Motor Vehicle Accident Lawyers in Royse City, Texas

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Royse City, Texas, you’re not alone. With one crash occurring every 57 seconds in Texas and 251,977 people injured in motor vehicle accidents statewide in 2024, our roads have become increasingly dangerous. At Attorney911, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a serious accident can take on you and your family. Our Royse City car accident lawyers are here to fight for the compensation you deserve while you focus on your recovery.

Ralph Manginello, our managing partner with over 25 years of experience handling motor vehicle accident cases, leads our team with a commitment to justice for Royse City residents. We know that when you’re dealing with mounting medical bills, lost wages, and insurance companies that prioritize profits over people, you need more than just legal representation—you need a legal emergency response team.

Why Royse City Residents Choose Attorney911

Royse City’s location along major highways like Interstate 30 and State Highway 66 means our community sees more than its share of serious accidents. Whether you’ve been injured in a collision on I-30, at the intersection of Highway 66 and FM 548, or anywhere else in Rockwall County, our team has the local knowledge and statewide resources to handle your case effectively.

What sets Attorney911 apart is our unique insurance defense advantage. Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, spent years working for a national defense firm, learning firsthand how large insurance companies value claims. Now, he uses that insider knowledge to fight for victims like you. This perspective is invaluable when dealing with insurance adjusters who may try to minimize your injuries or shift blame onto you.

Common Types of Motor Vehicle Accidents in Royse City

Car Accidents (Tier 1 – Most Common)

Car accidents are the most frequent type of motor vehicle collision we see in Royse City. With the growing population and increased traffic on local roads, accidents can happen anywhere—from the busy intersection of Highway 66 and FM 548 to residential neighborhoods.

In 2024 alone, Texas saw 251,977 people injured in motor vehicle crashes, with one person injured every 2 minutes and 5 seconds. These accidents often result in serious injuries that can change your life in an instant.

Common injuries in car accidents include:

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

Case Example:
“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 to do after a car accident in Royse City:

Seek medical attention immediately, even if you feel fine
Document the scene with photos and witness information
Avoid giving recorded statements to insurance companies
Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation

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

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

Royse City’s proximity to major highways like I-30 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 disparity between large trucks and passenger vehicles.

Key facts about trucking accidents:

A fully loaded 18-wheeler can weigh up to 80,000 pounds—20 times more than a typical passenger car
Texas accounts for 11% of all fatal truck crashes in the United States
549 fatal truck accidents in Texas resulted in 620 deaths

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations we investigate:

Hours of Service (HOS) violations
Electronic Logging Device (ELD) data
Driver qualification and training records
Vehicle maintenance and inspection reports
Drug and alcohol testing compliance

Why trucking cases are more complex:

Multiple liable parties (driver, trucking company, cargo loader, manufacturer)
Higher insurance policy limits ($750,000 to $5,000,000+)
Federal court jurisdiction for interstate trucking cases
Electronic data that can be overwritten if not preserved quickly

Our firm’s trucking accident experience:
Ralph Manginello is admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, giving us the ability to handle complex federal trucking cases. We’ve recovered millions for victims of trucking-related wrongful death cases, and our firm was one of the few involved in BP explosion litigation—a testament to our capability in handling complex cases against large corporations.

Client Testimonial:
“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

Drunk Driving Accidents (Tier 1 – Preventable Tragedies)

Drunk driving remains a serious problem in Texas, with 1,053 alcohol-impaired driving deaths in 2024—accounting for 25.37% of all traffic fatalities. In Royse City and throughout Rockwall County, we see far too many preventable tragedies caused by intoxicated drivers.

Texas Dram Shop Law (TABC § 2.02):
Under Texas law, bars, restaurants, and other establishments can be held liable if they serve alcohol to an obviously intoxicated person who then causes an accident. This means you may have claims against both the drunk driver and the establishment that over-served them.

Signs of obvious intoxication:

Slurred speech
Bloodshot or glassy eyes
Unsteady gait or stumbling
Strong odor of alcohol
Aggressive or inappropriate behavior
Difficulty with coordination or counting money

Why drunk driving cases often result in higher settlements:

Punitive damages may be available for gross negligence
Multiple defendants (driver + bar/restaurant)
Criminal case can strengthen civil case
Insurance companies cannot defend the indefensible

Our criminal defense advantage:
Ralph Manginello is a member of the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA), giving us unique insight into both the criminal and civil aspects of drunk driving cases. Our firm has successfully handled numerous DWI cases, including:

A case where improperly maintained breathalyzer machines led to dismissal
A case with missing EMS and hospital notes that was dismissed on the day of trial
A case where video evidence showed the client was not intoxicated

Client Testimonial:
“Ralph is an AMAZING ATTORNEY. I have used him 2 TIMES FOR 2 separate cases the first case he got me an OFF DOCKET DISSMISSAL! And the other only 10 months probation. He gets the JOB DONE RIGHT!!!!” – Cassie Wright

Motorcycle Accidents (Tier 2 – High Risk)

Motorcycle accidents are particularly dangerous, with 585 motorcyclist fatalities in Texas in 2024. Despite making up only a small percentage of vehicles on the road, motorcyclists are disproportionately represented in fatal crashes.

Key facts about motorcycle accidents in Texas:

37% of motorcyclists killed were not wearing helmets
90%+ of fatal motorcycle accident victims are male
Helmets reduce the risk of death by 37%
Harris County leads the state in motorcycle fatalities

Texas helmet law:

Required for all riders under 21
Riders 21+ may ride without a helmet if they:
- Have completed a motorcycle safety course, OR
- Have at least $10,000 in medical insurance coverage

Common causes of motorcycle accidents:

Failure to yield right of way (most common)
Driver inattention or distraction
Unsafe lane changes
Left-turn accidents
Speeding or reckless driving

The comparative negligence challenge:
Texas uses a modified comparative negligence system with a 51% bar rule. This means:

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

Insurance companies often try to assign maximum fault to motorcyclists to reduce their payouts. Having a former insurance defense attorney like Lupe Peña on your side is a significant advantage in countering these arguments.

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

Pedestrian Accidents (Tier 2 – Vulnerable Road Users)

Pedestrian accidents are particularly devastating, with 6,095 crashes in Texas in 2024 resulting in 768 fatalities. Pedestrians account for only 1% of crashes but 19% of all roadway deaths.

Critical legal point for pedestrians:
Under Texas law, pedestrians ALWAYS have the right-of-way at intersections—even at unmarked crosswalks. Many drivers don’t know this important rule, and insurance companies won’t tell you.

Common injuries in pedestrian accidents:

Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
Broken pelvis and legs
Internal organ damage
Fatalities

Houston pedestrian safety crisis:
In 2024, Houston saw a record 119 pedestrians killed on city streets. While Royse City may be smaller, pedestrian safety remains a concern, especially in areas with heavy foot traffic.

What to do if you’re hit by a car in Royse City:

Seek medical attention immediately
Report the accident to police
Document the scene and get witness information
Do NOT discuss fault with the driver or insurance companies
Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911

Rideshare Accidents (Uber/Lyft) (Tier 2 – Complex Insurance Issues)

The rideshare industry has transformed transportation in Royse City, but it has also created complex insurance issues when accidents occur. With 17.4 million Uber trips daily nationwide, accidents involving rideshare vehicles are becoming more common.

Rideshare insurance phases (critical for your claim):

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

Why this matters for your claim:
The insurance coverage available depends entirely on what the driver was doing at the moment of the crash. This complexity is why you need an attorney with insurance industry knowledge like Lupe Peña, who understands how to navigate these coverage issues.

Who can be injured in rideshare accidents:

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

Client Testimonial:
“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

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

Hit and run accidents are particularly frustrating, with someone involved in a hit-and-run accident every 43 seconds in the United States. In Texas, hit and run is a serious crime with severe penalties.

Texas penalties for hit and run (Texas Transportation Code § 550.021):

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

Your recovery options after a hit and run:
When the at-fault driver cannot be identified, your own Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage becomes critical. Texas allows inter-policy stacking, which means you may be able to combine coverage from multiple policies.

Evidence preservation is urgent:

Surveillance footage is typically deleted within 7-30 days
Witnesses become harder to locate as time passes
The sooner we can send preservation letters, the better

Learn more about UM/UIM claims in our video:
“Uninsured & Underinsured Motorists” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kWcNFyb-Yq8

Tesla/Autopilot and Autonomous Vehicle Accidents (Tier 2 – Emerging Issue)

As electric and autonomous vehicles become more common in Royse City, we’re seeing an increase in accidents involving these advanced technologies. Tesla’s Autopilot and Full Self-Driving (FSD) systems have been involved in numerous high-profile crashes.

Notable Tesla/Autopilot fatal crashes:

May 2016: First US Autopilot fatality in Florida (18-wheeler collision)
March 2018: Apple engineer killed in Mountain View, CA (settled April 2024)
December 2024: Fatal crash in California
August 2025: $240M+ jury verdict against Tesla (landmark case)

Key liability arguments in Tesla/Autopilot cases:

Tesla marketed FSD/Autopilot as safer than human drivers
Marketing fostered driver overconfidence and overreliance
Tesla knew the system couldn’t detect emergency vehicles
Tesla used over-the-air software updates instead of comprehensive fixes
Known defects were not properly addressed

NHTSA data on Tesla crashes:

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

Common crash patterns with Tesla vehicles:

Tractor-trailer crossings (system fails to detect large vehicles)
Emergency vehicles with flashing lights
Gore points and barriers
Situations where drivers have hands off the wheel

Why you need an attorney for Tesla/autonomous vehicle cases:

Complex product liability issues
Manufacturer resistance to claims
Technical data that requires expert analysis
Federal court experience for complex litigation

Ralph Manginello’s admission to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, gives us the capability to handle these complex cases in federal court when necessary.

Delivery Vehicle Accidents (Amazon, FedEx, UPS) (Tier 3)

With the growth of e-commerce, delivery vehicle accidents are becoming more common in Royse City. Amazon’s Delivery Service Partner (DSP) program has created a fleet of delivery vehicles that operate in our neighborhoods daily.

Key verdicts in delivery vehicle cases:

2024 Georgia: $16.2M verdict for child struck by Amazon delivery van
2024 Lopez v. All Points 360: $105M verdict against Amazon DSP
2023 Grubhub: Wrongful death lawsuit in Arizona

Amazon DSP liability issues:

DSPs are contractually required to “defend and indemnify” Amazon
Higher safety violation rates than average motor carriers
1,879 crashes involving Amazon-related motor carriers in 24 months (ending August 2025)

Why delivery vehicle cases often result in higher settlements:

Trucks are 3x the size and weight of passenger cars
$1M+ liability insurance policies are typically required
Juries have less sympathy for corporate defendants
Business models often encourage dangerous driving behaviors

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

What to Do After an Accident in Royse City: The 48-Hour Protocol

Time is critical after an accident. Evidence disappears quickly, and insurance companies start building their case against you immediately. Follow this 48-hour protocol to protect your rights:

Hour 1-6 (Immediate Crisis Response)

✅ 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 immediately. 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
Ask if they saw what happened
Record their statements if possible

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

Hour 6-24 (Evidence Preservation)

✅ Digital Preservation:

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

✅ Physical Evidence:

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

✅ Medical Records:

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

✅ Insurance Communications:

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

✅ Social Media:

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

Hour 24-48 (Strategic Decisions)

✅ Legal Consultation:

Speak with an experienced motor vehicle accident attorney
Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation
Have your documentation ready

✅ Insurance Response:

If insurance contacts you, refer them to your attorney
Say: “My attorney will be in touch with you”
Provide only basic information: name, date of accident, that you were involved

✅ Settlement Offers:

Do NOT accept or sign anything without lawyer review
Early offers are ALWAYS lowball offers
You don’t know the extent of your injuries yet

✅ Evidence Backup:

Upload all screenshots and photos to cloud storage
Email copies to yourself and a family member
Create a written timeline of events while your memory is fresh

Evidence Deterioration Timeline: Why Time is Critical

Time Period	What Disappears	Why It Matters
Day 1-7	Witness memories begin fading	Details become uncertain, witnesses harder to locate
Day 7-30	Surveillance footage deleted	Gas stations: 7-14 days, Retail stores: 30 days, Traffic cameras: 30 days
Month 1-2	Insurance companies solidify defense	Adjusters build their case against you, settlement position hardens
Month 2-6	Trucking electronic data deleted	ELD data: 30-180 days, Black box data: can be overwritten
Month 6-12	Witnesses become unreachable	Graduate, move away, memories severely degraded
Month 12-24	Approaching statute of limitations	Creates pressure to settle, evidence severely degraded

Texas Motor Vehicle Law: What Royse City Accident Victims Need to Know

Statute of Limitations

Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code § 16.003

Claim Type	Time Limit	Starts From
Personal Injury	2 years	Date of accident
Wrongful Death	2 years	Date of death
Property Damage	2 years	Date of damage
Government Claims	6 months notice	Date of incident
Minors	Tolled until 18	Then 2 years

Critical: Miss the deadline and your case is BARRED forever. The 2-year clock starts ticking from the date of your accident.

Comparative Negligence: The 51% Bar Rule

Texas uses a modified comparative negligence system with a 51% bar rule. This means:

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

Examples:

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

Why this matters: Insurance companies ALWAYS try to assign maximum fault to you to reduce their payout. Lupe Peña’s insurance defense experience helps counter these arguments.

Texas Minimum Auto Insurance Requirements

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

Uninsured Motorist Statistics:

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

How Insurance Companies Try to Minimize Your Claim

Having a former insurance defense attorney on our team gives Attorney911 a unique advantage. Lupe Peña spent years working for a national defense firm, learning firsthand how large insurance companies value claims. Now, he uses that insider knowledge to fight for victims like you.

Tactic #1: The Quick Contact and Recorded Statement Trap

What they do:
Within 24-72 hours of your accident, insurance adjusters will contact you—often while you’re still in the hospital, on pain medication, or overwhelmed by the situation. They’ll act friendly and helpful, saying things like:

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

What they’re really doing:
They’re building their defense against you with leading questions designed to get you to say things that can be used against you:

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 company
Giving a statement without an attorney ALMOST ALWAYS hurts your case
Insurance companies know this—that’s why they push so hard

How Attorney911 counters:
Once you hire us, we become your voice. All calls go through us, and we prepare you properly if a statement becomes absolutely necessary. We know their questions because Lupe asked them for years.

Tactic #2: The Quick Settlement Offer

What they do:
Within days or weeks of your accident, the insurance company will offer you quick money:

Typical offers: $2,000-$5,000
Sometimes $10,000-$15,000 if they’re scared
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. Here’s what often happens:

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:
We NEVER settle before you’ve reached Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI)—the point where you’re as good as you’re going to get medically. This could be 6 months, 12 months, or 24+ months depending on your injuries. We know their offers are ALWAYS lowball because Lupe calculated these lowball offers for years.

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

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”
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 your 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 the 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

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

Tactic #4: Delay and Financial Pressure

What they do:
Insurance companies drag out your case, hoping you’ll get desperate and accept less:

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

Tactic #5: Surveillance and Social Media Monitoring

What they do:
Insurance companies 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 your 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:

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

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’ 51% bar rule means:

If you’re 51%+ at fault → You get NOTHING
If you’re 50% or less at fault → Your damages are 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

Proving Liability: Building Your Case

To win your motor vehicle accident case in Texas, we must prove four elements of negligence:

Duty of Care: All drivers have a legal duty to operate their vehicles safely
Breach of Duty: The at-fault driver violated their duty of care (speeding, running red light, etc.)
Causation: The breach directly caused your injuries
Damages: You suffered actual harm (physical, financial, emotional)

Evidence We Gather 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: More Insurance = Higher Recovery

In many accidents, multiple parties may be responsible:

Trucking Accidents:

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

Rideshare Accidents:

Rideshare driver
Rideshare company (Uber/Lyft)
Other at-fault drivers
Vehicle owner (if different from driver)

Drunk Driving Accidents:

Drunk driver
Bar/restaurant (dram shop liability)
Social host (limited circumstances)
Liquor store (serving obviously intoxicated person)

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

Damages and Compensation: What You Can Recover

Types of Damages in Texas Motor Vehicle Accident Cases

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, etc.)

Non-Economic Damages (No Cap Except Medical Malpractice):

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

Punitive/Exemplary Damages (Capped):

Available for gross negligence, fraud, or malice
Drunk driving cases often qualify
Cap: Greater of $200,000 OR (2x economic + 1x non-economic max $750,000)

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

Broken Bone (Requiring Surgery – ORIF):

Medical Treatment: $47,000-$98,000
Lost Wages: $10,000-$30,000
Pain & Suffering: $75,000-$200,000
Settlement Range: $132,000-$328,000

Herniated Disc (Conservative Treatment):

Medical Treatment: $22,000-$46,000
Lost Wages: $8,000-$25,000
Pain & Suffering: $40,000-$100,000
Settlement Range: $70,000-$171,000

Herniated Disc (Surgery Required):

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

Spinal Cord Injury / Paralysis:

Lifetime care costs range from $2,500,000 to $13,000,000+
Settlement Range: $4,770,000-$25,880,000

Amputation:

Medical Treatment: $170,000-$480,000
Future Medical (Lifetime Prosthetics): $500,000-$2,000,000
Settlement Range: $1,945,000-$8,630,000

Attorney911 Documented Result:
“In a recent case, our client’s leg was injured in a car accident. Staff infections during treatment led to a partial amputation. This case settled in the millions”

Wrongful Death (Working Age Adult):

Economic Damages: $1,000,000-$4,000,000+
Non-Economic Damages: $850,000-$5,000,000+
Settlement Range: $1,910,000-$9,520,000

Attorney911 Documented Result:
“At Attorney911, our personal injury attorneys have helped numerous injured individuals and families facing trucking-related wrongful death cases recover millions of dollars in compensation”

How Insurance Companies Calculate Your Claim Value

Insurance companies use software called Colossus to calculate the minimum they can pay you. Lupe Peña used to work for insurance companies—he knows exactly how Colossus works and how to beat it.

The Colossus Formula:
Total Settlement = (Medical Expenses × Multiplier) + Lost Wages + Property Damage

Multiplier Range: 1.5 to 5

Injury Severity	Multiplier Range
Minor injuries (soft tissue, quick recovery)	1.5 – 2
Moderate injuries (broken bones, months recovery)	2 – 3
Severe injuries (surgery, long recovery)	3 – 4
Catastrophic injuries (permanent disability)	4 – 5+

Factors that increase the multiplier:

Permanent injury or disability
Scarring or disfigurement
Long recovery time (12+ months)
Surgery required
Ongoing pain management needed
Clear liability (other driver 100% at fault)
Sympathetic plaintiff (child, elderly, pregnant)
Defendant’s conduct egregious (drunk driving, hit and run)
Strong evidence (video, witnesses)
Permanent restrictions on work/activities

Factors that decrease the multiplier:

Soft tissue injury only
Quick recovery (under 3 months)
No surgery required
Disputed liability (comparative fault)
Gaps in medical treatment
Pre-existing conditions
Minor property damage
No permanent injury

Why Lupe’s experience matters:
Lupe calculated these multipliers for years using insurance company formulas. He knows:

When to push for a higher multiplier (4-5 vs. 2-3)
Which factors insurance weighs most heavily
How to document cases to justify higher multipliers
When the multiplier method undervalues a case (catastrophic injuries)
When to abandon the multiplier and demand policy limits

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Royse City Accident Case

When you’ve been injured in a motor vehicle accident in Royse City, you have many options for legal representation. Here’s why Attorney911 stands out:

1. Insurance Defense Insider Advantage

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

This is our most powerful advantage. Lupe spent years working FOR insurance companies, learning:

How they value claims (Colossus software)
How they set reserves and settlement authority
How they select IME doctors
How they build cases against victims
How they use surveillance and social media
How they argue comparative fault

Now, he uses that knowledge to fight FOR victims like you. This insider perspective is something no other firm in Royse City can offer.

2. Multi-Million Dollar Results

Our results speak for themselves:

“Multi-million dollar settlement for client who suffered brain injury with vision loss”
“In a recent case, our client’s leg was injured in a car accident. Staff infections during treatment led to a partial amputation. This case settled in the millions”
“At Attorney911, our personal injury attorneys have helped numerous injured individuals and families facing trucking-related wrongful death cases recover millions of dollars in compensation”
“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”

3. Federal Court Experience

Ralph Manginello is admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas. This federal court admission gives us the ability to handle complex cases that other firms can’t, including:

Trucking accidents involving interstate commerce
Product liability cases against vehicle manufacturers
Cases against large corporations (like our involvement in BP explosion litigation)

4. Personal Attention from Experienced Attorneys

At Attorney911, you work directly with Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña—not just paralegals or case managers. As client Chad Harris said:

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

What our clients say about our communication:

“Melanie was excellent. She kept me informed and when she said she would call me back, she did.” – 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

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

5. Contingency Fee – No Risk to You

We don’t get paid unless we win your case. This means:

Free consultation with no obligation
No upfront costs or hourly fees
We advance all case expenses
You pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Motor Vehicle Accidents in Royse City

Immediate After Accident

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

If you’ve been in an accident in Royse City:

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 recorded statements 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 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 Royse City, 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 recorded statements. 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 at 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). This could be 6 months for minor injuries, 18-24 months for serious injuries.

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

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

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

Compensation

21. What is my case worth?

It depends on: injury severity, medical costs, lost wages, permanent impairment, pain and suffering, and available insurance. 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 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.

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, and 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 trial. You pay nothing upfront. We don’t get paid unless we win.

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

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

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

29. How often will I get updates?

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

30. Who will actually handle my case?

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

31. What if I already hired another attorney?

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

Mistakes to Avoid

32. What common mistakes can hurt my case?

Giving recorded statements without an attorney
Accepting quick settlements
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.

For example: You had mild occasional back pain before the accident. After the accident, you developed a herniated disc requiring surgery. You can recover for the NEW injury, not just the pre-existing pain.

We hire medical experts to prove the difference between your condition before and after the accident. Lupe knows how insurance companies attack pre-existing conditions—he used this defense for years when he worked for them.

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 with you, isn’t fighting for you, or is pushing you to settle for less than your case is worth, 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 your case to our firm.

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

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) claims are made against YOUR insurance when the other driver has no insurance or insufficient insurance. Unfortunately, your own insurance company will fight your claim just like the other driver’s insurance would.

You need an attorney to represent you in these cases. Texas allows inter-policy stacking, which means you may be able to combine coverage from multiple policies. Lupe’s insurance knowledge is particularly valuable in maximizing your 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 your life
Clear liability
Other factors

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

Lupe calculated these multipliers for years when he worked for insurance companies—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.)?

Accidents involving government vehicles have special rules. You must file a notice of claim within 6 months (much shorter than the 2-year statute of limitations). Government entities have sovereign immunity protections, and damage caps may apply.

These cases are complex and require an experienced attorney. Ralph’s 25+ years of experience includes handling cases against government entities. 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 in hit and run cases. Most footage is deleted within 7-30 days, so we send preservation letters immediately to businesses in the area.

Texas allows UM stacking, which means you may be able to combine coverage from multiple policies. 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 your immigration status.

Your case is confidential. We’ve successfully represented clients of all immigration statuses. Lupe is fluent in Spanish, and our staff includes bilingual team members to ensure language is never a barrier.

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 try to argue that “parking lot accidents are always 50/50 fault,” but this is a myth.

We prove fault through:

Surveillance video
Witness statements
Damage analysis
Traffic patterns

Texas comparative negligence rules apply in parking lot accidents. 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 for passengers—you weren’t driving. These cases often settle quickly because liability is clear.

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. The insurance policy still applies, and the estate may have assets.

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

Royse City Motor Vehicle Accident Resources

Nearby Hospitals and Trauma Centers

If you’re injured in a motor vehicle accident in Royse City, you may be taken to one of these medical facilities:

Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – Rockwall (Level III Trauma Center)
3150 Horizon Rd, Rockwall, TX 75032
(469) 698-1000
Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Rockwall
3150 Horizon Rd, Rockwall, TX 75032
(469) 698-1000
Methodist Richardson Medical Center (Level III Trauma Center)
2831 E President George Bush Hwy, Richardson, TX 75082
(469) 204-1000

For more severe injuries, patients may be transported to Level I Trauma Centers in Dallas:

Parkland Memorial Hospital (Level I)
5200 Harry Hines Blvd, Dallas, TX 75235
(214) 590-8000
Baylor University Medical Center (Level I)
3500 Gaston Ave, Dallas, TX 75246
(214) 820-0111

Royse City Law Enforcement Agencies

Royse City Police Department
100 W Main St, Royse City, TX 75189
(972) 636-2422
Rockwall County Sheriff’s Office
900 E Yellowjacket Ln, Rockwall, TX 75087
(972) 204-7000
Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) – Rockwall
2301 N State Hwy 205, Rockwall, TX 75032
(972) 771-2626

Royse City Courts

Royse City Municipal Court
100 W Main St, Royse City, TX 75189
(972) 636-2422
Rockwall County Justice of the Peace Courts
1111 E Yellowjacket Ln, Rockwall, TX 75087
(972) 204-7060
Rockwall County District Courts
1111 E Yellowjacket Ln, Rockwall, TX 75087
(972) 204-6500

Royse City Towing and Vehicle Recovery

Royse City Wrecker Service
(972) 636-2422 (contact through police non-emergency)
Rockwall Wrecker Service
(972) 771-2626

Contact Attorney911 – Your Royse City Motor Vehicle Accident Lawyers

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

Call Attorney911 now for a free consultation:

📞 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)

🌐 https://attorney911.com

📍 Serving Royse City, Rockwall County, and all of Texas

We offer:
✅ Free consultation with no obligation
✅ No fee unless we win your case
✅ Personal attention from experienced attorneys
✅ Insider knowledge of insurance company tactics
✅ Multi-million dollar results in serious injury cases
✅ Federal court experience for complex cases
✅ Se habla español – Lupe Peña and our team are fluent

Don’t let insurance companies take advantage of you. Call Attorney911 now—the legal emergency line that answers when you need it most.

1-888-ATTY-911