Car Accident Lawyers in Clute, Texas | Attorney911
If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Clute, Texas, you’re not alone. Texas sees a crash every 57 seconds, and Clute’s roads are no exception. With major highways like Highway 332 and Highway 288 running through Brazoria County, accidents can happen in an instant – leaving victims with serious injuries, mounting medical bills, and insurance companies trying to minimize their claims.
At Attorney911, we understand what you’re going through. Our founding attorney, Ralph Manginello, has been fighting for car accident victims across Texas for over 25 years. We’ve recovered millions for clients who suffered catastrophic injuries, and we’re ready to fight for you too. Don’t let insurance companies take advantage of you – call our legal emergency line at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation.
The Reality of Car Accidents in Clute and Brazoria County
Texas recorded 251,977 injuries from motor vehicle crashes in 2024, with one person injured every 2 minutes and 5 seconds. In Brazoria County alone, there were over 6,000 crashes last year. Clute’s location near major industrial areas and its proximity to busy highways means residents face significant risks on the road every day.
Common causes of car accidents in Clute include:
- Distracted driving (especially near shopping centers and schools)
- Speeding on Highway 332 and Highway 288
- Failure to yield at intersections like those near Hwy 332 and FM 2004
- Drunk driving accidents, particularly around local bars and restaurants
- Rear-end collisions in heavy traffic areas
- Weather-related accidents during coastal storms
Common Injuries from Car Accidents
Car accidents in Clute can result in serious injuries, including:
- Whiplash and soft tissue injuries
- Herniated or bulging discs
- Broken bones and fractures
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Internal organ damage
- Severe lacerations and scarring
- Psychological trauma and PTSD
In a recent case, our client suffered a leg injury in a car accident on Highway 288. During treatment, staff infections developed and doctors had to perform a partial amputation. This case settled in the millions, showing our commitment to fighting for maximum compensation even in complex cases.
Why You Need a Clute Car Accident Lawyer
After an accident, insurance companies will contact you immediately – not to help you, but to build their case against you. They’ll try to get you to give a recorded statement, accept a quick settlement, or even blame you for the accident. Their goal is to pay you as little as possible.
At Attorney911, we know their tactics because our attorney Lupe Peña used to work for insurance companies. He knows how they value claims, which doctors they send you to for “independent” medical exams, and how they use software called Colossus to calculate the minimum they can pay you. Now he uses that insider knowledge to fight for you.
What to Do After a Car Accident in Clute
If you’ve been in a car accident in Clute, take these steps immediately:
- Call 911 – Report the accident and request medical assistance if needed
- Seek medical attention – Even if you feel fine, some injuries don’t show symptoms immediately
- Document everything – Take photos of vehicle damage, injuries, and the accident scene
- Exchange information – Get the other driver’s name, insurance, and contact details
- Get witness information – Names and phone numbers of anyone who saw what happened
- Don’t give recorded statements – Insurance adjusters will try to use your words against you
- Call Attorney911 – 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate legal guidance
Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Clute Car Accident Case
When you’re injured in a car accident, you need more than just a lawyer – you need a legal team that will fight for every dollar you deserve. Here’s why Clute residents choose Attorney911:
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Insurance Defense Insider – Our attorney Lupe Peña worked for insurance companies for years. He knows their tactics because he used them – now he uses that knowledge to fight for you.
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Multi-Million Dollar Results – We’ve recovered millions for car accident victims, including cases involving catastrophic injuries and wrongful death.
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Federal Court Experience – Ralph Manginello is admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, giving us the ability to handle complex cases.
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Personal Attention – You’ll work directly with Ralph or Lupe, not a case manager assembly line. As client Chad Harris said: “You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client…You are FAMILY to them.”
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No Fee Unless We Win – We work on contingency, meaning you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you.
Client Testimonials
Don’t just take our word for it – here’s what our clients say about working with Attorney911:
“Leonor got me into the doctor the same day…it only took 6 months amazing.” – Chavodrian Miles
“I was rear-ended and the team got right to work…I also got a very nice settlement.” – MONGO SLADE
“You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client…You are FAMILY to them.” – Chad Harris
“They make you feel like family and even though the process may take some time, they make it feel like a breeze. They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.” – Glenda Walker
Common Types of Car Accidents We Handle in Clute
Rear-End Collisions
Rear-end collisions are among the most common types of car accidents in Clute, often occurring in heavy traffic on Highway 332 or at stoplights near shopping centers. These accidents frequently cause whiplash and other soft tissue injuries. Insurance companies often try to minimize these claims, but we know how to document the true extent of your injuries.
Head-On Collisions
Head-on collisions are often catastrophic, especially on rural roads near Clute. These accidents typically occur when a driver crosses the center line or drives the wrong way on a one-way street. The forces involved in head-on collisions often result in life-altering injuries or wrongful death.
T-Bone/Side-Impact Accidents
T-bone accidents frequently happen at intersections in Clute, particularly where drivers fail to yield the right of way. These collisions can cause serious injuries to the side of the body that’s impacted, including broken ribs, internal injuries, and head trauma.
Rollover Accidents
Rollover accidents are particularly dangerous and often occur when vehicles leave the roadway or when drivers lose control on curves. In Clute, these accidents sometimes happen on Highway 288 or when vehicles strike guardrails. Rollovers can result in catastrophic injuries, especially if occupants aren’t properly restrained.
Drunk Driving Accidents
Drunk driving remains a serious problem in Brazoria County. In 2024, alcohol-impaired driving caused 25.37% of all traffic fatalities in Texas. If you’ve been hit by a drunk driver in Clute, we can help you pursue compensation from both the driver and any establishments that over-served them.
Hit and Run Accidents
Hit and run accidents are frustrating and leave victims feeling helpless. In Texas, there’s a hit and run accident every 43 seconds. If you’ve been the victim of a hit and run in Clute, your own uninsured motorist coverage may provide compensation. We can help you navigate this complex process.
How We Prove Liability in Your Clute Car Accident Case
To win your car accident case, we must prove that the other driver was negligent. This requires establishing four key elements:
- Duty of Care – All drivers have a legal obligation to operate their vehicles safely
- Breach of Duty – The at-fault driver violated this duty through negligent actions
- Causation – The breach of duty directly caused your injuries
- Damages – You suffered actual harm as a result
Our team gathers evidence to prove these elements, including:
- Police accident reports
- Witness statements
- Photographs and videos from the scene
- Medical records documenting your injuries
- Expert testimony from accident reconstruction specialists
- Electronic data from vehicle black boxes
- Surveillance footage from nearby businesses
What Compensation Can You Recover?
If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Clute, you may be entitled to compensation for:
Economic Damages:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Lost wages and earning capacity
- Property damage
- Out-of-pocket expenses
Non-Economic Damages:
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
- Physical impairment
- Disfigurement
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Loss of consortium
Punitive Damages:
In cases involving gross negligence, such as drunk driving, you may be entitled to punitive damages designed to punish the at-fault party.
Texas Car Accident Laws 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 – if you miss it, you lose your right to compensation forever.
Comparative Negligence (51% Rule)
Texas follows a modified comparative negligence system. 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 cannot recover any compensation.
Minimum Insurance Requirements
Texas requires drivers to carry minimum insurance coverage of:
- $30,000 per person for bodily injury
- $60,000 per accident for bodily injury
- $25,000 for property damage
However, many drivers carry only the minimum coverage, which may not be enough to compensate you for serious injuries. That’s why uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage is so important.
Insurance Tactics to Watch Out For
Insurance companies use sophisticated tactics to minimize payouts. Here are some of the most common:
The Quick Settlement Offer
Within days of your accident, insurance adjusters may offer you a quick settlement – often for far less than your case is worth. They know you’re desperate for money to pay medical bills and living expenses. Never accept a settlement without consulting an attorney first.
Recorded Statements
Insurance adjusters will ask you to give a recorded statement about the accident. They’ll ask seemingly innocent questions designed to get you to say things that can be used against you later. Never give a recorded statement without your attorney present.
Independent Medical Exams (IMEs)
Insurance companies may require you to see a doctor of their choosing for an “independent” medical exam. These doctors are hired by the insurance company and often minimize the extent of your injuries. Our former insurance defense attorney Lupe Peña knows which doctors they use and how to counter their reports.
Surveillance
Insurance companies often hire private investigators to follow accident victims and film them going about their daily activities. They’ll use any footage that makes you look less injured than you claim to be. Assume you’re being watched and avoid posting about your accident on social media.
Delay Tactics
Insurance companies may drag out your claim, hoping you’ll become desperate and accept a lowball offer. They have unlimited resources and can afford to wait. We don’t let them delay your case – we push forward aggressively to get you the compensation you deserve.
How We Calculate the Value of Your Case
Insurance companies use software called Colossus to calculate settlement values. This software considers factors like:
- Your medical expenses
- The type of injuries you suffered
- The length of your recovery
- Your lost wages
- The jurisdiction where the accident occurred
However, Colossus is programmed to undervalue serious injuries. Our former insurance defense attorney Lupe Peña knows how this software works and how to present your case to maximize its value.
We use several methods to calculate case value, including:
- Multiplier Method – Medical expenses × multiplier (1.5 to 5) + lost wages
- Per Diem Method – Daily rate for pain and suffering × number of days affected
- Comparable Verdicts – What juries have awarded for similar cases
What to Expect When You Work With Attorney911
When you hire Attorney911 for your Clute car accident case, here’s what you can expect:
- Immediate Action – We’ll send preservation letters to all parties to ensure critical evidence isn’t destroyed.
- Thorough Investigation – We’ll gather all available evidence, including police reports, witness statements, and surveillance footage.
- Medical Treatment Coordination – We’ll help you get the medical care you need and document your injuries properly.
- Insurance Negotiations – We’ll handle all communications with insurance companies and fight for a fair settlement.
- Lawsuit Filing (if necessary) – If we can’t reach a fair settlement, we’re prepared to take your case to trial.
- Regular Updates – You’ll receive regular updates on your case and have direct access to your attorneys.
Frequently Asked Questions About Car Accidents in Clute
What should I do immediately after a car accident in Clute?
If you’ve been in a car accident in Clute, call 911 first. Then seek medical attention, document everything with photos, exchange information with the other driver, get witness contact information, and call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911.
Should I call the police even for a minor accident?
Yes. Always call the police after an accident in Clute. The police report is critical evidence for your claim. In Texas, you’re required to report accidents that result in injuries, deaths, or property damage over $1,000.
Should I seek medical attention if I don’t feel hurt?
Absolutely. Many serious injuries don’t show symptoms immediately. Adrenaline can mask pain at the scene, and some injuries like traumatic brain injuries or internal bleeding may not be obvious right away. Get checked immediately.
What information should I collect at the scene?
Collect the other driver’s name, phone number, address, driver’s license number, insurance information, and vehicle details (make, model, color, license plate). Also get names and phone numbers of any witnesses and take photos of the scene.
Should I talk to the other driver or admit fault?
Exchange information only. Don’t discuss fault, don’t apologize, and don’t give your opinion on what happened. Stick to the facts only.
How do I obtain a copy of the accident report?
You can obtain the police report from the Clute Police Department or through the Texas Department of Transportation’s Crash Records Information System (CRIS).
Should I give a recorded statement to insurance?
No. Never give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance company without consulting an attorney first. Insurance adjusters are trained to ask questions that can be used against you.
What if the other driver’s insurance contacts me?
Say: “I need to speak with my attorney first.” Give only basic information (your name, the date of the accident). Don’t discuss injuries or fault.
Do I have to accept the insurance company’s estimate?
No. Their estimate is just an offer, and it’s usually far below what your case is actually worth. Attorney911 fights for what your case is really worth.
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.
What if the other driver is uninsured or underinsured?
Your own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage can compensate you. We can help you navigate this complex process. Watch our video on UM/UIM claims at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kWcNFyb-Yq8.
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 anything without attorney review.
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, and there is insurance to recover from. Watch our video “Do I Have a Good Case?” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j-PMMP5Jims.
When should I hire a car accident lawyer?
Immediately. Evidence disappears daily, and insurance companies start building their defense against you from day one. Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911.
How much time do I have to file (statute of limitations)?
In Texas, you have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Miss this deadline and you lose your right to compensation forever.
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 damages (reduced by your percentage of fault). If you’re 51% or more at fault, you get nothing.
Will my case go to trial?
Most cases settle before trial, but Attorney911 prepares every case as if it’s going to trial. This gives us leverage in negotiations. Watch our video “Will Your Case Go to Trial?” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Ed5AnmCMcc.
How long will my case take to settle?
It depends on the severity of your injuries. We don’t settle until you’ve reached maximum medical improvement (MMI). This could be 6 months for minor injuries or 18-24 months for serious injuries.
What is the legal process step-by-step?
- Investigation and evidence gathering
- Medical treatment to MMI
- Demand letter to insurance
- Negotiation
- Lawsuit if necessary
- Discovery
- Mediation
- Trial if needed
Watch our video “What Is the Process for a Personal Injury Claim?” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XwzYymneDVs.
What is my case worth?
It depends on your injuries, medical costs, lost wages, permanent impairment, pain and suffering, and the insurance available. Cases range from $15,000 for soft tissue injuries to millions for catastrophic injuries.
What types of damages can I recover?
You can recover economic damages (medical expenses, lost wages), non-economic damages (pain and suffering, mental anguish), and in some cases punitive damages.
Can I get compensation for pain and suffering?
Yes. Pain and suffering is a significant component of personal injury cases in Texas, and there’s no cap on these damages (except in medical malpractice cases).
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.
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 specific advice.
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, and impact on your daily life.
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 your case.
Watch our video “How Do Contingency Fees Work?” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc.
What does “no fee unless we win” mean?
You pay zero unless we recover money for you. If we don’t win, you owe us nothing. We advance all case costs.
How often will I get updates?
Attorney911 provides regular updates. As client Dame Haskett said: “Consistent communication and not one time did I call and not get a clear answer.”
Who will actually handle my case?
At Attorney911, you work directly with Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña, not just paralegals. As Chad Harris said: “You are NOT just some client…You are FAMILY to them.”
What if I already hired another attorney?
You can switch attorneys at any time. 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.”
What common mistakes can hurt my case?
Common mistakes include giving recorded statements without an attorney, accepting quick settlements, delaying medical treatment, having gaps in treatment, posting on social media, and signing releases or authorizations.
Watch our video “Client Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Case” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY.
Should I post about my accident on social media?
No. Make all profiles private, don’t post about the accident, injuries, or activities, and tell friends and family not to tag you in posts. Insurance companies monitor social media.
Why shouldn’t I sign anything without a lawyer?
Releases are permanent, medical authorizations give unlimited access, and settlement offers are binding. Once signed, you can’t undo it.
What if I didn’t see a doctor right away?
See one now and explain that you didn’t realize the severity of your injuries. Delayed symptoms are common, and we can still help.
What if I have a pre-existing condition?
You can still recover. If the accident aggravated your pre-existing condition, you’re entitled to compensation for the aggravation. We hire medical experts to prove the difference.
Can I switch attorneys if I’m unhappy with my current 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.
What if the insurance company is my own insurance (UM/UIM claim)?
Uninsured/underinsured motorist claims are against your own 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.
How do you calculate pain and suffering?
Most commonly using the multiplier method: medical expenses × multiplier (1.5 to 5) = pain and suffering. The multiplier depends on injury severity, permanency, impact on life, and clear liability.
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). These cases are complex – you need an experienced attorney.
What if the other driver fled the scene (hit and run)?
File a police report immediately. Your uninsured motorist (UM) coverage applies. Surveillance footage is critical – most is deleted within 7-30 days. We send preservation letters immediately.
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 injuries. You’re entitled to full recovery regardless of immigration status. Your case is confidential.
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 isn’t true. We prove fault through evidence.
What if I was a passenger in the at-fault vehicle?
You can sue the driver even if you were riding with them. You’re an innocent victim, and the driver’s insurance covers passengers. These cases often settle quickly because liability is clear.
What if the other driver died in the accident?
You can still pursue a claim against the deceased driver’s estate and insurance. Death doesn’t eliminate liability, and the insurance policy still applies.
Contact Attorney911 Today
If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Clute, Texas, don’t wait – call Attorney911 today at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We’re available 24/7 to help you understand your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Our offices serve all of Brazoria County, including Clute, Lake Jackson, Freeport, Angleton, Pearland, and surrounding areas. We also serve clients throughout Southeast Texas from our Houston office.
Remember, evidence disappears every day. Surveillance footage from nearby businesses is typically deleted within 7-30 days. Witness memories fade quickly. The insurance company is already building their case against you. Don’t face this alone – call Attorney911 now.
We don’t get paid unless we win your case. Let us fight for you while you focus on your recovery. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 today.