Car Accident Lawyers in Port Lavaca, Texas | Attorney911
If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Port Lavaca, Texas, you’re not alone. With Texas seeing a crash every 57 seconds and one person injured every 2 minutes and 5 seconds, the roads in Calhoun County and surrounding areas can be dangerous. At Attorney911, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a car accident can take on you and your family. Our experienced team, led by Ralph Manginello with over 25 years of legal experience, is here to fight for the compensation you deserve.
The Reality of Car Accidents in Port Lavaca and Calhoun County
Port Lavaca and Calhoun County see their share of car accidents, just like the rest of Texas. In 2024 alone, Texas experienced 251,977 people injured in motor vehicle crashes. That’s a staggering number, and it means that every day, families are dealing with the aftermath of accidents on roads like Highway 35, Highway 87, and local streets throughout the area.
Common causes of car accidents in Port Lavaca include:
- Distracted driving (a leading cause of 380 deaths in Texas in 2024)
- Speeding
- Failure to yield right of way
- Running red lights or stop signs
- Following too closely
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
These accidents can happen anywhere – on your way to work, while running errands in town, or even in parking lots. The results can be devastating, leaving victims with serious injuries and mounting medical bills.
Common Injuries from Car Accidents
Car accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, from relatively minor to life-altering. Some of the most common injuries we see in our Port Lavaca clients include:
- Whiplash and soft tissue injuries: These are common in rear-end collisions and can cause pain, stiffness, and limited mobility.
- Herniated or bulging discs: The force of a collision can damage the discs in your spine, leading to chronic pain and potential surgery.
- Broken bones and fractures: Arms, legs, ribs, and facial bones are particularly vulnerable in car accidents.
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI): Even a mild concussion can have long-lasting effects, while severe TBIs can be life-changing.
- Spinal cord injuries: These can result in partial or complete paralysis, requiring lifelong care.
- Internal injuries: Damage to organs or internal bleeding may not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening.
- Psychological trauma: Many accident victims experience anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after a crash.
One of our clients suffered a leg injury in a car accident that developed complications during treatment, leading to a partial amputation. This case settled in the millions, demonstrating our commitment to fighting for maximum compensation for our clients.
Why You Need an Experienced Car Accident Lawyer in Port Lavaca
After a car accident, insurance companies often try to minimize your claim or deny it altogether. They may offer a quick settlement that doesn’t cover your long-term medical expenses or lost wages. That’s where Attorney911 comes in.
Our firm includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how insurance companies operate. He understands their tactics because he used them for years – now he uses that knowledge to fight for you. With Lupe on your side, we can anticipate the insurance company’s strategies and counter them effectively.
Texas Car Accident Laws You Need to Know
Understanding Texas car accident laws is crucial for protecting your rights. Here are some key points:
- Statute of Limitations: In Texas, you have 2 years from the date of your accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to compensation forever.
- Comparative Negligence: Texas follows a “modified comparative negligence” rule. This means if you’re found to be 50% or less at fault for the accident, you can still recover damages – but your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. If you’re 51% or more at fault, you can’t recover anything.
- Minimum Insurance Requirements: Texas requires drivers to carry at least $30,000 in bodily injury coverage per person, $60,000 per accident, and $25,000 in property damage coverage. Unfortunately, many drivers carry only the minimum, which may not be enough to cover your expenses.
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: If the at-fault driver doesn’t have insurance or doesn’t have enough coverage, your own UM/UIM policy can help compensate you. This is why it’s important to have adequate coverage on your own policy.
What to Do After a Car Accident in Port Lavaca
If you’ve been in a car accident in Port Lavaca, here’s what you should do:
- Call 911: Report the accident and request medical assistance if needed.
- Seek medical attention: Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
- Document everything: Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. Get contact information from witnesses and the other driver.
- Don’t admit fault: Be careful what you say to the other driver or witnesses. Even a simple “I’m sorry” could be used against you later.
- Call Attorney911: Before speaking to any insurance company, call us at 1-888-ATTY-911. We can guide you through the process and protect your rights.
How Attorney911 Can Help with Your Port Lavaca Car Accident Case
At Attorney911, we handle all aspects of your car accident case, including:
- Investigating the accident: We gather evidence, interview witnesses, and reconstruct the accident if necessary.
- Dealing with insurance companies: We handle all communication with insurance adjusters, so you don’t have to worry about saying the wrong thing.
- Documenting your injuries and expenses: We work with medical professionals to ensure your injuries are properly documented and that all your medical expenses are accounted for.
- Calculating your damages: We consider not just your current medical bills and lost wages, but also future medical needs, lost earning capacity, and pain and suffering.
- Negotiating with insurance companies: We fight for a fair settlement that covers all your expenses and losses.
- Taking your case to trial if necessary: While most cases settle out of court, we’re prepared to take your case to trial if that’s what it takes to get you the compensation you deserve.
Our Results Speak for Themselves
At Attorney911, we have a proven track record of success in car accident cases. Our results include:
- Multi-million dollar settlements for clients with catastrophic injuries
- Significant compensation for clients with herniated discs, broken bones, and other serious injuries
- Successful outcomes for clients who were initially denied by insurance companies
One of our clients, Chavodrian Miles, shared: “Leonor got me into the doctor the same day…it only took 6 months amazing.” Another client, MONGO SLADE, said: “I was rear-ended and the team got right to work…I also got a very nice settlement.”
Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Port Lavaca Car Accident Case?
There are many personal injury lawyers in Texas, but Attorney911 offers unique advantages:
- Insurance Defense Insider: Our firm includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney. He knows how insurance companies value claims because he used to calculate them himself. This insider knowledge gives us an unfair advantage in negotiations.
- Proven Results: We have recovered millions of dollars for our clients, including multi-million dollar settlements for catastrophic injuries.
- Federal Court Experience: Ralph Manginello is admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas. This experience is crucial for complex cases, especially those involving commercial vehicles or multiple defendants.
- Personal Attention: At Attorney911, you work directly with Ralph or Lupe, not a case manager assembly line. As client Chad Harris said: “You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client…You are FAMILY to them.”
- No Fee Unless We Win: We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. This allows you to get the legal help you need without worrying about upfront costs.
Common Questions About Car Accidents in Port Lavaca
What should I do immediately after a car accident in Port Lavaca?
After a car accident in Port Lavaca, call 911 and report the accident. Seek medical attention even if you feel fine, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Document everything by taking photos and getting contact information from witnesses. Most importantly, call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 before speaking to any insurance company.
Should I call the police even for a minor accident?
Yes, you should always call the police after a car accident in Texas, no matter how minor it may seem. The police report can be crucial evidence in your case. In Texas, you’re required to report any accident that results in injury, death, or property damage over $1,000.
Should I seek medical attention if I don’t feel hurt?
Absolutely. Many serious injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries or internal bleeding, may not show symptoms immediately. Adrenaline can mask pain at the scene of an accident. Seeing a doctor right away not only ensures your health but also creates a record of your injuries, which is important for your case.
What information should I collect at the scene?
Collect the following information at the scene of the accident:
- The other driver’s name, phone number, address, and driver’s license number
- The other vehicle’s make, model, color, and license plate number
- The other driver’s insurance company and policy number
- Names and phone numbers of any witnesses
- Photos of all vehicle damage, injuries, road conditions, and traffic signals
- The police officer’s name, badge number, and report number
Should I talk to the other driver or admit fault?
Exchange information with the other driver, but don’t discuss fault or apologize. Even a simple “I’m sorry” can be used against you later. Stick to the facts and don’t give your opinion on what happened.
How do I obtain a copy of the accident report?
In Port Lavaca and Calhoun County, you can obtain a copy of the police report from the responding law enforcement agency or through the Texas Department of Transportation’s Crash Records Information System (CRIS).
Should I give a recorded statement to insurance?
No, you should not give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance company without consulting an attorney first. Insurance adjusters are trained to ask questions that can minimize your claim. Once you’ve hired Attorney911, we’ll handle all communication with insurance companies.
What if the other driver’s insurance contacts me?
If the other driver’s insurance company contacts you, say: “I need to speak with my attorney first.” Then give only basic information like your name and the date of the accident. Do not give a recorded statement or discuss your injuries or the accident details.
Do I have to accept the insurance company’s estimate?
No, you don’t have to accept the insurance company’s estimate. Their initial offer is often much lower than what your case is actually worth. At Attorney911, we fight for what your case is truly worth.
Should I accept a quick settlement offer?
Never accept a settlement offer before you know the full extent of your injuries. Once you sign a release, you cannot get more money even if you need surgery later. At Attorney911, we ensure you reach maximum medical improvement before considering any settlement.
What if the other driver is uninsured or underinsured?
If the other driver doesn’t have insurance or doesn’t have enough coverage, your own Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage can compensate you. Texas allows inter-policy stacking, which means you can combine coverage from multiple vehicles on your policy.
Why does insurance want me to sign a medical authorization?
Insurance companies want you to sign a broad medical authorization so they can access your entire medical history. They’re looking for pre-existing conditions to use against your claim. Never sign a medical authorization without having it reviewed by an attorney first.
What if I have a pre-existing condition?
You can still recover compensation even if you have a pre-existing condition. If the accident aggravated or worsened your pre-existing condition, you’re entitled to compensation for the aggravation. This is known as the “eggshell plaintiff” rule – the defendant takes the victim as they find them.
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, and there is insurance to recover from. Watch our video “Do I Have a Good Case?” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j-PMMP5Jims to learn more.
When should I hire a car accident lawyer?
You should hire a car accident lawyer as soon as possible after your accident. Evidence disappears quickly, and insurance companies start building their case against you from day one. The sooner you call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911, the better we can protect your rights.
How much time do I have to file (statute of limitations)?
In Texas, you have 2 years from the date of your accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. If you miss this deadline, your case may be barred forever. It’s important to act quickly to preserve evidence and protect your rights.
What is comparative negligence and how does it affect me?
Texas uses a “modified comparative negligence” rule with a 51% bar. This means if you’re found to be 50% or less at fault for the accident, you can still recover damages, but your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. If you’re 51% or more at fault, you can’t recover anything.
What happens if I was partially at fault?
If you were partially at fault for the accident, you can still recover compensation as long as you were 50% or less at fault. Your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you were 20% at fault, you would recover 80% of your damages.
Will my case go to trial?
Most car accident cases settle before trial. However, at Attorney911, we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This approach gives us leverage in negotiations and shows insurance companies that we’re serious about getting our clients the compensation they deserve.
How long will my case take to settle?
The length of your case depends on the severity of your injuries. We don’t settle until you’ve reached maximum medical improvement (MMI), which is the point where your condition has stabilized and you’re as good as you’re going to get medically. This could take 6 months for minor injuries or 18-24 months for more serious injuries.
What is the legal process step-by-step?
The legal process for a car accident case typically involves:
- Investigation and evidence gathering
- Medical treatment to reach maximum medical improvement
- Demand letter to the insurance company
- Negotiation with the insurance company
- Filing a lawsuit if necessary
- Discovery (exchange of information between parties)
- Mediation (attempt to settle the case)
- Trial if the case doesn’t settle
Watch our video “What Is the Process for a Personal Injury Claim?” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XwzYymneDVs to learn more.
What is my case worth?
The value of your case depends on several factors, including:
- The severity of your injuries
- Your medical expenses (both past and future)
- Your lost wages and lost earning capacity
- The impact on your daily life and activities
- Whether you have permanent impairments or disabilities
- The strength of the evidence in your case
What types of damages can I recover?
In a car accident case, you may be able to recover the following types of damages:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost wages and lost earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
- Physical impairment
- Disfigurement
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Property damage
Can I get compensation for pain and suffering?
Yes, you can get compensation for pain and suffering in Texas. Pain and suffering is a significant component of personal injury cases, and there is no cap on pain and suffering damages (except in medical malpractice cases).
What if I have a pre-existing condition?
You can still recover compensation if you have a pre-existing condition. If the accident aggravated or worsened your pre-existing condition, you’re entitled to compensation for the aggravation. This is known as the “eggshell plaintiff” rule.
Will I have to pay taxes on my settlement?
Generally, compensation for physical injuries is not taxable. However, punitive damages are taxable as ordinary income. It’s always a good idea to consult with a tax professional about your specific situation.
How is the value of my claim determined?
The value of your claim is determined based on several factors, including:
- Your medical bills (both past and future)
- Your lost income (both past and future)
- The severity and permanency of your injuries
- The impact on your daily life and activities
- Comparable verdicts and settlements in similar cases
- The strength of the evidence in your case
How much do car accident lawyers cost?
At Attorney911, we work on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay nothing upfront, and we only get paid if we recover compensation for you. Our fee is a percentage of the recovery, typically 33.33% before trial and 40% if the case goes to trial.
Watch our video “How Do Contingency Fees Work?” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc to learn more.
What does “no fee unless we win” mean?
“No fee unless we win” means you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. If we don’t win your case, you owe us nothing. We advance all case costs, and you only pay if we’re successful.
How often will I get updates?
At Attorney911, we provide regular updates on your case. As client Dame Haskett said: “Consistent communication and not one time did I call and not get a clear answer.” We believe in keeping our clients informed every step of the way.
Who will actually handle my case?
At Attorney911, you’ll work directly with Ralph Manginello or Lupe Peña, not just paralegals or case managers. As client Chad Harris said: “You are NOT just some client…You are FAMILY to them.”
What if I already hired another attorney?
You have the right to switch attorneys at any time if you’re unhappy with your current representation. At Attorney911, we’ve taken over many cases from other attorneys. As client Greg Garcia said: “In the beginning I had another attorney but he dropped my case although Mangiello law firm were able to help me out.”
What if the insurance company is my own insurance (UM/UIM claim)?
If you’re making an Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) claim against your own insurance, you still need an attorney. Your insurance company will fight your claim just like the other driver’s insurance would. Lupe’s insurance knowledge is particularly valuable in these cases.
How do you calculate pain and suffering?
Pain and suffering is often calculated using a multiplier method. Your medical expenses are multiplied by a number (typically between 1.5 and 5) to determine your pain and suffering damages. The multiplier depends on the severity of your injuries, the impact on your life, and other factors.
What if I was hit by a government vehicle (city bus, police car, etc.)?
If you were hit by a government vehicle, you may have a claim against the government entity. However, these cases have special rules and shorter deadlines. You typically have to file a notice of claim within 6 months of the accident. These cases can be complex, so it’s important to contact an experienced attorney like Ralph Manginello immediately.
What if the other driver fled the scene (hit and run)?
If the other driver fled the scene, you can still pursue a claim through your own Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage. It’s important to file a police report immediately and gather as much evidence as possible. Surveillance footage is critical in these cases, as it’s often deleted within 7-30 days.
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 your injuries. You’re entitled to full recovery regardless of your immigration status. Your case is confidential, and we’ve successfully represented clients of all immigration statuses. Lupe is fluent in Spanish and can assist Spanish-speaking clients.
What if the accident happened in a parking lot?
Parking lot accidents are fully compensable. Insurance companies often try to argue that parking lot accidents are always 50/50 fault, but this isn’t true. We can prove fault through surveillance video, witness statements, and damage analysis.
What if I was a passenger in the at-fault vehicle?
If you were a passenger in the at-fault vehicle, you can still pursue a claim against the driver. You’re considered an innocent victim, and the driver’s insurance should cover your injuries. We can handle the difficult conversation with the driver so you don’t have to.
Contact Attorney911 for Your Port Lavaca Car Accident Case
If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Port Lavaca or anywhere in Calhoun County, don’t face this alone. The experienced car accident lawyers at Attorney911 are here to fight for you. We offer:
- Free, no-obligation consultations
- No fee unless we win your case
- Personal attention from Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña
- The insider advantage of a former insurance defense attorney
- A proven track record of multi-million dollar results
Call us today at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. Remember, evidence disappears every day – the sooner you call, the better we can protect your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Car Accident Resources
Learn more about car accidents and your rights:
- What to Do After a Car Accident: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OCox4Lq7zBM
- How Much Is My Car Accident Case Worth?: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=onBzdkIWadY
- Uninsured & Underinsured Motorists: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kWcNFyb-Yq8
- Attorney911 Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/bj/podcast/attorney-911/id1773141988
At Attorney911, we’re not just your lawyers – we’re your neighbors, your advocates, and your partners in recovery. Let us help you get your life back on track after a car accident in Port Lavaca. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 today.
