Motor Vehicle Accident Lawyers in Dickens County, Texas

If you or a loved one has been injured in a motor vehicle accident in Dickens County, Texas, you’re not alone. Every 57 seconds, a crash occurs on Texas roads, and every 2 minutes and 5 seconds, someone is injured. In 2024 alone, 251,977 people were injured in Texas motor vehicle crashes, and 4,150 lost their lives. These aren’t just statistics—they represent real people whose lives have been turned upside down in an instant.

At Attorney911, we understand the overwhelming fear, pain, and confusion you’re experiencing right now. Our team, led by Ralph Manginello with over 25 years of experience, has helped countless accident victims in Dickens County and across Texas fight for the compensation they deserve. We know the local courts, the insurance adjusters, and the unique challenges of accidents in this area. Most importantly, we know how to win.

Why Dickens County Accidents Require Local Expertise

Dickens County’s roads present unique dangers that require specialized legal knowledge. Whether you were involved in a collision on Highway 82, FM 193, or any of the county’s rural roads, our team understands the specific factors that contribute to accidents in this region. From distracted driving to poorly maintained roads, we’ve seen it all and know how to build a strong case for our clients.

Ralph Manginello, our managing partner, has been practicing law since 1998 and has handled cases in Dickens County courts. Our firm’s deep roots in Texas give us an unmatched understanding of how to navigate the local legal system. We don’t just practice law in Texas—we live here, and we’re committed to protecting our neighbors.

The Attorney911 Difference: Insurance Defense Insider Knowledge

What truly sets Attorney911 apart is our unique advantage: Lupe Peña, our associate attorney, spent years working for a national insurance defense firm. He knows exactly how insurance companies evaluate claims because he used to calculate them himself. Now, he uses that insider knowledge to fight for victims like you.

Lupe understands the tactics insurance companies use to minimize or deny claims, including:

• How they use software like Colossus to calculate the lowest possible settlement
• Which “independent” medical examiners they hire to downplay injuries
• How they manipulate comparative fault arguments to blame victims
• When they’re bluffing about policy limits

This insider knowledge is your unfair advantage. While other firms are guessing how insurance companies operate, we know their playbook because we used to run it.

Our Proven Results in Motor Vehicle Accident Cases

At Attorney911, we don’t just talk about results—we deliver them. Our track record speaks for itself:

“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.”

“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.”

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

These aren’t just numbers—they represent real people whose lives we’ve helped rebuild after devastating accidents. When you choose Attorney911, you’re choosing a firm with a proven ability to secure life-changing compensation for our clients.

What to Do After an Accident in Dickens County

The moments after an accident are critical. Here’s what you should do:

1. Seek medical attention immediately – Even if you feel fine, many injuries don’t show symptoms right away. Adrenaline can mask pain, and conditions like traumatic brain injuries or internal bleeding may not be immediately apparent.

2. Document everything – Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, your injuries, and road conditions. Get contact information from witnesses.

3. Don’t give recorded statements – Insurance adjusters will contact you quickly, often while you’re still in the hospital or on pain medication. They’ll sound friendly and helpful, but their goal is to build a case against you. Politely decline to give a recorded statement until you’ve spoken with an attorney.

4. Call Attorney911 immediately – Evidence disappears quickly. Surveillance footage from nearby businesses is typically deleted within 7-30 days. Witness memories fade. The sooner we can start investigating your case, the stronger it will be.

Our 48-hour evidence preservation protocol ensures critical evidence is secured before it’s lost forever. We send preservation letters to all parties involved, demanding they retain:

• Surveillance footage
• Electronic logging device (ELD) data from trucks
• Vehicle black box data
• Driver logs and employment records
• Maintenance records

Types of Motor Vehicle Accidents We Handle in Dickens County

Car Accidents

Car accidents are the most common type of motor vehicle accident in Dickens County. In 2024, there were 251,977 injuries from car crashes in Texas. Common causes include:

• Distracted driving (380 deaths in Texas in 2024)
• Speeding
• Failure to yield
• Running red lights
• Following too closely
• Driving under the influence

Common injuries we see in car accident cases:

• Whiplash and soft tissue injuries
• Herniated discs
• Broken bones and fractures
• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
• Spinal cord injuries
• Internal organ damage
• Psychological trauma and PTSD

One of our clients, Chavodrian Miles, shared his experience: “Leonor got me into the doctor the same day…it only took 6 months amazing.” Another client, MONGO SLADE, said, “I was rear-ended and the team got right to work…I also got a very nice settlement.”

18-Wheeler and Trucking Accidents

Trucking accidents are particularly devastating due to the size and weight of commercial vehicles. In 2024, there were 39,393 commercial motor vehicle crashes in Texas, resulting in 608 fatalities and 1,601 serious injuries. Texas accounts for 11% of all fatal truck crashes nationwide.

Trucking accidents often involve multiple liable parties:

• The truck driver
• The trucking company
• The cargo loader
• The vehicle manufacturer
• The maintenance company

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations govern the trucking industry, including:

• Hours of Service (HOS) rules limiting driving time
• Mandatory Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs)
• Drug and alcohol testing requirements
• Vehicle maintenance standards

Violations of these regulations can establish negligence per se, making your case stronger. Our firm’s involvement in BP explosion litigation demonstrates our capability to take on large corporations and win.

Drunk Driving Accidents

In 2024, 1,053 people were killed in alcohol-impaired driving crashes in Texas, accounting for 25.37% of all traffic fatalities. These accidents are 100% preventable, and the consequences are devastating.

Texas has strong laws to hold drunk drivers and establishments that over-serve them accountable:

• Criminal penalties for drunk driving
• Dram shop liability (Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code § 2.02)
• Punitive damages for gross negligence

Dram shop liability allows you to sue bars, restaurants, or liquor stores that served alcohol to someone who was obviously intoxicated. Signs of obvious intoxication include:

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

Ralph Manginello’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) gives us unique insight into both the criminal and civil aspects of drunk driving cases. We’ve successfully handled numerous DWI cases, including:

• A case where police breathalyzer machines weren’t properly maintained, leading to dismissed charges
• A case where missing EMS notes and lack of breath/blood tests resulted in dismissal
• A case where video evidence showed our client wasn’t drunk

Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents are particularly dangerous due to the lack of protection for riders. In 2024, there were 585 motorcyclist fatalities in Texas, with 37% of those killed not wearing helmets.

Common causes of motorcycle accidents:

• Failure to yield right of way (most common cause)
• Driver inattention or distraction
• Unsafe lane changes
• Left-turn accidents (T-bone or head-on collisions)
• Speeding or reckless driving

Texas law requires helmets for riders under 21. Riders over 21 may ride without a helmet if they’ve completed a safety course or have adequate medical insurance. However, helmets reduce the risk of death by 37% and head injury by 69%.

Insurance companies often try to blame motorcyclists for accidents, even when they’re not at fault. Texas’s 51% comparative fault rule means that if you’re found to be 51% or more at fault, you can’t recover any damages. Lupe Peña’s experience defending insurance companies gives us an advantage in countering these arguments.

Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrians are the most vulnerable road users. In 2024, there were 6,095 pedestrian crashes in Texas, resulting in 768 fatalities. Pedestrians account for just 1% of crashes but 19% of all roadway deaths.

Important legal point: Pedestrians always have the right-of-way at intersections, even at unmarked crosswalks. Many drivers don’t know this, and insurance companies won’t tell you.

Common pedestrian injuries:

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

Rideshare Accidents (Uber/Lyft)

Rideshare accidents present unique challenges due to the complex insurance coverage involved. The amount of coverage available depends on what the driver was doing at the time of the accident:

Phase	Driver Status	Coverage Available
Period 0	App off, personal use	Personal insurance only ($30K/$60K/$25K minimum in Texas)
Period 1	App on, no ride request	$50K/$100K/$25K contingent coverage
Period 2	Ride accepted, en route to pickup	$1,000,000 liability coverage
Period 3	Passenger in vehicle	$1,000,000 liability coverage

In 2024, there were 11 billion rideshare trips in the US since 2010, with 17.4 million Uber trips daily. With this volume comes increased risk:

• 21% of rideshare accident victims are riders
• 21% are drivers
• 58% are third parties (other drivers, pedestrians, passengers in other vehicles)

Lupe Peña’s insurance defense background is particularly valuable in rideshare cases, where determining the correct insurance coverage can be complex.

Hit and Run Accidents

Hit and run accidents are particularly frustrating because the at-fault driver flees the scene. Nationally, someone is involved in a hit-and-run accident every 43 seconds.

Texas law takes hit and run offenses seriously:

• Death: 2nd degree felony (2-20 years prison, up to $10,000 fine)
• Serious bodily injury: 3rd degree felony (2-10 years prison, up to $10,000 fine)
• Minor injury: State jail felony (up to 5 years, up to $5,000 fine)
• Property damage over $200: Class B misdemeanor (up to 6 months jail, up to $2,000 fine)

If you’re the victim of a hit and run, your Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage can compensate you when the at-fault driver is unidentified. We’ve recovered substantial settlements for hit and run victims through UM claims.

Surveillance footage is critical in hit and run cases, but it’s typically deleted within 7-30 days. That’s why it’s crucial to call Attorney911 immediately after a hit and run accident. We send preservation letters to all nearby businesses to secure this evidence before it’s lost forever.

Tesla and Autonomous Vehicle Accidents

As autonomous vehicle technology advances, new types of accidents are emerging. Tesla’s Autopilot system has been involved in several high-profile crashes:

• May 2016: First US Autopilot fatality in Florida (18-wheeler collision)
• March 2018: Apple engineer killed in California (case settled in 2024)
• August 2025: $240 million jury verdict against Tesla in Miami

Tesla accounts for 70% of driver-assist crashes reported to NHTSA. In December 2023, Tesla recalled 2+ million vehicles due to Autopilot safety concerns.

Liability in autonomous vehicle accidents can be complex, involving:

• The vehicle manufacturer (Tesla, etc.)
• The software developer
• The human driver (for failing to supervise)
• Government regulators

Our firm’s experience with complex product liability cases, including involvement in BP explosion litigation, positions us to handle these emerging types of accidents.

Work Zone Accidents

Work zone accidents are a growing concern in Texas. In 2024, there were nearly 28,000 crashes in Texas work zones, resulting in 215 deaths—a 12% increase from the previous year.

Contributing factors to work zone accidents:

• Speeding through construction zones
• Driver distraction
• Failure to obey traffic control devices
• Improper lane changes
• Following too closely

A tragic example is the case of Katrina Bond, a college student who slowed for work zone traffic on I-35 near Fort Worth. A driver of a heavy pickup truck (who admitted to receiving a text message) rear-ended her, pushing her car into the path of another truck. She was killed in the accident.

Wrongful Death Claims

Losing a loved one in a motor vehicle accident is devastating. Texas law allows surviving family members to pursue two types of claims:

1. Wrongful Death Claim: Brought by surviving family members for their own losses, including:

   • Loss of companionship
   • Mental anguish
   • Lost financial support
   • Funeral expenses

2. Survival Action: Brought on behalf of the deceased’s estate for damages the deceased would have recovered if they had survived, including:

   • Pain and suffering before death
   • Medical expenses before death
   • Lost income before death

These claims can be pursued simultaneously. Our firm has helped numerous families recover millions in trucking-related wrongful death cases and other fatal accident claims.

Understanding Texas Motor Vehicle Laws

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, your case will be barred forever. For wrongful death claims, the 2-year clock starts from the date of death.

There are limited exceptions to this rule:

• Discovery Rule: The statute may start later if the injury or its cause wasn’t immediately discoverable
• Defendant’s Absence: The clock may be tolled if the defendant leaves Texas
• Mental Incapacity: The clock may be tolled during periods of incapacity

Comparative Fault (51% Bar Rule)

Texas uses a modified comparative fault system. This means:

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

Insurance companies will try to assign as much fault as possible to you to reduce their payment. Even small percentages can cost you thousands:

• 10% fault on a $100,000 case = $10,000 less for you
• 25% fault on a $250,000 case = $62,500 less for you
• 40% fault on a $500,000 case = $200,000 less for you

Lupe Peña’s experience defending insurance companies gives us an advantage in countering these arguments. He knows exactly how they try to shift blame to victims.

Texas Minimum Auto Insurance Requirements

Texas requires drivers to carry minimum liability insurance of:

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

However, these minimums are often insufficient to cover serious injuries. That’s why we always look for additional coverage, including:

• Umbrella policies
• Commercial policies (if the at-fault driver was working)
• Multiple policies that can stack

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage

Approximately 15.4% of US motorists (about 1 in 7 drivers) are uninsured. Texas allows inter-policy stacking, which means you can combine UM/UIM coverage from multiple vehicles you own.

UM/UIM coverage is critical because:

• It pays when the at-fault driver is uninsured
• It pays when the at-fault driver’s insurance is insufficient
• It covers hit and run accidents when the at-fault driver is unidentified

Our YouTube video on UM/UIM coverage explains this in more detail: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kWcNFyb-Yq8

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, and they have sophisticated tactics to achieve this. Lupe Peña, our associate attorney, spent years working for a national insurance defense firm. He knows their playbook because he used to run it.

Here are the tactics insurance companies use to minimize or deny your claim:

1. Quick Contact and Recorded Statements

Within hours or days of your accident, an insurance adjuster will contact you. They’ll sound friendly and helpful, but their goal is to get you to say something that can be used against you.

Common questions they’ll ask:

• “You’re feeling better now, though, right?” (Trying to get you to say you’re improving)
• “It wasn’t that bad of an impact, was it?” (Minimizing collision severity)
• “You were able to walk away from the scene?” (Suggesting injuries aren’t serious)
• “Were you distracted at all?” (Hoping you’ll admit to distraction)
• “How fast were you going?” (Hoping you’ll overestimate or say “I don’t know”)

What to do: Politely decline to give a recorded statement until you’ve spoken with an attorney.

2. Quick Settlement Offers

Insurance companies often make quick, lowball settlement offers within days or weeks of your accident. They create artificial urgency:

• “This offer expires in 48 hours”
• “I can only get approval for this amount right now”
• “Take it or leave it”
• “This is our final offer” (it’s not)

The trap: You don’t know the full extent of your injuries yet. If you accept a quick settlement and later need surgery, you can’t go back and ask for more money.

3. “Independent” Medical Exams (IMEs)

Insurance companies will often require you to see an “independent” doctor of their choosing. These exams are anything but independent—they’re designed to minimize your injuries.

What happens at an IME:

• A brief, cursory examination (often just 10-15 minutes)
• The doctor rarely reviews your complete medical records beforehand
• They ask leading questions designed to elicit “I’m feeling better” responses
• They look for any reason to minimize your injuries

Common IME doctor findings:

• “Patient has pre-existing degenerative changes” (Everyone over 40 has some arthritis)
• “Injuries consistent with minor trauma” (Minimizing your pain and suffering)
• “Patient can return to full duty work” (Eliminating lost wage claims)
• “Treatment has been excessive” (Attacking your treating doctors)
• “Subjective complaints out of proportion to objective findings” (Calling you a liar)

Lupe Peña has reviewed hundreds of these exams as a defense attorney. He knows which doctors insurance companies favor and how to challenge their biased reports.

4. Delay and Financial Pressure

Insurance companies will drag out your case, hoping you’ll get desperate and accept a lowball offer. They’ll say things like:

• “Still investigating your claim”
• “Waiting for medical records” (even if you’ve already provided them)
• “Reviewing your file”
• “Need additional information”

Why it works: While they’re delaying, you’re facing mounting bills, lost income, and financial stress. The longer they wait, the more likely you are to accept a low offer just to get some money.

How we counter this: We file lawsuits to force deadlines, set depositions, and prepare for trial. Insurance companies know we’re serious about going to court if necessary.

5. Surveillance and Social Media Monitoring

Insurance companies will:

• Hire private investigators to follow you
• Monitor all your social media accounts (Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, etc.)
• Look for any activity that contradicts your injury claims
• Take innocent activities out of context

Examples of social media posts being used against victims:

• A photo of you smiling at a family gathering (they’ll claim you’re not in pain)
• A check-in at a restaurant (they’ll claim you’re “partying and having fun”)
• A friend’s comment about “having fun yesterday” (even if you were resting at home)
• A video of you walking your dog (they’ll claim you’re not disabled)

What to do:

• Make all social media profiles private immediately
• Don’t post about your accident, injuries, or activities
• Tell friends and family not to tag you in posts
• Assume everything is being monitored

Lupe Peña’s insider quote: “I’ve reviewed hundreds of surveillance videos and social media posts as a defense attorney. Here’s the truth: Insurance companies take innocent activity out of context. They freeze ONE frame of you moving ‘normally’ and ignore the 10 minutes of you struggling before and after. They’re not documenting your life—they’re building ammunition against you.”

6. Comparative Fault Arguments

Insurance companies will try to assign as much fault as possible to you to reduce their payment. They might claim:

• “You were speeding” (without evidence)
• “You weren’t paying attention” (speculation)
• “You could have avoided this” (hindsight bias)
• “You were distracted” (guessing)
• “You contributed to this accident” (shifting blame)

Why it matters: Texas’s 51% bar rule means that if you’re found to be 51% or more at fault, you recover nothing. Even small percentages can cost you thousands.

Colossus Software System

Most major insurance companies use a software system called Colossus to calculate claim values. Here’s how it works:

1. Data Entry: The adjuster inputs injury codes, treatment types, costs, and jurisdiction
2. Coding: Injuries are coded using standardized medical terms
3. Calculation: The software applies algorithms to determine a “value”
4. Range Output: The system provides a recommended settlement range
5. Authority: The adjuster typically cannot exceed this range without supervisor approval

How insurance companies manipulate Colossus:

• Using low injury codes (“soft tissue strain” instead of “disc herniation”)
• Flagging “excessive” treatment (even if medically necessary)
• Penalizing conservative treatment (chiropractic valued less than MD)
• Reducing value for pre-existing conditions
• Applying jurisdiction factors (low-verdict counties get lower values)

Lupe Peña knows how to present medical records to beat the Colossus algorithm. He calculated these values for years as a defense attorney.

Types of Damages You Can Recover

In Texas, accident victims can recover several types of damages:

Economic Damages (No Cap)

• Medical Expenses (Past): ER visits, hospital stays, surgeries, doctor visits, physical therapy, medications, medical equipment
• Medical Expenses (Future): Ongoing treatment, future surgeries, lifetime medications, long-term care
• Lost Wages (Past): Income lost from the date of the accident to the present
• Lost Earning Capacity (Future): 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 injuries, both past and future
• Mental Anguish: Emotional distress, anxiety, depression, fear, PTSD
• Physical Impairment: Loss of physical function, disability, limitations
• Disfigurement: Scarring, permanent visible injuries affecting appearance
• Loss of Consortium: Impact on marriage/family relationships, loss of companionship
• Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Inability to participate in activities you previously enjoyed

Punitive/Exemplary Damages (Capped)

Available for gross negligence, fraud, or malice. Common in drunk driving cases. Capped at the greater of:

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

Settlement Ranges by Injury Type

Soft Tissue Injuries (Whiplash, Sprains, Strains)

• Medical Treatment: $6,000-$16,000
• Lost Wages: $2,000-$10,000
• Pain & Suffering: $8,000-$35,000
• Settlement Range: $15,000-$60,000

Broken Bone (Single, Simple Fracture)

• Medical Treatment: $10,000-$20,000
• Lost Wages: $5,000-$15,000
• Pain & Suffering: $20,000-$60,000
• Settlement Range: $35,000-$95,000

Broken Bone (Requiring Surgery)

• Medical Treatment: $47,000-$98,000
• Lost Wages: $10,000-$30,000
• Pain & Suffering: $75,000-$200,000
• Settlement Range: $132,000-$328,000

Herniated Disc (Conservative Treatment)

• Medical Treatment: $22,000-$46,000
• Lost Wages: $8,000-$25,000
• Pain & Suffering: $40,000-$100,000
• Settlement Range: $70,000-$171,000

Herniated Disc (Surgery Required)

• Past Medical: $96,000-$205,000
• Future Medical: $30,000-$100,000
• Lost Wages: $20,000-$50,000
• Lost Earning Capacity: $50,000-$400,000
• Pain & Suffering: $150,000-$450,000
• Settlement Range: $346,000-$1,205,000

Traumatic Brain Injury (Moderate to Severe)

• Past Medical: $198,000-$638,000
• Future Medical: $300,000-$3,000,000+
• Lost Wages: $50,000-$200,000
• Lost Earning Capacity: $500,000-$3,000,000+
• Pain & Suffering: $500,000-$3,000,000+
• Settlement Range: $1,548,000-$9,838,000

Spinal Cord Injury / Paralysis

• First Year Costs: $500,000-$1,500,000
• Annual Costs After: $70,000-$250,000
• Lifetime Total: $2,500,000-$13,000,000+
• Settlement Range: $4,770,000-$25,880,000

Amputation

• Past Medical: $170,000-$480,000
• Future Medical (Prosthetics): $500,000-$2,000,000
• Settlement Range: $1,945,000-$8,630,000

Wrongful Death (Working Age Adult)

• Economic Damages: $1,000,000-$4,000,000
• Non-Economic Damages: $500,000-$3,000,000
• Settlement Range: $1,910,000-$9,520,000

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Dickens County Accident Case

1. Insurance Defense Insider Advantage

Lupe Peña worked for a national insurance defense firm for years, learning firsthand how large insurance companies value claims. He knows:

• How they calculate settlement values using Colossus software
• Which “independent” medical examiners they hire to minimize injuries
• How they manipulate comparative fault arguments
• When they’re bluffing about policy limits

This insider knowledge is your unfair advantage. While other firms are guessing how insurance companies operate, we know their playbook because we used to run it.

2. Multi-Million Dollar Results

Our results speak for themselves:

• Multi-million dollar settlement for a client who suffered a brain injury with vision loss
• Multi-million dollar settlement for a car accident victim whose leg injury led to amputation
• Millions recovered in trucking-related wrongful death cases
• Significant cash settlement for a maritime injury case

We don’t just claim to get results—we have the documented case outcomes to prove it.

3. Federal Court Experience

Ralph Manginello is admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas. This federal court experience is crucial for:

• Complex cases involving multiple defendants
• Trucking accidents governed by federal regulations
• Cases against large corporations
• Catastrophic injury cases with high damages

Our firm is also one of the few in Texas to be involved in BP explosion litigation, demonstrating our capability to take on billion-dollar corporations and win.

4. Personal Attention from Start to Finish

At Attorney911, you work directly with Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña—not just paralegals or case managers. Our clients consistently praise our communication and personal touch:

“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. Contingency Fee – No Risk to You

We work on a contingency fee basis, which means:

• You pay nothing upfront
• We advance all case costs
• You pay nothing unless we win your case
• Our fee is a percentage of your recovery

This arrangement ensures that everyone has access to quality legal representation, regardless of their financial situation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Motor Vehicle Accidents in Dickens County

What should I do immediately after a car accident in Dickens County, Texas?

If you’ve been in an accident in Dickens County:

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

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.

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.

What information should I collect at the scene?

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

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” (this can be used as an admission of fault)
• Do NOT give your opinion on what happened
• Stick to facts only

How do I obtain a copy of the accident report?

In Texas, you can obtain the police report from the responding agency or through the Texas Department of Transportation’s Crash Records Information System (CRIS).

Should I give a recorded statement to insurance?

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

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.

Do I have to accept the insurance company’s estimate?

No. Their estimate is just an offer. It’s usually far below the actual value of your case. 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. Watch our video on UM/UIM coverage: 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 a medical authorization 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
• 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. 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: 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.

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 recover nothing.

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

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.

Will my case go to trial?

Most cases settle before trial. But Attorney911 prepares every case as if it’s going to trial. That’s what gives us leverage in negotiations.

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

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?

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

What is my case worth?

It 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).

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

Can I get compensation for pain and suffering?

Yes. Pain and suffering is a significant component of personal injury cases in Texas. There is no cap on pain and suffering damages (except in medical malpractice cases).

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, impact on 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.

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. 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.”

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. Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish.

What if the accident happened in a parking lot?

Parking lot accidents are fully compensable. Insurance companies often try to argue that parking lot accidents are always 50/50 fault, but this is not true. We prove fault through surveillance video, witness statements, damage analysis, and traffic patterns.

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. 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. The insurance policy still applies. The estate may have assets. Wrongful death laws protect both sides.

Serving Dickens County and Beyond

Attorney911 serves clients throughout Dickens County and the surrounding areas. Whether you were injured in Spur, Afton, McAdoo, or anywhere in the county, we’re here to help. Our team understands the unique challenges of accidents in this region, from rural road hazards to the specific traffic patterns in the area.

We also serve clients across Texas from our offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont. Ralph Manginello’s federal court admission allows us to handle cases anywhere in the state, and our contingency fee arrangement means you can access our services regardless of your location.

Don’t Wait – Evidence Disappears Daily

Every day you wait, critical evidence is being lost:

• Surveillance footage is deleted in 7-30 days
• Electronic logging device (ELD) data from trucks can be overwritten in 30-180 days
• Witness memories fade
• The 2-year statute of limitations clock is ticking
• Insurance companies are already building their case against you

The sooner you call Attorney911, the stronger your case will be. We send preservation letters immediately to secure evidence before it’s lost forever.

Call Attorney911 Now: 1-888-ATTY-911

If you or a loved one has been injured in a motor vehicle accident in Dickens County, don’t face this alone. The insurance companies have teams of lawyers working against you. You need a team fighting for you.

At Attorney911, we offer:

• Free consultation with no obligation
• No fee unless we win your case
• Personal attention from experienced attorneys
• Insider knowledge of insurance company tactics
• A proven track record of multi-million dollar results

Call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911) for your free consultation. We’re available 24/7 to help you through this difficult time. Remember, evidence disappears daily—don’t wait to get the help you need.

Se habla español. Lupe Peña and our team are ready to assist Spanish-speaking clients. No importa el idioma, estamos aquí para ayudarle.