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San Felipe Car & Truck Accident Attorneys | 18-Wheelers, Drunk Drivers & Uninsured Motorists on I-10 & US-290 | Former Insurance Defense — We Know Their Playbook | $2.5M Results | Attorney911 — The Firm Insurers Fear | Federal Court | Se Habla Español | 1-888-ATTY-911

February 17, 2026 26 min read
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Car Accident Lawyers in San Felipe, Texas – Attorney911 Fights for Maximum Compensation

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in San Felipe, Texas, you’re not alone. With over 251,977 people injured in Texas motor vehicle crashes in 2024 alone – that’s one injury every 2 minutes and 5 seconds – car accidents are a constant threat on our roads. At Attorney911, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a car crash can take on you and your family. That’s why we’re here to fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.

Led by Ralph Manginello, our firm brings over 25 years of experience to every case. Ralph’s deep roots in Texas – from his education at the University of Texas at Austin to his decades of practice – give us unparalleled insight into how to win cases in San Felipe and throughout Austin County. When you call our legal emergency line at 1-888-ATTY-911, you’re not just getting a lawyer – you’re getting a team that knows how to take on insurance companies and win.

The Reality of Car Accidents in San Felipe and Austin County

San Felipe and the surrounding Austin County area see their share of dangerous driving conditions. Whether you’re commuting on I-10, navigating the rural roads of the county, or driving through the historic downtown area, car accidents can happen anywhere. In fact, Texas sees a reportable crash every 57 seconds, and tragically, someone is killed in a Texas crash every 2 hours and 7 minutes.

What makes car accidents in our area particularly dangerous is the mix of local traffic and through traffic. Drivers unfamiliar with San Felipe’s roads may be more prone to making sudden stops or failing to yield at intersections, while local drivers might underestimate the risks of rural roads with higher speed limits. This combination creates a perfect storm for accidents.

At Attorney911, we’ve seen firsthand how these accidents can change lives in an instant. From rear-end collisions on I-10 to intersection accidents at local crossroads, we’ve helped hundreds of San Felipe residents recover the compensation they need to move forward after a crash.

Common Causes of Car Accidents in San Felipe

Understanding what causes car accidents can help you stay safe on the road and know what to look for when building your case. In our experience handling cases throughout Austin County, we’ve identified several frequent causes of car crashes:

  1. Distracted Driving – With 380 deaths in Texas attributed to distracted driving in 2024, this remains one of the most common causes of accidents. Texting, using GPS, eating, or even talking to passengers can take your attention off the road.

  2. Speeding – Many drivers exceed the speed limits on I-10 or the rural roads around San Felipe, reducing their reaction time and increasing the severity of crashes.

  3. Failure to Yield – At intersections throughout Austin County, drivers often fail to yield the right of way, leading to T-bone collisions and other serious accidents.

  4. Driving Under the Influence – Despite strict laws, drunk driving remains a serious problem in Texas, accounting for 25.37% of all traffic fatalities in 2024.

  5. Following Too Closely – Tailgating is especially dangerous on highways like I-10, where sudden stops can lead to multi-vehicle pileups.

  6. Weather Conditions – While San Felipe doesn’t see extreme weather often, even light rain can make roads slippery, and fog can reduce visibility on rural roads.

  7. Fatigued Driving – Long commutes and late-night driving can lead to drowsy driving, which is just as dangerous as drunk driving.

  8. Vehicle Defects – Sometimes accidents are caused by faulty brakes, tire blowouts, or other mechanical failures.

No matter what caused your accident, our team at Attorney911 knows how to investigate the crash, gather evidence, and build a strong case to prove liability.

Common Injuries from Car Accidents

Car accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, from minor to life-threatening. Even what seems like a “minor” accident can result in serious injuries that don’t show symptoms immediately. Some of the most common injuries we see in our San Felipe car accident cases include:

  1. Whiplash and Soft Tissue Injuries – These are among the most common injuries in car accidents, especially in rear-end collisions. While often considered “minor,” whiplash can cause chronic pain and require months of treatment.

  2. Herniated Discs – The force of a collision can cause the discs in your spine to bulge or rupture, leading to severe pain, numbness, and even paralysis in some cases.

  3. Broken Bones and Fractures – Arms, legs, ribs, and facial bones are commonly broken in car accidents. These injuries often require surgery and lengthy recovery periods.

  4. Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI) – Even a “mild” concussion can have long-lasting effects on your cognitive function, memory, and personality. More severe TBIs can result in permanent disability.

  5. Spinal Cord Injuries – Damage to the spinal cord can lead to partial or complete paralysis, requiring lifelong medical care and assistance.

  6. Internal Organ Damage – The force of a collision can cause internal bleeding or damage to organs like the liver, kidneys, or spleen. These injuries are often life-threatening and require emergency surgery.

  7. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) – Many accident victims develop anxiety, depression, and PTSD after a crash, making it difficult to drive or even ride in a car again.

  8. Facial Injuries and Scarring – Broken glass, airbag deployment, and contact with the steering wheel or dashboard can cause facial injuries that may require reconstructive surgery.

One of our clients, for example, suffered what initially seemed like a minor leg injury in a car accident. However, during treatment, staff infections developed, ultimately leading to a partial amputation. This case settled in the millions, demonstrating that even “minor” injuries can have life-altering consequences.

Why Insurance Companies Won’t Fight Fairly for You

After a car accident, you might think the insurance company will treat you fairly. Unfortunately, that’s rarely the case. Insurance companies are businesses, and their primary goal is to pay out as little as possible on claims. They have teams of adjusters, lawyers, and even former prosecutors working to minimize or deny your claim.

At Attorney911, we know how insurance companies operate because our attorney Lupe Peña spent years working for a national defense firm, learning firsthand how large insurance companies value claims. This insider knowledge gives us a unique advantage in fighting for our clients.

Here are some of the tactics insurance companies use to reduce or deny your claim – and how we counter them:

  1. The Quick Settlement Offer – Within days of your accident, the insurance company might offer you a quick settlement of $2,000-$5,000. They hope you’ll accept before you realize the full extent of your injuries. We know these offers are always lowball – sometimes as little as 10-20% of what your case is truly worth.

  2. Recorded Statements – Insurance adjusters will call you and ask for a recorded statement, claiming it’s “routine.” In reality, they’re looking for anything they can use to deny or reduce your claim. We never let our clients give recorded statements without our guidance.

  3. Independent Medical Exams (IMEs) – The insurance company may send you to a doctor of their choosing for an “independent” exam. These doctors are paid by the insurance company and often find ways to minimize your injuries. Lupe knows which IME doctors they favor – he hired them himself when he worked for the insurance companies.

  4. Surveillance – Insurance companies hire private investigators to follow you and record your daily activities. They’re looking for any evidence that you’re not as injured as you claim. We warn all our clients about this tactic and help them avoid giving the insurance company ammunition.

  5. Delay Tactics – Insurance companies know that the longer they delay your claim, the more desperate you’ll become. They hope you’ll accept a lowball offer just to get some money. We don’t let them get away with these tactics – we file lawsuits when necessary to force their hand.

  6. Comparative Fault Arguments – Texas uses a modified comparative negligence system with a 51% bar rule. This means if you’re found to be 50% or less at fault, you can recover damages, but your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault. If you’re 51% or more at fault, you get nothing. Insurance companies will try to blame you for the accident to reduce their payout. Lupe knows these arguments inside and out – he made them for years when he worked for the insurance companies.

How Attorney911 Fights for Maximum Compensation

At Attorney911, we don’t just fight insurance companies – we outsmart them. Here’s how we build strong cases for our San Felipe clients:

  1. Immediate Investigation – We act fast to preserve evidence before it disappears. Surveillance footage from nearby businesses is typically deleted within 7-30 days. We send preservation letters immediately to make sure this critical evidence is saved.

  2. Thorough Evidence Gathering – We collect police reports, witness statements, medical records, and any available video footage. For car accidents, we may work with accident reconstruction experts to prove how the crash occurred.

  3. Medical Documentation – We make sure your injuries are properly documented by medical professionals. This includes getting you to the right specialists and ensuring all your treatment is recorded.

  4. Calculating Full Damages – We don’t just look at your current medical bills. We calculate the full cost of your injuries, including future medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

  5. Negotiating with Insurance Companies – Armed with our evidence and calculations, we negotiate aggressively with the insurance company. We know their playbook because Lupe used to write it.

  6. Preparing for Trial – While most cases settle, we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This shows the insurance company we’re serious and gives us leverage in negotiations.

  7. Fighting for Every Dollar – We don’t accept lowball offers. We fight for the maximum compensation you deserve, whether that means negotiating a fair settlement or taking your case to trial.

What You Can Recover in a Car Accident Case

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in San Felipe, you may be entitled to compensation for:

  1. Medical Expenses – Both past and future medical bills related to your accident, including hospital stays, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and any necessary medical equipment.

  2. Lost Wages – Compensation for the time you’ve missed from work due to your injuries, as well as any reduction in your earning capacity if you can’t return to your previous job.

  3. Pain and Suffering – Compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by your injuries. This can include anxiety, depression, and loss of enjoyment of life.

  4. Property Damage – The cost to repair or replace your vehicle and any other personal property damaged in the accident.

  5. Permanent Disability or Disfigurement – If your injuries result in permanent disability or scarring, you may be entitled to additional compensation.

  6. Loss of Consortium – If your injuries have affected your relationship with your spouse, they may be entitled to compensation for loss of companionship and support.

  7. Punitive Damages – In cases of gross negligence, such as drunk driving, you may be entitled to punitive damages, which are designed to punish the at-fault party and deter similar behavior.

The value of your case depends on several factors, including the severity of your injuries, the impact on your daily life, and the clarity of liability. For example, a soft tissue injury with a quick recovery might settle for $15,000-$60,000, while a severe injury requiring surgery could be worth $132,000-$328,000 or more. Catastrophic injuries like traumatic brain injuries or spinal cord damage can result in settlements in the millions.

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your San Felipe Car Accident Case?

When you’re injured in a car accident, you need more than just a lawyer – you need a team that will fight for you like family. Here’s what sets Attorney911 apart:

  1. Insurance Defense Insider Knowledge – Lupe Peña, one of our attorneys, spent years working for a national defense firm, learning firsthand how insurance companies value claims. He knows their tactics because he used them himself. Now, he uses that knowledge to fight for you.

  2. Proven Results – We’ve recovered millions for our clients, including multi-million dollar settlements for catastrophic injuries. One of our clients suffered a leg injury in a car accident that led to a partial amputation due to complications. This case settled in the millions.

  3. Federal Court Experience – Ralph Manginello is admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas. This means we can handle complex cases that other firms might shy away from.

  4. BP Explosion Litigation Experience – Our firm is one of the few in Texas to be involved in BP explosion litigation. This experience shows our capability to take on billion-dollar corporations and win.

  5. Personal Attention – At Attorney911, you’re not just another case. As client Chad Harris said, “You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client…You are FAMILY to them.”

  6. 24/7 Availability – Car accidents don’t happen on a schedule. That’s why our legal emergency line, 1-888-ATTY-911, is always available to help you when you need it most.

  7. No Fee Unless We Win – We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing unless we win your case. If we don’t recover compensation for you, you owe us nothing.

What Our Clients Say About Us

Don’t just take our word for it – here’s what our clients have to say about working with Attorney911:

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

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

“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

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

“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

What to Do After a Car Accident in San Felipe

If you’ve been in a car accident in San Felipe, taking the right steps immediately can make a big difference in your case. Here’s what you should do:

  1. Call 911 – Report the accident and request medical assistance if anyone is injured. Even if you feel fine, get checked out – adrenaline can mask serious injuries.

  2. Document Everything – Take photos of all vehicle damage, the accident scene, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Get the names and contact information of any witnesses.

  3. Exchange Information – Get the other driver’s name, phone number, address, driver’s license number, and insurance information.

  4. Seek Medical Attention – Visit the emergency room or your doctor as soon as possible. Delayed symptoms are common with many injuries, including traumatic brain injuries.

  5. Don’t Give a Recorded Statement – Insurance adjusters may call you and ask for a recorded statement. Politely decline and tell them you’ll have your attorney contact them.

  6. Call Attorney911 – Contact us at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. The sooner you call, the sooner we can start preserving evidence and building your case.

Frequently Asked Questions About Car Accidents in San Felipe

What should I do immediately after a car accident in San Felipe?

After ensuring everyone’s safety and calling 911, document everything you can. Take photos of the vehicles, the scene, and any injuries. Get the other driver’s information and the names of any 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, always call the police. In Texas, you’re required to report any accident that results in injury, death, or property damage over $1,000. The police report is a crucial piece of evidence for your case.

Should I seek medical attention if I don’t feel hurt?

Absolutely. Many serious injuries, like traumatic brain injuries or internal bleeding, don’t show symptoms immediately. Adrenaline can mask pain at the scene. Getting checked out right away also creates a record of your injuries, which is important for your case.

What information should I collect at the scene?

Get the other driver’s name, phone number, address, driver’s license number, and insurance information. Also, get the make, model, and license plate number of their vehicle. If there are witnesses, get their names and contact information as well.

Should I talk to the other driver or admit fault?

Only exchange basic information. Do not discuss fault or apologize, as this can be used against you later. Stick to the facts and avoid giving your opinion on what happened.

How do I obtain a copy of the accident report?

In San Felipe, you can obtain the police report from the responding law enforcement agency or through the Texas Department of Transportation’s Crash Records Information System (CRIS).

Should I give a recorded statement to insurance?

No, not without consulting an attorney first. Insurance adjusters are trained to ask questions that can hurt your case. Politely decline and tell them your attorney will be in touch.

What if the other driver’s insurance contacts me?

Say, “I need to speak with my attorney first.” Give only basic information like your name and the date of the accident. Do not discuss your injuries or the details of the accident.

Do I have to accept the insurance company’s estimate?

No. Their estimate is just an offer, and it’s usually far below what your case is actually worth. Attorney911 fights for what your case is truly worth.

Should I accept a quick settlement offer?

Never accept a settlement before you know the full extent of your injuries. Once you sign a release, you can’t get more money even if you need surgery later.

What if the other driver is uninsured or underinsured?

Your own Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage can compensate you in these situations. Texas allows you to stack UM/UIM coverage from multiple policies, which can significantly increase your available compensation.

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 anything without having an attorney review it first.

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. The best way to know is to call Attorney911 for a free consultation.

When should I hire a car accident lawyer?

Immediately. Evidence disappears daily, and insurance companies start building their defense against you from day one. The sooner you call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911, the better we can protect your rights.

How much time do I have to file a lawsuit (statute of limitations)?

In Texas, you have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. For wrongful death claims, you have 2 years from the date of death. Missing this deadline means your case is barred forever.

What is comparative negligence and how does it affect me?

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, but your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault. If you’re 51% or more at fault, you recover nothing.

What happens if I was partially at fault?

You can still recover if you were 50% or less at fault. Your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you’re found to be 20% at fault in a $100,000 case, you would recover $80,000.

Will my case go to trial?

Most cases settle before trial, but Attorney911 prepares every case as if it’s going to trial. This gives us leverage in negotiations and shows the insurance company we’re serious about fighting for our clients.

How long will my case take to settle?

The timeline 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. This could be 6 months for minor injuries or 18-24 months for serious injuries.

What is the legal process step-by-step?

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

What is my case worth?

The value of your case depends on several factors, including the severity of your injuries, your medical expenses, lost wages, and the impact on your daily life. Cases can range from $15,000 for minor injuries to millions for catastrophic injuries.

What types of damages can I recover?

You may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, permanent disability or disfigurement, loss of consortium, and in some cases, punitive damages.

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 in most personal injury cases.

What if I have a pre-existing condition?

You can still recover if the accident aggravated or worsened your pre-existing condition. This is known as the “eggshell plaintiff” rule – the defendant takes the victim as they find them.

Will I have to pay taxes on my settlement?

Generally, compensation for physical injuries is not taxable. However, punitive damages are taxable. Consult a tax professional for specific advice about your situation.

How is the value of my claim determined?

The value is determined based on your medical bills, future treatment costs, lost income, permanent impairment rating, comparable verdicts, the severity of your injuries, and the impact on your daily life.

How much do car accident lawyers cost?

Attorney911 works on a contingency fee basis – you pay nothing unless we win your case. If we recover compensation for you, our fee is a percentage of the recovery. You may still be responsible for court costs and case expenses regardless of the outcome.

What does “no fee unless we win” mean?

It means you pay zero unless we recover money for you. If we don’t win, you owe us nothing. We advance all case costs, and you only reimburse us if we win.

How often will I get updates on my case?

At Attorney911, we provide regular updates. As client Dame Haskett said, “Consistent communication and not one time did I call and not get a clear answer.”

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.”

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.”

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 in Texas, which is much shorter than the standard 2-year statute of limitations. These cases are complex, and you need an experienced attorney.

What if the other driver fled the scene (hit and run)?

File a police report immediately. Your Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage applies in hit-and-run cases. Surveillance footage is critical, and most footage is deleted within 7-30 days, so it’s important to act fast.

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.

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 prove fault through surveillance video, witness statements, and damage analysis.

What if I was a passenger in the at-fault vehicle?

You can sue the driver even if you were riding with them. You’re an innocent victim, and the driver’s insurance covers passengers. We handle these cases with sensitivity, especially when the driver is a friend or family member.

What if the other driver died in the accident?

You can still pursue a claim against the deceased driver’s estate and insurance. The insurance policy still applies, and the estate may have assets. These cases are emotionally complex but legally straightforward.

Serving San Felipe and All of Austin County

Attorney911 serves San Felipe and the entire Austin County area. We understand the unique challenges faced by accident victims in our community, from the rural roads of the county to the busier streets of San Felipe.

Our team is familiar with the local courts, judges, and insurance adjusters who handle claims in Austin County. We know the dangerous intersections in San Felipe and the common accident patterns on local highways like I-10.

Whether you were injured in a car accident, truck crash, or any other type of motor vehicle collision, we’re here to help. Our office is conveniently located to serve clients throughout the region, and we’re always just a phone call away at 1-888-ATTY-911.

Don’t Wait – Evidence Disappears Daily

After a car accident, time is not on your side. Evidence disappears quickly:

  • Surveillance footage from nearby businesses is typically deleted within 7-30 days
  • Witness memories fade rapidly
  • The accident scene changes as roads are repaired or repainted
  • Vehicle damage is repaired, destroying crucial evidence
  • Electronic data from vehicles can be overwritten

Insurance companies know this, which is why they start building their defense against you immediately. The longer you wait to call an attorney, the harder it becomes to prove your case.

At Attorney911, we act fast to preserve evidence and build your case. When you call our legal emergency line at 1-888-ATTY-911, we spring into action:

  • We send preservation letters to all parties to ensure evidence isn’t destroyed
  • We canvas the accident scene for cameras and witnesses
  • We order police reports and 911 recordings
  • We photograph the scene before it changes
  • We interview witnesses before their memories fade
  • We obtain your medical records immediately
  • We identify all available insurance policies

Every day you wait is another day that evidence disappears. Don’t let the insurance company build their case against you while you’re trying to recover.

Call Attorney911 Today – Your Legal Emergency Line

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in San Felipe, don’t face this alone. The insurance company has a team of adjusters and lawyers working against you. You need a team that will fight for you.

At Attorney911, we offer:

  • Free, no-obligation consultations
  • No upfront costs – we don’t get paid unless we win
  • Personal attention from experienced attorneys
  • Aggressive representation against insurance companies
  • The insider knowledge to beat their tactics

We’ve helped hundreds of accident victims in San Felipe and throughout Texas recover the compensation they deserve. Let us put our 25+ years of experience to work for you.

Call our legal emergency line now at 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911). We’re available 24/7 to help you when you need it most. The call is free, and there’s no obligation – just the help you need to start moving forward.

Don’t let the insurance company take advantage of you. Call Attorney911 today and let us fight for the compensation you deserve.

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