Motor Vehicle Accident Lawyers in Pflugerville, Texas | Attorney911
If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Pflugerville, Texas, you’re not alone. Every year, thousands of Central Texas residents suffer serious injuries in motor vehicle crashes—often through no fault of their own. At Attorney911, we understand the physical pain, emotional stress, and financial uncertainty you’re facing. That’s why we fight aggressively to protect your rights and secure the full compensation you deserve.
With over 25 years of experience handling motor vehicle accident cases across Texas, our team has recovered millions for clients just like you. We know the local courts, the insurance adjusters, and the unique challenges of accidents in Travis County. When you call 1-888-ATTY-911, you’re not just getting a law firm—you’re getting a dedicated legal team that treats you like family.
Why Pflugerville Residents Choose Attorney911
Pflugerville is a growing community with unique traffic challenges. From the busy intersections along SH 130 and SH 45 to the increasing commercial traffic on I-35, accidents happen far too often. In fact, Travis County sees thousands of motor vehicle crashes each year, many resulting in serious injuries.
Our firm has deep roots in Central Texas and understands the specific accident patterns in Pflugerville and surrounding areas. Whether you were hit by a distracted driver on FM 685 or injured in a rear-end collision on Grand Avenue Parkway, we have the local knowledge and legal expertise to fight for you.
What truly sets Attorney911 apart is our unique insurance defense advantage. Our team includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who spent years working for national insurance companies. He knows exactly how they value claims, which tactics they use to minimize payouts, and how to counter their strategies. This insider knowledge gives our clients a significant advantage in negotiations and at trial.
Common Types of Motor Vehicle Accidents in Pflugerville
Car Accidents
Car crashes are the most common type of motor vehicle accident in Pflugerville. With increasing traffic on major roads like I-35, SH 45, and FM 685, the risk of collisions is higher than ever. In 2024 alone, Texas saw 251,977 people injured in motor vehicle crashes—one every 2 minutes and 5 seconds.
Common causes of car accidents in Pflugerville include:
- Distracted driving (texting, phone use, GPS navigation)
- Speeding and aggressive driving
- Failure to yield at intersections
- Running red lights or stop signs
- Following too closely (rear-end collisions)
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
Injuries from car accidents can range from minor to catastrophic:
- Whiplash and soft tissue injuries
- Herniated or bulging discs
- Broken bones and fractures
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord injuries
- Internal organ damage
- Psychological trauma and PTSD
At Attorney911, we’ve helped clients with all types of car accident injuries. 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. We fight for every client to receive the maximum compensation for their injuries.
“Leonor got me into the doctor the same day…it only took 6 months amazing.” – Chavodrian Miles
18-Wheeler and Truck Accidents
Pflugerville’s proximity to I-35 makes it a hotspot for trucking accidents. In 2024, Texas saw 39,393 commercial motor vehicle crashes, resulting in 608 fatalities and 1,601 serious injuries. These accidents are particularly devastating due to the size and weight of large trucks—often 80,000 pounds compared to a 4,000-pound passenger car.
Common causes of truck accidents include:
- Driver fatigue (violating FMCSA Hours of Service rules)
- Improper loading or overloaded cargo
- Mechanical failures (brake, tire, or steering issues)
- Distracted or impaired driving
- Inadequate driver training
- Poor vehicle maintenance
Trucking accidents often involve multiple liable parties:
- The truck driver
- The trucking company (often responsible for driver training, vehicle maintenance, and hiring practices)
- The cargo loader (if improper loading caused the accident)
- The vehicle or parts manufacturer (if a defect contributed to the crash)
- Maintenance companies (if poor repairs led to the accident)
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 capability to take on large corporations. We’ve helped numerous injured individuals and families facing trucking-related wrongful death cases recover millions of dollars in compensation.
“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.”
Drunk Driving Accidents
Drunk driving remains a serious problem in Texas. In 2024, alcohol-impaired driving caused 1,053 deaths—25.37% of all traffic fatalities in the state. These accidents are completely preventable, and the consequences are often devastating.
Texas has strong dram shop laws (Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code § 2.02) that allow victims to hold bars, restaurants, and other establishments liable if they served alcohol to someone who was obviously intoxicated. 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
Potentially liable parties in drunk driving cases include:
- The drunk driver
- Bars and nightclubs that over-served the driver
- Restaurants that continued to serve alcohol to an obviously intoxicated patron
- Liquor stores that sold alcohol to someone who was clearly intoxicated
- Event organizers (for concerts, festivals, or private parties)
Drunk driving cases often qualify for punitive damages, which are designed to punish gross negligence and deter similar conduct. These damages can significantly increase the value of your case.
Our firm has unique expertise in handling drunk driving cases. Ralph Manginello is a member of the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA), which gives us special insight into both the criminal and civil aspects of these cases. We’ve successfully handled numerous DWI-related cases, including three recent DWI dismissals that demonstrate our investigation skills:
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Our client was charged with drunk driving based on a breath test. Our investigation revealed that a police department employee was not properly maintaining the breathalyzer machines. The charges were dismissed.
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Our client drove home at 2:30 a.m., hit a curb and rolled his car, injuring a passenger. We learned that police conducted no breath or blood test, EMS didn’t note intoxication, and nurse notes from the hospital were missing. The case was dismissed on the day of trial.
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Our client was charged with DUI/DWI, and the state’s primary evidence was a video of the field sobriety test. We succeeded in having the case dismissed because our client did not appear drunk in the video.
Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents are particularly dangerous due to the lack of protection for riders. In 2024, Texas saw 585 motorcyclist fatalities, with 37% of those killed not wearing helmets. While helmets reduce the risk of death by 37%, many riders still choose not to wear them.
Texas law requires helmets for all riders under 21. Riders 21 and older may ride without a helmet if they have completed a safety course or have at least $10,000 in medical insurance coverage.
Common causes of motorcycle accidents in Pflugerville include:
- Failure to yield right of way (the most common cause)
- Driver inattention or distraction
- Unsafe lane changes
- Left-turn accidents (often resulting in T-bone or head-on collisions)
- Speeding or reckless driving
One of the biggest challenges in motorcycle accident cases is the Texas 51% comparative fault rule. Insurance companies often try to blame the motorcyclist, even when the accident was clearly the other driver’s fault. Lupe Peña’s experience as an insurance defense attorney is particularly valuable in these cases, as he knows exactly how insurance companies try to shift blame onto riders.
Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents are a growing concern in Pflugerville, particularly in areas with heavy foot traffic like the Downtown Pflugerville district. In 2024, Texas saw 6,095 pedestrian crashes resulting in 768 fatalities. Pedestrians account for only 1% of all crashes but 19% of all roadway deaths.
One critical legal point that many people don’t know: pedestrians always have the right-of-way at intersections, even at unmarked crosswalks. This means that any time there’s an intersection of two streets, the distance between them is considered a crosswalk—even if it’s not marked.
Common injuries in pedestrian accidents include:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Broken pelvis and legs
- Internal organ damage
- Fatalities
Rideshare Accidents (Uber/Lyft)
Rideshare accidents present unique legal challenges due to the complex insurance coverage involved. The insurance available depends on what the driver was doing at the time of the accident:
| Phase | Driver Status | Coverage Available |
|---|---|---|
| Period 0 | App off, personal use | Personal insurance only (Texas minimum: $30K/$60K/$25K) |
| Period 1 | App on, no ride request | Contingent coverage: $50K/$100K/$25K |
| Period 2 | Ride accepted, en route to pickup | Full commercial: $1,000,000 liability |
| Period 3 | Passenger in vehicle | Full commercial: $1,000,000 liability |
This complexity is why it’s crucial to have an attorney who understands rideshare insurance. Lupe Peña’s background as an insurance defense attorney gives us unique insight into how these claims are handled and how to maximize your recovery.
Hit and Run Accidents
Hit and run accidents are particularly frustrating because the at-fault driver has fled the scene. In Texas, hit and run is a serious crime with severe penalties:
| Severity | Charge | Penalty |
|---|---|---|
| Death | 2nd Degree Felony | 2-20 years prison, up to $10K fine |
| Serious Bodily Injury | 3rd Degree Felony | 2-10 years prison, up to $10K fine |
| Minor Injury | State Jail Felony | Up to 5 years, up to $5K fine |
| Property Damage ≥$200 | Class B Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months jail, up to $2K fine |
If you’re the victim of a hit and run accident, your Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage can compensate you when the at-fault driver is unidentified. We’ve helped many clients recover compensation through UM claims after hit and run accidents.
“I was rear-ended and the team got right to work…I also got a very nice settlement.” – MONGO SLADE
Work Zone Accidents
Work zone accidents are a serious problem in Texas. In 2024, there were nearly 28,000 crashes in Texas work zones, resulting in 215 deaths—a 12% increase from the previous year. Work zone fatalities have increased 50% nationally over the past decade.
One tragic example involved Katrina Bond, a college student who slowed for work zone traffic on I-35 near Fort Worth. The driver of a heavy pickup truck (who admitted to receiving a text message) rear-ended her vehicle, pushing it into the path of another truck. The accident was fatal.
At Attorney911, we understand the unique legal challenges of work zone accidents, including the potential liability of construction companies and government entities responsible for road safety.
What to Do After a Motor Vehicle Accident in Pflugerville
If you’ve been involved in an accident in Pflugerville, taking the right steps immediately can make a significant difference in your case:
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 and request medical assistance if anyone is injured.
- Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, get checked by a medical professional. Adrenaline can mask serious injuries.
- Document Everything:
- Take photos of all vehicle damage (from every angle)
- Photograph the accident scene, road conditions, and traffic signals
- Take photos of any visible injuries
- Screenshot any messages visible on your phone (do not delete anything)
- Exchange Information:
- Other driver’s name, phone number, and address
- Insurance company and policy number
- Driver’s license number
- License plate number
- Vehicle make, model, and color
- Witnesses: Get names and phone numbers of any witnesses and ask if they saw what happened.
- Call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate legal guidance before speaking to any insurance company.
Hour 6-24 (Evidence Preservation)
- Digital Preservation:
- Preserve all texts, calls, photos, and 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, or other personal items
- Keep receipts for any accident-related expenses (towing, rental car, medications)
- Do not repair your vehicle yet—preserve the damage
- Medical Records:
- Request copies of all ER and hospital records
- Keep all discharge paperwork
- Follow up with your primary care physician within 24-48 hours
- Insurance Communications:
- Note any calls from insurance companies
- Do not give recorded statements yet
- Do not sign anything
- Do not accept any settlement offers
- Say: “I need to speak with my attorney first”
- Social Media:
- Make all profiles private immediately
- Do not post about the accident
- Do not post photos of injuries or activities
- Tell friends and family not to tag you in posts
Hour 24-48 (Strategic Decisions)
- Legal Consultation: Speak with an experienced motor vehicle accident attorney. Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation.
- Insurance Response: If insurance contacts you, refer them to your attorney. Say: “My attorney will be in touch with you.”
- Settlement Offers: Do not accept or sign anything without your lawyer reviewing it first. Early offers are always lowball offers.
- Evidence Backup: Upload all screenshots and photos to cloud storage and email copies to yourself and a family member.
Week One Priorities
- Medical Follow-Up:
- Continue documenting all injuries
- See specialists if recommended
- Follow all doctor’s recommendations (insurance companies watch for gaps in treatment)
- Get written work restrictions if needed
- Investigation Begins:
- Your attorney obtains the police report
- Preservation letters are sent to all parties
- Surveillance footage is secured before deletion
- Witness statements are recorded
- Communication:
- Your attorney handles all insurance communication
- You focus on your recovery
- Document any pressure from insurance or other parties
Why Evidence Disappears So Quickly
One of the most important reasons to call an attorney immediately is that evidence disappears on a predictable schedule:
| Timeframe | What Disappears | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1-7 | Witness memories | Memories fade quickly, and details become uncertain |
| Day 7-30 | Surveillance footage | Gas stations: 7-14 days, retail stores: 30 days, Ring doorbells: 30-60 days, traffic cameras: 30 days |
| Month 1-2 | Insurance defense | Insurance companies solidify their position against you |
| Month 2-6 | Trucking electronic data | ELD/black box data can be overwritten in 30-180 days |
| Month 6-12 | Witness availability | Witnesses move, change jobs, or become unreachable |
| Month 12-24 | Statute of limitations | You have only 2 years to file a lawsuit in Texas |
At Attorney911, we act immediately to preserve evidence. Within 24 hours of being retained, we send preservation letters to:
- The other driver’s insurance company
- Trucking companies (for commercial vehicle accidents)
- Businesses near the accident scene (for surveillance footage)
- Employers (for employment records)
- Property owners (for security camera footage)
- Government entities (for traffic camera footage)
- Vehicle manufacturers (for black box/EDR data)
- Rideshare companies (for driver status and GPS data)
These letters legally require evidence preservation before automatic deletion.
Texas Motor Vehicle Law: What You Need to Know
Statute of Limitations
In Texas, you have 2 years from the date of your accident to file a personal injury lawsuit (Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code § 16.003). For wrongful death claims, the 2-year clock starts from the date of death. If you miss this deadline, your case will be barred forever—you cannot reopen it or file a new claim.
Comparative Negligence (51% Bar Rule)
Texas uses a modified comparative negligence system. This means:
- If you are 50% or less at fault, you can recover damages, but your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault.
- If you are 51% or more at fault, you cannot recover any damages.
For example:
- If you are 10% at fault in a $100,000 case, you can recover $90,000.
- If you are 25% at fault in a $250,000 case, you can recover $187,500.
- If you are 51% at fault, you recover nothing.
Insurance companies often try to assign maximum fault to you to reduce their payment. Lupe Peña’s experience as an insurance defense attorney helps us counter these arguments effectively.
Texas Minimum Auto Insurance
Texas law requires all drivers to carry minimum insurance coverage:
- $30,000 for bodily injury per person
- $60,000 for bodily injury per accident
- $25,000 for property damage per accident
However, these minimums are often insufficient to cover serious injuries. That’s why Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage is so important. Approximately 15.4% of U.S. motorists are uninsured, meaning about 1 in 7 drivers on Texas roads may not have insurance.
Proving Liability in Your Motor Vehicle Accident Case
To win your case, we must prove four elements of negligence:
- Duty of Care: All drivers have a legal duty to operate their vehicles safely and obey traffic laws.
- Breach of Duty: The at-fault driver violated this duty through actions like speeding, texting, or running a red light.
- Causation: The breach of duty directly caused your injuries.
- Damages: You suffered actual harm (physical, financial, or emotional).
At Attorney911, we gather evidence from multiple sources to build a strong case:
Physical Evidence
- Vehicle damage photographs (all angles)
- Skid marks, debris, and 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 (to prove 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
In trucking accident cases, multiple parties may be liable:
- The truck driver (for negligent operation)
- The trucking company (for negligent hiring, supervision, or maintenance)
- The cargo loader (for improper loading)
- The vehicle manufacturer (for defective parts)
- Maintenance companies (for improper repairs)
The more liable parties we can identify, the more insurance policies we can access to maximize your recovery.
Understanding Your Damages and Compensation
If you’ve been injured in a motor vehicle accident, you may be entitled to several types of damages:
Economic Damages (No Cap in Texas)
- Medical Expenses (Past): ER visits, hospital stays, surgeries, doctor visits, physical therapy, medications, and medical equipment.
- Medical Expenses (Future): Ongoing treatment, future surgeries, lifetime medications, and long-term care.
- Lost Wages (Past): Income lost from the date of the accident to the present.
- Lost Earning Capacity (Future): Reduced ability to earn income in the future due to permanent injuries.
- Property Damage: Vehicle repair or replacement, and damage to personal property.
- Out-of-Pocket Expenses: Transportation to medical appointments, home modifications, and household help.
Non-Economic Damages (No Cap Except Medical Malpractice)
- Pain and Suffering: Physical pain from your injuries, both past and future.
- Mental Anguish: Emotional distress, anxiety, depression, fear, and PTSD.
- Physical Impairment: Loss of physical function or disability.
- Disfigurement: Scarring or permanent visible injuries affecting your appearance.
- Loss of Consortium: Impact on your marriage or family relationships.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Inability to participate in activities you previously enjoyed.
Punitive/Exemplary Damages (Capped)
Available for gross negligence, fraud, or malice. In motor vehicle accident cases, punitive damages often apply to drunk driving accidents. The cap in Texas is the greater of:
- $200,000, OR
- 2x economic damages + 1x non-economic damages (capped at $750,000 for the non-economic portion)
Settlement Ranges by Injury Type
The value of your case depends on the severity of your injuries, the clarity of liability, and the available insurance coverage. Here are some typical settlement ranges:
| Injury Type | Medical Costs | Lost Wages | Pain & Suffering | Settlement Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Soft Tissue (Whiplash, Sprains) | $6,000-$16,000 | $2,000-$10,000 | $8,000-$35,000 | $15,000-$60,000 |
| Broken Bone (Simple Fracture) | $10,000-$20,000 | $5,000-$15,000 | $20,000-$60,000 | $35,000-$95,000 |
| Broken Bone (Requiring Surgery) | $47,000-$98,000 | $10,000-$30,000 | $75,000-$200,000 | $132,000-$328,000 |
| Herniated Disc (Conservative Treatment) | $22,000-$46,000 | $8,000-$25,000 | $40,000-$100,000 | $70,000-$171,000 |
| Herniated Disc (Surgery Required) | $96,000-$205,000 | $20,000-$50,000 | $150,000-$450,000 | $346,000-$1,205,000 |
| Traumatic Brain Injury (Moderate-Severe) | $198,000-$638,000 | $50,000-$200,000 | $500,000-$3,000,000 | $1,548,000-$9,838,000 |
| Spinal Cord Injury (Paraplegia) | $500,000-$750,000 | $70,000-$90,000/year | $2,000,000-$5,000,000 | $2,500,000-$5,250,000 |
| Amputation | $170,000-$480,000 | $20,000-$50,000 | $500,000-$4,000,000 | $1,945,000-$8,630,000 |
| Wrongful Death | $50,000-$500,000 | $1,000,000-$4,000,000 | $500,000-$3,000,000 | $1,910,000-$9,520,000 |
These ranges are estimates only. Every case is unique, and your actual recovery will depend on the specific facts of your case.
How Insurance Companies Try to Minimize Your Claim
At Attorney911, we have a unique advantage in fighting insurance companies: Lupe Peña spent years working for a national insurance defense firm. He knows exactly how insurance companies value claims, which tactics they use to minimize payouts, and how to counter their strategies. Here are the six most common tactics insurance companies use—and how we fight back:
Tactic #1: Quick Contact & Recorded Statement (Days 1-3)
What They Do: Insurance adjusters contact you immediately—often while you’re still in the hospital or on pain medication. They act friendly and helpful, saying things like:
- “We just want to help you”
- “We need to get your side of the story to process your claim”
- “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 get you to say things that hurt your case:
- “You’re feeling better now though, right?” (They want you to say you’re improving)
- “It wasn’t that bad of an impact, was it?” (They want to minimize collision severity)
- “You were able to walk away from the scene?” (They want to suggest your injuries aren’t serious)
- “Were you distracted at all?” (They want you to admit distraction)
- “How fast were you going?” (They 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 company. Giving a statement without an attorney almost always hurts your case.
How Attorney911 Counters: Once you hire us, we become your voice. All calls go through us, and you don’t talk to adjusters. We prepare you properly if a statement becomes absolutely necessary, and we sit with you during any statements. We know their questions because Lupe asked them for years.
Tactic #2: Quick Settlement Offer (Weeks 1-3)
What They Do: Within days or weeks of your accident, the insurance company offers you quick money:
- Typical offers: $2,000-$5,000
- Sometimes $10,000-$15,000 if they’re scared
- The offer 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:
- Day 3: Insurance offers $3,500 “final settlement”
- You’re desperate, in pain, and scared about bills
- You sign the release, thinking it’s over
- Week 6: MRI shows herniated disc requiring surgery
- Surgery costs $100,000
- TOO LATE: You signed a release, so you can’t reopen your claim
- You pay $100,000 out of pocket while insurance pays nothing more
The Release Is Permanent and Final.
How Attorney911 Counters: We NEVER settle before you’ve reached Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI)—the point where you’ve recovered as much as you’re going to. This could take 6 months for minor injuries or 18-24 months for serious injuries. We know their early offers are always lowball offers, and Lupe calculated these lowball offers for years—he knows they’re offering 10-20% of your case’s true value.
Tactic #3: “Independent” Medical Exam (Months 2-6)
What They Call It: “Independent Medical Examination” (IME)
What It Really Is: An insurance company-hired doctor whose job is to minimize your injuries.
How Insurance Companies Choose IME Doctors:
- They select doctors based on who gives insurance-favorable reports, not who’s most qualified
- Doctors who consistently find “no injury” or “pre-existing condition” get repeat business
- These doctors are paid thousands by insurance companies ($2,000-$5,000 per exam)
- The more favorable reports they provide, the more business they get
What Happens at the IME:
- A 10-15 minute “examination” (vs. your treating doctor’s thorough evaluation)
- They rarely review your complete medical records beforehand
- They ask questions designed to elicit “I’m feeling better” responses
- They look for any reason to minimize your injuries
Common IME Doctor Findings:
- “Patient has pre-existing degenerative changes” (Everyone over 40 has some arthritis—this is 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 your complete medical records to the IME doctor first (forcing them to review them)
- 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 (Months 6-12+)
What They Do: The insurance company drags 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”
- They ignore your calls and emails
- They take weeks to respond to simple questions
Why Delay Works (On People Without Attorneys):
Insurance Companies Have:
- Unlimited time
- Unlimited resources
- No financial pressure
- They’re earning interest on YOUR settlement money while delaying
You Have:
- Mounting bills
- Zero income
- Creditors threatening you
- A desperate need for money NOW
Financial Desperation Makes You Accept Less:
- Month 1: You’d reject a $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 a 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—he knows when to push
Tactic #5: Surveillance and Social Media Monitoring
What They Do: Insurance companies hire private investigators to:
- Video you doing daily activities
- Film from public places (your driveway, the street, stores)
- Follow you to appointments, errands, and social activities
- Look for any activity that contradicts your injury claims
- One video of you bending over can be used to claim “you’re not really injured”
They also monitor ALL your social media:
- Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, Twitter/X, YouTube, Snapchat
- They screenshot EVERYTHING: photos, posts, check-ins, comments, likes
- They monitor your friends’ profiles for posts mentioning you
- They use facial recognition to find photos you’re tagged in
- They archive your entire social media history
Examples We’ve Defended:
| Example | What Happened | What Insurance Claimed | Reality |
|---|---|---|---|
| Old Gym Photo | Gym photo from 3 years ago | Presented as recent, contradicting injury claim | We proved the photo was pre-accident using metadata |
| Restaurant Check-in | Facebook check-in at restaurant | “Partying and having fun” | Client was 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 for recovery |
| Smiling in Photo | Family photo where client was smiling | “Not in pain—she’s smiling!” | Everyone smiles for photos |
7 Rules for Clients:
- Make ALL profiles private immediately
- Don’t post about the accident, injuries, activities, or emotions
- Don’t check in anywhere
- Tell friends and family not to tag you or post about you
- Don’t accept friend requests from strangers (fake profiles)
- The best option: Stay off social media entirely during your case
- Assume EVERYTHING is being monitored
Lupe’s Insider Quote:
“I’ve reviewed hundreds of surveillance videos and social media posts as a defense attorney. Here’s the truth: Insurance companies take innocent activity out of context. They freeze ONE frame of you moving ‘normally’ and ignore the 10 minutes of you struggling before and after. They’re not documenting your life—they’re building ammunition against you.”
Tactic #6: Comparative Fault Arguments
What They Do: Insurance companies 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’s 51% bar rule means:
- If you’re 51% or more at fault → You get NOTHING
- If you’re 50% or less at fault → Your damages are reduced by your percentage of fault
Even Small Fault Percentages Cost Thousands:
- 10% fault on a $100,000 case = $10,000 less for you
- 25% fault on a $250,000 case = $62,500 less for you
- 40% fault on a $500,000 case = $200,000 less for you
How Attorney911 Counters:
- We conduct an aggressive liability investigation
- We use accident reconstruction to prove the other driver’s fault
- We gather witness statements supporting your version
- We analyze the police report to emphasize citations against the other driver
- We use expert testimony on perception-reaction time
- Lupe knows their fault arguments because he made them for years—now he defeats them
Tactic #7: Colossus and Claim Valuation Software
How Insurance Companies Actually Value Your Claim:
Lupe knows this system from the inside—he used these tools for years as an insurance defense attorney.
How Colossus Works:
- Data Entry: The adjuster inputs injury codes, treatment types, costs, and jurisdiction.
- Coding: Injuries are coded using standardized medical terms.
- Calculation: The software applies algorithms to determine a “value.”
- Range Output: The system provides a recommended settlement range.
- Authority: The adjuster typically cannot exceed this range without supervisor approval.
How Insurance Manipulates Colossus:
| Manipulation | Effect |
|---|---|
| Low Injury Codes | Using “soft tissue strain” instead of “disc herniation” reduces value by 50-100% |
| Excessive Treatment Flags | Therapy beyond “normal” range triggers reductions |
| Conservative Treatment Penalty | Chiropractic care is valued less than MD treatment |
| Pre-Existing Reduction | Any prior condition is used to reduce value |
| Jurisdiction Factor | Low-verdict counties get lower values |
Why Lupe’s Experience Matters:
- He knows how to code injuries properly for maximum value
- He knows which medical terms trigger higher valuations
- He knows when Colossus output is artificially low
- He knows how to present records to beat the algorithm
- He worked with these systems for years as a defense attorney
Tactic #8: Medical Authorization Trap
What They Do: The insurance company sends you a medical authorization form and says:
- “We need your medical records to process your claim”
- “This is just routine paperwork”
- “Everyone signs this”
What They’re Really Doing: They want unlimited access to your ENTIRE medical history—going back decades—to search for pre-existing conditions they can use against you:
- Arthritis from 10 years ago
- Prior back pain from 2005
- Any medical condition ever documented
What They Do With Old Injuries:
- “Your back pain isn’t from this accident—you had back pain in 2010”
- “Your neck injury is pre-existing—you saw a chiropractor in 2015”
- “Your headaches are from a prior concussion, not this accident”
- They ignore the fact that the accident aggravated your pre-existing condition
The Truth:
- You’re entitled to compensation even with pre-existing conditions
- If the accident made it worse, you recover for the aggravation
- The “eggshell plaintiff” rule means the defendant takes you as they find you
- A prior injury doesn’t give them a license to injure you again
How Attorney911 Counters:
- We limit medical authorizations to accident-related records only
- We specify date ranges and providers
- We review ALL authorizations before you sign anything
- We explain pre-existing conditions properly to insurance companies
- We hire medical experts to document the difference between your condition before and after the accident
- Lupe knows this tactic because he requested broad authorizations for years—he knows what they’re searching for and how to protect your privacy
Tactic #9: Gaps in Treatment Attack
What They Do: Insurance companies scrutinize your medical records for any gaps in treatment:
- Did you miss one physical therapy appointment?
- Was there a two-week gap between doctor visits?
- Did you stop treatment for a month?
Their Arguments:
- “If you were really hurt, you wouldn’t miss treatment”
- “Gaps in treatment show you’re not really injured”
- “You must have felt better—that’s why you stopped going”
- “Your injuries can’t be that serious if you’re not treating consistently”
Why Gaps Happen (Legitimate Reasons):
- You couldn’t afford copays
- You couldn’t get time off work
- Transportation issues
- Your doctor was booked out
- Insurance denied treatment
- COVID-19 lockdowns
- Family emergencies
Insurance Doesn’t Care About Your Reasons:
- They just see the gap
- They use it to minimize your claim
- They argue your injuries “resolved” during the gap
- They reduce your settlement value
How Attorney911 Counters:
- We document the reasons for any gaps in writing
- We obtain supporting documentation (work schedules, transportation issues, etc.)
- We show that the gap was beyond your control
- We prove your injuries didn’t resolve during the gap
- We help you find doctors who accept liens (treat now, pay from settlement)
- We connect you with transportation if needed
- We coordinate appointments around your work schedule
- We prevent gaps before they happen
- We explain gaps to insurance companies and juries
- Lupe used gaps to minimize claims for years—he knows which explanations insurance accepts and how to document around gaps
Tactic #10: Policy Limits Bluff
What They Do: The insurance company claims limited coverage:
- “We only have $30,000 in coverage”
- “That’s the policy limit—we can’t pay more”
- “Take it or leave it”
- They hope you don’t investigate further
What They’re Hiding:
- Umbrella policies (additional $500,000-$5,000,000)
- Commercial policies (if the driver was working)
- Corporate policies (parent company coverage)
- Multiple policies that stack
- Excess coverage layers
Why They Hide Coverage:
- They hope you’ll settle for the minimum limits
- They want to save millions in additional coverage
- They bet you won’t hire an attorney to investigate
- Most people don’t know to look for additional policies
How Attorney911 Counters:
- We investigate ALL available coverage
- We demand full policy disclosure
- We subpoena insurance files if necessary
- We search for umbrella policies
- We identify corporate coverage
- We find employer policies
- We discover parent company coverage
- We file lawsuits to force disclosure
- Lupe’s insurance knowledge finds hidden policies—he knows the coverage structures insurance companies use and where umbrella policies hide
Real Example:
Insurance claimed a $30,000 policy limit. We investigated and found:
- $30,000 personal auto policy
- $1,000,000 commercial policy (driver was making a delivery)
- $2,000,000 umbrella policy
- $5,000,000 corporate policy (parent company)
Total available: $8,030,000, not $30,000.
Our client recovered $3,200,000 instead of $30,000.
This is why hiring an attorney who investigates ALL coverage matters.
Common Injuries in Motor Vehicle Accidents
At Attorney911, we understand the medical reality of motor vehicle accident injuries. Here’s what you need to know about common injuries and their impact:
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
Immediate Symptoms:
- Loss of consciousness (even brief)
- Confusion and disorientation
- Vomiting and nausea
- Seizures
- Severe headache
- Dilated pupils
- Slurred speech
- Weakness or numbness
Delayed Symptoms (Hours to Days Later):
- Worsening headaches
- Repeated vomiting
- Seizures developing days later
- Slurred speech or difficulty speaking
- Personality changes and mood swings
- Sleep disturbances
- Sensitivity to light and noise
- Confusion and memory problems worsening
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 leading to personality changes and dementia
- Post-Concussive Syndrome: Headaches and dizziness lasting months or years (affects 10-15% of TBI patients)
- Increased Dementia Risk: A 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:
| Injury Level | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| 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 |
| T1-T12 (Thoracic) | Paraplegia (lower body paralysis), wheelchair dependent, trunk control varies by level |
| L1-L5 (Lumbar) | 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 prognosis |
| B | Sensory Incomplete | Sensory function but no motor function preserved |
| C | Motor Incomplete | Motor function preserved but most muscles <3/5 strength |
| D | Motor Incomplete | Motor function preserved 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)
Amputation
Types:
- Traumatic Amputation: Limb severed at the accident scene by collision impact
- Surgical Amputation: Due to crush injuries or infections (like our documented case)
Levels:
- Above-Knee: More difficult, less mobility, more expensive prosthetics
- Below-Knee: Better mobility potential, easier prosthetic use
- Upper Extremity: Arm, hand, fingers
- Multiple Limbs: Exponentially more challenging
Phantom Limb Pain:
- 80% of amputees experience phantom pain
- Feeling pain in a limb that’s no longer there
- Can be severe and debilitating
- Often a permanent condition
- Requires lifetime pain management
“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.”
Burn Injuries
Classifications:
| Degree | Characteristics | Treatment |
|---|---|---|
| First-Degree | Superficial, like sunburn, heals in 7-10 days | Outpatient care |
| Second-Degree | Blistering, severe pain, may scar | Monitor, possible hospitalization |
| Third-Degree | Full thickness, destroys all skin, always scars | Skin grafting required |
| Fourth-Degree | Extends into muscle and bone | Often requires amputation |
Body Surface Area Impact:
| % Body Burned | Treatment Required |
|---|---|
| <10% | Usually outpatient |
| 10-20% | Hospitalization required |
| 20-40% | Burn center, ICU, multiple surgeries |
| >40% | Extremely life-threatening |
| >60% | Often fatal |
Herniated Disc
Treatment Timeline:
- Acute Phase (Weeks 1-6): Severe pain, medications, rest. Cost: $2,000-$5,000
- Conservative Treatment (Weeks 6-12): Physical therapy, chiropractic care. Cost: $5,000-$12,000
- Interventional (If Conservative Fails): Epidural steroid injections. Cost: $3,000-$6,000
- 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
Soft Tissue Injuries
Why Insurance Undervalues Soft Tissue:
- No broken bones or surgery = appears “minor”
- Difficult to see on X-rays
- Symptoms are subjective (pain, stiffness)
Why Soft Tissue Can Be Serious:
- 15-20% develop chronic pain
- Can prevent return to physical jobs
- Whiplash can cause permanent problems
- Often misdiagnosed initially (rotator cuff tears thought to be sprains)
Proper Documentation is Critical:
- Detailed pain descriptions to doctors
- Consistent treatment (no gaps)
- MRI proving injury
- Physical therapy records
- Work restrictions documented
Psychological Injuries
PTSD After Motor Vehicle Accidents:
- 32-45% of accident victims develop PTSD symptoms
- Anxiety about driving again
- Fear of getting in cars (as driver or passenger)
- Panic attacks near accident location or on 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 Pflugerville Motor Vehicle Accident Case
When you’re injured in a motor vehicle accident, you need more than just an attorney—you need a dedicated legal team with the expertise, resources, and commitment to fight for the maximum compensation you deserve. At Attorney911, we offer five unique advantages that set us apart from other law firms:
Advantage #1: Insurance Defense Insider Knowledge
“Lupe Peña worked for a number of years at a national defense firm, learning firsthand how large insurance companies value claims.”
This is Attorney911’s biggest competitive advantage. Lupe spent years working FOR insurance companies, learning:
- How they value claims internally
- Which tactics they use to minimize payouts
- How to navigate their settlement authority structures
- Which IME (Independent Medical Exam) doctors they favor
- How they calculate case values using Colossus software
- Their delay and financial pressure tactics
Now, Lupe uses that knowledge to fight FOR victims, not against them. He knows their playbook because he wrote it. This insider advantage allows us to anticipate and counter insurance company tactics effectively.
Advantage #2: Multi-Million Dollar Results
At Attorney911, we don’t just promise results—we deliver them. Our firm has recovered millions for clients in cases just like yours:
- Logging Brain Injury: “Multi-million dollar settlement for client who suffered brain injury with vision loss when log dropped on him at logging company.”
- Car Accident Amputation: “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.”
- Trucking Wrongful Death: “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.”
- Maritime Back Injury: “In a recent case, our client injured his back while lifting cargo on a ship. Our investigation revealed that he should have been assisted in this duty, and we were able to reach a significant cash settlement.”
Our results prove that we don’t settle cheap. We fight for every client to receive the maximum compensation possible.
Advantage #3: Federal Court Experience
Ralph Manginello is admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas. This federal court admission is crucial for handling complex cases, including:
- Trucking accidents involving FMCSA regulations
- Cases against large corporations (like our BP explosion litigation)
- Multi-state accidents with out-of-state defendants
- Cases with federal jurisdiction due to diversity of citizenship
Our involvement in the BP Texas City explosion litigation demonstrates our capability to take on billion-dollar corporations and win. We’re not afraid of complex cases or large defendants.
Advantage #4: Personal Attention from the Start
At Attorney911, you’re not just another case number. You work directly with Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña, not just paralegals or case managers. Our clients consistently praise our personal attention and communication:
“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
“Consistent communication and not one time did i call and not get a clear answer…Ralph reached out personally.” – Dame Haskett
This personal attention means you always know what’s happening with your case, and you can reach us when you need us.
Advantage #5: Contingency Fee – No Risk to You
We believe that everyone deserves access to quality legal representation, regardless of their financial situation. That’s why we work on a contingency fee basis:
- Free Consultation: No cost to discuss your case with us
- No Upfront Costs: We advance all case expenses
- No Fee Unless We Win: You pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you
- Percentage of Recovery: Our fee is a percentage of your settlement or verdict
This means you have zero financial risk when you hire Attorney911. We’re invested in your case’s success because our fee depends on it.
“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
“This place feels like having a family over your case. And communication with you every step of the way. That’s how you know you’re in good hands.” – Kiwi Potato
Frequently Asked Questions About Motor Vehicle Accidents in Pflugerville
Immediate After Accident
1. What should I do immediately after a car accident in Pflugerville?
If you’ve been in an accident in Pflugerville:
- Call 911 and report the accident
- Seek medical attention even if you feel fine (adrenaline masks injuries)
- Document everything: take photos of damage, injuries, and the 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 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate legal guidance
2. Should I call the police even for a minor accident?
Yes. Always call the police. In Texas, you must report accidents with injuries, deaths, or property damage over $1,000. The police report is critical evidence for your claim.
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 information
- Vehicle: make, model, color, license plate number
- 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” (this can be used as an 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 Pflugerville, you can obtain the police report from the Pflugerville Police Department or through the Texas Department of Transportation’s Crash Records Information System (CRIS).
Dealing with Insurance
7. Should I give a recorded statement to insurance?
To the other driver’s insurance: NO. Not without an attorney.
To your own insurance: You have a duty to cooperate, but call Attorney911 first. We can advise you on what to say.
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 or 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 the actual value of your claim. 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 or underinsured?
Your own UM/UIM (Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist) coverage can compensate you. Texas allows inter-policy stacking, which can significantly increase your available coverage.
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, and insurance companies start building their defense against you from day one. Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 as soon as possible.
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 this deadline 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 damages (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
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. For example, if you’re 20% at fault in a $100,000 case, you can recover $80,000.
18. Will my case go to trial?
Most cases settle before trial. But Attorney911 prepares every case as if it’s going to trial. This preparation gives us leverage in negotiations.
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)—the point where you’ve recovered as much as you’re going to. This could take 6 months for minor injuries or 18-24 months for serious injuries.
20. What is the legal process step-by-step?
- Investigation and evidence gathering
- Medical treatment to MMI
- Demand letter to insurance
- Negotiation
- Lawsuit if necessary
- Discovery (exchange of information)
- Mediation
- Trial if needed
Watch our video: “What Is the Process for a Personal Injury Claim?” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XwzYymneDVs
Compensation
21. What is my case worth?
It depends on:
- Severity of your injuries
- Medical costs (past and future)
- Lost wages and earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Permanent impairment
- Clear liability
- 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 damages (except in medical malpractice cases).
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—the defendant takes you as they find you.
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 for specific advice.
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 a contingency fee basis: 33.33% before trial, 40% if the case goes to 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 compensation for you. If we don’t win, you owe us nothing. We advance all case costs, and you only pay if we recover money for you.
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 attorneys at any time. 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
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 companies monitor 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, and we can still help.
Additional Common Questions
36. What if I have a pre-existing condition?
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 the accident: mild occasional back pain
- After the accident: severe constant pain requiring surgery
- You recover for the NEW injury, not just the pre-existing pain
We hire medical experts to prove the difference and explain the aggravation.
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 attorneys.
38. What if the insurance company is my own insurance (UM/UIM claim)?
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) 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 for UM/UIM claims.
Texas allows inter-policy stacking, which means you can combine coverage from multiple vehicles you own. Lupe Peña’s insurance knowledge is particularly valuable for maximizing UM/UIM recovery.
Watch our video: “Uninsured & Underinsured Motorists” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kWcNFyb-Yq8
39. How do you calculate pain and suffering?
Most commonly using the multiplier method:
Total Settlement = (Medical Expenses × Multiplier) + Lost Wages + Property Damage
The multiplier ranges from 1.5 to 5, depending on:
- Injury severity
- Permanency
- Impact on life
- Clear liability
For example:
- $100,000 medical expenses × 4 multiplier = $400,000 pain and suffering
Lupe Peña calculated these multipliers for years as an insurance defense attorney—he knows how to justify higher multipliers and when the multiplier method undervalues a case.
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, and damage caps may apply. These cases are complex—you need an experienced attorney.
Ralph Manginello’s 25+ years of experience 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 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 secure critical evidence. Texas allows UM stacking, which can significantly increase your available coverage. 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, and we’ve successfully represented clients of all immigration statuses.
Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish, and our staff includes bilingual team members. 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 often argue that “parking lot accidents are always 50/50 fault,” but this is not true. We prove fault through:
- Surveillance video
- Witness statements
- Damage analysis
- 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, and the driver’s insurance covers passengers. There are no comparative fault issues (you weren’t driving), so these cases often settle quickly.
We handle the difficult conversation with the driver 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. The death doesn’t eliminate liability, and the insurance policy still applies. The estate may have assets, and wrongful death laws protect both sides.
These cases are emotionally complex but legally straightforward. We handle them with sensitivity while protecting your rights.
Pflugerville-Specific Information
Local Courts and Legal Process
Pflugerville is served by the Travis County court system. Depending on the severity of your case, it may be heard in:
- Travis County Justice of the Peace Courts: For minor claims under $20,000
- Travis County Court at Law: For cases between $20,000 and $250,000
- Travis County District Court: For cases over $250,000 or complex litigation
For federal cases (such as those involving FMCSA regulations or out-of-state defendants), cases may be heard in the Western District of Texas, Austin Division.
At Attorney911, we’re familiar with the Travis County court system and have experience working with local judges and opposing counsel.
Local Hospitals and Medical Care
If you’re injured in a Pflugerville accident, you may receive treatment at:
- St. David’s North Austin Medical Center: Comprehensive trauma and emergency care
- Ascension Seton Medical Center Austin: Major trauma center serving Central Texas
- Dell Seton Medical Center at The University of Texas: Level I trauma center
- Pflugerville Family Medicine and Urgent Care: Local primary care and urgent care
We work with local medical providers to ensure you receive the care you need and to document your injuries properly for your case.
Dangerous Roads and Intersections in Pflugerville
Pflugerville has seen significant growth in recent years, leading to increased traffic and accident risks. Some of the most dangerous areas include:
- I-35 Corridor: Heavy truck traffic and frequent congestion
- SH 130: High-speed toll road with dangerous merge points
- SH 45: Busy commuter route with frequent rear-end collisions
- FM 685 (Pecan Street): Major north-south route through Pflugerville
- Grand Avenue Parkway: High-volume road with multiple intersections
- Heatherwilde Boulevard: Busy commercial corridor
- Kelly Lane: Major east-west route with heavy traffic
Common accident types in these areas include:
- Rear-end collisions at stoplights
- Intersection accidents from failure to yield
- Highway merge accidents
- Distracted driving crashes
- Drunk driving accidents
Local Employers and Industries
Pflugerville is home to a diverse range of employers, which can impact your case if you’re unable to work due to your injuries:
- Dell Technologies: Major technology employer
- Amazon Fulfillment Center: Large distribution facility
- St. David’s North Austin Medical Center: Healthcare provider
- Pflugerville Independent School District: Major employer for educators
- Retail and Commercial Businesses: Along FM 685 and Grand Avenue Parkway
If your injuries prevent you from returning to work, we’ll document your lost wages and earning capacity to ensure you’re fully compensated.
Local Accident Statistics
While specific Pflugerville accident statistics aren’t always available, Travis County as a whole sees thousands of motor vehicle crashes each year. In 2024:
- Travis County had 22,456 motor vehicle crashes
- 187 fatalities
- 2,109 serious injuries
Common causes of accidents in Travis County include:
- Distracted driving
- Speeding
- Failure to yield
- Drunk driving
- Fatigued driving
Why Pflugerville Residents Need Local Legal Representation
When you’re injured in a Pflugerville motor vehicle accident, you need an attorney who understands:
- The local court system and judges
- The specific accident patterns in Pflugerville
- The local hospitals and medical providers
- The major employers and industries
- The unique traffic challenges in Central Texas
At Attorney911, we have deep roots in Central Texas and a proven track record of success in Travis County. We know the local landscape and how to fight for Pflugerville residents.
Contact Attorney911 Today
If you’ve been injured in a motor vehicle accident in Pflugerville, don’t wait—evidence disappears daily, and the insurance company is already building a case against you. Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free, no-obligation consultation.
We’re available 24/7 to answer your questions and help you understand your legal options. Our team speaks both English and Spanish, and we’re ready to fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.
Remember:
- Free consultation – No cost to discuss your case
- No fee unless we win – You pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you
- Evidence disappears daily – Call now to preserve critical evidence
- Insurance is already working against you – Don’t face them alone
“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
Call 1-888-ATTY-911 today. We’re here to help.

