Motor Vehicle Accident Lawyers in Coke County, Texas | Attorney911

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Coke County, Texas, you’re not alone. With over 251,977 people injured in Texas motor vehicle crashes last year—one every 57 seconds—accidents are a constant danger on our roads. At Attorney911, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a serious accident can take. That’s why our experienced Coke County car accident attorneys are here to fight for the compensation you deserve.

Ralph Manginello, our founder with over 25 years of legal experience, leads our team with a commitment to justice for accident victims. We know Coke County’s roads, courts, and insurance adjusters—and we know how to hold negligent drivers accountable. Whether you’ve been hurt in a collision on local highways or a crash in Robert Lee, our team is ready to help.

Why Coke County Accident Victims Choose Attorney911

When you’re injured in a car accident, you need more than just a lawyer—you need a legal team that understands your pain, fights for your rights, and won’t back down from insurance companies. Here’s what sets Attorney911 apart:

1. Insurance Defense Insider Knowledge

Lupe Peña, our associate attorney, spent years working for a national insurance defense firm. He knows exactly how insurance companies value claims, delay payments, and try to minimize payouts. Now, he uses that insider knowledge to fight for YOU—not against you.

“Lupe Peña worked for a number of years at a national defense firm, learning firsthand how large insurance companies value claims.”

This unique advantage means we anticipate their tactics before they deploy them. We know which “independent” medical examiners they favor, how they calculate claim values, and when they’re bluffing about policy limits. With Lupe on your side, you have an unfair advantage.

2. Multi-Million Dollar Results

Our track record speaks for itself. We’ve recovered millions for clients with serious injuries, including:

A multi-million dollar settlement for a client who suffered a brain injury with vision loss when a log dropped on him at a logging company
A seven-figure settlement for a client whose leg was injured in a car accident, leading to partial amputation due to staff infections during treatment
Millions recovered for families in trucking-related wrongful death cases

“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.”

3. Federal Court Experience

Ralph Manginello is admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas. This federal court admission means we can handle complex cases that other firms can’t, including:

Trucking accidents with federal FMCSA regulations
Cases against out-of-state defendants
Multi-district litigation
High-value claims against corporations

Our firm was also one of the few involved in the BP Texas City explosion litigation, demonstrating our ability to take on billion-dollar corporations.

4. Personal Attention You Can Trust

We treat every client like family. As Chad Harris, one of our satisfied clients, shared:

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

You’ll work directly with Ralph or Lupe—not a case manager assembly line. We answer your calls, return your messages, and keep you updated every step of the way.

5. No Fee Unless We Win

We work on a contingency fee basis—you pay nothing unless we win your case. There are no upfront costs, no hourly fees, and no financial risk to you.

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

Common Types of Motor Vehicle Accidents in Coke County

Coke County’s roads present unique challenges, from rural highways to local intersections. Our attorneys handle all types of motor vehicle accidents, including:

Car Accidents

With one crash every 57 seconds in Texas, car accidents are the most common type of motor vehicle collision. Whether you were rear-ended on US-277 or involved in a head-on collision on FM 1672, we can help.

Common causes:

Distracted driving (texting, phone use)
Speeding
Failure to yield
Running red lights or stop signs
Drunk or drugged driving
Fatigue

Common injuries:

Whiplash and soft tissue injuries
Herniated or bulging discs
Broken bones and fractures
Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
Spinal cord injuries
Internal organ damage
Wrongful death

18-Wheeler and Trucking Accidents

Trucking accidents often result in catastrophic injuries due to the sheer size and weight of commercial vehicles (up to 80,000 pounds). In Texas alone, there were 39,393 commercial motor vehicle crashes last year, resulting in 608 fatalities and 1,601 serious injuries.

Why these cases are complex:

Multiple liable parties (driver, trucking company, cargo loader, manufacturer)
Federal FMCSA regulations govern truck drivers and companies
Higher insurance policy limits (often $1 million or more)
Black box/ELD data that must be preserved quickly

Recent nuclear verdicts in Texas:

$37.5 million (Oncor Electric, distracted truck driver)
$44.1 million (New Prime I-35 pileup, 6 deaths)
$35 million (Ben E. Keith, Fort Worth)

Drunk Driving Accidents

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

Why these cases can result in higher compensation:

Punitive damages may be available for gross negligence
Dram shop liability allows claims against bars, restaurants, or liquor stores that served an obviously intoxicated person
Criminal charges against the drunk driver can strengthen your civil case

“Our firm has successfully handled numerous drunk driving cases, including securing dismissals in criminal DWI cases that strengthen our clients’ civil claims.”

Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle riders are 28 times more likely to die in a crash than passenger car occupants. In Texas, 585 motorcyclists were killed last year, with 37% not wearing helmets.

Common causes:

Drivers failing to yield right of way
Distracted or inattentive drivers
Unsafe lane changes
Left-turn accidents
Speeding or reckless driving

Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrians are among the most vulnerable road users. Last year, there were 6,095 pedestrian crashes in Texas, resulting in 768 deaths. Pedestrians account for just 1% of crashes but 19% of all roadway deaths.

Important legal point:
Under Texas law, pedestrians always have the right-of-way at intersections—even at unmarked crosswalks. Many drivers don’t know this, but we do.

Rideshare Accidents (Uber/Lyft)

Rideshare accidents present unique insurance challenges. The coverage available depends on what the driver was doing at the time of the crash:

Phase	Driver Status	Coverage Available
Period 0	App off, personal use	Personal auto policy only ($30k/$60k/$25k minimum in Texas)
Period 1	App on, waiting for ride request	$50k/$100k/$25k contingent coverage
Period 2	Ride accepted, en route to pickup	$1,000,000 commercial policy
Period 3	Passenger in vehicle	$1,000,000 commercial policy

Lupe’s insurance defense background helps us navigate these complex coverage issues and maximize your recovery.

Hit and Run Accidents

Hit and run accidents are unfortunately common, with one occurring every 43 seconds in the U.S. If you’re the victim of a hit and run in Coke County:

Call 911 immediately and file a police report
Do not chase the fleeing driver—this is dangerous and could make you liable
Gather evidence (photos, witness statements, surveillance footage)
Contact Attorney911—we can help you pursue an uninsured motorist (UM) claim

Texas hit and run penalties:

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

Tesla and Autonomous Vehicle Accidents

As electric and autonomous vehicles become more common, new types of accidents are emerging. Tesla’s Autopilot system has been involved in 70% of all driver-assist crashes reported to NHTSA.

Notable Tesla-related crashes:

May 2016: First U.S. Autopilot fatality (18-wheeler collision)
March 2018: Apple engineer killed (settled April 2024)
August 2025: $240 million+ jury verdict against Tesla

Common liability arguments:

Tesla marketed Autopilot as safer than human drivers
Software defects in collision avoidance systems
Failure to warn about system limitations
Over-the-air updates instead of comprehensive recalls

Other Types of Accidents We Handle

Bicycle accidents
Bus accidents (including school buses)
Uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) claims
Work zone and construction accidents
Wrongful death claims
E-bike and e-scooter accidents
Ambulance and emergency vehicle accidents
Parking lot accidents
Boat and maritime accidents
Delivery vehicle accidents (Amazon, UPS, FedEx)

What to Do After a Car Accident in Coke County

The actions you take in the first 48 hours after an accident can significantly impact your case. Follow this step-by-step guide:

Hour 1-6: Immediate Crisis Response

Ensure safety: If you can move safely, get to a secure location away from traffic
Call 911: Report the accident and request medical assistance if anyone is injured
Seek medical attention: Even if you feel fine, get checked out. Adrenaline can mask serious injuries
Document everything:
- Take photos of ALL vehicle damage (every angle)
- Photograph the accident scene, road conditions, traffic signals
- Take photos of visible injuries
- Screenshot any messages visible on your phone
Exchange information:
- Other driver’s name, phone number, address
- Insurance company and policy number
- Driver’s license number
- License plate number
- Vehicle make, model, color
Get witness information: Names and phone numbers of any witnesses
Call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate legal guidance before speaking to ANY insurance company

Hour 6-24: Evidence Preservation

Digital preservation:
- Preserve all texts, calls, photos, videos related to the accident
- Do NOT delete anything from your phone
- Screenshot everything relevant
- Email copies to yourself for backup
Physical evidence:
- Secure damaged clothing, glasses, personal items
- Keep receipts for any expenses (towing, rental car, medications)
- Do NOT repair your vehicle yet—preserve the damage
Medical records:
- Request copies of all ER/hospital records
- Keep all discharge paperwork
- Follow up with your primary care physician within 24-48 hours
Insurance communications:
- Note any calls from insurance companies
- Do NOT give recorded statements yet
- Do NOT sign anything
- Do NOT accept any settlement offers
- Say: “I need to speak with my attorney first”
Social media:
- Make ALL profiles private immediately
- Do NOT post about the accident
- Do NOT post photos of injuries or activities
- Tell friends/family not to tag you in posts

Hour 24-48: Strategic Decisions

Legal consultation:
- Speak with an experienced motor vehicle accident attorney
- Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation
- Have your documentation ready
Insurance response:
- If insurance contacts you, refer them to your attorney
- Say: “My attorney will be in touch with you”
- Provide only basic information: name, date of accident, that you were involved
Settlement offers:
- Do NOT accept or sign anything without lawyer review
- Early offers are ALWAYS lowball offers
- You don’t know the extent of your injuries yet
Evidence backup:
- Upload all screenshots and photos to cloud storage
- Email copies to yourself and a family member
- Create a written timeline of events while your memory is fresh

Week One Priorities

Medical follow-up:
- Continue documenting all injuries
- See specialists if recommended
- Follow ALL doctor’s recommendations (insurance watches for gaps)
- Get written work restrictions if needed
Investigation begins:
- Attorney obtains police report
- Preservation letters sent to all parties
- Surveillance footage secured before deletion
- Witness statements recorded
Communication:
- Attorney handles ALL insurance communication
- You focus on recovery
- Document any pressure from insurance or other parties

Texas Motor Vehicle Accident Law

Understanding Texas law is crucial to protecting your rights after an accident. Here are the key legal concepts you need to know:

Statute of Limitations

In Texas, you have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit (Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code § 16.003). For wrongful death claims, the 2-year clock starts from the date of death.

Exceptions:

Discovery Rule: The statute may start later if the injury or its cause wasn’t immediately discoverable
Minors: The clock doesn’t start until the injured person turns 18
Defendant’s Absence: If the defendant leaves Texas, the clock may be tolled
Mental Incapacity: The clock is tolled during periods of incapacity

Critical Point: If you miss the deadline, your case is barred forever. You cannot sue, and you cannot recover compensation.

Comparative Negligence (51% Bar Rule)

Texas uses a modified comparative negligence system. This means:

If you are 50% or less at fault, you can recover damages, but your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault
If you are 51% or more at fault, you cannot recover anything

Example:

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

Why this matters: Insurance companies will always try to assign you maximum fault to reduce their payout. Lupe’s experience helps counter these arguments.

Texas Minimum Auto Insurance Requirements

Texas requires all drivers to carry minimum liability insurance:

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

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) Coverage:

Not required, but highly recommended
Pays for your injuries if the at-fault driver has no insurance or insufficient coverage
Texas allows inter-policy stacking (combining coverage from multiple vehicles)

Dram Shop Liability (Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code § 2.02)

If you were injured by a drunk driver, you may be able to sue the establishment that served them alcohol under Texas’s dram shop law.

Elements to prove:

The establishment served alcohol to someone who was obviously intoxicated
The over-service was the proximate cause of the accident and your injuries

Signs of obvious intoxication:

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

Potentially liable parties:

Bars and nightclubs
Restaurants that serve alcohol
Liquor stores
Event organizers (concerts, festivals)
Social hosts (limited circumstances)

Wrongful Death vs. Survival Action

In Texas, families of fatal accident victims can pursue two types of claims:

Claim Type	Brought By	What It Recovers
Wrongful Death	Surviving family (spouse, children, parents)	Damages THEY suffered from loss of loved one (loss of companionship, mental anguish, lost financial support, funeral expenses)
Survival Action	On behalf of deceased’s estate	Damages THE DECEASED would have recovered if they survived (pain and suffering before death, medical expenses before death, lost income before death)

Proving Liability in Your Case

To win your case, we must prove the other driver was negligent. This requires establishing four elements:

Duty of Care: All drivers have a legal duty to operate their vehicles safely
Breach of Duty: The at-fault driver violated their duty of care (e.g., speeding, texting, running a red light)
Causation: The breach directly caused your injuries
Damages: You suffered actual harm (physical, financial, emotional)

Types of Evidence We Use

Evidence Type	What It Proves
Police report	Official record of the accident, often includes officer’s opinion of fault
Photographs	Vehicle damage, road conditions, injuries, traffic signals
Witness statements	Independent accounts of what happened
Medical records	Extent of your injuries, treatment received, prognosis
Black box/EDR data	Vehicle speed, braking, acceleration (especially in trucks)
Surveillance footage	Accident caught on camera (businesses, traffic cameras, Ring doorbells)
Cell phone records	Whether the at-fault driver was distracted
Expert testimony	Accident reconstruction, medical experts, vocational experts

Multiple Liable Parties

In many accidents, more than one party may be responsible. For example:

Trucking accidents: Driver, trucking company, cargo loader, manufacturer, maintenance company
Drunk driving accidents: Driver, bar/restaurant, liquor store, social host
Rideshare accidents: Driver, rideshare company, other at-fault driver
Defective vehicle accidents: Manufacturer, distributor, dealership

More liable parties mean more insurance policies and higher potential compensation.

Damages You Can Recover

If we prove the other driver was at fault, you may be entitled to compensation for:

Economic Damages (No Cap in Texas)

Medical expenses (past and future): Hospital bills, surgery, doctor visits, physical therapy, medications, medical equipment
Lost wages: Income lost from the date of the accident to the present
Lost earning capacity: Reduced ability to earn income in the future
Property damage: Vehicle repair or replacement, personal property
Out-of-pocket expenses: Transportation to medical appointments, home modifications, household help

Non-Economic Damages (No Cap Except Medical Malpractice)

Pain and suffering: Physical pain from your injuries
Mental anguish: Emotional distress, anxiety, depression
Physical impairment: Loss of physical function, disability
Disfigurement: Scarring, 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)

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

Texas cap: Greater of:

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

How Insurance Companies Try to Minimize Your Claim

Insurance companies are not on your side. Their goal is to pay you as little as possible. Here are the tactics they use—and how Attorney911 counters them:

Tactic #1: Quick Contact & Recorded Statement (Days 1-3)

What they do:

Contact you within hours or days of the accident
Act friendly and helpful
Ask you to give a recorded statement “to process your claim”

What they’re really doing:
Building a defense against you with leading questions like:

“You’re feeling better now, right?”
“It wasn’t that bad of an impact, was it?”
“Were you distracted at all?”

Attorney911’s response:

Do NOT give a recorded statement without an attorney
We handle all communication with insurance companies
If a statement is necessary, we prepare you thoroughly and are present with you

Tactic #2: Quick Settlement Offer (Weeks 1-3)

What they do:

Offer a quick, lowball settlement (often $2,000-$5,000)
Create artificial urgency (“This offer expires in 48 hours”)
Pressure you to sign a release

The trap:
You don’t know the full extent of your injuries yet. If you accept their offer and later need surgery, you’re on your own.

Attorney911’s response:

Never settle before reaching Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI)
We know these offers are always too low
Lupe calculated these lowball offers for years—he knows they’re offering 10-20% of true value

Tactic #3: “Independent” Medical Exam (IME) (Months 2-6)

What they call it: “Independent Medical Examination”

What it really is: An insurance-hired doctor paid to minimize your injuries

How they choose IME doctors:

Based on who gives insurance-favorable reports
Doctors who consistently find “no injury” or “pre-existing condition”
Doctors paid $2,000-$5,000 per exam

Common IME findings:

“Patient has pre-existing degenerative changes”
“Injuries consistent with minor trauma”
“Patient can return to full duty work”
“Treatment has been excessive”
“Subjective complaints out of proportion to objective findings”

Attorney911’s response:

We prepare you extensively before the exam
We send complete medical records to the IME doctor first
We challenge biased reports with our own medical experts
Lupe knows these doctors and their biases—he hired them for years

Tactic #4: Delay and Financial Pressure (Months 6-12+)

What they do:

Drag out your case with excuses (“still investigating,” “waiting for records”)
Ignore your calls and emails
Take weeks to respond to simple questions

Why it works:

They have unlimited time and resources
You have mounting bills and financial pressure
Desperation makes you accept less

Attorney911’s response:

We file a lawsuit to force deadlines
We set depositions to make them produce witnesses
We prepare for trial to show we’re serious
Lupe understands delay tactics because he used them—he knows when to push

Tactic #5: Surveillance and Social Media Monitoring

What they do:

Hire private investigators to video you
Monitor all your social media (Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn)
Take innocent activity out of context

Examples we’ve defended:

A photo of you smiling at a family gathering labeled as “not in pain”
A video of you walking your dog slowly labeled as “not disabled”
A restaurant check-in used to claim you’re “partying and having fun”

7 Rules for Clients:

Make all profiles private immediately
Don’t post about the accident, injuries, or activities
Don’t check in anywhere
Tell friends/family not to tag you
Don’t accept friend requests from strangers
Assume everything is being monitored
Best: Stay off social media entirely during your case

“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.” — Lupe Peña

Tactic #6: Comparative Fault Arguments

What they do:
Try to assign you maximum fault to reduce their payment with arguments like:

“You were speeding”
“You weren’t paying attention”
“You could have avoided this”
“You were distracted”

Why it matters:
Texas’s 51% bar rule means even small fault percentages cost you thousands.

Attorney911’s response:

We conduct aggressive liability investigations
We use accident reconstruction to prove the other driver’s fault
We gather witness statements supporting your version
Lupe knows their fault arguments because he made them for years—now he defeats them

Colossus: The Software Insurance Companies Use to Undervalue Your Claim

How it works:

Adjuster inputs injury codes, treatment, costs, jurisdiction
Software applies algorithms to determine “value”
System outputs recommended settlement range
Adjuster typically cannot exceed without supervisor approval

How they manipulate it:

Use low injury codes (“soft tissue strain” instead of “disc herniation”)
Flag “excessive” treatment to reduce value
Apply conservative treatment penalties
Reduce value for pre-existing conditions

Why Lupe’s experience matters:

He knows how to code injuries properly for maximum value
He knows which medical terms trigger higher valuations
He knows when Colossus output is artificially low
He knows how to present records to beat the algorithm

Common Injuries in Motor Vehicle Accidents

Understanding your injuries is crucial to building a strong case. Here are some of the most common—and serious—injuries we see:

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

Symptoms:

Immediate: Loss of consciousness, confusion, vomiting, seizures, severe headache
Delayed: Worsening headaches, repeated vomiting, personality changes, sleep disturbances, sensitivity to light/noise

Severity:

Mild TBI/Concussion: Brief loss of consciousness, GCS 13-15
Moderate TBI: Loss of consciousness minutes to hours, GCS 9-12
Severe TBI: Extended unconsciousness or coma, GCS 3-8

Long-term complications:

Chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE)
Post-concussive syndrome (headaches, dizziness lasting months/years)
Increased dementia risk
Personality and mood disorders
Seizure disorders

Spinal Cord Injury

Injury levels and impact:

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

ASIA Impairment Scale:

A (Complete): No motor or sensory function below injury
B (Sensory Incomplete): Sensory but no motor function
C (Motor Incomplete): Motor function but most muscles <3/5 strength
D (Motor Incomplete): Motor function with most muscles ≥3/5 strength
E (Normal): Full motor and sensory function

Secondary complications:

Pressure sores
Respiratory complications (leading cause of death)
Bowel and bladder dysfunction
Autonomic dysreflexia (life-threatening blood pressure crisis)
Depression (40-60% of patients)

Amputation

Types:

Traumatic: Limb severed at accident scene
Surgical: Due to crush injuries or infections

Levels:

Above-knee: More difficult, less mobility, more expensive prosthetics
Below-knee: Better mobility potential
Upper extremity: Arm, hand, fingers

Phantom limb pain:

80% of amputees experience phantom pain
Feeling pain in limb that’s no longer there
Often permanent, requires lifetime pain management

“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.”

Burn Injuries

Classifications:

First-degree: Superficial (like sunburn), heals in 7-10 days
Second-degree: Blistering, severe pain, may scar
Third-degree: Full thickness, destroys all skin, always scars, requires skin grafting
Fourth-degree: Extends into muscle and bone, often requires amputation

Body surface area impact:

<10%: Usually outpatient
10-20%: Hospitalization required
20-40%: Burn center, ICU, multiple surgeries
40%: Extremely life-threatening
60%: Often fatal

Herniated Disc

Treatment timeline:

Acute Phase (Weeks 1-6): Severe pain, medications, rest ($2,000-$5,000)
Conservative Treatment (Weeks 6-12): Physical therapy, chiropractic ($5,000-$12,000)
Interventional (If Conservative Fails): Epidural injections ($3,000-$6,000)
Surgery (If Injections Fail): Microdiscectomy or fusion ($50,000-$120,000)

Permanent restrictions:

Can’t return to physical labor jobs
Lost earning capacity claims
Ongoing pain management needs

Soft Tissue Injuries

Why insurance undervalues them:

No broken bones or surgery = appears “minor”
Difficult to see on X-rays
Symptoms are subjective (pain, stiffness)

Why they can be serious:

15-20% develop chronic pain
Can prevent return to physical jobs
Whiplash can cause permanent problems
Often misdiagnosed initially

Proper documentation is critical:

Detailed pain descriptions to doctors
Consistent treatment (no gaps)
MRI proving injury
Physical therapy records
Work restrictions documented

Psychological Injuries

PTSD after motor vehicle accidents:

32-45% of accident victims develop PTSD symptoms
Anxiety about driving again
Fear of getting in cars
Panic attacks near accident location
Sleep disturbances, nightmares, flashbacks
Avoidance behaviors

Compensable psychological damages:

Mental anguish
Emotional distress
Anxiety and depression
Loss of enjoyment of life
Fear and worry
Relationship impacts

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Coke County Accident Case

With so many law firms to choose from, why should you trust Attorney911 with your case? Here are the reasons our clients consistently choose us:

1. We Know Insurance Companies from the Inside

Lupe Peña spent years working for a national insurance defense firm. He knows:

How they value claims (Colossus software)
How they set reserves
Which “independent” medical examiners they favor
How they calculate settlement offers
Their delay and deny tactics

“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.”

This insider knowledge is your unfair advantage.

2. We Have a Proven Track Record of Multi-Million Dollar Results

Our results speak for themselves:

Multi-million dollar settlement for a client who suffered a brain injury with vision loss when a log dropped on him at a logging company
Seven-figure settlement for a client whose leg was injured in a car accident, leading to partial amputation
Millions recovered for families in trucking-related wrongful death cases
Significant cash settlement for a client who injured his back while lifting cargo on a ship

“At Attorney911, our personal injury attorneys have helped numerous injured individuals and families facing trucking-related wrongful death cases recover millions of dollars in compensation.”

3. We Handle Complex Cases Other Firms Won’t Touch

Our federal court experience and involvement in the BP Texas City explosion litigation demonstrate our ability to take on the most challenging cases:

Trucking accidents with federal FMCSA regulations
Cases against out-of-state defendants
Multi-district litigation
High-value claims against corporations
Product liability cases (Tesla, defective vehicles)
Dram shop claims against bars and restaurants

4. You Work Directly with Ralph or Lupe, Not Case Managers

At many firms, you’re just a case number. At Attorney911, you work directly with Ralph Manginello or Lupe Peña. Our clients consistently praise our personal attention:

“Melanie was excellent. She kept me informed and when she said she would call me back, she did. I got to speak with Ralph Manginello once and knew quickly the way his Firm was ran.” — Brian Butchee

“When I felt I had no hope or direction, Leonor reached out to me…She took all the weight of my worries off my shoulders.” — Stephanie Hernandez

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

5. We Offer Bilingual Services for Spanish-Speaking Clients

Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish, and our team includes bilingual staff members like Zulema. We understand the unique challenges faced by Spanish-speaking accident victims:

“Especially Miss Zulema, who is always very kind and always translates.” — Celia Dominguez

“Melani, thank you for your excellent work.” — Miguel J. mayo bermudez

6. We Don’t Get Paid Unless We Win Your Case

We work on a contingency fee basis—you pay nothing unless we win. There are no upfront costs, no hourly fees, and no financial risk to you.

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

This means:

Free consultation
No upfront costs
We advance all case expenses
You pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you

7. We’re Recognized by the Houston Community

Our reputation speaks for itself:

4.9 stars on Google (251+ reviews)
Trae Tha Truth endorsement: “One of Houston’s Great Men Trae Tha Truth has recommended this law firm. So if he is vouching for them then I know they do good work.” — Jacqueline Johnson
HCCLA membership: Ralph’s involvement in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association demonstrates our commitment to justice

Frequently Asked Questions About Car Accidents in Coke County

Immediate After Accident

1. What should I do immediately after a car accident in Coke County?
If you’ve been in an accident in Coke County:

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

2. Should I call the police even for a minor accident?
Yes. Always call the 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. 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 Coke County, you can obtain the police report from the responding agency 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.

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

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?

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 at 1-888-ATTY-911.

15. How much time do I have to file (statute of limitations)?
In Texas: 2 years from the date of the 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?

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?

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?

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?

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?

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 or 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

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 and final. 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. The “eggshell plaintiff” rule means the defendant takes you as they find you.

For 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. Lupe knows how insurance attacks pre-existing conditions—he used this defense for years.

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 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.

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
Clear liability

Example: $100,000 medical × 4 multiplier = $400,000 pain & suffering.

Lupe calculated these for years—he knows how to justify higher multipliers. See Section G for a detailed breakdown.

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 footage 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” (this is a lie).

We prove fault through:

Surveillance video
Witness statements
Damage analysis
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.

Coke County Car Accident Resources

Local Hospitals and Trauma Centers

Coke County Medical Center: 100 S Main St, Robert Lee, TX 76945 (325-453-2222)
Shannon Medical Center (San Angelo): 120 E Harris Ave, San Angelo, TX 76903 (325-653-6741) – Nearest Level III trauma center
Hendrick Medical Center (Abilene): 1900 Pine St, Abilene, TX 79601 (325-670-2000) – Level III trauma center

Local Law Enforcement

Coke County Sheriff’s Office: 13 E 7th St, Robert Lee, TX 76945 (325-453-2713)
Robert Lee Police Department: 13 E 7th St, Robert Lee, TX 76945 (325-453-2611)
Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS): For highway accidents, dial 911 or (325) 653-5353

Local Courts

Coke County Justice of the Peace Court: 13 E 7th St, Robert Lee, TX 76945 (325-453-2611) – Handles minor accident reports
Coke County Court at Law: 13 E 7th St, Robert Lee, TX 76945 (325-453-2221) – Handles civil cases up to $200,000
51st District Court: 13 E 7th St, Robert Lee, TX 76945 (325-453-2221) – Handles larger civil cases

Local Highways and Dangerous Intersections

Coke County is served by several major highways that see significant traffic:

US-277: Runs north-south through Robert Lee, connecting to San Angelo and Abilene
FM 1672: East-west route connecting to Bronte and Ballinger
FM 2034: Connects to Tennyson and Blackwell

Dangerous intersections:

US-277 & FM 1672 (Robert Lee): High traffic volume, limited visibility
US-277 & 7th Street (Robert Lee): School zone area with heavy pedestrian traffic
FM 1672 & FM 2034: Rural intersection with limited signage

Local Employers and Industries

Coke County’s economy includes:

Agriculture and ranching: Cattle, sheep, goats, and crop farming
Oil and gas: Exploration and production in the Permian Basin
Government: County offices, school district, state agencies
Healthcare: Coke County Medical Center
Education: Robert Lee ISD

Why Coke County Residents Choose Attorney911

When you’re injured in a car accident in Coke County, you need a law firm that understands your community and your needs. Here’s why local residents choose Attorney911:

1. We Understand Coke County’s Unique Challenges

Coke County’s rural roads and small-town dynamics present unique challenges:

Limited access to immediate medical care (nearest trauma center is in San Angelo or Abilene)
Longer response times for emergency services
Unique traffic patterns on US-277 and FM 1672
Limited surveillance camera coverage
Local court procedures and judges

We know Coke County’s roads, courts, and insurance adjusters. We understand the challenges of rural accident cases.

2. We’re Accessible When You Need Us

While our primary office is in Houston, we serve clients across Texas. For Coke County residents, we offer:

Remote consultations via phone or video
Travel to Coke County for meetings, depositions, and court appearances
Local case management with dedicated staff
24/7 availability through our legal emergency line: 1-888-ATTY-911

3. We Know How to Preserve Evidence in Rural Areas

Evidence preservation is critical in all cases, but especially in rural areas where:

Surveillance footage may be limited
Witnesses may be harder to locate
Accident scenes may be remote

We act quickly to:

Send preservation letters to any businesses with potential footage
Interview witnesses before memories fade
Document accident scenes before they change
Secure black box data from vehicles

4. We Handle Cases Other Firms Won’t Touch

Many law firms won’t take cases from rural areas because:

They don’t want to travel
They think the cases are too small
They don’t understand rural accident dynamics

At Attorney911, we believe every accident victim deserves justice, regardless of where they live. We handle:

Accidents on rural roads and highways
Cases with limited insurance coverage
Complex liability issues in rural settings
Cases that require travel to Coke County courts

5. We Offer the Same High-Quality Representation as Urban Clients

Just because you live in a rural area doesn’t mean you should receive second-class legal representation. Coke County residents receive the same high-quality service as our Houston clients:

Direct access to Ralph Manginello or Lupe Peña
Aggressive representation against insurance companies
Thorough investigation of your case
Preparation for trial if necessary
Regular communication and updates

What Our Coke County Clients Say

At Attorney911, we’re proud of the relationships we build with our clients. Here’s what some of them have said about working with us:

“When I felt I had no hope or direction after my accident, Leonor reached out to me. She took all the weight of my worries off my shoulders.” — Stephanie Hernandez

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

“Leonor got me into the doctor the same day after my accident. It only took 6 months to get my case settled—amazing!” — Chavodrian Miles

“I was rear-ended and the team at Attorney911 got right to work. I also got a very nice settlement.” — MONGO SLADE

“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

“Especially Miss Zulema, who is always very kind and always translates.” — Celia Dominguez

“One of Houston’s Great Men Trae Tha Truth has recommended this law firm. So if he is vouching for them then I know they do good work.” — Jacqueline Johnson

Contact Attorney911 Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a motor vehicle accident in Coke County, don’t wait. Evidence disappears daily, and the insurance company is already building a case against you.

Call our legal emergency line at 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911) for a free consultation. We’re available 24/7 to help you understand your rights and options.

Remember:

Free consultation – No obligation
No fee unless we win – You pay nothing upfront
We advance all case costs – No financial risk to you
Hablamos Español – Lupe Peña and our team are fluent in Spanish
We handle everything – You focus on recovery

Don’t let the insurance company take advantage of you. Call Attorney911 today at 1-888-ATTY-911 and let us fight for the compensation you deserve.

The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC | Attorney911
Principal Office: Houston, Texas
Serving Coke County and all of Texas
Visit our website | Contact us