Motor Vehicle Accidents in Mustang Ridge, Texas: Your Complete Legal Guide

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Mustang Ridge, Texas, you’re not alone. Every 57 seconds, a motor vehicle crash occurs somewhere in Texas, and many of these accidents happen right here in Caldwell County. At Attorney911, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll these accidents take on victims and their families. With over 25 years of experience serving Central Texas, our team is here to fight for the compensation you deserve.

Why Mustang Ridge Accidents Require Local Legal Expertise

Mustang Ridge sits at the intersection of major Texas roadways, including US-183 and SH-130, making it a hotspot for both local traffic and long-haul trucking accidents. The unique mix of rural roads, highway traffic, and commercial vehicles creates specific accident risks that require specialized legal knowledge.

Ralph Manginello, our founding attorney, has been handling motor vehicle accident cases across Texas since 1998. His experience in federal court (Southern District of Texas) and complex litigation like the BP explosion case means he’s prepared to take on even the most challenging cases that arise on Mustang Ridge’s roads.

Common Types of Accidents in Mustang Ridge and Caldwell County

Car Accidents (Tier 1 – Most Common)

With 251,977 people injured in Texas motor vehicle crashes in 2024 alone, car accidents are the most frequent type of collision we handle. In Mustang Ridge, we commonly see:

• Rear-end collisions on US-183 during rush hour
• Intersection accidents at FM 812 and SH-130
• Distracted driving crashes involving cell phone use
• Drunk driving accidents, especially on weekends

Common injuries: Whiplash, herniated discs, broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, and spinal cord damage.

Attorney911 case 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.”

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

Trucking and 18-Wheeler Accidents (Tier 1 – Most Severe)

Mustang Ridge’s proximity to major highways makes it vulnerable to trucking accidents. In 2024, Texas saw 39,393 commercial motor vehicle crashes, resulting in 608 fatalities and 1,601 serious injuries.

Key factors in trucking accidents:

• Driver fatigue (FMCSA Hours of Service violations)
• Improper loading or unsecured cargo
• Brake failures and poor maintenance
• Distracted or impaired driving

Federal regulations we enforce:

• 11-hour driving limit after 10 consecutive hours off-duty
• 30-minute break required after 8 hours of driving
• Electronic Logging Device (ELD) requirements
• Commercial driver BAC limit: 0.04%

Attorney911’s advantage: Ralph Manginello’s federal court admission means we can handle FMCSA cases in federal court when necessary. Our firm was one of the few involved in BP explosion litigation, demonstrating our ability to take on billion-dollar corporations.

Drunk Driving Accidents (Tier 1 – Preventable Tragedies)

In 2024, 1,053 people died in Texas due to alcohol-impaired driving – that’s 25.37% of all traffic fatalities. Caldwell County has seen its share of these preventable tragedies.

Dram Shop Liability in Texas:
Under Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code § 2.02, bars and restaurants can be held liable if they serve alcohol to someone who is “obviously intoxicated” and that person later causes an accident.

Signs of obvious intoxication:

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

Attorney911’s criminal defense advantage: Ralph’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) means we can handle both the civil and criminal aspects of drunk driving cases. We’ve successfully dismissed three DWI cases by exposing flaws in breathalyzer maintenance, missing evidence, and video evidence showing clients weren’t impaired.

Motorcycle Accidents (Tier 2 – High Risk in Central Texas)

Texas saw 585 motorcyclist fatalities in 2024, with 37% of those killed not wearing helmets. Mustang Ridge’s scenic routes attract many riders, increasing the risk of accidents.

Texas helmet law:

• Required for all riders under 21
• Riders 21+ may ride without a helmet if they’ve completed a safety course OR have $10,000+ in medical insurance

Common causes in Mustang Ridge:

• Vehicles turning left in front of motorcycles
• Failure to yield at intersections
• Distracted drivers not seeing motorcycles
• Road hazards on rural roads

Why you need an attorney: Insurance companies often blame motorcyclists using Texas’s 51% comparative fault rule. Lupe Peña, our former insurance defense attorney, knows exactly how they build these cases – and how to defeat them.

Pedestrian Accidents (Tier 2 – Growing Concern)

With 6,095 pedestrian crashes in Texas in 2024 resulting in 768 deaths, pedestrian safety is a major concern. Mustang Ridge’s mix of rural roads and growing commercial areas creates unique risks.

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

Common injuries:

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

Rideshare Accidents (Tier 2 – Modern Complexity)

Uber and Lyft have transformed transportation in Central Texas, but their insurance coverage creates a complex maze for accident victims.

Rideshare insurance phases (critical for your recovery):

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

Who gets hurt most often:

• 58% are third parties (other drivers, pedestrians)
• 21% are riders
• 21% are drivers

Attorney911’s advantage: Lupe Peña’s insurance defense background means we know how to identify the correct insurance phase and maximize your recovery.

Hit and Run Accidents (Tier 2 – Time-Sensitive)

Every 43 seconds, someone in the U.S. is involved in a hit-and-run accident. In Texas, hit and run with injury is a felony offense.

Texas penalties for hit and run:

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

Your recovery options:

• Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage from your own policy
• Underinsured Motorist (UIM) coverage if the at-fault driver is later identified but underinsured
• Stacking coverage from multiple policies

Critical urgency: Surveillance footage is typically deleted within 7-30 days. We send preservation letters immediately to secure this critical evidence.

Work Zone Accidents (Tier 2 – Growing Risk)

Nearly 28,000 crashes occurred in Texas work zones in 2024, resulting in 215 deaths – a 12% increase over the previous year. With ongoing construction on US-183 and SH-130, work zone safety is a major concern in Mustang Ridge.

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

Tesla and Autonomous Vehicle Accidents (Tier 3 – Emerging Issue)

As electric and autonomous vehicles become more common in Central Texas, we’re seeing new types of accidents:

Notable Tesla cases:

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

Key liability arguments:

1. Tesla marketed Full Self-Driving (FSD) as safer than human drivers
2. Marketing fostered driver overconfidence and overreliance
3. Tesla knew the system couldn’t detect emergency vehicles
4. Tesla used over-the-air software updates instead of comprehensive fixes

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

Bicycle Accidents (Tier 3 – Vulnerable Road Users)

Texas saw 78 cyclist fatalities in 2024, a 26.42% decrease from 2023 but still too high. Mustang Ridge’s rural roads and growing cycling community create unique risks.

Texas e-bike classifications:

Class	Max Speed	Throttle	Pedal Assist
Class 1	20 mph	No	Yes
Class 2	20 mph	Yes	Yes
Class 3	28 mph	No	Yes

Legal requirements:

• No license required for standard e-bikes
• No registration required
• Motor limit: 750W (1 horsepower) or less
• Speed limit: 28 mph maximum assisted speed
• No statewide helmet requirement (some cities require for riders under 17)

If e-bike exceeds standards: It may be classified as a motor vehicle, requiring registration and different insurance implications.

Bus Accidents (Tier 3 – Public Transportation Risks)

Texas led all states with 1,110 bus accidents in 2024, resulting in 17 fatal crashes. In 2023, Texas saw 2,523 school bus crashes resulting in 11 deaths and 63 serious injuries.

Liable parties:

• Bus driver (fatigue, distraction, impairment)
• Bus operator/company (inadequate training, negligent maintenance)
• Manufacturer (brake, tire, or safety equipment defects)
• Other drivers (third-party vehicles)
• Government entities (poor signage, road defects)

Delivery Vehicle Accidents (Tier 3 – Amazon and Gig Economy)

The rise of delivery services has created new accident risks:

Key verdicts:

• 2024 Georgia: $16.2M for child struck by Amazon delivery van (Amazon 85% responsible)
• 2024 Lopez v. All Points 360: $105M against Amazon DSP
• Grubhub wrongful death lawsuit (Arizona): Driver distracted by app

Amazon DSP liability:

• Delivery Service Partners contractually required to “defend and indemnify” Amazon
• Higher safety violation rate than average motor carriers
• 1,879 crashes involving Amazon-related motor carriers in 24 months (ending August 2025)

What to Do Immediately After an Accident in Mustang Ridge

The 48-Hour Evidence Preservation Protocol

Hour 1-6 (Immediate Crisis):
✅ Safety First: If you can move safely, get to a secure location away from traffic
✅ Call 911: Report the accident, request medical assistance if anyone is injured
✅ Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, get checked. 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

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
  ✅ 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 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a 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 screenshots and photos to cloud storage

Evidence Deterioration Timeline (Why Time is Critical)

Time Frame	What Disappears
Day 1-7	Witness memories begin fading immediately
Day 7-30	Surveillance footage deleted (gas stations: 7-14 days, retail stores: 30 days)
Month 1-2	Insurance companies solidify their defense position against you
Month 2-6	Trucking ELD/black box data overwritten (30-180 days)
Month 6-12	Witnesses become unreachable, memories severely degraded
Month 12-24	Approaching statute of limitations creates pressure to settle cheap

Attorney911’s response: Within 24 hours of retention, we send preservation letters to all parties to legally require evidence preservation before automatic deletion.

Texas Motor Vehicle Law You 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:

• Discovery Rule: SOL may start later if injury wasn’t immediately discoverable
• Defendant Absence: Tolled if defendant leaves Texas
• Mental Incapacity: Tolled during incapacity

CRITICAL: Miss the deadline and your case is BARRED forever.

Comparative Negligence (Texas 51% Bar Rule)

Texas uses modified comparative negligence with a 51% bar:

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

Example:

Your Fault %	Case Value	Your Recovery
0%	$100,000	$100,000
10%	$100,000	$90,000
25%	$250,000	$187,500
40%	$500,000	$300,000
50%	$500,000	$250,000
51%	$500,000	$0

Insurance companies ALWAYS try to assign maximum fault to you. Lupe Peña, our former insurance defense attorney, knows exactly how they build these cases – and how to defeat them.

Texas Minimum Auto Insurance (30/60/25)

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

Proving Liability: Building Your Case

To win your motor vehicle accident case in Texas, we must prove 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 (speeding, distracted driving, etc.)
3. Causation: The breach directly caused your injuries
4. Damages: You suffered actual harm (physical, financial, emotional)

Evidence We Collect to Prove Your Case

Physical Evidence:

• Vehicle damage photographs (all angles)
• Skid marks, debris, road damage
• Damaged personal property (clothing, glasses, phone)
• Weather and road conditions documentation

Documentary Evidence:

• Police accident report
• 911 call recordings
• Traffic camera footage
• Surveillance footage from nearby businesses
• Medical records and bills
• Employment records (for lost wages)
• Cell phone records (proving distraction)

Electronic Evidence:

• ELD (Electronic Logging Device) data from trucks
• Vehicle black box/EDR (Event Data Recorder)
• GPS/telematics data
• Dashcam footage
• Social media posts (theirs, not yours)

Testimonial Evidence:

• Witness statements
• Expert witness testimony
• Medical expert opinions
• Accident reconstruction specialists

Multiple Liable Parties in Complex Cases

In many accidents, especially trucking cases, multiple parties may share liability:

• Truck driver (negligent operation)
• Trucking company (negligent hiring, supervision, maintenance)
• Cargo loader (improper loading causing instability)
• Vehicle manufacturer (defective parts)
• Maintenance company (improper repairs)

More liable parties = more insurance policies = higher potential recovery.

Understanding Your Damages and Compensation

Types of Damages You Can Recover

Economic Damages (No Cap in Texas):

• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost wages and lost earning capacity
• Property damage
• Out-of-pocket expenses (transportation, home modifications)

Non-Economic Damages (No Cap in Texas):

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

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 capped at $750,000)

Settlement Ranges by Injury Type

Soft Tissue Injuries (Whiplash, Sprains, Strains):

• Medical treatment: $6,000-$16,000
• Lost wages: $2,000-$10,000
• Pain & suffering: $8,000-$35,000
• Settlement range: $15,000-$60,000

Broken Bone (Single, Simple Fracture):

• Medical treatment: $10,000-$20,000
• Lost wages: $5,000-$15,000
• Pain & suffering: $20,000-$60,000
• Settlement range: $35,000-$95,000

Herniated Disc (Requiring Surgery):

• Medical treatment: $96,000-$205,000
• Future medical: $30,000-$100,000
• Lost wages: $20,000-$50,000
• Lost earning capacity: $50,000-$400,000
• Pain & suffering: $150,000-$450,000
• Settlement range: $346,000-$1,205,000

Traumatic Brain Injury (Moderate to Severe):

• Medical treatment: $198,000-$638,000
• Future medical: $300,000-$3,000,000+
• Lost wages: $50,000-$200,000
• Lost earning capacity: $500,000-$3,000,000+
• Pain & suffering: $500,000-$3,000,000+
• Settlement range: $1,548,000-$9,838,000

Attorney911 case 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: $2,500,000-$13,000,000+
• Settlement range: $4,770,000-$25,880,000

Wrongful Death (Working Age Adult):

• Economic damages: $1,000,000-$4,000,000
• Non-economic damages: $850,000-$5,000,000
• Settlement range: $1,910,000-$9,520,000

Attorney911 case 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.”

Nuclear Verdicts: Changing the Insurance Landscape

Nuclear verdicts (awards exceeding $10 million) are transforming the legal landscape:

Recent Texas Nuclear Verdicts:

• 2024 Hatch v. Jones: $81.72M (car accident wrongful death)
• 2024 Frito-Lay Warehouse: $72M (vehicle collision)
• 2024 Lopez v. All Points 360: $105M (Amazon DSP)
• 2024 New Prime I-35 pileup: $44.1M (6 deaths)
• 2024 Oncor Electric: $37.5M (distracted truck driver)

Why this matters for your case: Insurance companies fear nuclear verdicts. This fear increases settlement values across ALL serious injury cases. Attorney911’s trial readiness and multi-million dollar track record give us leverage in every negotiation.

Insurance Company Tactics Exposed

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

Lupe spent years working FOR insurance companies. Now he uses that knowledge FOR victims. He knows exactly what they’re doing because he did it himself.

Tactic #1: Quick Contact & Recorded Statement Trap

What they do:
Within hours of your accident, insurance adjusters contact you – often while you’re still in the hospital, on pain medication, or overwhelmed by the situation. They act friendly and helpful, saying things like:

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

What they’re really doing:
They’re building their defense against you with leading questions designed to minimize your injuries and shift blame:

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 aren’t 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
• Everything you say is documented, recorded, transcribed, and WILL be used against you
• You cannot take it back

How Attorney911 counters:

• DO NOT give recorded statement without us
• Once you hire us, we become your voice
• All calls go through us
• You don’t talk to adjusters
• We prepare you properly if a statement becomes absolutely necessary
• We sit with you during any statements
• We know their questions because Lupe asked them for years

Tactic #2: Quick Settlement Offer Trap

What they do:
Within days or weeks of your accident, the insurance company offers quick money – typically $2,000-$5,000, sometimes up to $15,000 if they’re scared. It sounds good when you have zero money and mounting bills.

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 extent of your injuries yet. Consider this real scenario:

What Happens	Result
Day 3: Insurance offers $3,500 “final settlement”	You’re desperate, in pain, scared
You sign the release	You think it’s over
Week 6: MRI shows herniated disc requiring surgery	Surgery costs $100,000
TOO LATE	You signed release, can’t reopen claim
You pay $100,000 out of pocket	Insurance pays nothing more

The release is permanent and final.

How Attorney911 counters:

• NEVER settle before Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI)
• MMI = as good as you’ll get medically
• Could be 6 months, 12 months, 24+ months depending on injuries
• Can’t know true case value until MMI
• We know offers are ALWAYS lowball
• Lupe calculated these lowball offers for years – he KNOWS they’re offering 10-20% of true value

Tactic #3: “Independent” Medical Exam (IME) Scheme

What they call it: “Independent Medical Examination”

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

How insurance companies choose IME doctors:

• Based on who gives insurance-favorable reports (NOT who’s most qualified)
• 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 an 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

How Attorney911 counters:

• We prepare you extensively before the exam
• We send complete medical records to IME doctor first (forcing review)
• We challenge biased IME reports with our own medical experts
• Lupe knows these specific doctors and their biases – he hired them for years

Tactic #4: Delay and Financial Pressure

What insurance companies do:
They 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 while delaying

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 Attorney911 counters:

• We file lawsuit 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 – knows when to push

Tactic #5: Surveillance and Social Media Monitoring

What insurance companies 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
• One video of you bending over = “Not really injured”

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 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:

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

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 #6: Comparative Fault Arguments

What insurance companies do:
They 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 Attorney911 counters:

• 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

The Colossus System: How Insurance Companies ACTUALLY Value Your Claim

Lupe knows this from the inside – he used these systems

How Colossus works:

1. Data Entry: Adjuster inputs injury codes, treatment, costs, jurisdiction
2. Coding: Injuries coded using standardized medical terms
3. Calculation: Software applies algorithms to determine “value”
4. Range Output: System provides recommended settlement range
5. Authority: Adjuster typically cannot exceed without supervisor approval

How insurance manipulates Colossus:

Manipulation	Effect
Low Injury Codes	“Soft tissue strain” instead of “disc herniation” reduces value 50-100%
Excessive Treatment Flags	Therapy beyond “normal” range triggers reduction
Conservative Treatment Penalty	Chiropractic valued less than MD
Pre-Existing Reduction	Any prior condition used to reduce value
Jurisdiction Factor	Low-verdict counties get lower values

Why Lupe’s experience matters:

• Knows how to code injuries properly for maximum value
• Knows which medical terms trigger higher valuations
• Knows when Colossus output is artificially low
• Knows how to present records to beat the algorithm
• Worked with these systems for years as defense attorney

Reserve Setting:
Insurance companies set aside money for your claim based on worst-case scenario. Adjusters 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.

Medical Knowledge: Understanding Your Injuries

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

Immediate vs. Delayed Symptoms:

Immediate Symptoms (At Accident Scene or Within Hours):

• Loss of consciousness (even brief – seconds to minutes)
• Confusion and disorientation (“Where am I? What happened?”)
• Vomiting and nausea
• Seizures
• Severe headache
• Dilated pupils
• Slurred speech
• Weakness or numbness

Delayed Symptoms (Hours to Days Later – CRITICAL):

• Worsening headaches that don’t respond to medication
• Repeated vomiting
• Seizures developing days later
• Slurred speech or difficulty speaking
• Personality changes and mood swings
• Sleep disturbances (sleeping much more or can’t sleep)
• Sensitivity to light and noise
• Confusion and memory problems worsening

Why delayed symptoms matter legally:
Insurance companies claim delayed symptoms aren’t from the accident. We use medical experts to explain that symptom progression is NORMAL for brain injuries.

Severity Classifications:

Classification	Characteristics
Mild TBI / Concussion	Brief LOC (seconds to minutes), GCS 13-15, may seem “fine” initially but can have serious long-term effects
Moderate TBI	LOC minutes to hours, GCS 9-12, lasting cognitive impairment, requires hospitalization
Severe TBI	Extended unconsciousness or coma, GCS 3-8, permanent disability likely, lifetime care needs

Long-Term Complications:

• Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE): Progressive brain degeneration, personality changes, dementia
• Post-Concussive Syndrome: Headaches, dizziness lasting months or years (affects 10-15%)
• Increased Dementia Risk: Single moderate TBI doubles dementia risk later in life
• Personality and Mood Disorders: Depression (40-50% of TBI patients), anxiety, irritability
• Seizure Disorders: Can develop months or years after injury
• Cognitive Impairment: Memory problems, difficulty concentrating, slowed processing

Spinal Cord Injury

Injury Levels and Impact:

Cervical Spine (C1-C8, Neck Region):

• C1-C4 (High Cervical): Quadriplegia (all four limbs paralyzed), possible ventilator dependence, 24/7 care required
• C5-C8 (Low Cervical): Quadriplegia with some arm/hand function, wheelchair dependent

Thoracic Spine (T1-T12, Mid-Back):

• Paraplegia: Lower body paralysis, wheelchair dependent
• Trunk control varies by level

Lumbar Spine (L1-L5, Lower Back):

• Varying degrees of leg weakness/paralysis
• Bowel/bladder dysfunction common
• May walk with assistive devices

ASIA Impairment Scale:

Grade	Classification	Prognosis
A	Complete	No motor or sensory function below injury – worst
B	Sensory Incomplete	Sensory function but no motor function
C	Motor Incomplete	Motor function but most muscles <3/5 strength
D	Motor Incomplete	Motor function with most muscles ≥3/5 strength
E	Normal	Full motor and sensory function (recovered)

Secondary Complications:

• Pressure sores (leading cause of hospitalization)
• Respiratory complications (pneumonia – leading cause of death)
• Bowel and bladder dysfunction
• Sexual dysfunction
• Autonomic dysreflexia (life-threatening blood pressure crisis)
• Depression (40-60% of patients)
• Shortened life expectancy (5-15 years on average)

Herniated Disc

Treatment Timeline:

1. Acute Phase (Weeks 1-6): Severe pain, medications, rest. Cost: $2,000-$5,000
2. Conservative Treatment (Weeks 6-12): Physical therapy, chiropractic. Cost: $5,000-$12,000
3. Interventional (If Conservative Fails): Epidural steroid injections. Cost: $3,000-$6,000
4. Surgery (If Injections Fail): Microdiscectomy or fusion. Cost: $50,000-$120,000

Permanent Restrictions Impact:

• Can’t return to physical labor jobs
• Lost earning capacity claims
• Ongoing pain management needs

Psychological Injuries After Motor Vehicle Accidents

PTSD After Motor Vehicle Accidents:

• 32-45% of accident victims develop PTSD symptoms
• Anxiety about driving again
• Fear of getting in cars
• Panic attacks near accident location or similar roads
• Sleep disturbances, nightmares, flashbacks
• Avoidance behaviors

Compensable Psychological Damages:

• Mental anguish
• Emotional distress
• Anxiety and depression
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Fear and worry
• Relationship impacts

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Mustang Ridge Accident Case

The 5 Unique Advantages That Set Us Apart

Advantage 1: Insurance Defense Insider

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

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

No other firm in Mustang Ridge has this advantage.

Advantage 2: Multi-Million Dollar Results

Attorney911 has recovered millions for victims of:

• 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”

Our results prove we don’t settle cheap.

Advantage 3: Federal Court Experience

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

Why this matters:

• 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”

Advantage 4: Personal Attention

What clients say:

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

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

“Ralph reached out personally.” – Dame Haskett

“Consistent communication and not one time did i call and not get a clear answer.” – Dame Haskett

You work directly with Ralph or Lupe, not a case manager assembly line.

Advantage 5: Contingency Fee – No Risk

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

• Free consultation
• No upfront costs
• No hourly billing
• We advance all case costs
• You pay nothing unless we recover for you

What Our Clients Say About Working With Us

Communication & Care:

“Melanie was excellent. She kept me informed and when she said she would call me back, she did. I got to speak with Ralph Manginello once and knew quickly the way his Firm was ran.” – Brian Butchee

“When I felt I had no hope or direction, Leonor reached out to me…She took all the weight of my worries off my shoulders.” – Stephanie Hernandez

Results & Speed:

“Leonor is the best!!! She was able to assist me with my case within 6 months.” – Tymesha Galloway

“They moved fast and handled my case very efficiently.” – Nina Graeter

“It only took 6 months amazing.” – Chavodrian Miles

Switching From Other Attorneys:

“In the beginning I had another attorney but he dropped my case although Mangiello law firm were able to help me out.” – Greg Garcia

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

Spanish Language Services:

“Especially Miss Zulema, who is always very kind and always translates.” – Celia Dominguez

“They solved in a couple of months what others did nothing about in two years.” – Angel Walle

Ralph’s Personal Involvement:

“Mr. Manginello guided me through the whole process with great expertise…tenacious, accessible, and determined throughout the 19 months.” – Jamin Marroquin

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

Overall Excellence:

“Best lawyers in the city…fast return..and they really care about their clients.” – Dean Jones

“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

Celebrity Endorsements:

“One of Houston’s Great Men Trae Tha Truth has recommended this law firm. So if he is vouching for them then I know they do good work.” – Jacqueline Johnson

Frequently Asked Questions About Motor Vehicle Accidents in Mustang Ridge

Immediate After Accident

1. What should I do immediately after a car accident in Mustang Ridge?
If you’ve been in an accident in Mustang Ridge:

• 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 the other driver
• Get witness names and phone numbers
• Do NOT give a 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.

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 Mustang Ridge, you can obtain the police report from the responding agency 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 a 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 a settlement before knowing the full extent of your injuries. Once you sign a release, you cannot get more money even if you need surgery later.

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 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 the date of the accident for personal injury, 2 years from the date of death for wrongful death. Miss it and your case is 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?
It depends on the severity of your injuries. 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?

1. Investigation and evidence gathering
2. Medical treatment to MMI
3. Demand letter to insurance
4. Negotiation
5. Lawsuit if necessary
6. Discovery
7. Mediation
8. Trial if needed

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

Compensation

21. What is my case worth?
It depends on: injury severity, medical costs, lost wages, permanent impairment, pain and suffering, insurance available. Cases range from $15,000 (soft tissue) to millions (catastrophic injury).

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 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 a recorded statement without an attorney
• Accepting a 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 the 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 that you didn’t realize the severity of your 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. The “eggshell plaintiff” rule means the defendant takes you as they find you.

Example: You had mild occasional back pain. The accident caused a 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 the other driver has no insurance or insufficient insurance. Your insurance company will fight your claim just like the other driver’s insurance would. You need attorney representation.

Texas allows inter-policy stacking (combining multiple UM policies). Lupe’s insurance knowledge is critical for maximizing UM/UIM recovery.

39. How do you calculate pain and suffering?
Most commonly using the multiplier method: Medical expenses × multiplier (1.5 to 5) = pain & suffering. The multiplier depends on: injury severity, permanency, impact on life, clear liability.

Example: $100,000 medical × 4 multiplier = $400,000 pain & suffering.

Lupe calculated these for years—he knows how to justify higher multipliers. See Section G for a 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 the 2-year statute of limitations). Sovereign immunity protects government entities. Damage caps may apply.

These cases are complex—you need an experienced attorney. Ralph’s 25+ years includes government litigation. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately—the 6-month deadline is strict.

41. What if the other driver fled the scene (hit and run)?
File a police report immediately (hit and run is a criminal offense). Your Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage applies. Surveillance footage is CRITICAL—gas stations, businesses, Ring doorbells, traffic cameras. Most footage is deleted within 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. 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.

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. The driver’s insurance covers passengers. No comparative fault issues (you weren’t driving). These cases often settle quickly because liability is clear.

We handle the difficult conversation so you don’t have to.

45. What if the other driver died in the accident?
You can still pursue a claim against the deceased driver’s estate and insurance. Death doesn’t eliminate liability. The insurance policy still applies. The estate may have assets.

Wrongful death laws protect both sides. These cases are emotionally complex but legally straightforward. We handle them with sensitivity while protecting your rights.

Mustang Ridge Legal Resources

Local Courts Serving Mustang Ridge:

• Caldwell County Justice of the Peace Courts
• Caldwell County District Courts
• Western District of Texas (Austin Division) for federal cases

Nearby Trauma Centers:

• Dell Seton Medical Center (Austin) – Level I Trauma Center, approximately 45 minutes from Mustang Ridge
• Ascension Seton Medical Center Austin – Level II Trauma Center
• St. David’s South Austin Medical Center – Level III Trauma Center

Local Law Enforcement:

• Mustang Ridge Police Department
• Caldwell County Sheriff’s Office
• Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS)

Local Hospitals:

• Ascension Seton Lockhart Hospital
• Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – Buda
• St. David’s South Austin Medical Center

Contact Attorney911 Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a motor vehicle accident in Mustang Ridge, Texas, don’t wait. Evidence disappears daily. The insurance company is already building their case against you.

Call our legal emergency line now: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)

Free consultation • No fee unless we win • Se habla español

Attorney911 – The Manginello Law Firm
Serving Mustang Ridge, Caldwell County, and all of Central Texas
Principal Office: Austin, Texas

We don’t get paid unless we win your case. Let our 25+ years of experience and insurance insider knowledge work for you.