Car Accident Lawyers in Houston County, Texas | Attorney911

Houston County Car Accident? We Fight for Maximum Compensation

Every 57 seconds, another crash occurs on Texas roads. In Houston County, these accidents disrupt lives in an instant—leaving victims with mounting medical bills, lost wages, and painful injuries. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a car accident here, you need more than just legal representation. You need a team that knows how insurance companies operate from the inside.

At Attorney911, we don’t just handle car accident cases—we dismantle the insurance company playbook. Our firm includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who spent years working for national defense firms. He knows exactly how adjusters calculate claims, which doctors they send you to, and how they try to minimize your injuries. Now, he uses that insider knowledge to fight for victims like you.

With 25+ years of experience, federal court admission, and millions recovered for clients across Texas, Attorney911 is ready to handle your Houston County car accident case. Call our legal emergency line: 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We don’t get paid unless we win.

The Reality of Car Accidents in Houston County

Houston County’s roads see thousands of accidents every year. From the busy corridors of Crockett to the rural highways connecting our communities, collisions happen daily. In 2024 alone, Texas saw:

• 251,977 people injured in motor vehicle crashes
• 1 crash every 57 seconds
• 1 person injured every 2 minutes and 5 seconds

These aren’t just numbers—they represent real people whose lives are forever changed by negligent drivers. Whether it’s a rear-end collision on Highway 287, a T-bone crash at a busy intersection in Groveton, or a distracted driving incident in Lovelady, car accidents in Houston County can lead to serious injuries, financial strain, and emotional trauma.

Common Causes of Car Accidents in Houston County

Car accidents happen for many reasons, but some causes are more prevalent in our area:

• Distracted Driving: Texting, eating, or adjusting the radio takes focus off the road. In 2024, distracted driving caused 380 deaths in Texas.
• Speeding: Excessive speed reduces reaction time and increases crash severity. Speeding is a factor in nearly one-third of all fatal crashes.
• Failure to Yield: Drivers who ignore stop signs or fail to yield the right-of-way cause devastating collisions.
• Drunk Driving: Alcohol impairs judgment and reaction time. In Texas, 1,053 people were killed in alcohol-related crashes in 2024.
• Fatigue: Drowsy driving is as dangerous as drunk driving. Fatigue slows reaction time and impairs decision-making.
• Weather Conditions: Rain, fog, and even occasional ice can make Houston County roads hazardous, especially for drivers unfamiliar with local conditions.

No matter how your accident happened, Attorney911 has the experience to prove liability and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Common Injuries in Houston County Car Accidents

Car accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, from minor to life-altering. Some of the most common injuries we see in Houston County include:

• Whiplash and Soft Tissue Injuries: These are common in rear-end collisions and can cause chronic pain that lasts for months or even years.
• Herniated Discs: The force of a collision can damage the discs in your spine, leading to severe pain, numbness, and mobility issues.
• Broken Bones: Fractures to the arms, legs, ribs, or pelvis often require surgery and lengthy recovery periods.
• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Even a “mild” concussion can have long-term effects on memory, concentration, and emotional well-being.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can result in partial or complete paralysis, requiring lifelong medical care.
• Internal Organ Damage: The force of a crash can cause internal bleeding or damage to organs like the liver, spleen, or kidneys.
• PTSD and Emotional Trauma: The psychological impact of a car accident can be just as debilitating as physical injuries.

One of our clients suffered a leg injury in a car accident that led to a severe infection during treatment. Despite initial medical intervention, the infection worsened, and doctors were forced to perform a partial amputation. This case settled in the millions, ensuring our client had the resources needed for lifelong care and recovery.

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Houston County, don’t assume your injuries are minor. Some symptoms, like those from a traumatic brain injury, may not appear for days or even weeks. Seek medical attention immediately, and then call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 to protect your rights.

Why Insurance Companies Are Already Working Against You

After a car accident, insurance companies often act friendly and helpful. They might even offer you a quick settlement. But don’t be fooled—they’re not on your side. Their goal is to pay you as little as possible, and they’ll use every tactic in the book to achieve it.

How Insurance Companies Minimize Your Claim

1. Quick Contact and Recorded Statements

   • Insurance adjusters will call you within days—sometimes hours—of your accident. They’ll sound sympathetic and claim they just want to “get your side of the story.”
   • The Trap: They’re recording your statement to use against you later. Even innocent comments like “I’m feeling better today” can be twisted to downplay your injuries.

2. Lowball Settlement Offers

   • Insurance companies often offer quick settlements of $2,000 to $5,000, hoping you’ll accept before you realize the full extent of your injuries.
   • The Trap: Once you sign a release, you can’t ask for more money—even if you later discover you need surgery or long-term care.

3. “Independent” Medical Exams (IMEs)

   • The insurance company may require you to see a doctor of their choosing for an “independent” evaluation.
   • The Trap: These doctors are hired and paid by the insurance company. They’re trained to find ways to minimize your injuries or blame them on pre-existing conditions.

4. Delay Tactics

   • Insurance companies know that financial pressure makes victims desperate. They’ll drag out your claim, hoping you’ll accept a lowball offer just to get some money.
   • The Trap: The longer they delay, the more likely you are to give up or settle for less than you deserve.

5. Surveillance and Social Media Monitoring

   • Insurance companies hire private investigators to follow you, film you, and monitor your social media accounts.
   • The Trap: They’ll use photos or videos of you doing everyday activities to argue that you’re not really injured.

6. Comparative Fault Arguments

   • Texas follows a “51% bar rule,” meaning if you’re found to be 51% or more at fault for the accident, you can’t recover any compensation.
   • The Trap: Insurance companies will try to shift as much blame as possible onto you, even if the accident wasn’t your fault.

Lupe Peña Knows Their Playbook—Because He Wrote It

Lupe Peña spent years working for a national insurance defense firm, where he learned firsthand how large insurance companies value claims. He knows the tactics they use because he used them himself. Now, he’s on your side, using that insider knowledge to fight for the compensation you deserve.

“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.” — Lupe Peña

At Attorney911, we anticipate the insurance company’s strategies because Lupe deployed them for years. We know which doctors they’ll send you to, how they’ll try to blame you for the accident, and how to counter their tactics. This insider advantage is what sets us apart from other law firms in Houston County.

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Houston County Car Accident Case?

Not all car accident lawyers are created equal. At Attorney911, we offer five unique advantages that make us the right choice for your case:

1. Insurance Defense Insider Knowledge

Lupe Peña’s background gives us an unfair advantage. He knows how insurance companies calculate claims, which doctors they favor for “independent” exams, and how to counter their delay tactics. This insider knowledge allows us to anticipate their moves and fight back effectively.

2. Multi-Million Dollar Results

We don’t settle for lowball offers. Our track record speaks for itself:

• Multi-million dollar settlement for a client who suffered a brain injury with vision loss after a log dropped on him at a logging company.
• Millions recovered for a client whose leg injury led to a partial amputation after a car accident.
• Millions recovered for families in trucking-related wrongful death cases.

These results prove that we don’t just take cases—we win them.

3. Federal Court Experience

Ralph Manginello is admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, which covers Houston County. This federal court experience is critical for complex cases, such as those involving commercial vehicles or catastrophic injuries. 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 from Start to Finish

At Attorney911, you’re not just another case number. You’ll work directly with Ralph Manginello or Lupe Peña, not a team of paralegals or junior associates. Our clients consistently praise our communication and dedication:

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

“Leonor reached out to me… She took all the weight of my worries off my shoulders.” — Stephanie Hernandez

5. No Fee Unless We Win

We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing upfront. Our fee is a percentage of the compensation we recover for you. If we don’t win your case, you owe us nothing. This ensures that we’re fully invested in fighting for the best possible outcome for you.

What to Do After a Car Accident in Houston County

The moments after a car accident can be chaotic and overwhelming. Knowing what to do can protect your health and your legal rights. Follow this step-by-step guide to ensure you’re taking the right actions:

Within the First 24 Hours

1. Call 911

   • Report the accident and request medical assistance if anyone is injured.
   • Even if you feel fine, adrenaline can mask injuries. Get checked by a medical professional.

2. Document the Scene

   • Take photos of all vehicle damage, the accident scene, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
   • Capture traffic signals, skid marks, and debris.
   • Screenshot any messages or notifications on your phone related to the accident.

3. Exchange Information

   • Get the other driver’s name, phone number, address, driver’s license number, and insurance information.
   • Record the make, model, color, and license plate number of the other vehicle.

4. Talk to Witnesses

   • Ask for the names and phone numbers of any witnesses.
   • If possible, record their statements about what they saw.

5. Call Attorney911

   • Do NOT give a recorded statement to any insurance company without speaking to us first.
   • Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate legal guidance.

Within 48 Hours

1. Preserve Evidence

   • Do not delete any photos, videos, or messages related to the accident.
   • Email copies of all evidence to yourself and a trusted family member.

2. Seek Medical Attention

   • Follow up with your primary care physician or a specialist.
   • Keep all medical records, bills, and receipts.

3. Avoid Social Media

   • Do not post about the accident, your injuries, or your activities.
   • Make all social media profiles private and ask friends and family not to tag you in posts.

4. Refer Insurance Calls to Your Attorney

   • If the insurance company contacts you, say: “I need to speak with my attorney first.”
   • Provide only basic information, such as your name and the date of the accident.

Within the First Week

1. Continue Medical Treatment

   • Follow your doctor’s recommendations for treatment and follow-up care.
   • Document all symptoms, even if they seem minor.

2. Keep a Journal

   • Write down how your injuries are affecting your daily life.
   • Note any pain, limitations, or emotional struggles.

3. Stay in Touch with Attorney911

   • We’ll send preservation letters to all relevant parties to ensure evidence is not destroyed.
   • We’ll begin investigating your case, including obtaining police reports and surveillance footage.

Evidence Disappears Every Day—Act Now

Time is not on your side after a car accident. Evidence disappears quickly, and the longer you wait, the harder it becomes to build a strong case. Here’s what you need to know:

Surveillance Footage

• Gas stations: 7-14 days
• Retail stores: 30 days
• Traffic cameras: 30 days
• Ring doorbells: 30-60 days

Once this footage is deleted, it’s gone forever. Attorney911 sends preservation letters immediately to secure this critical evidence.

Witness Memories

Witnesses’ memories fade quickly. The sooner we interview them, the more accurate their statements will be.

Black Box Data

Many vehicles have Event Data Recorders (EDRs) that capture speed, braking, and other details at the time of the crash. This data can be overwritten if not preserved quickly.

Medical Records

Gaps in treatment can be used against you by the insurance company. Consistent medical care strengthens your case.

Statute of Limitations

In Texas, you have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. If you miss this deadline, your case will be barred forever.

How Attorney911 Builds Your Case

At Attorney911, we leave no stone unturned when building your case. Here’s what we do to fight for maximum compensation:

1. Investigate the Accident

• Obtain police reports and 911 call recordings.
• Interview witnesses and secure their statements.
• Analyze surveillance footage from nearby businesses.
• Work with accident reconstruction experts to determine fault.

2. Document Your Injuries

• Obtain all medical records and bills related to the accident.
• Work with medical experts to explain the extent of your injuries.
• Document how your injuries have impacted your daily life.

3. Prove Liability

• Identify all liable parties, including the at-fault driver, their insurance company, and any third parties.
• Gather evidence to prove negligence, such as traffic violations, distracted driving, or mechanical failures.
• Counter the insurance company’s attempts to shift blame onto you.

4. Calculate Your Damages

• Work with economists and vocational experts to calculate lost wages and future earning capacity.
• Consult with life care planners to estimate the cost of future medical care.
• Document pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.

5. Negotiate with Insurance Companies

• Use Lupe Peña’s insider knowledge to counter lowball offers.
• Prepare for trial to show the insurance company we’re serious about fighting for you.
• File a lawsuit if necessary to force the insurance company to take your claim seriously.

6. Take Your Case to Trial (If Needed)

• While most cases settle out of court, we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial.
• Our federal court experience and multi-million dollar results give us leverage in negotiations.
• If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, we’re ready to take your case to trial.

What You Can Recover in a Houston County Car Accident Case

If you’ve been injured in a car accident, you may be entitled to compensation for:

Economic Damages

These are quantifiable financial losses, including:

• Medical Expenses: Past and future medical bills, including hospital stays, surgeries, physical therapy, and medications.
• Lost Wages: Income lost due to time off work for recovery.
• Lost Earning Capacity: If your injuries prevent you from returning to your previous job or earning the same income.
• Property Damage: The cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle and other damaged property.
• Out-of-Pocket Expenses: Transportation to medical appointments, home modifications, and other accident-related costs.

Non-Economic Damages

These compensate for intangible losses, including:

• Pain and Suffering: Physical pain and discomfort caused by your injuries.
• Mental Anguish: Emotional distress, anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
• Physical Impairment: Loss of physical function or mobility.
• Disfigurement: Scarring or permanent visible injuries.
• Loss of Consortium: The impact of your injuries on your relationship with your spouse or family.
• Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Inability to participate in activities you previously enjoyed.

Punitive Damages

In cases involving gross negligence, such as drunk driving, you may be entitled to punitive damages. These are designed to punish the at-fault party and deter similar behavior in the future. In Texas, punitive damages are capped at the greater of:

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

Settlement Ranges for Car Accident Injuries

The value of your car accident case depends on several factors, including the severity of your injuries, the impact on your life, and the strength of the evidence. Below are general settlement ranges for common car accident injuries in Texas:

Soft Tissue Injuries (Whiplash, Sprains, Strains)

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

Broken Bones (Single, Simple Fracture)

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

Broken Bones Requiring Surgery (ORIF)

• Medical Treatment: $47,000-$98,000
• Lost Wages: $10,000-$30,000
• Pain and 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 and Suffering: $40,000-$100,000
• Settlement Range: $70,000-$171,000

Herniated Disc Requiring Surgery

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

Traumatic Brain Injury (Moderate to Severe)

• Medical Treatment: $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 and Suffering: $500,000-$3,000,000+
• Settlement Range: $1,548,000-$9,838,000

Spinal Cord Injury / Paralysis

• Lifetime Care Costs: $2,500,000-$13,000,000+
• Settlement Range: $4,770,000-$25,880,000

Amputation

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

Wrongful Death

• 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 Insurance Companies Fear Attorney911

Insurance companies know that Attorney911 doesn’t back down. Our reputation for fighting aggressively for our clients—and our willingness to take cases to trial—gives us leverage in negotiations. Here’s what sets us apart:

We Know How They Value Claims

Lupe Peña spent years calculating claim values for insurance companies. He knows the algorithms they use, the multipliers they apply, and how to justify higher settlements.

We Prepare Every Case for Trial

Most law firms settle cases quickly to avoid the expense and uncertainty of trial. At Attorney911, we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This shows the insurance company that we’re serious about fighting for maximum compensation.

We’ve Taken on Billion-Dollar Corporations

Our involvement in the BP Texas City explosion litigation proves that we’re not afraid to take on the biggest corporations. We have the resources and experience to handle complex cases.

We Have a Proven Track Record of Results

Our multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts speak for themselves. Insurance companies know that we won’t accept lowball offers, and they’re more likely to negotiate fairly when they see our name on a demand letter.

Client Testimonials: Real Results for Houston County Residents

At Attorney911, we’re proud of the results we’ve achieved for our clients. Here’s what some of them have to say:

“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 run.” — 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

“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

“I lost everything… my car was at a total loss, and because of Attorney Manginello and my case worker Leonor, 1 year later I have gained so much in return plus a brand new truck.” — Kiimarii Yup

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

“Ralph Manginello is indeed the best attorney I ever had. He cares greatly about his results.” — AMAZIAH A.T.

Frequently Asked Questions About Houston County Car Accidents

What should I do immediately after a car accident in Houston County?

If you’ve been in an accident in Houston County, follow these steps:

1. Call 911 and report the accident.
2. Seek medical attention, even if you feel fine.
3. Document the scene with photos and videos.
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 for immediate legal guidance.

Should I call the police even for a minor accident?

Yes. Always call the police. The police report is critical evidence for your case. In Texas, you must 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, such as traumatic brain injuries or internal bleeding, don’t show symptoms immediately. Adrenaline can mask pain at the scene. Insurance companies use delays in treatment against you, so get checked immediately.

What information should I collect at the scene?

• Other driver’s name, phone number, address, driver’s license number, and insurance information.
• Vehicle make, model, color, and license plate number.
• Witness names and phone numbers.
• Photos of all vehicle damage, injuries, road conditions, and traffic signals.
• Police officer’s name, badge number, and report number.

Should I talk to the other driver or admit fault?

• Exchange information only.
• Do NOT discuss fault or apologize.
• Stick to the facts and avoid giving your opinion on what happened.

How do I obtain a copy of the accident report?

In Houston County, you can obtain the police report from the responding law enforcement 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, such as your name and the date of the accident. Do NOT give a recorded statement or 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 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 later discover you need surgery or long-term care.

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 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 a medical authorization without attorney review.

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 the severity of your injuries, permanency, and impact on your life. Lupe Peña knows how to justify higher multipliers based on his experience calculating claims for insurance companies.

What if I was partially at fault?

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. Insurance companies will try to assign as much fault as possible to you to reduce their payment. Lupe’s experience helps counter these arguments.

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 on whether your case will go to trial at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Ed5AnmCMcc.

How long will my case take to settle?

The timeline depends on the severity of your injuries. We don’t settle until you’ve reached Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI), which 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 on the process for a personal injury claim at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XwzYymneDVs.

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, and insurance companies start building their defense against you from day one. Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 as soon as possible.

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. If you miss this deadline, your case will be barred forever.

What is comparative negligence, and how does it affect me?

Texas uses a modified comparative negligence system with a 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.

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. For example, if you were 20% at fault and your damages total $100,000, you would recover $80,000.

Will my case go to trial?

Most cases settle before trial, but Attorney911 prepares every case as if it’s going to trial. This shows the insurance company that we’re serious about fighting for maximum compensation.

How long will my case take to settle?

The timeline depends on the severity of your injuries. We don’t settle until you’ve reached Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI). Minor injuries may settle in 6 months, while serious injuries could take 18-24 months.

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.

What types of damages can I recover?

• Medical expenses (past and future).
• Lost wages and lost 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 known as the “eggshell plaintiff” rule—defendants take victims as they find them.

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?

The value of your claim is determined by factors such as:

• 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. Our fee is 33.33% before trial and 40% if the case goes to trial. You pay nothing upfront, and we don’t get paid unless we win your case.

Watch our video on how contingency fees work at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc.

What does “no fee unless we win” mean?

It means you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. If we don’t win your case, you owe us nothing. We advance all case costs and are reimbursed from the settlement.

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 or 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 firms. As Greg Garcia said: “In the beginning, I had another attorney, but he dropped my case, although Manginello Law Firm was able to help me out.”

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 an attorney to represent you. Lupe’s insurance knowledge is critical for maximizing UM/UIM recovery.

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 the severity of your injuries, permanency, impact on life, and clear liability. Lupe calculated these multipliers for years—he knows how to justify higher values.

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, and damage caps may apply. These cases are complex—you need an experienced attorney. Ralph’s 25+ years of experience includes government litigation.

What if the other driver fled the scene (hit and run)?

File a police report immediately. Your Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage applies when the at-fault driver is unidentified. Surveillance footage is critical—most footage is deleted within 7-30 days. We send preservation letters immediately. Texas allows UM stacking, which can significantly increase your recovery.

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, and we’ve successfully represented clients of all immigration statuses. Lupe is fluent in Spanish, and our team includes bilingual staff.

What if the accident happened in a parking lot?

Parking lot accidents are fully compensable. Insurance companies often 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. Texas comparative negligence rules apply, and we’ve won many parking lot cases with clear liability findings.

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, and the driver’s insurance covers passengers. There are 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.

What if the other driver died in the accident?

You can still pursue a claim against the deceased driver’s estate and insurance. The death doesn’t eliminate liability. The insurance policy still applies, and 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.

Houston County Car Accident Resources

Local Hospitals and Trauma Centers

• East Texas Medical Center Crockett: 1100 Loop 304 E, Crockett, TX 75835
• Houston County Medical Center: 100 Medical Center Pkwy, Crockett, TX 75835
• Memorial Hermann – Texas Medical Center (Houston): 6411 Fannin St, Houston, TX 77030 (Level I Trauma Center)
• Ben Taub Hospital (Houston): 1504 Taub Loop, Houston, TX 77030 (Level I Trauma Center)

Local Law Enforcement Agencies

• Houston County Sheriff’s Office: 101 S 4th St, Crockett, TX 75835
• Crockett Police Department: 100 S 4th St, Crockett, TX 75835
• Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS): 1001 Loop 304 E, Crockett, TX 75835

Local Courts

• Houston County District Court: 401 E Houston Ave, Crockett, TX 75835
• Houston County Justice of the Peace Courts: Various locations in Crockett, Grapeland, Kennard, Latexo, and Lovelady

Local Highways and Dangerous Intersections

• Highway 287: A major north-south corridor through Houston County, known for high traffic volume and accidents.
• Highway 19: Another busy route connecting Crockett to other parts of East Texas.
• Intersection of Highway 287 and Loop 304 (Crockett): A high-traffic area with frequent collisions.
• Intersection of Highway 19 and FM 227 (Grapeland): Known for accidents due to limited visibility and high speeds.

Contact Attorney911 Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident in Houston County, don’t wait to seek legal help. Evidence disappears every day, and the insurance company is already building its case against you. Attorney911 is here to fight for the compensation you deserve.

Call Our Legal Emergency Line: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)

Our team is available 24/7 to provide immediate legal guidance. The call is free, and there’s no obligation.

Free Consultation

We offer a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your case. We’ll review the details of your accident, explain your legal options, and answer any questions you have.

No Fee Unless We Win

Attorney911 works on a contingency fee basis. You pay nothing upfront, and we don’t get paid unless we win your case. If we don’t recover compensation for you, you owe us nothing.

Se Habla Español

Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish, and our team includes bilingual staff. We’re here to help Spanish-speaking clients with the same level of care and expertise.

Why Wait? Call Attorney911 Now

Every day you wait, evidence disappears, and the insurance company strengthens its case against you. Don’t let them take advantage of you. Call Attorney911 today at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We’re ready to fight for the compensation you deserve.

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

Call 24/7: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
Website: https://attorney911.com
Contact Page: https://attorney911.com/contact/

Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every case is unique, and past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Consult with an attorney to discuss the specifics of your case. Attorney911 is a trade name of The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC. Principal office located in Houston, Texas.