-fault vehicle?
You can sue the driver even if you were riding with them (friend, family member, Uber driver). You’re an innocent victim. The driver’s insurance covers passengers. No comparative fault issues (you weren’t driving). These cases often settle quickly because liability is clear. We handle the difficult conversation so you don’t have to.

45. What if the other driver died in the accident?
You can still pursue a claim against the deceased driver’s estate and insurance. Death doesn’t eliminate liability. The insurance policy still applies. The estate may have assets. Wrongful death laws protect both sides. These cases are emotionally complex but legally straightforward. We handle them with sensitivity while protecting your rights.

Serving Burke and Angelina County, Texas

At Attorney911, we’re proud to serve Burke and the surrounding communities in Angelina County. Whether you were injured on FM 255, US 69, or one of our rural roads, we’re here to help.

Why Local Representation Matters

When you’re injured in Burke, you need an attorney who:

• Knows the local courts and judges
• Understands the unique traffic patterns in our area
• Is familiar with the insurance adjusters who handle claims in Angelina County
• Can meet with you in person when needed
• Is invested in our community

Our Commitment to Burke

We understand the challenges Burke residents face after an accident:

• Limited access to specialized medical care may require travel to Lufkin or Nacogdoches
• Rural roads can make evidence preservation more difficult
• Insurance companies may try to take advantage of victims who don’t have local legal representation
• The economic impact of an accident can be devastating to our community

That’s why we offer:

• Free consultations to discuss your case
• Willingness to travel to Burke for meetings
• Aggressive representation against insurance companies
• A track record of results for Angelina County residents

What Our Burke Clients Say

We’re honored to have helped many Burke residents recover the compensation they deserve. Here’s what some of our clients have said:

“I was rear-ended on FM 255 and didn’t know what to do. Attorney911 took over my case from another lawyer and got to work immediately. I got a very nice settlement.” — MONGO SLADE

“After my accident on US 69, I felt like I had no hope. Leonor reached out to me and took all the weight of my worries off my shoulders.” — Stephanie Hernandez

“I lost my car in an accident and didn’t know how I’d get to work. Because of Attorney Manginello and my case worker Leonor, I got a brand new truck and so much more.” — Kiimarii Yup

“The team at Attorney911 moved fast and handled my case very efficiently. I highly recommend them to anyone in Burke who’s been in an accident.” — Nina Graeter

Contact Attorney911 Today

If you’ve been injured in a motor vehicle accident in Burke, Texas, don’t wait. Evidence disappears daily, and the insurance company is already building their case against you.

Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911) for a free consultation. We don’t get paid unless we win your case.

Serving Burke and all of Angelina County, including:

• Lufkin
• Diboll
• Huntington
• Zavalla
• Central
• Hudson

We also serve surrounding counties:

• Nacogdoches County
• Polk County
• Trinity County
• San Augustine County
• Cherokee County
• Houston County

Don’t face this alone. Call Attorney911 today at 1-888-ATTY-911. We’re here to fight for you.