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Mound City Car & Truck Accident Attorneys | 18-Wheelers, Commercial Trucks, Rideshare, Hit-and-Run | Former Insurance Defense — We Know Their Playbook | Multi-Million-Dollar Results | Attorney911 — The Firm Insurers Fear | Federal Court | Se Habla Español | 1-888-ATTY-911

Motor Vehicle Accident Lawyers in Mound City, Texas | Attorney911

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Mound City, Texas, you’re not alone. Every 57 seconds, someone in Texas is involved in a motor vehicle crash. Every 2 minutes and 5 seconds, someone is injured. These aren’t just statistics—they represent real people whose lives are changed in an instant. If you’re one of them, you need a legal team that understands what you’re going through and knows how to fight for the compensation you deserve.

At Attorney911, we’ve been helping accident victims across Texas for over 25 years. Our founder, Ralph Manginello, has dedicated his career to holding negligent drivers and insurance companies accountable. With offices serving Houston County and the surrounding areas, we’re your neighbors, your advocates, and your strongest allies in the fight for justice.

Why Mound City Accidents Demand Experienced Legal Representation

Mound City may be a small community, but our roads see their share of serious accidents. Whether you were injured on Highway 287, FM 2022, or one of our local streets, the aftermath of a crash can be overwhelming. You’re dealing with physical pain, mounting medical bills, lost wages, and insurance companies that seem more interested in protecting their profits than helping you recover.

This is where Attorney911 makes the difference. We don’t just handle car accident cases—we specialize in fighting for maximum compensation for victims of all types of motor vehicle accidents. With our deep knowledge of Texas law and our insider understanding of how insurance companies operate, we level the playing field so you can focus on healing while we handle the legal battle.

The Attorney911 Difference: Insider Knowledge That Wins Cases

What sets Attorney911 apart from other law firms in Mound City? Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how insurance companies evaluate and minimize claims. Lupe Peña spent years working for a national defense firm, learning the tactics insurance companies use to deny or lowball legitimate claims. Now, he uses that knowledge to fight for accident victims like you.

This insider perspective is invaluable. We know:

  • How insurance companies calculate claim values using software like Colossus
  • Which “independent” medical examiners they use to minimize injuries
  • How they manipulate recorded statements to shift blame
  • When they’re offering a fair settlement—and when they’re trying to take advantage of you

With Attorney911 on your side, you’re not just getting legal representation—you’re getting a team that knows the enemy’s playbook inside and out.

Common Types of Motor Vehicle Accidents in Mound City

At Attorney911, we handle all types of motor vehicle accidents, including:

Car Accidents (Our Most Common Case Type)

Car accidents are the most frequent type of motor vehicle crash in Texas, and Mound City is no exception. In 2024 alone, there were 251,977 people injured in Texas motor vehicle crashes—that’s one person injured every 2 minutes and 5 seconds.

Common causes of car accidents in our area include:

  • Distracted driving (texting, phone use, eating)
  • Speeding and aggressive driving
  • Failure to yield right of way
  • Running red lights or stop signs
  • Following too closely (rear-end collisions)
  • Drunk or drugged driving
  • Poor road conditions or weather

Even seemingly minor car accidents can result in serious injuries like whiplash, herniated discs, broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, and spinal cord damage. In one 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.

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

18-Wheeler and Commercial Truck Accidents

With Highway 287 running through our area, Mound City sees its share of commercial truck traffic. When an 80,000-pound tractor-trailer collides with a passenger vehicle, the results are often catastrophic. In 2024, there were 39,393 commercial motor vehicle crashes in Texas, resulting in 608 fatalities and 1,601 serious injuries.

Trucking accidents are complex because:

  • Multiple parties may be liable (driver, trucking company, cargo loader, manufacturer)
  • Federal regulations (FMCSA) govern trucking operations
  • Electronic logging devices (ELDs) and black boxes contain critical evidence
  • Insurance policies often have much higher limits than personal auto policies

At Attorney911, we have extensive experience handling trucking accident cases. Our firm is one of the few in Texas to be involved in BP explosion litigation, demonstrating our ability to take on billion-dollar corporations. We’ve helped numerous injured individuals and families facing trucking-related wrongful death cases recover millions of dollars in compensation.

Drunk Driving Accidents

Drunk driving remains a serious problem in Texas. In 2024, there were 1,053 alcohol-impaired driving deaths in our state—that’s 25.37% of all traffic fatalities. These accidents are 100% preventable, and when they occur, the consequences are devastating.

Texas has strong dram shop laws that allow victims to hold bars, restaurants, and other establishments accountable when they serve alcohol to obviously intoxicated patrons who then cause accidents. 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

If you’ve been injured by a drunk driver in Mound City, you may have claims against both the driver and the establishment that served them. Our team knows how to investigate these cases thoroughly and hold all responsible parties accountable.

“Ralph Manginello took his bogus case and had it dismissed within a WEEK! I have been trying for over 2 years.” – Beth Bonds

Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle riders face unique risks on Mound City roads. In 2024, there were 585 motorcyclist fatalities in Texas, with 37% of those killed not wearing helmets. Many drivers fail to see motorcycles or misjudge their speed, leading to serious accidents.

Common causes of motorcycle accidents include:

  • Drivers failing to yield right of way
  • Distracted or inattentive drivers
  • Unsafe lane changes
  • Left-turn accidents (T-bone collisions)
  • Speeding or reckless driving
  • Poor road conditions

Insurance companies often try to blame motorcyclists for accidents, even when they’re not at fault. Texas’ 51% comparative fault rule means that if you’re found to be 51% or more at fault, you can’t recover any compensation. Our team knows how to counter these arguments and fight for the full compensation you deserve.

Pedestrian Accidents

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

In Texas, pedestrians always have the right of way at intersections—even at unmarked crosswalks. Many drivers don’t know this, and insurance companies won’t tell you. If you’ve been hit by a car while walking in Mound City, you have rights.

Common pedestrian accident injuries include:

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

Rideshare Accidents (Uber/Lyft)

Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have become common in our area, but they’ve also created new legal complexities when accidents occur. The amount of insurance coverage available depends on what the driver was doing at the time of the crash:

Driver Status Coverage Available
App off (personal use) Driver’s personal insurance ($30k/$60k/$25k minimum)
App on, waiting for ride $50k/$100k/$25k contingent coverage
Ride accepted, en route to pickup $1,000,000 commercial coverage
Passenger in vehicle $1,000,000 commercial coverage

At Attorney911, we know how to navigate these complex insurance phases to ensure you receive the maximum compensation available. In one recent period, Uber reported that 58% of accident victims were third parties (other drivers, pedestrians, or passengers in other vehicles), 21% were riders, and 21% were drivers.

Hit and Run Accidents

Hit and run accidents are particularly frustrating because the at-fault driver flees the scene, leaving you to deal with the aftermath. In Texas, hit and run is a serious crime:

Severity Charge Penalty
Death 2nd Degree Felony 2-20 years prison, up to $10,000 fine
Serious Bodily Injury 3rd Degree Felony 2-10 years prison, up to $10,000 fine
Minor Injury State Jail Felony Up to 5 years, up to $5,000 fine
Property Damage ≥$200 Class B Misdemeanor Up to 6 months jail, up to $2,000 fine

If you’re the victim of a hit and run in Mound City, your own Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage can help compensate you. We’ll help you navigate this process and fight for the full compensation you deserve.

“They took over my case from another lawyer and got to working on my case.” – CON3531

Other Types of Motor Vehicle Accidents We Handle

  • Bicycle accidents
  • Bus accidents (including school buses)
  • Delivery vehicle accidents (Amazon, FedEx, UPS)
  • Construction zone accidents
  • Distracted driving accidents
  • Weather-related accidents
  • Intersection accidents
  • Ambulance and emergency vehicle accidents
  • Parking lot accidents
  • Boat and maritime accidents

What to Do After a Motor Vehicle Accident in Mound City

The moments after an accident can be chaotic and confusing. Here’s what you should do to protect your health and your legal rights:

Immediate Steps (First 24 Hours)

  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 all vehicle damage, injuries, road conditions, and traffic signals.
  4. Exchange information – Get the other driver’s name, phone number, address, driver’s license number, insurance information, and license plate number.
  5. Get witness information – Collect names and phone numbers of any witnesses.
  6. Do NOT give a recorded statement – Insurance companies will contact you quickly. Politely decline to give a recorded statement until you’ve spoken with an attorney.
  7. Call Attorney911 – Our legal emergency line is available 24/7 at 1-888-ATTY-911.

Critical Next Steps (Days 1-7)

  1. Follow up with medical care – Continue all recommended treatment. Gaps in treatment can hurt your case.
  2. Preserve evidence – Don’t delete anything from your phone. Save all photos, videos, and messages related to the accident.
  3. Be cautious on social media – Insurance companies monitor social media. Make all profiles private and don’t post about the accident.
  4. Keep all receipts – Save receipts for medical expenses, transportation costs, and any other accident-related expenses.
  5. Don’t sign anything – Insurance companies may send you documents to sign. Don’t sign anything without consulting an attorney.

Longer-Term Actions (Weeks 1-4)

  1. Continue medical treatment – Follow all doctor’s recommendations until you reach Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI).
  2. Document your recovery – Keep a journal of your symptoms, pain levels, and how the injuries affect your daily life.
  3. Stay off social media – Continue to avoid posting about the accident or your activities.
  4. Don’t accept early settlement offers – Insurance companies often offer quick, lowball settlements before you know the full extent of your injuries.
  5. Consult with Attorney911 – We’ll review your case, explain your rights, and develop a strategy for maximum compensation.

Texas Motor Vehicle Accident Laws You Need to Know

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

Statute of Limitations

In Texas, you have 2 years from the date of your accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This deadline is absolute—if you miss it, you lose your right to compensation forever. For wrongful death claims, the 2-year clock starts running from the date of death.

There are limited exceptions to this rule, such as:

  • The “discovery rule” may extend the deadline if you couldn’t reasonably have discovered your injury immediately
  • The deadline may be tolled (paused) if the defendant leaves the state
  • Minors have until their 20th birthday to file a claim (2 years after turning 18)

Comparative Negligence (51% Rule)

Texas uses a modified comparative negligence system. This means:

  • If you’re found to be 50% or less at fault, you can recover compensation (reduced by your percentage of fault)
  • If you’re found to be 51% or more at fault, you cannot recover any compensation

For example:

  • If you’re 20% at fault in an accident with $100,000 in damages, you can recover $80,000
  • If you’re 51% at fault, you recover nothing

Insurance companies often try to shift as much blame as possible onto victims. Our team knows how to counter these arguments and protect your right to fair compensation.

Texas Minimum Auto Insurance Requirements

Texas law requires all drivers to carry minimum liability insurance of:

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

Unfortunately, many drivers ignore this requirement. Approximately 15.4% of Texas drivers are uninsured. That’s why it’s important to carry Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage on your own policy.

Dram Shop Liability

Texas has strong dram shop laws that allow victims of drunk driving accidents to hold bars, restaurants, and other establishments accountable when they serve alcohol to obviously intoxicated patrons. To prove dram shop liability, we must show:

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

Signs of obvious intoxication include slurred speech, bloodshot eyes, unsteady gait, impaired coordination, and aggressive behavior.

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage

UM/UIM coverage protects you when:

  • The at-fault driver has no insurance
  • The at-fault driver has insufficient insurance to cover your damages
  • You’re the victim of a hit and run accident

Texas allows “inter-policy stacking,” which means you may be able to combine coverage from multiple policies. For example, if you have UM coverage on two vehicles, you may be able to stack the coverage limits.

Proving Liability: How We Build Your Case

To win your case, we must prove that the other driver was negligent and that their negligence caused your injuries. Here’s how we do it:

The Four Elements of Negligence

  1. Duty of Care – All drivers have a legal duty to operate their vehicles safely
  2. Breach of Duty – The at-fault driver violated their duty of care (e.g., by speeding, texting, or driving drunk)
  3. Causation – The breach of duty directly caused your injuries
  4. Damages – You suffered actual harm (physical, financial, or emotional)

Types of Evidence We Use

  • Physical Evidence – Vehicle damage, skid marks, road conditions
  • Documentary Evidence – Police reports, medical records, employment records
  • Electronic Evidence – ELD data from trucks, vehicle black boxes, GPS data, cell phone records
  • Testimonial Evidence – Witness statements, expert testimony
  • Photographic Evidence – Photos of the scene, injuries, and vehicle damage
  • Video Evidence – Surveillance footage, dashcam video, traffic camera footage

Expert Witnesses We Work With

  • Accident Reconstructionists – Determine how the crash occurred and who was at fault
  • Medical Experts – Explain the nature and extent of your injuries
  • Life Care Planners – Calculate the cost of lifetime care for catastrophic injuries
  • Vocational Experts – Assess your ability to return to work and your lost earning capacity
  • Economists – Calculate the present value of future losses
  • Trucking Industry Experts – Identify FMCSA violations and industry standards

Damages You Can Recover After a Motor Vehicle Accident

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

Economic Damages (No Cap in Texas)

  • Medical Expenses – Past and future medical bills, including hospital stays, surgeries, doctor visits, physical therapy, medications, and medical equipment
  • Lost Wages – Income you’ve lost due to time off work
  • Lost Earning Capacity – If your injuries prevent you from returning to your previous job or earning the same income
  • Property Damage – Repair or replacement of your vehicle and other damaged property
  • Out-of-Pocket Expenses – Transportation to medical appointments, home modifications, household help

Non-Economic Damages (No Cap Except Medical Malpractice)

  • Pain and Suffering – Physical pain from your injuries
  • Mental Anguish – Emotional distress, anxiety, depression, PTSD
  • Physical Impairment – Loss of physical function or disability
  • Disfigurement – Scarring or other permanent visible injuries
  • Loss of Consortium – Impact on your marriage and family relationships
  • Loss of Enjoyment of Life – Inability to participate in activities you previously enjoyed

Punitive Damages (Capped in Texas)

In cases of gross negligence or malice, you may be entitled to punitive damages to punish the defendant and deter similar conduct. Punitive damages are capped at the greater of:

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

Common situations where punitive damages may apply:

  • Drunk driving accidents
  • Extreme speeding (100+ mph)
  • Trucking companies that knowingly violate FMCSA regulations
  • Manufacturers that knowingly sell defective vehicles

How Insurance Companies Try to Minimize Your Claim

Insurance companies are for-profit businesses. Their goal is to pay you as little as possible—or nothing at all. Here are the tactics they use to minimize your claim:

1. The Quick Cash Trap

Within days of your accident, an insurance adjuster may contact you with a “quick settlement offer.” This offer is almost always far below what your case is worth. They know you’re facing medical bills and lost wages, and they hope you’ll accept their lowball offer out of desperation.

Why it’s dangerous: Once you accept a settlement, you can’t go back and ask for more money—even if you later discover you need surgery or have permanent injuries.

2. The Recorded Statement Trap

Insurance adjusters will ask you to give a recorded statement about the accident. They’ll act friendly and helpful, but their real goal is to get you to say something that hurts your case.

Common questions they ask:

  • “You’re feeling better now, though, right?”
  • “It wasn’t that bad of an impact, was it?”
  • “You were able to walk away from the scene?”
  • “Were you distracted at all?”
  • “How fast were you going?”

Everything you say will be recorded, transcribed, and used against you.

3. The “Independent” Medical Exam (IME) Scheme

If you file a claim, the insurance company may require you to submit to an “independent” medical exam. This is a misnomer—these doctors are hired and paid by the insurance company to minimize your injuries.

What happens at an IME:

  • A brief, cursory exam (often just 10-15 minutes)
  • Questions designed to get you to say you’re feeling better
  • A report that minimizes your injuries or claims they’re pre-existing

Common IME findings:

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

Our advantage: Lupe Peña knows these doctors and their biases because he hired them when he worked for insurance companies.

4. Surveillance Tactics

Insurance companies hire private investigators to follow accident victims. They’ll:

  • Video you doing daily activities
  • Film you from public places (your driveway, stores, parks)
  • Look for any activity that contradicts your injury claims
  • Use one frame of video to claim you’re “not really injured”

They also monitor your social media accounts, looking for:

  • Photos of you being active
  • Check-ins at restaurants or events
  • Posts about your accident or injuries
  • Comments from friends that mention you

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

5. Delay, Deny, Defend

Insurance companies know that the longer they delay your claim, the more desperate you’ll become. They’ll:

  • Claim they’re “still investigating”
  • Say they’re “waiting for medical records”
  • Ignore your calls and emails
  • Take weeks to respond to simple questions

Their goal is to wear you down so you’ll accept a low settlement—or give up entirely.

6. Pre-Existing Condition Blame

Insurance companies love to claim that your injuries aren’t from the accident but are actually pre-existing conditions. They’ll:

  • Request your entire medical history (not just accident-related records)
  • Find old injuries from years ago
  • Claim your current pain is from arthritis, not the accident
  • Ignore the fact that the accident aggravated your pre-existing condition

The truth: You’re entitled to compensation if the accident made your pre-existing condition worse. This is called the “eggshell plaintiff” rule—defendants must take victims as they find them.

How We Counter These Tactics

At Attorney911, we know all these tactics because Lupe Peña used them when he worked for insurance companies. Now, he uses that insider knowledge to fight for accident victims.

Here’s how we counter their strategies:

  • We handle all communication with insurance companies – You don’t have to deal with adjusters or recorded statements
  • We send preservation letters – This legally requires businesses to preserve evidence like surveillance footage before it’s automatically deleted
  • We prepare you for IMEs – We’ll explain what to expect and how to avoid their traps
  • We challenge biased IME reports – With our own medical experts
  • We file lawsuits when necessary – To force insurance companies to take your claim seriously
  • We know how to beat Colossus – The software insurance companies use to calculate claim values

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Mound City Motor Vehicle Accident Case?

With so many law firms to choose from, why should you trust Attorney911 with your case? Here are five reasons we stand out:

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 most powerful advantage. Lupe Peña spent years working for insurance companies, learning:

  • How they calculate claim values using software like Colossus
  • Which “independent” medical examiners they use to minimize injuries
  • How they manipulate recorded statements to shift blame
  • When they’re offering a fair settlement—and when they’re trying to take advantage of you

Now, he uses that knowledge to fight for accident victims like you. We know their playbook because we used to write it.

2. Multi-Million Dollar Results

Our results speak for themselves. We’ve recovered millions for clients with injuries ranging from broken bones to traumatic brain injuries. Some of our documented case results include:

  • Multi-million dollar settlement for a client who suffered a brain injury with vision loss when a log dropped on him at a logging company
  • 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
  • We’ve helped numerous injured individuals and families facing trucking-related wrongful death cases recover millions of dollars in compensation

“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

3. Federal Court Experience

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

  • Trucking accidents (FMCSA regulations are federal)
  • Cases against out-of-state defendants
  • Product liability claims (like Tesla/Autopilot accidents)
  • Maritime and offshore accidents

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

4. Personal Attention from Start to Finish

At Attorney911, you’re not just a case number. You’ll work directly with Ralph Manginello or Lupe Peña, not a case manager assembly line. Our clients consistently praise our communication and personal touch:

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

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

“I never felt like ‘just another case’ they were working on.” – Ambur Hamilton

5. Contingency Fee – No Risk to You

We work on a contingency fee basis—you pay nothing unless we win your case. There are no upfront costs, no hourly fees, and no financial risk to you. If we don’t recover compensation for you, you owe us nothing.

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Motor Vehicle Accidents in Mound City

Immediate After an Accident

Q: What should I do immediately after a car accident in Mound City?
A: If you’ve been in an accident in Mound City:

  1. Call 911 and report the accident
  2. Seek medical attention even if you feel fine (adrenaline masks injuries)
  3. Document everything: take photos of vehicle damage, injuries, and the accident scene
  4. Exchange information with the other driver (name, phone, address, insurance, license plate)
  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

Q: Should I call the police even for a minor accident?
A: Yes. Always call the police. In Texas, you must report accidents that result in injuries, deaths, or property damage over $1,000. The police report is critical evidence for your case.

Q: Should I seek medical attention if I don’t feel hurt?
A: Absolutely. Many serious injuries don’t show symptoms immediately, including:

  • 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.

Q: What information should I collect at the scene?
A: Collect the following information:

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

Q: Should I talk to the other driver or admit fault?
A: Exchange information only. Do NOT:

  • Discuss fault
  • Apologize or say “I’m sorry” (can be used as admission of fault)
  • Give your opinion on what happened
  • Speculate about the cause of the accident

Stick to facts only.

Q: How do I obtain a copy of the accident report?
A: In Mound City, 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).

Dealing with Insurance

Q: Should I give a recorded statement to insurance?
A: To the other driver’s insurance: NO. Not without an attorney present.
To your own insurance: You have a duty to cooperate, but call Attorney911 first. We can advise you on what to say and what to avoid.

Q: What if the other driver’s insurance contacts me?
A: Say: “I need to speak with my attorney first.” Give only basic information (your name, date of accident). Do NOT:

  • Give a recorded statement
  • Discuss your injuries
  • Discuss fault
  • Accept any settlement offers

Q: Do I have to accept the insurance company’s estimate?
A: No. Their estimate is just an offer. It’s usually far below what your case is actually worth. Attorney911 fights for what your case is truly worth.

Q: Should I accept a quick settlement offer?
A: Never accept a settlement before you know the full extent of your injuries. Once you sign a release, you cannot get more money even if you need surgery later or discover permanent injuries.

Q: What if the other driver is uninsured or underinsured?
A: Your own Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage can compensate you when:

  • The other driver has no insurance
  • The other driver has insufficient insurance
  • You’re the victim of a hit and run

Texas allows inter-policy stacking, which means you may be able to combine coverage from multiple policies.

Q: Why does insurance want me to sign a medical authorization?
A: They want unlimited access to your entire medical history to find pre-existing conditions to use against you. Never sign a medical authorization without having it reviewed by an attorney first.

Legal Process

Q: Do I have a personal injury case?
A: You may have a case if:

  • Someone else was at fault (even partially)
  • You suffered injuries or damages
  • There is insurance coverage available

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

Q: When should I hire a car accident lawyer?
A: Immediately. Evidence disappears daily. Insurance companies start building their defense against you from day one. The sooner you call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911, the better we can protect your rights.

Q: How much time do I have to file (statute of limitations)?
A: In Texas, you have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. For wrongful death claims, it’s 2 years from the date of death. Miss this deadline and your case is barred forever.

Q: What is comparative negligence and how does it affect me?
A: Texas uses the 51% bar rule. If you’re 50% or less at fault, you can recover compensation (reduced by your percentage of fault). If you’re 51% or more at fault, you recover nothing.

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

Q: What happens if I was partially at fault?
A: You can still recover compensation if you were 50% or less at fault. Your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you’re 20% at fault in a $100,000 case, you can recover $80,000.

Q: Will my case go to trial?
A: Most cases settle before trial. However, Attorney911 prepares every case as if it’s going to trial. This preparation gives us leverage in settlement negotiations.

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

Q: How long will my case take to settle?
A: It depends on the severity of your injuries. We don’t settle your case until you’ve reached Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI)—the point where your medical condition has stabilized. This could be 6 months for minor injuries or 18-24 months for serious injuries.

Q: What is the legal process step-by-step?
A: The legal process typically follows these steps:

  1. Investigation and evidence gathering
  2. Medical treatment to MMI
  3. Demand letter to insurance company
  4. Negotiation
  5. Lawsuit filing (if necessary)
  6. Discovery (exchange of information)
  7. Mediation (attempt to settle)
  8. Trial (if settlement not reached)

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

Compensation

Q: What is my case worth?
A: The value of your case depends on:

  • Severity of your injuries
  • Cost of medical treatment (past and future)
  • Lost wages and earning capacity
  • Pain and suffering
  • Permanent impairment or disability
  • Insurance coverage available

Cases range from $15,000 (soft tissue injuries) to millions (catastrophic injuries like TBI or paralysis).

Q: What types of damages can I recover?
A: You may be entitled to:

  • 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

Q: Can I get compensation for pain and suffering?
A: 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).

Q: What if I have a pre-existing condition?
A: You can still recover compensation if the accident aggravated or worsened your pre-existing condition. This is called the “eggshell plaintiff” rule—defendants must take victims as they find them.

Q: Will I have to pay taxes on my settlement?
A: Generally, compensation for physical injuries is not taxable. Punitive damages are taxable. Consult a tax professional for specific advice about your situation.

Q: How is the value of my claim determined?
A: Case value is determined by:

  • Medical bills (past and future)
  • Future treatment costs
  • Lost income
  • Permanent impairment rating
  • Comparable verdicts and settlements
  • Severity of injuries
  • Impact on your daily life
  • Strength of evidence
  • Insurance coverage available

Attorney Relationship

Q: How much do car accident lawyers cost?
A: Attorney911 works on a contingency fee basis. Our fee is a percentage of your recovery:

  • 33.33% if the case settles before trial
  • 40% if the case goes to trial

You pay nothing upfront, and we advance all case costs. We don’t get paid unless we win your case.

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

Q: What does “no fee unless we win” mean?
A: It means you pay zero unless we recover compensation for you. If we don’t win your case, you owe us nothing. There are no upfront costs, no hourly fees, and no financial risk to you.

Q: How often will I get updates?
A: Attorney911 provides regular updates throughout your case. As client Dame Haskett said: “Consistent communication and not one time did i call and not get a clear answer.”

Q: Who will actually handle my case?
A: At Attorney911, you work directly with Ralph Manginello or Lupe Peña, not just paralegals or case managers. As Chad Harris said: “You are NOT just some client…You are FAMILY to them.”

Q: What if I already hired another attorney?
A: You can switch attorneys at any time. If your current 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.”

Mistakes to Avoid

Q: What common mistakes can hurt my case?
A: Avoid these common mistakes:

  • Giving a recorded statement without an attorney
  • Accepting a quick settlement
  • Delaying medical treatment
  • Gaps in treatment
  • Posting about your accident on social media
  • Signing releases or medical authorizations
  • Not documenting everything
  • Talking to insurance adjusters without legal advice

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

Q: Should I post about my accident on social media?
A: No. Make all your social media profiles private immediately. Don’t post about:

  • The accident
  • Your injuries
  • Your activities
  • Your case
  • Your emotions

Insurance companies monitor social media and will use anything they find against you.

Q: Why shouldn’t I sign anything without a lawyer?
A: Releases are permanent and final. Medical authorizations give insurance companies unlimited access to your medical history. Settlement offers are binding. Once you sign, you can’t undo it.

Q: What if I didn’t see a doctor right away?
A: See a doctor now and explain that you didn’t realize the severity of your injuries. Delayed symptoms are common in many injuries, including traumatic brain injuries and herniated discs. We can still help.

Additional Common Questions

Q: What if I have a pre-existing condition?
A: You can still recover compensation. If the accident aggravated your pre-existing condition, you’re entitled to compensation for the aggravation. The “eggshell plaintiff” rule means the defendant takes you as they find you. For example:

  • Before accident: mild occasional back pain
  • After accident: herniated disc requiring surgery
  • You recover for the new injury, not just the pre-existing pain

We hire medical experts to prove the difference between your condition before and after the accident.

Q: Can I switch attorneys if I’m unhappy with my current lawyer?
A: Yes. You can fire your attorney at any time. If your attorney:

  • Isn’t communicating with you
  • Isn’t fighting for you
  • Is pushing you to settle cheap
  • Has dropped your case

You have the right to switch to Attorney911. We’ve taken over many cases from other attorneys and helped clients recover compensation they were previously denied.

Q: What if the insurance company is my own insurance (UM/UIM claim)?
A: Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist claims are against your own insurance when the other driver has no insurance or insufficient insurance. Unfortunately, your own insurance company will fight your claim just like the other driver’s insurance would. You need attorney representation to maximize your UM/UIM recovery.

Q: How do you calculate pain and suffering?
A: Most commonly using the multiplier method:
Medical expenses × multiplier (1.5 to 5) = pain and suffering

The multiplier depends on:

  • Severity of injuries
  • Permanency
  • Impact on your life
  • Clear liability

For example: $100,000 in medical bills × 4 multiplier = $400,000 for pain and suffering.

Lupe Peña knows how to justify higher multipliers because he calculated these values for years as an insurance defense attorney.

Q: What if I was hit by a government vehicle (city bus, police car, etc.)?
A: 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 Manginello’s 25+ years of experience includes government litigation.

Q: What if the other driver fled the scene (hit and run)?
A: File a police report immediately (hit and run is a criminal offense). 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 to businesses near the accident scene to secure evidence before it’s deleted.

Q: What if I’m an undocumented immigrant—can I still file a claim?
A: 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 Peña is fluent in Spanish, and our team includes bilingual staff to ensure language is never a barrier.

Q: What if the accident happened in a parking lot?
A: Parking lot accidents are fully compensable. Insurance companies often try to argue that “parking lot accidents are always 50/50 fault,” but this is not true. We prove fault through:

  • Surveillance video
  • Witness statements
  • Damage analysis
  • Traffic patterns

Texas comparative negligence rules apply to parking lot accidents just like any other accident.

Q: What if I was a passenger in the at-fault vehicle?
A: 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 since you weren’t driving. These cases often settle quickly because liability is clear. We handle the difficult conversations so you don’t have to.

Q: What if the other driver died in the accident?
A: 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.

Mound City Motor Vehicle Accident Resources

If you’ve been injured in a motor vehicle accident in Mound City, these local resources may be helpful:

Local Hospitals and Medical Centers

  • Houston County Medical Center – Located in Crockett, this facility serves Mound City and surrounding areas for emergency and ongoing care.
  • East Texas Medical Center – Crockett – Provides emergency services and specialized care for accident victims.

Law Enforcement Agencies

  • Houston County Sheriff’s Office – Handles accidents outside city limits and provides accident reports.
  • Mound City Police Department – Responds to accidents within city limits and files accident reports.

Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) Resources

  • TxDOT Crash Records – You can obtain accident reports through the Texas Department of Transportation’s Crash Records Information System (CRIS).
  • TxDOT Road Conditions – Check current road conditions and construction zones in the Mound City area.

Local Courts

  • Houston County Courthouse – Handles civil cases, including personal injury lawsuits, for Mound City and Houston County residents.

Support Organizations

  • Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Texas – Provides support for victims of drunk driving accidents and advocates for stronger laws.
  • Texas Brain Injury Alliance – Offers resources and support for individuals with traumatic brain injuries.

Contact Attorney911 Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a motor vehicle accident in Mound City, don’t wait to get the help you need. Evidence disappears daily, and insurance companies are already building their case against you.

Call our legal emergency line at 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911) for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’ll review your case, explain your rights, and help you understand your options.

Remember:

  • Free consultation – No cost to discuss your case
  • No fee unless we win – You pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you
  • We handle everything – You focus on healing while we fight for your rights
  • Hablamos Español – Lupe Peña and our team are fluent in Spanish

At Attorney911, we’re not just your attorneys—we’re your neighbors, your advocates, and your strongest allies in the fight for justice. Let us put our 25+ years of experience, our insider knowledge of insurance tactics, and our proven track record of multi-million dollar results to work for you.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 now. The sooner you call, the sooner we can start protecting your rights and fighting for the compensation you deserve.