Motor Vehicle Accident Lawyers in Killeen, Texas | Attorney911

If You’ve Been Injured in a Car Accident in Killeen, Texas, We’re Here to Fight for You

Every 57 seconds, someone in Texas is involved in a motor vehicle crash. Every 2 minutes and 5 seconds, someone is injured. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a car accident in Killeen, Bell County, or anywhere in Central Texas, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to face this alone.

At Attorney911, we understand the physical pain, emotional stress, and financial uncertainty you’re experiencing. With over 25 years of experience fighting for accident victims across Texas, our Killeen car accident lawyers have recovered millions for clients just like you. We know the local courts, the insurance adjusters who handle claims in this area, and most importantly—we know how to win.

When you call 1-888-ATTY-911, you’re calling your neighbors. We’re part of the Killeen community, and we’re here to protect your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Why Killeen Accident Victims Choose Attorney911

We Know the Killeen Legal Landscape

Killeen has its own unique traffic patterns, dangerous intersections, and legal challenges. Our team understands:

The high-risk areas along I-35 and US-190 where serious accidents frequently occur
The local courts that handle personal injury cases in Bell County
The insurance companies that operate in Central Texas and their specific tactics
The medical facilities where Killeen residents receive treatment, including Seton Medical Center Harker Heights and Scott & White Medical Center

We’ve handled cases in Killeen courtrooms and know what it takes to win here.

Former Insurance Defense Attorney Now Fighting FOR You

Most law firms talk about fighting insurance companies. We actually know how they operate—because our attorney Lupe Peña spent years working for them.

Lupe worked at a national defense firm, learning firsthand how large insurance companies value claims, deploy tactics, and try to minimize payouts. He knows:

How they use software called Colossus to calculate the minimum they can pay you
Which “independent” medical exam doctors they favor (the ones who always find you less injured)
How they set reserves to limit settlement authority
When they’re bluffing about policy limits
How to counter their comparative fault arguments

This insider knowledge is your unfair advantage. While other firms guess at insurance company tactics, we know them from the inside.

Multi-Million Dollar Results for Killeen Clients

Our results speak for themselves:

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

“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”

We don’t just claim experience—we have 25+ years of proven results. Our Killeen car accident lawyers have handled cases from minor injuries to catastrophic wrongful death claims, always fighting for maximum compensation.

Personal Attention You Won’t Find at Big Firms

When you call Attorney911, you work directly with Ralph Manginello or Lupe Peña—not a case manager assembly line. As client Chad Harris said:

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

We treat every client like family because we know how overwhelming this process can be. You’ll never feel like just another case number.

We Answer at 1-888-ATTY-911

That’s our legal emergency hotline, not a marketing gimmick. When you’re hurt and scared at 2 AM, we’re here to help. We offer:

Free consultations – no obligation
No upfront costs – we don’t get paid unless we win
Spanish-speaking services – Hablamos Español
Immediate action when evidence is disappearing

Common Types of Motor Vehicle Accidents in Killeen, Texas

Car Accidents in Killeen

With over 251,977 people injured in Texas motor vehicle crashes last year, car accidents are the most common type of collision in Killeen. Whether you were rear-ended on I-35, T-boned at a busy intersection, or involved in a head-on collision on US-190, our Killeen car accident lawyers can help.

Common causes of car accidents in Killeen:

Distracted driving (texting, phone use)
Speeding on highways and local roads
Failure to yield at intersections
Running red lights and stop signs
Following too closely (rear-end collisions)
DUI and drunk driving
Weather-related accidents (rain, fog)

Common injuries we see:

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

As client Chavodrian Miles shared:

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

If you’ve been injured in a Killeen car accident, don’t let insurance companies lowball your claim. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation.

18-Wheeler and Trucking Accidents

Killeen sits along I-35, one of the busiest trucking corridors in America. With 39,393 commercial motor vehicle crashes in Texas last year—resulting in 608 fatalities and 1,601 serious injuries—trucking accidents are among the most dangerous collisions on our roads.

Why trucking accidents are more complex:

Multiple liable parties (driver, trucking company, cargo loader, manufacturer)
Higher insurance limits ($750,000 to $5,000,000+ policies)
Federal regulations (FMCSA) that can establish negligence per se
Electronic logging device (ELD) data that can prove violations
Black box data that records speed, braking, and other critical information

Common trucking violations we investigate:

Hours of Service (HOS) violations (driving beyond 11-hour limit)
Inadequate driver training or qualifications
Improper vehicle maintenance
Overloaded or improperly secured cargo
Failure to conduct proper pre-trip inspections
Electronic logging device (ELD) tampering

As our trucking accident lawyers have documented:

“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”

With Ralph Manginello’s federal court admission to the Southern District of Texas, we have the experience to handle complex trucking cases that other firms can’t. We’ve been involved in BP explosion litigation—proving we can take on billion-dollar corporations and win.

Drunk Driving Accidents in Killeen

Last year, 1,053 people were killed in alcohol-impaired driving crashes in Texas—25.37% of all traffic fatalities. Killeen has seen its share of these preventable tragedies, especially around Fort Hood and local entertainment districts.

Why drunk driving cases often result in higher compensation:

Punitive damages are available for gross negligence
Dram shop liability allows claims against bars/restaurants
Criminal cases can strengthen civil claims
Insurance companies can’t defend the indefensible

Texas Dram Shop Law (TABC § 2.02):
Establishments can be held liable if they served someone who was obviously intoxicated and that person later caused an accident. 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

Our firm’s involvement 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 had DWI charges dismissed for clients by proving:

Breathalyzer machines weren’t properly maintained
Police failed to conduct proper tests
Video evidence showed the client wasn’t actually impaired

This same investigation skill helps us build stronger civil cases for our clients.

Motorcycle Accidents

With 585 motorcyclist fatalities in Texas last year, these accidents often result in catastrophic injuries. Killeen’s warm weather and proximity to scenic Hill Country roads mean we see many serious motorcycle crashes.

Common causes of motorcycle accidents:

Drivers failing to yield right of way (most common)
Driver inattention/distraction
Unsafe lane changes
Left-turn accidents (T-bone/head-on)
Speeding and reckless driving

Texas comparative negligence is especially dangerous for motorcyclists:
Texas uses a 51% bar rule—if you’re found 51% or more at fault, you recover nothing. Insurance companies ALWAYS try to blame the motorcyclist. Our former insurance defense attorney Lupe Peña knows exactly how they build these cases and how to counter their arguments.

Pedestrian Accidents in Killeen

Last year, 6,095 pedestrians were struck in Texas, resulting in 768 fatalities. Pedestrians are the most vulnerable road users, making up just 1% of crashes but 19% of all roadway deaths.

Critical legal point most drivers don’t know:
Pedestrians ALWAYS have the right-of-way at intersections—even at unmarked crosswalks. Anytime there’s an intersection of two streets, the distance between them is a crosswalk, even if unmarked.

Common pedestrian accident locations in Killeen:

Busy intersections along Clear Creek Road
Crosswalks near Fort Hood main gates
Parking lots at local shopping centers
Residential areas where children play

Rideshare Accidents (Uber/Lyft)

With 17.4 million Uber trips happening daily across the country, rideshare accidents are becoming more common in Killeen. These cases are complex because insurance coverage changes based on what the driver was doing at the time of the crash.

Rideshare insurance phases:

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

Who can be injured in rideshare accidents:

21% Riders
21% Drivers
58% Third parties (other drivers, pedestrians)

Lupe’s insurance defense background is especially valuable in rideshare cases. He understands how to navigate the complex insurance maze and identify all available coverage.

Hit and Run Accidents

Every 43 seconds, someone in the U.S. is involved in a hit-and-run accident. In Texas, leaving the scene of an accident is a serious crime with severe penalties:

Severity	Charge	Penalty
Death	2nd Degree Felony	2-20 years prison, up to $10K fine
Serious Bodily Injury	3rd Degree Felony	2-10 years prison, up to $10K fine
Minor Injury	State Jail Felony	Up to 5 years, up to $5K fine
Property Damage ≥$200	Class B Misdemeanor	Up to 6 months jail, up to $2K fine

How we help hit and run victims:

File UM/UIM claims with your own insurance
Send preservation letters to local businesses for surveillance footage
Work with law enforcement to identify the at-fault driver
Maximize recovery through all available insurance policies

Delivery Vehicle Accidents (Amazon, FedEx, DoorDash)

With the rise of online shopping, delivery vehicle accidents are increasing in Killeen. Amazon alone has seen a dramatic increase in accidents involving its delivery service partners (DSPs).

Key delivery vehicle verdicts:

2024 Georgia: $16.2M for child struck by Amazon delivery van
2024 Texas: $105M verdict against Amazon DSP (All Points 360)
2023 Arizona: Wrongful death lawsuit against Grubhub

Why delivery vehicle cases often result in higher settlements:

Trucks are 3x the size/weight of passenger cars
$1M+ liability insurance policies required
No jury sympathy for corporate defendants
Business model encourages dangerous behavior

Work Zone Accidents

Nearly 28,000 crashes occurred in Texas work zones last year, resulting in 215 deaths—a 12% increase over the previous year. Killeen sees its share of work zone accidents, especially along I-35 and major road construction projects.

Real case example:
Katrina Bond, a college student, slowed for work zone traffic on I-35 near Fort Worth. The driver of a heavy pickup (who admitted receiving a text message) rear-ended her. The force pushed her car into the path of another truck, resulting in a fatality.

Tesla/Autopilot and Electric Vehicle Accidents

As electric vehicles become more common in Killeen, we’re seeing an increase in accidents involving advanced driver assistance systems. Tesla’s Autopilot system has been involved in several high-profile crashes.

Notable Tesla-related incidents:

May 2016: First U.S. Autopilot fatality (18-wheeler collision)
March 2018: Apple engineer killed in Mountain View, CA (settled 2024)
August 2025: $240M+ jury verdict against Tesla (landmark case)

Key liability arguments in Tesla cases:

Tesla marketed Autopilot as safer than human drivers
Marketing fostered driver overconfidence
Tesla knew system couldn’t detect emergency vehicles
Software updates instead of comprehensive fixes

Ralph Manginello’s federal court experience makes Attorney911 uniquely qualified to handle these complex product liability cases.

What to Do Immediately After a Killeen Car Accident

Hour 1-6: Immediate Crisis Response

If you’ve just been in an accident in Killeen:

✅ Safety First: If you can move safely, get to a secure location away from traffic

✅ Call 911: Report the accident and request medical assistance if anyone is injured

✅ Medical Attention: Get to the ER immediately, even if you feel fine. Adrenaline masks injuries

✅ Document Everything:

Take photos of ALL vehicle damage (every angle)
Photograph the accident scene, road conditions, traffic signals
Take photos of visible injuries
Screenshot any messages visible on your phone

✅ Exchange Information:

Other driver’s name, phone, address
Insurance company and policy number
Driver’s license number
License plate number
Vehicle make, model, color

✅ Witnesses: Get names and phone numbers of any witnesses

✅ Call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate legal guidance before speaking to ANY insurance company

Hour 6-24: Evidence Preservation

✅ Digital Preservation:

Preserve all texts, calls, photos, videos related to the accident
Do NOT delete anything from your phone
Screenshot everything relevant
Email copies to yourself for backup

✅ Physical Evidence:

Secure damaged clothing, glasses, personal items
Keep receipts for any expenses (towing, rental car, medications)
Do NOT repair your vehicle yet

✅ Medical Records:

Request copies of all ER/hospital records
Keep all discharge paperwork
Follow up with your primary care physician within 24-48 hours

✅ Insurance Communications:

Note any calls from insurance companies
Do NOT give recorded statements yet
Do NOT sign anything
Do NOT accept any settlement offers
Say: “I need to speak with my attorney first”

✅ Social Media:

Make ALL profiles private immediately
Do NOT post about the accident
Do NOT post photos of injuries or activities
Tell friends/family not to tag you in posts

Hour 24-48: Strategic Decisions

✅ Legal Consultation: Call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 for your free consultation

✅ Insurance Response: If insurance contacts you, refer them to your attorney

✅ Settlement Offers: Do NOT accept or sign anything without lawyer review

✅ Evidence Backup: Upload all photos to cloud storage and email copies to yourself

Why Time is Critical

Evidence disappears daily:

Surveillance footage deleted in 7-30 days
ELD/black box data can be overwritten in 30-180 days
Witness memories fade quickly
Insurance companies are already building their case against you

What Attorney911 does within 24 hours:

Sends preservation letters to all parties
Orders police reports and 911 recordings
Photographs the accident scene
Interviews witnesses
Begins accident reconstruction

Texas Motor Vehicle Law: What Killeen Accident Victims Need to Know

Statute of Limitations

Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code § 16.003

Claim Type	Time Limit	Starts From
Personal Injury	2 years	Date of accident
Wrongful Death	2 years	Date of death
Property Damage	2 years	Date of damage
Government Claims	6 months notice	Date of incident

Exceptions:

Minors: Time doesn’t start until 18th birthday
Discovery Rule: May start later if injury not immediately discoverable
Defendant Absence: Tolled if defendant leaves Texas

CRITICAL: Miss the deadline = case BARRED forever.

Comparative Negligence (51% Bar Rule)

Texas uses modified comparative negligence with a 51% bar:

If you are 50% or less at fault → You can recover damages (reduced by your % of fault)
If you are 51% or more at fault → You recover NOTHING

Why this matters for Killeen accident victims:
Insurance companies ALWAYS try to assign maximum fault to you. Even small percentages cost you thousands:

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

Lupe’s insurance defense experience helps counter their comparative fault arguments because he made these arguments for years—now he defeats them.

Texas Minimum Auto Insurance Requirements

Coverage	Minimum Required
Bodily Injury – Per Person	$30,000
Bodily Injury – Per Accident	$60,000
Property Damage – Per Accident	$25,000

Uninsured Motorist Statistics:

15.4% of U.S. motorists are uninsured (approximately 1 in 7 drivers)
UM/UIM coverage is critical for protection
Texas allows inter-policy stacking

How Insurance Companies Try to Cheat You (And How We Stop Them)

At Attorney911, we’ve seen it all. Lupe Peña spent years working for insurance companies, learning their tactics from the inside. Now he uses that knowledge to fight FOR you.

Tactic #1: The Quick Cash Trap (Weeks 1-3)

What they do:
Within days of your accident, the insurance company offers you quick money—typically $2,000-$5,000. 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. What seems like a good offer today could be a fraction of what you’ll need for future medical treatment.

Real case example:
Day 3: Insurance offers $3,500 “final settlement”
You sign the release thinking it’s over
Week 6: MRI shows herniated disc requiring surgery ($100,000 cost)
TOO LATE – You signed the release, can’t reopen claim
You pay $100,000 out of pocket

How we counter:
We NEVER settle before you’ve reached Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI). Lupe knows these offers are always lowball—he calculated them for years.

Tactic #2: The Recorded Statement Trap (Days 1-3)

What they do:
Insurance adjusters contact you IMMEDIATELY—often while you’re still in the hospital. They act friendly and helpful:

“We just want to help you”
“We need to get your side of the story”
“This is routine, everyone does this”
“It’ll only take a few minutes”

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

Question They Ask	What They Want You to Say
“You’re feeling better now though, right?”	Trap you into saying you’re improving
“It wasn’t that bad of an impact, was it?”	Minimize collision severity
“You were able to walk away from the scene?”	Suggest injuries not serious
“Were you distracted at all?”	Get you to admit distraction
“How fast were you going?”	Hope you overestimate or say “I don’t know”

The truth:

You are NOT required to give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance
Giving a statement without an attorney ALMOST ALWAYS hurts your case
Insurance companies know this—that’s why they push so hard

How we counter:
DO NOT give recorded statements without us. Once you hire Attorney911:

We become your voice
All calls go through us
You don’t talk to adjusters
We prepare you properly if a statement becomes necessary

Lupe knows their questions because he asked them for years.

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

What they call it: “Independent Medical Examination”

What it really is: Insurance company hired doctor to minimize your injuries

How they choose IME doctors:

Based on who gives insurance-favorable reports
Doctors who consistently find “no injury” or “pre-existing condition”
Doctors paid THOUSANDS by insurance companies ($2,000-$5,000 per exam)
Repeat business = repeat favorable reports

What happens at the IME:

10-15 minute “examination” (vs. your treating doctor’s thorough evaluation)
Rarely review your complete medical records beforehand
Ask questions designed to elicit “I’m feeling better” responses
Look for ANY reason to minimize injuries

Common IME doctor findings:

What They Say	What It Means
“Patient has pre-existing degenerative changes”	Everyone over 40 has some arthritis – used to deny claims
“Injuries consistent with minor trauma”	Minimizes your pain and suffering
“Patient can return to full duty work”	Eliminates lost wage claims
“Treatment has been excessive”	Attacks your treating doctors
“Subjective complaints out of proportion to objective findings”	Medical speak for calling you a LIAR

Lupe’s insider quote:

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

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

What they do:
Drag your case out hoping you’ll get desperate:

“Still investigating your claim”
“Waiting for medical records” (that we sent months ago)
“Reviewing your file”
“Need additional information”
Ignore calls and emails
Take weeks to respond to simple questions

Why delay works (on people without attorneys):

Insurance Companies Have:

Unlimited time
Unlimited resources
No financial pressure
Earning interest on YOUR settlement money

You Have:

Mounting bills
Zero income
Creditors threatening
Need money NOW

Financial desperation makes you accept less:

Month 1: You’d reject $5,000 offer
Month 6: You’d seriously consider $5,000
Month 12: You’d BEG for $5,000 just to end the nightmare

How we counter:

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

Tactic #5: Surveillance and Social Media Monitoring

What they do:
They hire private investigators to:

Video you doing daily activities
Film from public places (your driveway, street, stores)
Follow you to appointments, errands, social activities
Look for ANY activity contradicting injury claims

They monitor ALL your social media:

Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, Twitter, YouTube, Snapchat
Screenshot EVERYTHING: photos, posts, check-ins, comments, likes
Monitor your friends’ profiles for posts mentioning you
Use facial recognition to find photos you’re tagged in
Archive your entire social media history

Examples we’ve defended:

Example	What Happened	Insurance Claimed	Reality
Old Gym Photo	Gym photo from 3 YEARS AGO	Presented as recent, contradicts injury	We proved metadata was pre-accident
Restaurant Check-in	Facebook check-in at restaurant	“Partying and having fun”	Sitting quietly having dinner
Friend’s Comment	Friend posted “Had fun yesterday!”	Evidence of non-injury	Client was resting at home
Walking Dog	Video of client walking dog slowly	“Not disabled”	Doctor RECOMMENDED short walks
Smiling in Photo	Family photo smiling	“Not in pain – she’s smiling!”	Everyone smiles for photos

7 Rules for Clients:

Make ALL profiles private immediately
DON’T post about accident, injuries, activities, emotions, case
DON’T check in anywhere
Tell friends/family: don’t tag, don’t post about you
Don’t accept friend requests from strangers (fake profiles)
BEST: Stay off social media entirely during case
Assume EVERYTHING is being monitored

Tactic #6: Comparative Fault Arguments

What they do:
Try to assign you MAXIMUM fault to reduce their payment:

“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 they do this:
Texas 51% bar rule means:

If you’re 51%+ at fault → You get NOTHING
If you’re 50% or less at fault → Your damages reduced by your percentage

Even small fault percentages cost thousands:

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

How we counter:

Aggressive liability investigation
Accident reconstruction proving other driver’s fault
Witness statements supporting your version
Police report analysis emphasizing citations
Expert testimony on perception-reaction time

Lupe knows their fault arguments because he made them for years—now he defeats them.

How Colossus Software Really Values Your Claim

How Insurance Companies ACTUALLY Value Your Claim

Lupe Peña knows this system from the inside—he used these systems for years.

What is Colossus?

Used by Allstate, State Farm, Liberty Mutual, and others
Computerized claim valuation system
Adjuster inputs: Injury codes, treatment types, medical costs, lost wages, jurisdiction
Software outputs: Recommended settlement range
Problem: Programmed to undervalue serious injuries

How It’s Manipulated:

Injury Coding:

Your SAME injury can be coded different ways
“Soft tissue strain” (minor code) vs. “disc herniation” (serious code)
SAME injury, different code = 50-100% difference in valuation
Adjusters trained to use LOWEST possible codes

Why Lupe’s Experience Matters:

Knows how to present medical records showing true injury severity
Knows which medical terms trigger higher valuations
Knows how to beat the algorithm with proper documentation
Knows when Colossus valuation is artificially low

Reserve Setting:

What Reserves Are:

Money insurance company sets aside for your claim
Based on worst-case scenario (their estimate of trial verdict)
Adjuster usually CANNOT settle for more than reserve without approval

How We Increase Reserves:

Hiring experts (shows we’re investing in case)
Taking depositions (creating litigation expense)
Filing lawsuit (forces trial evaluation)
Preparing for trial (shows we won’t back down)

Lupe understands reserve psychology and settlement authority limits—this is GAME-CHANGING advantage.

What You Can Recover After a Killeen Car Accident

Types of Damages Available in Texas

Economic Damages (No Cap in Texas):

Damage Type	What It Covers
Medical Expenses (Past)	ER, hospital, surgery, doctors, physical therapy, medications, medical equipment
Medical Expenses (Future)	Ongoing treatment, future surgeries, lifetime medications, long-term care
Lost Wages (Past)	Income lost from date of accident to 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):

Damage Type	What It Covers
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
Drunk driving cases often qualify
Cap: Greater of $200,000 OR (2x economic + 1x non-economic max $750,000)
Purpose: Punish defendant and deter similar conduct

Settlement Ranges by Injury Type

Soft Tissue Injuries (Whiplash, Sprains, Strains):

Medical Treatment:

Emergency room: $2,000-$5,000
Follow-up doctor visits: $1,000-$3,000
Physical therapy (6-12 weeks): $3,000-$7,000
Medications: $300-$1,000
Total Medical: $6,000-$16,000

Lost Wages: $2,000-$10,000 (2-6 weeks missed work)
Pain & Suffering: $8,000-$35,000

SETTLEMENT RANGE: $15,000-$60,000
Higher if: Permanent pain, restrictions on activities, chronic condition develops

Broken Bone (Single, Simple Fracture):

Medical Treatment:

Emergency room and X-rays: $3,000-$6,000
Orthopedic consultation: $500-$1,500
Casting and follow-up: $2,000-$5,000
Physical therapy: $3,000-$8,000
Total Medical: $10,000-$20,000

Lost Wages: $5,000-$15,000 (4-8 weeks missed work)
Pain & Suffering: $20,000-$60,000

SETTLEMENT RANGE: $35,000-$95,000

Broken Bone (Requiring Surgery – ORIF):

Medical Treatment:

Emergency room: $5,000-$10,000
Surgery (Open Reduction Internal Fixation): $25,000-$50,000
Hospital stay (2-3 days): $6,000-$15,000
Follow-up care: $3,000-$8,000
Physical therapy (3-6 months): $8,000-$15,000
Total Medical: $47,000-$98,000

Lost Wages: $10,000-$30,000 (3-6 months)
Pain & Suffering: $75,000-$200,000

SETTLEMENT RANGE: $132,000-$328,000

Herniated Disc (Conservative Treatment):

Medical Treatment:

Emergency room and initial treatment: $3,000-$6,000
MRI: $2,000-$4,000
Physician visits and pain management: $5,000-$12,000
Physical therapy (3-6 months): $8,000-$15,000
Epidural steroid injections (series of 3): $3,000-$6,000
Medications: $1,000-$3,000
Total Medical: $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):

Medical Treatment:

Initial treatment and diagnostics: $8,000-$15,000
Failed conservative treatment: $10,000-$20,000
Spinal surgery (microdiscectomy or fusion): $50,000-$100,000
Hospital stay: $8,000-$20,000
Post-surgical care and follow-up: $5,000-$15,000
Physical therapy (6-12 months): $10,000-$20,000
Pain management: $5,000-$15,000
Total Past Medical: $96,000-$205,000

Future Medical: $30,000-$100,000 (ongoing pain management, possible revision surgery)
Lost Wages: $20,000-$50,000 (6-12 months recovery)
Lost Earning Capacity: $50,000-$400,000 (if can’t return to physical job)
Pain & Suffering: $150,000-$450,000

SETTLEMENT RANGE: $346,000-$1,205,000

Traumatic Brain Injury (Moderate to Severe):

Medical Treatment:

Emergency room and trauma care: $10,000-$30,000
Hospital/ICU stay (1-4 weeks): $50,000-$200,000
Neurosurgery if required: $75,000-$200,000
Acute rehabilitation facility: $30,000-$100,000
Neurologist follow-up care: $10,000-$30,000
Neuropsychological testing: $3,000-$8,000
Cognitive therapy: $15,000-$50,000
Medications: $5,000-$20,000
Total Past Medical: $198,000-$638,000

Future Medical (Life Care Plan): $300,000-$3,000,000+ depending on severity
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

Attorney911 Documented Result:

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

Spinal Cord Injury / Paralysis:

Lifetime Care Costs by Level:

Injury Level	First Year	Each Year After	Lifetime Total
High Tetraplegia (C1-C4)	$1,200,000-$1,500,000	$200,000-$250,000	$6,000,000-$13,000,000+
Low Tetraplegia (C5-C8)	$850,000-$1,100,000	$75,000-$100,000	$3,700,000-$6,100,000+
Paraplegia (T1-L5)	$500,000-$750,000	$70,000-$90,000	$2,500,000-$5,250,000+

SETTLEMENT RANGE: $4,770,000-$25,880,000

Amputation:

Medical Treatment:

Emergency care and surgery: $80,000-$200,000
Hospital stay: $50,000-$150,000
Rehabilitation: $30,000-$100,000
Initial prosthetic fitting: $10,000-$30,000
Total Past Medical: $170,000-$480,000

Future Medical (Lifetime Prosthetics):

Basic prosthetic leg: $5,000-$15,000 every 3-5 years
Advanced computerized prosthetic: $50,000-$100,000 every 3-5 years
Over lifetime (30-50 years): $500,000-$2,000,000

SETTLEMENT RANGE: $1,945,000-$8,630,000

Attorney911 Documented Result:

“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”

Wrongful Death (Working Age Adult):

Economic Damages:

Funeral and burial: $10,000-$20,000
Medical expenses before death: $50,000-$500,000
Lost financial support to family (present value): $1,000,000-$4,000,000

Non-Economic Damages:

Loss of companionship, society, love: $500,000-$3,000,000
Loss of advice and counsel: $100,000-$500,000
Mental anguish (family members): $250,000-$1,500,000

SETTLEMENT RANGE: $1,910,000-$9,520,000

Attorney911 Documented Result:

“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”

Why Killeen Accident Victims Choose Attorney911

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 Attorney911’s biggest competitive advantage—one no other Killeen law firm can match.

What this means for your case:

We know their tactics because Lupe used them
We anticipate their strategies before they deploy them
We know how they value claims internally
We know which IME doctors they favor
We know how to beat their algorithms
We speak their language

When other Killeen car accident lawyers are guessing at insurance company tactics, we know them from the inside.

2. Multi-Million Dollar Results

Our Killeen personal injury attorneys have recovered millions for clients with:

Brain injuries: “Multi-million dollar settlement for client who suffered brain injury with vision loss”
Amputations: “This case settled in the millions”
Trucking wrongful death: “Recovered millions of dollars in compensation”
Maritime injuries: “Significant cash settlement”

These aren’t just numbers—they’re lives changed. As client Glenda Walker said:

“They make you feel like family and even though the process may take some time, they make it feel like a breeze. They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.”

3. Federal Court Experience

Ralph Manginello is admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas.

Why this matters for Killeen cases:

Complex cases often end up in federal court
FMCSA trucking regulations are federal
Diversity jurisdiction for out-of-state defendants
Federal court requires different skills than state court

BP Explosion Litigation: “Our firm is one of the few firms in Texas to be involved in BP explosion litigation”

This experience proves we can take on billion-dollar corporations and win.

4. Personal Attention You Deserve

At big firms, you’re just a case number. At Attorney911, you work directly with Ralph or Lupe. As client Chad Harris shared:

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

You’ll never feel like just another case when you choose Attorney911.

5. No Fee Unless We Win

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

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Killeen Car Accidents

Immediate After Accident

1. What should I do immediately after a car accident in Killeen?

If you’ve been in an accident in Killeen:

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

2. Should I call the police even for a minor accident?

Yes. Always call police. The police report is critical evidence. In Texas, you must report accidents with injuries, deaths, or property damage over $1,000.

3. Should I seek medical attention if I don’t feel hurt?

ABSOLUTELY. Many serious injuries don’t show symptoms immediately:

Traumatic brain injuries can take days to manifest
Internal bleeding may not be obvious
Herniated discs may not cause pain for weeks
Adrenaline masks pain at the scene

Insurance companies use delays in treatment against you. Get checked immediately at Seton Medical Center Harker Heights or Scott & White Medical Center.

4. What information should I collect at the scene?

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

5. Should I talk to the other driver or admit fault?

Exchange information only
Do NOT discuss fault
Do NOT apologize or say “I’m sorry” (can be used as admission)
Do NOT give your opinion on what happened
Stick to facts only

6. How do I obtain a copy of the accident report in Killeen?

You can obtain the police report from the Killeen Police Department or through the Texas Department of Transportation’s Crash Records Information System (CRIS).

Dealing with Insurance

7. Should I give a recorded statement to insurance?

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

8. What if the other driver’s insurance contacts me?

Say: “I need to speak with my attorney first.” Give only basic information (name, date of accident). Do NOT give recorded statement. Do NOT discuss injuries or fault.

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

No. Their estimate is just an offer. It’s usually far below actual value. Attorney911 fights for what your case is really worth.

10. Should I accept a quick settlement offer?

NEVER accept settlement before knowing full extent of injuries. Once you sign a release, you cannot get more money even if you need surgery later.

11. What if the other driver is uninsured/underinsured?

Your own UM/UIM coverage can compensate you. Watch our video: “Uninsured & Underinsured Motorists” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kWcNFyb-Yq8

12. Why does insurance want me to sign a medical authorization?

They want unlimited access to your ENTIRE medical history to find pre-existing conditions to use against you. Never sign without attorney review.

Legal Process

13. Do I have a personal injury case?

You may have a case if:

Someone else was at fault (even partially)
You suffered injuries or damages
There is insurance to recover from

Watch our video: “Do I Have a Good Case?” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j-PMMP5Jims

14. When should I hire a Killeen car accident lawyer?

Immediately. Evidence disappears daily. Insurance companies start building their defense against you from day one. Call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911

15. How much time do I have to file (statute of limitations)?

In Texas: 2 years from date of accident for personal injury, 2 years from date of death for wrongful death. Miss it = case barred forever.

16. What is comparative negligence and how does it affect me?

Texas uses the 51% bar rule. If you’re 50% or less at fault, you can recover (reduced by your fault %). If 51%+ at fault, you get nothing.

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

17. What happens if I was partially at fault?

You can still recover if you were 50% or less at fault. Your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault.

18. Will my case go to trial?

Most cases settle before trial. But Attorney911 prepares every case AS IF it’s going to trial. That’s what gives us leverage.

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

19. How long will my case take to settle?

Depends on injury severity. We don’t settle until you’ve reached maximum medical improvement (MMI). Could be 6 months for minor injuries, 18-24 months for serious injuries.

20. What is the legal process step-by-step?

Investigation and evidence gathering
Medical treatment to MMI
Demand letter to insurance
Negotiation
Lawsuit if necessary
Discovery
Mediation
Trial if needed

Watch our video: “What Is the Process for a Personal Injury Claim?” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XwzYymneDVs

Compensation

21. What is my case worth?

Depends on: injury severity, medical costs, lost wages, permanent impairment, pain and suffering, insurance available. Cases range from $15,000 (soft tissue) to millions (catastrophic injury).

22. What types of damages can I recover?

Medical expenses (past and future)
Lost wages and earning capacity
Pain and suffering
Mental anguish
Physical impairment
Disfigurement
Loss of enjoyment of life
Property damage

23. Can I get compensation for pain and suffering?

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

24. What if I have a pre-existing condition?

You can still recover if the accident aggravated or worsened your pre-existing condition. This is called the “eggshell plaintiff” rule.

25. Will I have to pay taxes on my settlement?

Generally, compensation for physical injuries is NOT taxable. Punitive damages ARE taxable. Consult a tax professional.

26. How is the value of my claim determined?

Based on: medical bills, future treatment costs, lost income, permanent impairment rating, comparable verdicts, severity of injuries, impact on daily life.

Attorney Relationship

27. How much do Killeen 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

28. What does “no fee unless we win” mean?

You pay zero unless we recover money for you. If we don’t win, you owe us nothing. We advance all case costs.

29. How often will I get updates?

Attorney911 provides regular updates. As client Dame Haskett said: “Consistent communication and not one time did i call and not get a clear answer.”

30. Who will actually handle my case?

At Attorney911, you work directly with Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña, not just paralegals. As Chad Harris said: “You are NOT just some client…You are FAMILY to them.”

31. What if I already hired another attorney?

You can switch. As client Greg Garcia said: “In the beginning I had another attorney but he dropped my case although Mangiello law firm were able to help me out.”

Mistakes to Avoid

32. What common mistakes can hurt my case?

Giving recorded statement without attorney
Accepting quick settlement
Delaying medical treatment
Gaps in treatment
Posting on social media
Signing releases or authorizations
Not documenting everything

Watch our video: “Client Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Case” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY

33. Should I post about my accident on social media?

NO. Make all profiles private. Don’t post about accident, injuries, or activities. Insurance monitors everything.

34. Why shouldn’t I sign anything without a lawyer?

Releases are PERMANENT. Medical authorizations give unlimited access. Settlement offers are binding. Once signed, you can’t undo it.

35. What if I didn’t see a doctor right away?

See one NOW. Explain you didn’t realize severity of injuries. Delayed symptoms are common. We can still help.

Additional Common Questions

36. What if I have a pre-existing condition?

You can still recover. If the accident AGGRAVATED your pre-existing condition, you’re entitled to compensation for the aggravation. “Eggshell plaintiff” rule: Defendant takes victim as they find them.

Example: You had mild occasional back pain. Accident caused herniated disc requiring surgery. You recover for the NEW injury, not just the pre-existing pain. We hire medical experts to prove the difference. Lupe knows how insurance attacks pre-existing conditions—he used this defense for years.

37. Can I switch attorneys if I’m unhappy with my current lawyer?

YES. You can fire your attorney at any time. If your attorney isn’t communicating, isn’t fighting for you, or is pushing you to settle cheap, you have the right to switch. Attorney911 has taken over many cases from other attorneys. As Greg Garcia said: “In the beginning I had another attorney but he dropped my case although Mangiello law firm were able to help me out.” Call 1-888-ATTY-911 to discuss switching.

38. What if the insurance company is my own insurance (UM/UIM claim)?

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist claims are against YOUR insurance when other driver has no insurance or insufficient insurance. Your insurance company will fight your claim just like the other driver’s insurance would. You need attorney representation. Texas allows inter-policy stacking (combining multiple UM policies). Lupe’s insurance knowledge is critical for maximizing UM/UIM recovery.

39. How do you calculate pain and suffering?

Most commonly using multiplier method: Medical expenses × multiplier (1.5 to 5) = pain & suffering. Multiplier depends on: injury severity, permanency, impact on life, clear liability.

Example: $100,000 medical × 4 multiplier = $400,000 pain & suffering. Lupe calculated these for years—he knows how to justify higher multipliers. See our damages section for detailed breakdown.

40. What if I was hit by a government vehicle (city bus, police car, etc.)?

Government claims have special rules. You must file notice within 6 months (much shorter than 2-year statute of limitations). Sovereign immunity protects government entities. Damage caps may apply. These cases are complex—you need experienced attorney. Ralph’s 25+ years includes government litigation. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately—6-month deadline is strict.

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

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

42. What if I’m an undocumented immigrant—can I still file a claim?

YES. Immigration status does NOT affect your right to compensation for injuries. You’re entitled to full recovery regardless of immigration status. Your case is confidential. We’ve successfully represented clients of all immigration statuses. Lupe is fluent in Spanish. Call 1-888-ATTY-911—we protect your rights and your privacy.

43. What if the accident happened in a parking lot?

Parking lot accidents are fully compensable. Insurance companies love to argue “parking lot accidents are always 50/50 fault” (LIE). We prove fault through: surveillance video, witness statements, damage analysis, traffic patterns. Texas comparative negligence rules apply. We’ve won many parking lot cases with clear liability findings.

44. What if I was a passenger in the at-fault vehicle?

You can sue the driver even if you were riding with them (friend, family member, Uber driver). You’re an innocent victim. Driver’s insurance covers passengers. No comparative fault issues (you weren’t driving). These cases often settle quickly because liability is clear. We handle the difficult conversation so you don’t have to.

45. What if the other driver died in the accident?

You can still pursue claim against deceased driver’s estate and insurance. Death doesn’t eliminate liability. Insurance policy still applies. Estate may have assets. Wrongful death laws protect both sides. These cases are emotionally complex but legally straightforward. We handle with sensitivity while protecting your rights.

Killeen, Texas: Our Community, Your Neighbors

At Attorney911, we’re proud to serve Killeen and the surrounding Central Texas communities. We understand the unique challenges faced by Killeen residents, from the busy commutes along I-35 to the local traffic patterns around Fort Hood.

Why Local Matters

When you choose a Killeen car accident lawyer, you want someone who understands:

The specific courts that handle personal injury cases in Bell County
The insurance companies that operate in Central Texas and their tactics
The local hospitals where Killeen residents receive treatment
The dangerous intersections and roadways in our community
The unique traffic patterns around Fort Hood and local military installations

We’ve handled cases in Killeen courtrooms and know what it takes to win here.

Serving All of Central Texas

While our principal office is in Houston, we serve clients throughout Central Texas, including:

Killeen
Harker Heights
Copperas Cove
Temple
Belton
Nolanville
Fort Hood
All of Bell County and surrounding areas

Our Commitment to Killeen

We’re committed to serving the Killeen community by:

Providing free consultations to accident victims
Offering Spanish-speaking services (Hablamos Español)
Fighting for maximum compensation for our clients
Educating the community about their legal rights
Supporting local organizations and events

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 – Your Legal Emergency Line

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident in Killeen, Texas, don’t wait. Evidence disappears daily. Insurance companies start building their case against you immediately.

Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911) for your free consultation. We don’t get paid unless we win your case.

Remember:

Free consultation – no obligation
No upfront costs
We advance all case expenses
You pay nothing unless we win
Hablamos Español
Available 24/7

When you call 1-888-ATTY-911, you’re not just calling a law firm—you’re calling your neighbors. We’re here to fight for you, just like we would for our own family.

Call now: 1-888-ATTY-911