Motor Vehicle Accidents in Clifton, Texas: Your Complete Legal Guide

If you’ve been injured in a motor vehicle accident in Clifton, Texas, you’re not alone. Clifton and Bosque County see their share of traffic collisions—from car crashes on Highway 6 to trucking accidents on I-35 and drunk driving incidents on local roads. At Attorney911, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll these accidents take on families in our community. With over 25 years of experience helping Texas accident victims, our team is ready to fight for the compensation you deserve.

Why Clifton Drivers Face Unique Risks

Clifton’s location in Central Texas exposes drivers to a mix of rural and interstate traffic patterns that create unique accident risks:

• Highway 6 Corridor: This major route through Clifton sees heavy commuter traffic, increasing the risk of rear-end collisions and distracted driving accidents.
• I-35 Access: While not directly in Clifton, I-35’s proximity means many Clifton residents travel this dangerous interstate, which sees frequent trucking accidents and high-speed crashes.
• Rural Roads: Bosque County’s country roads often lack proper lighting and signage, leading to single-vehicle run-off-road accidents and collisions with wildlife.
• Local Intersections: Clifton’s downtown intersections, particularly along Avenue D and 3rd Street, can be hazardous due to limited visibility and heavy local traffic.
• Tourist Traffic: Clifton’s historic downtown and Czech heritage attract visitors, creating seasonal traffic congestion that increases accident risks.

With one crash occurring every 57 seconds somewhere in Texas, Clifton residents need to be especially vigilant. Our firm has helped countless accident victims across Texas recover from collisions just like yours.

What to Do Immediately After an Accident in Clifton

The moments after a crash are critical. Here’s exactly what to do if you’re involved in an accident in Clifton:

1. Ensure Safety: Move to a safe location if possible, but don’t leave the scene.
2. Call 911: Report the accident to Clifton Police or the Bosque County Sheriff’s Office.
3. Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, get checked at Goodall-Witcher Hospital in Clifton or Hill Regional Hospital in Hillsboro. Adrenaline can mask serious injuries.
4. Document Everything:
   • Take photos of vehicle damage, injuries, and the accident scene
   • Get contact information from witnesses
   • Note road conditions, weather, and traffic signals
5. Exchange Information: Get the other driver’s name, insurance details, and vehicle information.
6. Don’t Admit Fault: Stick to the facts when speaking with police and other parties.
7. Call Attorney911: Before speaking to any insurance company, call 1-888-ATTY-911. Our legal emergency line is available 24/7.

Clifton’s Most Common Accident Types

Car Accidents (Tier 1 – 700 words)

Car accidents are the most common type of collision in Clifton and across Bosque County. In 2024 alone, Texas saw 251,977 people injured in motor vehicle crashes—one every 57 seconds. Clifton’s mix of rural roads and highway traffic creates dangerous conditions that lead to:

• Rear-end collisions on Highway 6 during rush hour
• Intersection accidents at Avenue D and 3rd Street
• Single-vehicle run-off-road accidents on rural routes
• Distracted driving crashes involving cell phone use

Common Injuries:

• Whiplash and soft tissue injuries
• Herniated discs from sudden impacts
• Broken bones and fractures
• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
• Spinal cord injuries
• Internal organ damage

Why These Injuries Are Often Undervalued:
Insurance companies frequently minimize soft tissue injuries like whiplash, claiming they’re “not serious.” However, we’ve seen cases where initial whiplash symptoms developed into chronic pain requiring years of treatment. In one 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—not the $50,000 the insurance company initially offered.

Clifton-Specific Factors:

• Limited emergency response times in rural areas
• Delayed medical treatment due to distance from major hospitals
• Higher rates of uninsured motorists in Bosque County
• Difficulty obtaining witness statements in sparsely populated areas

What Makes Attorney911 Different:
With 25+ years of experience, Ralph Manginello has handled countless car accident cases in Texas courtrooms. Our firm’s insurance defense background—led by former insurance attorney Lupe Peña—gives us unique insight into how insurance companies evaluate claims. We know their tactics because we used them, and now we use that knowledge to fight for our clients.

“I was rear-ended and the team got right to work. They handled everything from the insurance company to getting me the medical care I needed. I also got a very nice settlement.” – MONGO SLADE

If you’ve been injured in a Clifton car accident, call 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We don’t get paid unless we win your case.

Trucking Accidents (Tier 1 – 700 words)

Trucking accidents are particularly devastating due to the size and weight disparity between commercial vehicles and passenger cars. In Texas, we see 39,393 commercial motor vehicle crashes annually, resulting in 608 fatalities and 1,601 serious injuries. Clifton’s proximity to I-35 means our community is exposed to these dangerous collisions.

Why Trucking Accidents Are More Complex:

• Multiple liable parties (driver, trucking company, cargo loader, manufacturer)
• Federal regulations (FMCSA) that create legal standards
• Higher insurance limits ($750,000 to $5 million policies)
• More severe injuries due to collision forces

Common Causes in Clifton Area:

• Driver fatigue from long hauls on I-35
• Improperly secured loads on local delivery routes
• Equipment failures on older commercial vehicles
• Distracted driving by truckers using dispatch devices
• Poorly maintained vehicles from local trucking companies

Federal Regulations That Matter:

• Hours of Service (HOS): Drivers limited to 11 hours driving after 10 consecutive hours off-duty
• Electronic Logging Devices (ELD): Mandatory since 2019, these record driving time and can prove violations
• Drug and Alcohol Testing: Required pre-employment, randomly, and after accidents
• Vehicle Maintenance: Companies must maintain systematic inspection programs

Why These Cases Often Settle for Millions:
In one notable case, our firm helped a family recover millions after a trucking-related wrongful death. Trucking companies carry substantial insurance policies, and violations of federal regulations can establish negligence per se—automatic proof of negligence.

Clifton-Specific Considerations:

• Limited access to Level I trauma centers (nearest is in Waco or Fort Worth)
• Challenges preserving evidence from rural accident scenes
• Local trucking companies that may lack proper insurance coverage
• Difficulty obtaining witness statements in sparsely populated areas

Attorney911’s Unique Advantage:
Ralph Manginello’s admission to federal court (Southern District of Texas) is crucial for trucking cases, as FMCSA violations often lead to federal jurisdiction. Our firm’s involvement in BP explosion litigation demonstrates our capability to handle complex cases against large corporations.

“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.” – Firm Case Result

If you’ve been injured in a trucking accident near Clifton, call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately. Evidence like ELD data can be overwritten in as little as 30 days.

Drunk Driving Accidents (Tier 1 – 700 words)

Drunk driving remains a significant problem in Texas, with 1,053 alcohol-impaired driving deaths in 2024—25.37% of all traffic fatalities. Clifton and Bosque County are not immune to this preventable tragedy. These accidents often occur:

• On weekend nights along Highway 6
• After local events and festivals in Clifton
• During holiday periods when alcohol consumption increases
• Involving underage drivers from local high schools

Texas Dram Shop Law (TABC § 2.02):
Texas allows victims to sue establishments that serve alcohol to obviously intoxicated individuals. This means bars, restaurants, and even social hosts can be held liable if:

1. They served alcohol to someone who was obviously intoxicated
2. The over-service was the proximate cause of the 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

Why These Cases Often Settle for More:
Drunk driving cases frequently involve punitive damages—additional compensation meant to punish the defendant and deter similar behavior. Texas law allows punitive damages when there’s clear and convincing evidence of gross negligence.

Attorney911’s Criminal Defense Advantage:
Ralph Manginello’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) gives our firm unique capability in drunk driving cases. We understand both the criminal and civil aspects of these claims, which is critical when dealing with:

• Breathalyzer machine reliability
• Field sobriety test accuracy
• Blood alcohol content (BAC) analysis
• Police report discrepancies

Real Results in Drunk Driving Cases:
Our firm has achieved notable successes in drunk driving cases, including:

• A DWI case dismissed when we proved the breathalyzer machine was improperly maintained
• Another DWI dismissal when EMS notes and hospital records were missing
• A third DWI dismissal when video evidence showed our client wasn’t drunk

These criminal defense victories demonstrate our investigation skills, which directly benefit our civil drunk driving cases.

“Ralph Manginello took his bogus case and had it dismissed within a WEEK! I have been trying for over 2 years.” – Beth Bonds

If you’ve been injured by a drunk driver in Clifton, call 1-888-ATTY-911. We investigate every angle, including potential dram shop liability.

Motorcycle Accidents (Tier 2 – 400 words)

Motorcycle accidents are particularly devastating due to the lack of protection for riders. In 2024, Texas saw 585 motorcyclist fatalities, with 37% of those killed not wearing helmets. Clifton’s scenic routes attract riders, but also expose them to significant risks.

Clifton-Specific Risks:

• Rural roads with poor lighting and uneven surfaces
• Wildlife crossings that surprise riders
• Drivers unfamiliar with sharing the road with motorcycles
• Limited access to trauma centers for injured riders

Texas Helmet Law:

• Riders under 21 must wear helmets
• Riders 21+ can ride without helmets if they’ve completed a safety course OR have $10,000+ in medical insurance

Common Causes in Clifton:

• Drivers failing to yield right-of-way at intersections
• Distracted drivers not seeing motorcycles
• Unsafe lane changes by other vehicles
• Left-turn accidents at local intersections
• Speeding on rural roads

Why Insurance Companies Blame Motorcyclists:
Texas’ 51% comparative fault rule means insurance companies will aggressively try to assign fault to the motorcyclist. Even if you’re only 25% at fault, your compensation is reduced by that percentage.

Attorney911’s Advantage:
Lupe Peña’s insurance defense background gives us unique insight into how insurance companies evaluate motorcycle claims. He knows the arguments they use to minimize claims, and now uses that knowledge to fight for our clients.

“Leonor got me into the doctor the same day. She handled everything with the insurance company. It only took 6 months amazing.” – Chavodrian Miles

If you’ve been injured in a Clifton motorcycle accident, call 1-888-ATTY-911. We know how to counter the insurance company’s comparative fault arguments.

Pedestrian Accidents (Tier 2 – 400 words)

Pedestrian accidents are particularly devastating, with victims often suffering catastrophic injuries. In 2024, Texas saw 6,095 pedestrian crashes resulting in 768 fatalities. Clifton’s downtown area and local crosswalks present risks for pedestrians.

Critical Legal Point:
Pedestrians ALWAYS have the right-of-way at intersections in Texas—even at unmarked crosswalks. Many drivers don’t know this law, and insurance companies won’t tell you.

Common Clifton Scenarios:

• Drivers failing to yield at downtown crosswalks
• Pedestrians struck while walking along Highway 6
• Children hit near local schools
• Tourists unfamiliar with local traffic patterns

Common Injuries:

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

Why These Cases Are Challenging:

• Limited physical evidence (no vehicle damage to assess)
• Witnesses may be unreliable or unavailable
• Insurance companies often blame the pedestrian for “not being visible”

Attorney911’s Approach:
We conduct thorough investigations, including:

• Accident reconstruction to prove driver negligence
• Surveillance footage from local businesses
• Witness interviews to establish the pedestrian’s right-of-way
• Medical expert testimony to document injuries

If you’ve been struck by a vehicle in Clifton, call 1-888-ATTY-911. We know how to prove the driver’s fault and fight for maximum compensation.

Hit and Run Accidents (Tier 2 – 400 words)

Hit and run accidents are particularly frustrating, leaving victims injured and unsure how to recover compensation. Nationally, someone is involved in a hit and run every 43 seconds. Clifton’s rural roads make these accidents more likely to go unsolved.

Texas Penalties for Hit and Run:

• Death: 2nd degree felony (2-20 years prison)
• Serious bodily injury: 3rd degree felony (2-10 years)
• Minor injury: State jail felony (up to 5 years)
• Property damage: Class B misdemeanor (up to 6 months)

Your Recovery Options:
Even if the at-fault driver isn’t identified, you may still recover compensation through:

• Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage: Your own policy pays for your injuries
• Underinsured Motorist (UIM) Coverage: If the at-fault driver is found but has insufficient coverage
• Personal Injury Protection (PIP): Covers medical expenses regardless of fault

Why Time is Critical:

• Surveillance footage from local businesses is typically deleted within 7-30 days
• Witness memories fade quickly
• Physical evidence at the scene disappears

Attorney911’s Immediate Action:
When you call 1-888-ATTY-911, we immediately:

• Send preservation letters to local businesses to save surveillance footage
• Work with law enforcement to identify the at-fault driver
• File UM/UIM claims with your insurance company
• Begin investigating the accident scene

“One company said they would not except my case. Then I got a call from Manginello…I got a call to come pick up this handsome check.” – Donald Wilcox

If you’ve been the victim of a hit and run in Clifton, call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately. Evidence disappears every day.

The 48-Hour Evidence Preservation Protocol

Evidence disappears quickly after an accident. Here’s what Attorney911 does within 48 hours of being retained:

Hour 1-6: Immediate Crisis Response

• Send preservation letters to all parties (other driver, trucking companies, businesses)
• Secure accident scene photographs before changes occur
• Obtain witness statements while memories are fresh
• Preserve any available surveillance footage

Hour 6-24: Evidence Collection

• Canvas the accident scene for additional cameras
• Order police reports and 911 call recordings
• Begin accident reconstruction analysis
• Preserve vehicle damage evidence

Hour 24-48: Strategic Preservation

• Send preservation letters to businesses near the scene
• Secure ELD/black box data from commercial vehicles
• Preserve cell phone records
• Begin medical record collection

Critical Timeline:

• 7-14 days: Gas station surveillance footage typically deleted
• 30 days: Traffic camera footage and most business surveillance deleted
• 30-180 days: ELD/black box data from trucks can be overwritten
• 2 years: Statute of limitations deadline

Texas Motor Vehicle Law: What Clifton Victims Need to Know

Statute of Limitations

• 2 years from the date of accident to file a personal injury lawsuit
• 2 years from the date of death for wrongful death claims
• 6 months notice required for government claims

Critical Exception: The “discovery rule” may extend the deadline if injuries weren’t immediately discoverable.

Comparative Negligence (51% Rule)

Texas uses modified comparative negligence:

• 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:

• Your case is worth $100,000
• You’re found 25% at fault
• You recover $75,000 ($100,000 – 25%)

Why This Matters:
Insurance companies will aggressively try to assign you maximum fault. Lupe Peña’s insurance defense background gives us unique insight into their tactics.

Texas Minimum Auto Insurance

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

Uninsured Motorist Statistics:

• 15.4% of Texas drivers are uninsured (about 1 in 7)
• UM/UIM coverage is critical for protection

Proving Liability: How We Build Your Case

To win your case, we must prove four elements of negligence:

1. Duty of Care: The at-fault driver had a legal obligation to operate their vehicle safely
2. Breach of Duty: They violated that duty through action or inaction
3. Causation: The breach directly caused your injuries
4. Damages: You suffered actual harm (physical, financial, emotional)

Evidence We Collect:

• Police accident reports
• Witness statements
• Surveillance footage
• Medical records
• Vehicle damage analysis
• Cell phone records
• Electronic logging device (ELD) data from trucks
• Black box/EDR data from vehicles
• Accident reconstruction reports

Multiple Liable Parties:
In many cases, we can identify multiple defendants, increasing your potential recovery:

• The driver who caused the accident
• The driver’s employer (if they were working)
• The vehicle owner (if different from the driver)
• The vehicle manufacturer (if a defect contributed)
• Government entities (if road defects contributed)

Damages You Can Recover in Clifton

Economic Damages (No Cap in Texas)

• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost wages and earning capacity
• Property damage
• Out-of-pocket expenses (transportation, home modifications)

Non-Economic Damages (No Cap Except Medical Malpractice)

• Pain and suffering
• Mental anguish
• Physical impairment
• Disfigurement
• Loss of consortium
• Loss of enjoyment of life

Punitive 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 capped at $750,000)

Settlement Ranges by Injury Type:

Attorney911 Case Result:

“Multi-million dollar settlement for client who suffered brain injury with vision loss when log dropped on him at logging company.”

Insurance Company Tactics: How They Try to Cheat You

At Attorney911, we know how insurance companies operate because Lupe Peña spent years working for them. Here are the tactics they use—and how we counter them:

Tactic #1: The Quick Cash Trap

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

The Trap: You don’t know the full extent of your injuries yet. If you accept, you can’t get more money later—even if you need surgery.

How We Counter: We never let our clients settle before reaching Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI). This ensures we know the true value of your case.

Tactic #2: The Recorded Statement Trap

What They Do: Call you while you’re still in the hospital or on pain medication, asking for a “quick statement.”

The Trap: They ask leading questions designed to get you to admit fault or minimize your injuries.

How We Counter: We handle all communication with insurance companies. You never talk to them without us.

Tactic #3: The IME Doctor Scam

What They Do: Send you to an “Independent Medical Exam” with a doctor they hire.

The Truth: These doctors are paid by insurance companies to minimize your injuries. They often spend just 10-15 minutes with you.

How We Counter: We prepare you for the exam and challenge biased reports with our own medical experts.

Lupe’s Insider Quote:

“I’ve reviewed hundreds of surveillance videos and social media posts as 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.”

Tactic #4: Delay and Financial Pressure

What They Do: Drag out your case for months or years, hoping you’ll get desperate and accept a low offer.

The Trap: You have mounting bills, no income, and creditors threatening you.

How We Counter: We file lawsuits to force deadlines and prepare for trial to show we’re serious.

Tactic #5: Surveillance and Social Media Monitoring

What They Do: Hire private investigators to follow you and monitor your social media accounts.

The Trap: They look for any activity that contradicts your injury claims.

How We Counter: We advise all clients to make their profiles private and avoid posting about their case.

Tactic #6: Comparative Fault Arguments

What They Do: Try to blame you for the accident to reduce their payment.

The Trap: Even if you’re only 10% at fault, your compensation is reduced by that percentage.

How We Counter: We conduct thorough investigations to prove the other driver’s fault.

Medical Knowledge: Understanding Your Injuries

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

Immediate Symptoms:

• Loss of consciousness
• Confusion and disorientation
• Vomiting and nausea
• Severe headache
• Slurred speech

Delayed Symptoms (Critical for Legal Cases):

• Worsening headaches
• Memory problems
• Personality changes
• Sleep disturbances
• Sensitivity to light and noise

Why Insurance Companies Minimize TBI:

• Symptoms are often “invisible”
• Cognitive deficits may not appear immediately
• Insurance companies claim symptoms are “psychological”

Attorney911’s Approach:
We work with neurologists and neuropsychologists to document:

• Cognitive deficits through testing
• Emotional and behavioral changes
• Impact on daily life and work
• Future treatment needs

Spinal Cord Injuries

Injury Levels and Impact:

• Cervical (C1-C8): Quadriplegia (paralysis of all four limbs)
• Thoracic (T1-T12): Paraplegia (paralysis of lower body)
• Lumbar (L1-L5): Varying degrees of leg weakness

Secondary Complications:

• Pressure sores
• Respiratory complications
• Bowel and bladder dysfunction
• Depression and anxiety

Lifetime Costs:

• High Tetraplegia: $6,000,000-$13,000,000+
• Paraplegia: $2,500,000-$5,250,000+

Herniated Discs

Treatment Timeline:

1. Acute Phase (Weeks 1-6): Medications, rest
2. Conservative Treatment (Weeks 6-12): Physical therapy, chiropractic
3. Interventional (If Conservative Fails): Epidural injections
4. Surgery (If Injections Fail): Microdiscectomy or fusion

Why These Cases Are Undervalued:

• Insurance companies claim herniated discs are “pre-existing”
• They argue that treatment is “excessive”
• They minimize the impact on work and daily life

Attorney911’s Medical-Legal Strategy:
We document:

• The difference between pre-accident and post-accident condition
• The impact on work and daily activities
• The need for future treatment
• The emotional toll of chronic pain

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Clifton 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.”

What This Means for Your Case:

• We know their tactics because Lupe used them for years
• We anticipate their strategies before they deploy them
• We know how they value claims internally
• We know which IME doctors they favor
• We know how to beat their algorithms

No other firm in Clifton has this advantage.

2. Multi-Million Dollar Results

Attorney911 has recovered millions for victims of:

• Brain injuries: “Multi-million dollar settlement for client who suffered brain injury with vision loss”
• Amputations: “This case settled in the millions”
• Trucking wrongful death: “Recovered millions of dollars in compensation”
• Maritime injuries: “Significant cash settlement”

Our results prove we don’t settle cheap.

3. Federal Court Experience

Ralph Manginello is admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas.

Why This Matters:

• Complex cases often end up in federal court
• FMCSA trucking regulations are federal
• Diversity jurisdiction for out-of-state defendants
• Federal court requires different skills than state court

BP Explosion Litigation: “Our firm is one of the few firms in Texas to be involved in BP explosion litigation”

4. Personal Attention

What Clients Say:

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

“I never felt like ‘just another case’ they were working on.” – Ambur Hamilton

“Ralph reached out personally.” – Dame Haskett

You work directly with Ralph or Lupe, not a case manager assembly line.

5. Contingency Fee – No Risk

“We don’t get paid unless we win your case.”

• 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 Clifton Accidents

Immediate After Accident

1. What should I do immediately after a car accident in Clifton?

• Call 911 and report the accident
• Seek medical attention even if you feel fine
• Document everything: photos, witness information
• Exchange information with the other driver
• 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. The police report is critical evidence. In Texas, you must report accidents with injuries, deaths, or property damage over $1,000.

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.

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”
• Do NOT give your opinion on what happened
• Stick to facts only

6. How do I obtain a copy of the accident report in Clifton?
You can obtain the police report from the Clifton Police Department 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.

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). 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/underinsured?
Your own UM/UIM coverage can compensate you. Watch our video: “Uninsured & Underinsured Motorists” at 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.

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). 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
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.

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.

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

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

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 Common 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. We hire medical experts to prove the difference between your condition before and after the accident.

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.

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.

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. 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.

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—gas stations, businesses, Ring doorbells, traffic cameras. Most footage is deleted within 7-30 days.

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.

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,” but this is a lie. We prove fault through surveillance video, witness statements, damage analysis, and traffic patterns.

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 apply to you.

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.

Clifton-Specific Legal Resources

Local Hospitals and Trauma Centers

• Goodall-Witcher Hospital (Clifton): Primary emergency care for accident victims
• Hill Regional Hospital (Hillsboro): Additional emergency services
• Scott & White Medical Center (Temple): Level II trauma center (30 miles from Clifton)
• Baylor Scott & White Hillcrest Medical Center (Waco): Level II trauma center (50 miles from Clifton)

Local Courts

• Bosque County Justice of the Peace Courts: Handle minor civil cases and traffic citations
• Bosque County Court at Law: Handles civil cases up to $200,000
• 18th District Court (Bosque County): Handles larger civil cases and felony criminal matters

Local Law Enforcement

• Clifton Police Department: Handles accidents within city limits
• Bosque County Sheriff’s Office: Handles accidents in unincorporated areas
• Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS): Investigates serious accidents on state highways

Dangerous Intersections in Clifton

• Highway 6 and Avenue D: High traffic volume with limited visibility
• Avenue D and 3rd Street: Downtown intersection with heavy pedestrian traffic
• Highway 6 and FM 219: Rural intersection with poor lighting
• FM 219 and FM 182: Country road intersection with wildlife crossing risks

Local Employers and Industries

Clifton’s economy includes:

• Agriculture and ranching: Many local residents work in farming or livestock operations
• Small businesses: Downtown Clifton features numerous local shops and restaurants
• Education: Clifton ISD employs many local residents
• Healthcare: Goodall-Witcher Hospital is a major employer
• Manufacturing: Some light industrial operations in the area

These employers may be relevant if:

• Your accident occurred while working
• You need to document lost wages from a local employer
• Your injuries prevent you from returning to your job

Why Clifton Residents Trust Attorney911

Clifton is a tight-knit community where word-of-mouth matters. Our firm has earned the trust of Clifton residents through:

• Local knowledge: We understand Clifton’s roads, courts, and community
• Personal attention: You’ll work directly with Ralph Manginello or Lupe Peña
• Proven results: We’ve recovered millions for Texas accident victims
• Insurance insider advantage: Lupe Peña’s defense background gives us unique insight
• No-risk representation: “We don’t get paid unless we win your case”

“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

Take Action Now: Your Legal Emergency Line

Every day you wait, evidence disappears. Insurance companies are already building their case against you. Don’t let them take advantage of you during this vulnerable time.

Call Attorney911 now:
📞 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)

What happens when you call:

1. You’ll speak directly with an attorney or legal professional
2. We’ll listen to your story and explain your rights
3. We’ll tell you exactly what to do next
4. There’s no obligation – just honest advice

Remember:

• Free consultation
• No upfront costs
• We don’t get paid unless we win
• Se habla español

Your recovery starts with one call: 1-888-ATTY-911

The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC | Attorney911 | Principal Office: Houston, Texas | Serving Clifton and all of Bosque County