Houston Car Accident Lawyer: Get Maximum Compensation After a Crash

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Houston, you’re not alone. With over 251,977 people injured in Texas motor vehicle crashes last year alone, Houston sees more than its share of collisions on roads like I-10, I-45, and the 610 Loop. At Attorney911, we understand the physical pain, emotional stress, and financial burden that follows a serious accident. That’s why we’re here to fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.

With Ralph Manginello’s 25+ years of experience handling car accident cases in Houston courts and Lupe Peña’s insider knowledge from years working for insurance companies, we have the expertise to take on even the most complex cases. Whether you were rear-ended on the Katy Freeway, T-boned at a dangerous intersection, or involved in a multi-vehicle pileup on the Gulf Freeway, our Houston car accident lawyers are ready to help.

Why Houston Drivers Need an Experienced Car Accident Attorney

Houston’s roads are among the most dangerous in Texas. With a crash reported every 57 seconds statewide and one person injured every 2 minutes and 5 seconds, the odds of being involved in a collision are higher than you might think. In Harris County alone, thousands of drivers face the aftermath of accidents each year, dealing with injuries, medical bills, and insurance companies that want to minimize their payouts.

The reality is that insurance companies start building their case against you from the moment the accident happens. They’ll try to get you to give a recorded statement while you’re still in shock, offer quick settlements before you know the full extent of your injuries, and use surveillance to catch you in moments that could be taken out of context. That’s where Attorney911’s unique advantage comes in.

“Lupe Peña worked for a number of years at a national defense firm, learning firsthand how large insurance companies value claims.” Now he uses that insider knowledge to fight for accident victims, not against them.

Common Causes of Car Accidents in Houston

Houston’s unique traffic patterns and road conditions contribute to many types of accidents. Some of the most common causes we see include:

Distracted Driving

With Houston’s long commutes and heavy traffic, it’s no surprise that distracted driving causes many accidents. Whether it’s texting, adjusting the radio, eating, or using navigation apps, taking your eyes off the road for even a few seconds can have devastating consequences.

Drunk Driving

Houston has a serious drunk driving problem. With over 1,053 alcohol-impaired driving deaths in Texas last year (25.37% of all fatalities), drunk driving remains a leading cause of accidents. If you’ve been hit by a drunk driver, you may have claims against both the driver and the establishment that served them alcohol.

Speeding

Houston’s wide highways and fast-paced culture contribute to speeding-related accidents. When drivers exceed speed limits or drive too fast for conditions, they have less time to react and cause more severe crashes.

Failure to Yield

Many Houston intersections see accidents when drivers fail to yield the right of way. This is especially common at busy intersections like Westheimer and Gessner, where multiple lanes of traffic converge.

Weather-Related Accidents

While Houston doesn’t get snow, our heavy rains, fog, and occasional ice storms create hazardous driving conditions. Many drivers aren’t prepared for sudden weather changes that can make roads slippery and reduce visibility.

Rear-End Collisions

These are among the most common types of accidents in Houston, often occurring during rush hour on highways like I-45 or when drivers aren’t paying attention at stoplights.

Common Injuries from Houston Car Accidents

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

Whiplash and Soft Tissue Injuries

These are common in rear-end collisions and can cause neck pain, back pain, and headaches that last for months or even years.

Herniated Discs

The force of a collision can cause discs in your spine to bulge or rupture, leading to severe pain, numbness, and sometimes requiring surgery.

Broken Bones

Fractures are common in car accidents, especially in the arms, legs, ribs, and hips. Some breaks require surgery and months of recovery.

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

Even a “mild” concussion can have serious long-term effects. More severe TBIs can cause permanent cognitive impairment, personality changes, and physical disabilities.

Spinal Cord Injuries

Damage to the spinal cord can result in partial or complete paralysis, requiring lifelong medical care and assistance.

Internal Injuries

The force of a collision can cause internal bleeding and damage to organs, which may not be immediately apparent.

Psychological Injuries

Many accident victims experience PTSD, anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues following a serious crash.

“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.”

Why You Need a Houston Car Accident Lawyer

After an accident, you might think you can handle the insurance claim yourself. But insurance companies have teams of adjusters and lawyers working to minimize your payout. Here’s why you need experienced legal representation:

Insurance Companies Are Not on Your Side

Their goal is to pay you as little as possible. They’ll use tactics like:

• Offering quick settlements before you know the full extent of your injuries
• Pressuring you to give recorded statements that can be used against you
• Delaying your claim in hopes you’ll accept a lower offer
• Using surveillance to catch you in moments that can be taken out of context

We Know Their Playbook

Lupe Peña spent years working for insurance companies, so we know exactly how they operate. We anticipate their strategies and counter them effectively.

We Fight for Maximum Compensation

While insurance companies use software like Colossus to calculate the minimum they can pay you, we fight for what your case is really worth. We know how to document your injuries and damages to justify higher settlements.

We Handle the Legal Process So You Can Focus on Recovery

Dealing with insurance companies, medical bills, and legal paperwork while trying to recover from injuries is overwhelming. We handle everything so you can focus on getting better.

What to Do After a Car Accident in Houston

The steps you take immediately after an accident can significantly impact your ability to recover compensation. Here’s what to do:

At the Scene:

1. Call 911 – Report the accident and request medical assistance if anyone is injured.
2. Seek Medical Attention – Even if you feel fine, get checked out. Adrenaline can mask serious injuries.
3. Document Everything – Take photos of vehicle damage, injuries, road conditions, and traffic signals.
4. Exchange Information – Get the other driver’s name, phone number, address, insurance information, and license plate number.
5. Get Witness Information – If anyone saw the accident, get their names and contact information.
6. Don’t Admit Fault – Stick to the facts when talking to police and other drivers.
7. Call Attorney911 – Before speaking to any insurance company, call 1-888-ATTY-911.

In the Days Following:

1. Follow Up with Medical Treatment – Keep all appointments and follow your doctor’s recommendations.
2. Document Your Injuries – Take photos of your injuries as they heal and keep a pain journal.
3. Don’t Post on Social Media – Insurance companies monitor social media for posts that can be taken out of context.
4. Keep All Receipts – Save receipts for medical expenses, medications, and other accident-related costs.
5. Stay Off Work if Needed – If your doctor says you need time off, follow their advice. Your health comes first.

How Attorney911 Handles Your Car Accident Case

When you hire Attorney911, here’s what you can expect:

Immediate Action

Within 24 hours of retaining our services, we send preservation letters to:

• The other driver’s insurance company
• Any businesses near the accident scene (to preserve surveillance footage)
• The trucking company (if a commercial vehicle was involved)
• Your employer (to document lost wages)

This is crucial because evidence disappears quickly. Surveillance footage is typically deleted within 7-30 days, and black box data from trucks can be overwritten within 30-180 days.

Thorough Investigation

We conduct a comprehensive investigation, including:

• Obtaining police reports and 911 recordings
• Interviewing witnesses
• Reviewing medical records
• Analyzing vehicle damage
• Consulting with accident reconstruction experts
• Reviewing electronic data from vehicles (black boxes, ELDs)

Medical Treatment Coordination

We help you get the medical treatment you need, even if you don’t have insurance. We work with doctors who will treat you on a lien basis, meaning they get paid from your settlement.

Aggressive Negotiation

We negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf. With Lupe’s insider knowledge, we know how to counter their tactics and fight for maximum compensation.

Trial Preparation

While most cases settle out of court, we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This gives us leverage in negotiations and ensures we’re ready if the case goes to court.

Types of Compensation You Can Recover

In a car accident case, you may be entitled to several types of compensation:

Economic Damages

These cover your financial losses:

• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost wages
• Lost earning capacity (if you can’t return to your previous job)
• Property damage
• Out-of-pocket expenses (transportation, home modifications, etc.)

Non-Economic Damages

These compensate for intangible losses:

• Pain and suffering
• Mental anguish
• Physical impairment
• Disfigurement
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Loss of consortium (impact on your relationships)

Punitive Damages

In cases involving gross negligence (like drunk driving), you may be entitled to punitive damages, which are designed to punish the at-fault party and deter similar behavior.

How Case Value Is Determined

Several factors affect the value of your car accident case:

Severity of Injuries

More severe injuries typically result in higher settlements. For example:

• Soft tissue injuries: $15,000-$60,000
• Broken bones: $35,000-$95,000
• Herniated discs: $70,000-$1,205,000
• Traumatic brain injuries: $1,548,000-$9,838,000
• Spinal cord injuries/paralysis: $4,770,000-$25,880,000

Medical Treatment

The type and duration of medical treatment impact case value. Cases involving surgery, hospitalization, and long-term rehabilitation typically settle for more.

Lost Wages

If your injuries prevent you from working, you can recover lost wages. High earners can recover significant amounts for lost earning capacity.

Liability

Cases with clear liability (the other driver was 100% at fault) typically settle for more than cases where fault is disputed.

Insurance Coverage

The amount of insurance available affects settlement value. Commercial policies (like those for trucks) typically have higher limits than personal auto policies.

Impact on Daily Life

The more your injuries affect your daily activities, relationships, and quality of life, the higher your potential settlement.

Houston Car Accident Statistics

Understanding the scope of the car accident problem in Houston can help you see why having an experienced attorney is so important:

• 1 crash every 57 seconds in Texas
• 1 person injured every 2 minutes and 5 seconds
• 4,150 fatalities in Texas last year
• 251,977 people injured in Texas motor vehicle crashes
• Harris County has the highest number of crashes in Texas
• I-45 Gulf Freeway is considered one of the deadliest roads in North America
• Westheimer and Gessner is one of Houston’s most dangerous intersections
• Drunk driving causes 25.37% of all traffic fatalities in Texas

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Houston Car Accident Case

With so many car accident lawyers in Houston, why choose Attorney911? Here are five reasons:

1. Insurance Defense Insider Advantage

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

This is our biggest advantage. Lupe spent years working for insurance companies, so we know their tactics from the inside. We know how they value claims, which doctors they send for IMEs (independent medical exams), and how to counter their strategies. This insider knowledge helps us get better results for our clients.

2. Proven Track Record of Multi-Million Dollar Results

We don’t just talk about results – we have them:

• Multi-million dollar settlement for a client who suffered a brain injury with vision loss
• Millions recovered for a client whose leg injury led to a partial amputation
• Millions recovered for families in trucking-related wrongful death cases
• Significant settlement for a client who injured his back while lifting cargo on a ship

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, especially those involving commercial vehicles or multiple defendants.

4. Personal Attention from Start to Finish

At Attorney911, you’re not just a case number. You work directly with Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña, not just paralegals or case managers. As client Chad Harris said:

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

5. No Fee Unless We Win

We work on a contingency fee basis, which means:

• Free consultation
• No upfront costs
• We advance all case expenses
• You pay nothing unless we win your case

What Our Clients Say About Us

Don’t just take our word for it. Here’s what our clients say about working with Attorney911:

“Leonor got me into the doctor the same day…it only took 6 months amazing.” – Chavodrian Miles

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

“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

“Consistent communication and not one time did i call and not get a clear answer…Ralph reached out personally.” – Dame Haskett

“They went above and beyond! Special thank you to Ralph and Leanor.” – Diane Smith

Frequently Asked Questions About Houston Car Accidents

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

If you’ve been in an accident in Houston:

1. Call 911 and report the accident
2. Seek medical attention even if you feel fine
3. Document everything with photos
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, and 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
• 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” (can be used as admission)
• Do NOT give your opinion on what happened
• Stick to facts only

How do I obtain a copy of the accident report?

In Houston, 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.

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 actual value. 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/underinsured?

Your own UM/UIM coverage can compensate you. Watch our video: “Uninsured & Underinsured Motorists” 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 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 (reduced by your fault %). If 51%+ at fault, you get nothing.

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

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?

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.

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?

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 (except medical malpractice).

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.

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

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

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 the insurance company is my own insurance (UM/UIM claim)?

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist claims are against YOUR insurance when the other driver has no insurance or insufficient insurance. Your insurance company will fight your claim just like the other driver’s insurance would. You need attorney representation. Texas allows inter-policy stacking (combining multiple UM policies). 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 & suffering. The multiplier depends on: injury severity, permanency, impact on life, clear liability. Lupe calculated these for years—he knows how to justify higher multipliers.

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—6-month deadline is strict.

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

File a police report immediately (hit and run is a criminal offense). Your Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage applies. Surveillance footage is CRITICAL—gas stations, businesses, Ring doorbells, traffic cameras. Most footage is deleted 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.

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.

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” (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.

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.

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.

Houston-Specific Car Accident Resources

Houston Courts:

• Harris County Civil Courts
• Harris County District Courts
• Southern District of Texas (Federal Court)

Houston Trauma Centers:

• Memorial Hermann – Texas Medical Center (Level I)
• Ben Taub Hospital (Level I)
• Houston Methodist Hospital (Level II)
• Memorial Hermann The Woodlands (Level II)
• HCA Houston Healthcare Clear Lake (Level II)

Houston Police Departments:

• Houston Police Department
• Harris County Sheriff’s Office
• Pasadena Police Department
• Sugar Land Police Department

Houston Dangerous Intersections:

• Westheimer and Gessner
• I-610 and N. Durham Drive
• I-45 and FM 1960
• Bissonnet and Bellaire
• I-10 and Silber

Contact Attorney911 Today

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Houston, don’t wait. Evidence disappears daily, and the insurance company is already building their case against you. Call Attorney911 now for a free consultation.

📞 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
🌐 https://attorney911.com
📧 ralph@atty911.com | lupe@atty911.com

The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC | Attorney911
3200 Travis St, Suite 220
Houston, TX 77006

Se habla español. Hablamos con Zulema y Lupe Peña.

Don’t face this alone. We’re here to fight for you. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 today for your free consultation. We don’t get paid unless we win your case.