Motor Vehicle Accident Lawyers in Schertz, Texas | Attorney911

Legal Emergency Response for Schertz Car Accident Victims

If you’ve been injured in a motor vehicle accident in Schertz, Texas, you’re not alone. Every 57 seconds, someone in Texas is involved in a crash – and Schertz residents know all too well the dangers of I-35, FM 3009, and the busy intersections throughout Guadalupe County. At Attorney911, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll an accident can take. That’s why our Schertz car accident lawyers are standing by 24/7 at 1-888-ATTY-911 to provide immediate legal guidance and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Ralph Manginello, our founding attorney with over 25 years of experience, has built a reputation for aggressively representing accident victims across Texas. Our firm’s unique advantage? We include a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how insurance companies evaluate claims – because he used to calculate them himself. This insider knowledge gives our Schertz clients an unfair advantage when negotiating with adjusters and building strong cases.

Why Schertz Accident Victims Choose Attorney911

Schertz residents face unique traffic challenges – from the high-speed collisions on I-35 to the complex intersection accidents at FM 3009 and Gibbs Sprawl Road. Our team understands these local dangers and has helped numerous Guadalupe County accident victims recover millions in compensation. In one recent case, we secured a multi-million dollar settlement for a client who suffered a traumatic brain injury with vision loss after a logging accident. In another, we helped a Schertz resident who lost part of his leg due to complications from a car accident – a case that settled in the millions.

When you call 1-888-ATTY-911, you’re not just getting a lawyer – you’re gaining a legal emergency response team that treats you like family. As client Chad Harris shared: “You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.” This personal attention sets us apart from high-volume firms where you’re just another case number.

Comprehensive Motor Vehicle Accident Coverage for Schertz

Car Accidents in Schertz: What You Need to Know

With 251,977 people injured in Texas motor vehicle crashes last year alone, car accidents remain one of the most common – and dangerous – incidents on Schertz roads. Whether you were rear-ended on I-35, involved in a T-bone collision at the intersection of FM 3009 and Gibbs Sprawl Road, or hit by a distracted driver on Judson Road, our Schertz car accident attorneys can help.

Common injuries we see from Schertz car accidents include:

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

In a recent case, our client’s leg was injured in a car accident on I-35. During treatment, staff infections developed that ultimately led to a partial amputation. This case settled in the millions, proving our ability to handle even the most complex injury cases.

18-Wheeler and Trucking Accidents: Schertz’s Deadliest Crashes

Schertz sits along one of Texas’s busiest trucking corridors – I-35. With 39,393 commercial motor vehicle crashes in Texas last year, including 608 fatalities, trucking accidents represent some of the most catastrophic collisions on our roads. The sheer size and weight of an 18-wheeler (up to 80,000 pounds) compared to a passenger vehicle (around 4,000 pounds) means these accidents often result in life-altering injuries or wrongful death.

Our Schertz truck accident lawyers have recovered millions for victims of 18-wheeler accidents. In one case, we helped a family who lost a loved one in a trucking-related wrongful death, securing millions in compensation. We understand the complex federal regulations that govern the trucking industry, including:

Hours of Service (HOS) rules limiting driving time
Electronic Logging Device (ELD) requirements
Commercial driver qualification standards
Drug and alcohol testing protocols
Vehicle maintenance requirements

These regulations often hold the key to proving negligence in trucking accident cases. Our federal court admission (Southern District of Texas) gives us the capability to handle these complex cases at the highest level.

Drunk Driving Accidents: Holding All Responsible Parties Accountable

With 1,053 alcohol-impaired driving deaths in Texas last year (25.37% of all traffic fatalities), drunk driving remains a serious problem in Schertz and throughout Guadalupe County. What many victims don’t realize is that in Texas, you can hold not just the drunk driver accountable, but also the establishment that served them alcohol.

Under Texas Dram Shop Law (TABC § 2.02), bars, restaurants, and even social hosts can be held liable if they served alcohol to someone who was “obviously intoxicated” and that person then caused an accident. Signs of obvious intoxication include:

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

Our Schertz drunk driving accident attorneys have extensive experience with dram shop cases. Ralph Manginello’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) gives us unique insight into both the criminal and civil aspects of these cases. We’ve successfully handled numerous DWI-related cases, including three recent dismissals where:

A police department failed to properly maintain breathalyzer machines
EMS notes and hospital records were missing, undermining the prosecution’s case
Video evidence showed our client was not actually intoxicated

Motorcycle Accidents: Fighting for Schertz Riders

With 585 motorcyclist fatalities in Texas last year, motorcycle accidents represent some of the most dangerous collisions on Schertz roads. Riders face unique risks, especially on highways like I-35 where high speeds and distracted drivers create deadly conditions. Tragically, 37% of motorcyclists killed in Texas weren’t wearing helmets, though Texas law only requires helmets for riders under 21 or those without proper medical insurance.

Our Schertz motorcycle accident lawyers understand the unique challenges riders face. Insurance companies often try to blame motorcyclists for accidents, using Texas’s 51% comparative fault rule to reduce or deny claims. Lupe Peña, our former insurance defense attorney, knows these tactics inside and out – because he used them for years. Now, he uses that knowledge to fight for injured riders.

Pedestrian Accidents: Protecting Schertz’s Most Vulnerable

Schertz’s growing population means more pedestrians on our streets – and unfortunately, more pedestrian accidents. Last year, Texas saw 6,095 pedestrian crashes resulting in 768 deaths. What many people don’t realize is that pedestrians ALWAYS have the right-of-way at intersections, even unmarked ones. If you’re walking across the street between two intersections, that entire area is considered a crosswalk under Texas law.

Our Schertz pedestrian accident attorneys have helped numerous victims recover compensation after being struck by vehicles. Common injuries in these cases include:

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

Rideshare Accidents: Navigating the Insurance Maze

With Uber and Lyft operating throughout Schertz, rideshare accidents have become increasingly common. What many victims don’t realize is that insurance coverage varies dramatically depending on what the driver was doing at the time of the crash. This complex system is why you need a Schertz rideshare accident lawyer who understands the nuances:

Driver Status	Coverage Available
App off (personal use)	Driver’s personal insurance ($30K/$60K/$25K minimum)
App on, waiting for ride	$50K/$100K/$25K contingent coverage
Ride accepted, en route	$1,000,000 commercial coverage
Passenger in vehicle	$1,000,000 commercial coverage

Lupe Peña’s insurance defense background gives us unique insight into how rideshare companies evaluate claims. He knows how to navigate this complex system to maximize your recovery.

Hit and Run Accidents: When the At-Fault Driver Flees

Hit and run accidents are particularly frustrating – you’re injured, your vehicle is damaged, and the person responsible has fled the scene. In Texas, hit and run is a serious crime, with penalties ranging from fines to felony charges depending on the severity of the accident. But criminal charges don’t help you recover compensation for your injuries.

Our Schertz hit and run accident lawyers know how to pursue compensation through your own Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage. Every 43 seconds, someone in the U.S. is involved in a hit and run accident. We’ve helped numerous Schertz victims recover compensation even when the at-fault driver was never identified.

Tesla and Autonomous Vehicle Accidents: The Future of Liability

As electric and autonomous vehicles become more common on Schertz roads, new types of accidents are emerging. Tesla’s Autopilot system has been involved in numerous high-profile crashes, including a $240 million jury verdict in 2025. These cases raise complex questions about liability:

Is the manufacturer responsible for software failures?
Is the driver responsible for failing to monitor the system?
Are municipalities responsible for road design that confuses autonomous systems?

Our Schertz auto accident attorneys stay at the forefront of these emerging liability issues. Ralph Manginello’s federal court admission gives us the capability to handle complex product liability cases against major corporations.

What to Do After a Car Accident in Schertz: The 48-Hour Protocol

The moments after a car accident can be chaotic and confusing. That’s why we’ve developed this 48-hour protocol to protect your rights and preserve critical evidence:

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 out immediately. Adrenaline can mask serious injuries
Document Everything:
- Take photos of ALL vehicle damage (every angle)
- Photograph the accident scene, road conditions, traffic signals
- Take photos of visible injuries
- Screenshot any messages visible on your phone
Exchange Information:
- Other driver’s name, phone, address
- Insurance company and policy number
- Driver’s license number
- License plate number
- Vehicle make, model, color
Witnesses: Get names and phone numbers of any witnesses
Call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate legal guidance 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 Schertz car accident attorney
Insurance Response: If insurance contacts you, refer them to your attorney
Settlement Offers: Do NOT accept or sign anything without lawyer review
Evidence Backup: Upload all screenshots and photos to cloud storage

Week One Priorities

Medical Follow-Up: Continue documenting all injuries and follow all doctor recommendations
Investigation Begins: Attorney obtains police report and sends preservation letters
Communication: Attorney handles ALL insurance communication so you can focus on recovery

Why Evidence Disappears So Quickly

One of the most critical reasons to call Attorney911 immediately is that evidence disappears on a predictable schedule:

Day 1-7: Witness memories begin fading immediately
Day 7-30: Surveillance footage is typically deleted (gas stations: 7-14 days, retail stores: 30 days)
Month 1-2: Insurance companies solidify their defense position
Month 2-6: Trucking ELD/black box data can be overwritten (30-180 days)
Month 6-12: Witnesses become unreachable, memories degrade
Month 12-24: Approaching statute of limitations creates pressure to settle

Within 24 hours of being retained, Attorney911 sends preservation letters to:

Other driver’s insurance company
Trucking companies (for commercial vehicle accidents)
Businesses near the accident scene
Employers (if work-related)
Property owners
Government entities
Vehicle manufacturers

These letters LEGALLY REQUIRE evidence preservation before automatic deletion.

Texas Motor Vehicle Law: What Schertz Victims Need to Know

Statute of Limitations: The 2-Year Deadline

Texas law gives you just 2 years from the date of your accident to file a personal injury lawsuit (Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code § 16.003). This deadline is absolute – miss it and your case is barred forever. For wrongful death claims, the 2-year clock starts from the date of death.

Comparative Negligence: The 51% Bar Rule

Texas uses a modified comparative negligence system. If you’re found to be 50% or less at fault for the accident, you can recover damages – but your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. If you’re found to be 51% or more at fault, you recover nothing.

This is why insurance companies always try to blame victims. Even small fault percentages can cost you thousands:

10% fault on a $100,000 case = $10,000 less for you
25% fault on a $250,000 case = $62,500 less for you
40% fault on a $500,000 case = $200,000 less for you

Lupe Peña’s insurance defense background gives us unique insight into these tactics. He knows exactly how insurance companies try to assign fault – because he used to make these arguments himself.

Texas Minimum Auto Insurance Requirements

Texas requires all drivers to carry minimum insurance coverage:

$30,000 bodily injury per person
$60,000 bodily injury per accident
$25,000 property damage per accident

However, with 15.4% of Texas drivers uninsured, Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage is critical. Texas allows inter-policy stacking, meaning you can combine coverage from multiple vehicles on your policy.

Proving Liability: Building a Strong Case

To win your Schertz car accident case, 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 this duty (speeding, running red light, etc.)
Causation: The breach directly caused your injuries
Damages: You suffered actual harm (medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering)

Our Schertz accident attorneys use multiple types of evidence to build strong cases:

Physical Evidence: Vehicle damage photos, skid marks, road conditions
Documentary Evidence: Police reports, medical records, cell phone records
Electronic Evidence: ELD data from trucks, vehicle black boxes, GPS data
Testimonial Evidence: Witness statements, expert testimony

In trucking cases, we often identify multiple liable parties:

The truck driver
The trucking company (negligent hiring, supervision, maintenance)
The cargo loader (improper loading)
The vehicle manufacturer (defective parts)
The maintenance company (improper repairs)

Damages and Compensation: What Schertz Victims Can Recover

Types of Damages Available

Economic Damages (No Cap in Texas):

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

Non-Economic Damages (No Cap for Most Cases):

Pain and suffering
Mental anguish
Physical impairment
Disfigurement
Loss of enjoyment of life
Loss of consortium

Punitive Damages (Capped):
Available in cases of gross negligence, fraud, or malice. In Texas, punitive damages are capped at the greater of:

$200,000, OR
2x economic damages + 1x non-economic damages (capped at $750,000 for non-economic portion)

Settlement Ranges by Injury Type

Injury Type	Medical Costs	Lost Wages	Pain & Suffering	Total Settlement Range
Soft Tissue (Whiplash)	$6,000-$16,000	$2,000-$10,000	$8,000-$35,000	$15,000-$60,000
Broken Bone (Simple)	$10,000-$20,000	$5,000-$15,000	$20,000-$60,000	$35,000-$95,000
Broken Bone (Surgery)	$47,000-$98,000	$10,000-$30,000	$75,000-$200,000	$132,000-$328,000
Herniated Disc (Conservative)	$22,000-$46,000	$8,000-$25,000	$40,000-$100,000	$70,000-$171,000
Herniated Disc (Surgery)	$96,000-$205,000	$20,000-$50,000	$150,000-$450,000	$346,000-$1,205,000
Traumatic Brain Injury	$198,000-$638,000	$50,000-$200,000	$500,000-$3,000,000+	$1,548,000-$9,838,000
Spinal Cord Injury	$500,000-$1,500,000+	$50,000-$400,000	$2,000,000-$10,000,000+	$4,770,000-$25,880,000
Amputation	$170,000-$480,000	$50,000-$200,000	$1,000,000-$5,000,000	$1,945,000-$8,630,000
Wrongful Death	$50,000-$500,000	$1,000,000-$4,000,000	$500,000-$3,000,000	$1,910,000-$9,520,000

These ranges are estimates only. Every case is unique, and past results don’t guarantee future outcomes. However, our Schertz car accident lawyers have secured multi-million dollar settlements in numerous cases, including:

A brain injury case that settled in the millions
An amputation case that settled in the millions
Multiple trucking wrongful death cases with seven-figure recoveries

Insurance Company Tactics: How They Try to Minimize Your Claim

Insurance companies have one goal: to pay you as little as possible. Lupe Peña, our former insurance defense attorney, knows their tactics inside and out because he used them for years. Here are the six most common tactics we see in Schertz car accident cases:

Tactic #1: The Quick Contact and Recorded Statement Trap

Within hours of your accident, an insurance adjuster will call you – often while you’re still in the hospital or on pain medication. They’ll sound friendly and helpful, but their goal is to get you to say something that hurts your case.

Common questions they ask:

“You’re feeling better now though, right?”
“It wasn’t that bad of an impact, was it?”
“Were you distracted at all?”
“How fast were you going?”

The Truth: You are NOT required to give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance company. Everything you say will be used against you. Once you hire Attorney911, we become your voice and handle all communication with insurance companies.

Tactic #2: The Quick Settlement Offer

Within days or weeks of your accident, insurance companies will offer you quick cash – typically $2,000-$5,000, sometimes up to $15,000 if they’re worried. They’ll create artificial urgency:

“This offer expires in 48 hours”
“I can only get approval for this amount right now”
“Take it or leave it”

The Trap: You don’t know the full extent of your injuries yet. What seems like a lot of money now might not cover your medical bills if you need surgery later. Once you sign a release, you can’t get more money even if your injuries worsen.

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

After a few months of treatment, insurance companies will send you to an “independent” doctor for an exam. What they don’t tell you is that this doctor is hired and paid by the insurance company.

What Really Happens:

You get a 10-15 minute exam (vs. your doctor’s thorough evaluation)
The IME doctor rarely reviews your complete medical records
They look for any reason to minimize your injuries
Common findings include:
- “Patient has pre-existing degenerative changes” (everyone over 40 does)
- “Injuries consistent with minor trauma”
- “Patient can return to full duty work”
- “Treatment has been excessive”

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

Tactic #4: Delay and Financial Pressure

Insurance companies know that the longer they delay your claim, the more desperate you become. They’ll:

“Still investigating your claim”
“Waiting for medical records” (that you already sent)
“Reviewing your file”
Ignore your calls and emails
Take weeks to respond to simple questions

Why It Works:

They have unlimited time and resources
They earn interest on your settlement money while delaying
You have mounting bills and need money now
Financial desperation makes you accept less

How We Counter:
We file lawsuits to force deadlines, set depositions, and show we’re serious about going to trial. Lupe understands delay tactics because he deployed them for years – now he knows exactly when and how to push back.

Tactic #5: Surveillance and Social Media Monitoring

Insurance companies hire private investigators to:

Video you doing daily activities
Follow you to appointments, errands, social events
Look for any activity that contradicts your injury claims
Monitor ALL your social media (Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, Twitter)
Use facial recognition to find photos you’re tagged in
Archive your entire social media history

Examples We’ve Defended:

Example	What Happened	What Insurance Claimed	Reality
Old Gym Photo	Gym photo from 3 years ago	Presented as recent, 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 the accident, injuries, or activities
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

Insurance companies will 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 It Matters:
Texas’s 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 you thousands:

10% fault on a $100,000 case = $10,000 less for you
25% fault on a $250,000 case = $62,500 less for you
40% fault on a $500,000 case = $200,000 less for you

How We Counter:
We conduct aggressive liability investigations, including:

Accident reconstruction proving the other driver’s fault
Witness statements supporting your version
Police report analysis emphasizing citations
Expert testimony on perception-reaction time

Lupe knows these fault arguments because he made them for years – now he defeats them.

How Insurance Companies Actually Value Your Claim: The Colossus System

Most insurance companies use software called Colossus to calculate claim values. Lupe Peña used this system when he worked for insurance companies, and he knows exactly how it works:

Data Entry: The adjuster inputs injury codes, treatment types, costs, and jurisdiction
Coding: Injuries are coded using standardized medical terms
Calculation: The software applies algorithms to determine “value”
Range Output: The system provides a recommended settlement range
Authority: The adjuster typically can’t exceed this range without supervisor approval

How Insurance Manipulates Colossus:

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

Why Lupe’s Experience Matters:

He knows how to code injuries properly for maximum value
He knows which medical terms trigger higher valuations
He knows when Colossus output is artificially low
He knows how to present records to beat the algorithm

Medical Knowledge: Understanding Your Injuries

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

Brain injuries can be devastating and often don’t show symptoms immediately. Common TBI symptoms include:

Immediate: Loss of consciousness, confusion, vomiting, seizures, severe headache
Delayed: Worsening headaches, repeated vomiting, seizures, slurred speech, personality changes

Severity classifications:

Mild TBI/Concussion: Brief loss of consciousness, may seem “fine” initially
Moderate TBI: Loss of consciousness minutes to hours, lasting cognitive impairment
Severe TBI: Extended unconsciousness or coma, permanent disability likely

Spinal Cord Injury

Spinal cord injuries can result in partial or complete paralysis:

Injury Level	Impact
C1-C4 (High Cervical)	Quadriplegia, possible ventilator dependence
C5-C8 (Low Cervical)	Quadriplegia with some arm/hand function
T1-T12 (Thoracic)	Paraplegia (lower body paralysis)
L1-L5 (Lumbar)	Varying degrees of leg weakness/paralysis

Herniated Disc

Herniated discs often require extensive treatment:

Acute Phase (Weeks 1-6): Severe pain, medications, rest
Conservative Treatment (Weeks 6-12): Physical therapy, chiropractic care
Interventional (If Conservative Fails): Epidural steroid injections
Surgery (If Injections Fail): Microdiscectomy or spinal fusion

Soft Tissue Injuries

While often dismissed by insurance companies, soft tissue injuries can be serious:

15-20% of whiplash cases develop chronic pain
Can prevent return to physical jobs
Often misdiagnosed initially (rotator cuff tears thought to be sprains)

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Schertz Accident Case

1. Insurance Defense Insider Advantage

Lupe Peña worked for years at a national defense firm, learning firsthand how large insurance companies value claims. He knows:

How they calculate settlement ranges
Which IME doctors they favor (he hired them)
How they set reserve amounts
Their delay and pressure tactics
How to counter their comparative fault arguments

This insider knowledge is our most powerful advantage. As client Chelsea Martinez shared: “Special thank you to my attorney, Mr. Pena, for your kindness and patience with my repeated questions.”

2. Multi-Million Dollar Results

Our Schertz car accident lawyers have recovered millions for clients, including:

Multi-million dollar settlement for a brain injury with vision loss
Millions for a car accident amputation case
Millions in trucking wrongful death cases
Significant settlement for a maritime back injury

As client Glenda Walker said: “They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.”

3. Federal Court Experience

Ralph Manginello is admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas. This federal court experience is crucial for:

Complex trucking cases (FMCSA regulations)
Product liability cases (Tesla, autonomous vehicles)
Cases against major corporations
BP explosion litigation involvement

4. Personal Attention You Won’t Get Elsewhere

At Attorney911, you work directly with Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña – not a case manager assembly line. As client Chad Harris shared: “You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.”

Our clients consistently praise our communication:

Brian Butchee: “Melanie was excellent. She kept me informed and when she said she would call me back, she did.”
Dame Haskett: “Consistent communication and not one time did I call and not get a clear answer.”
Ambur Hamilton: “I never felt like ‘just another case’ they were working on.”

5. Contingency Fee – No Risk to You

We work on a contingency fee basis – you pay nothing unless we win your case. Our fee is a percentage of your recovery, and you may still be responsible for court costs and case expenses regardless of outcome. Free consultation available to discuss our fee structure.

Frequently Asked Questions About Schertz Car Accidents

Immediate After Accident

What should I do immediately after a car accident in Schertz?
If you’ve been in an accident in Schertz:

Call 911 and report the accident
Seek medical attention even if you feel fine (adrenaline masks injuries)
Document everything: photos of damage, injuries, scene
Exchange information with the other driver
Get witness names and phone numbers
Do NOT give a recorded statement to any insurance company
Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911

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.

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.

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

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

How do I obtain a copy of the accident report in Schertz?
You can obtain the police report from the Schertz Police Department or through the Texas Department of Transportation’s Crash Records Information System (CRIS).

Dealing with Insurance

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.

What if the other driver’s insurance contacts me?
Say: “I need to speak with my attorney first.” Give only basic information (name, date of accident). Do NOT give a recorded statement. Do NOT discuss injuries or fault.

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.

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.

What if the other driver is uninsured/underinsured?
Your own UM/UIM coverage can compensate you. Watch our video on Uninsured & Underinsured Motorists at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kWcNFyb-Yq8.

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

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.

When should I hire a car accident lawyer in Schertz?
Immediately. Evidence disappears daily. Insurance companies start building their defense against you from day one. Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911.

How much time do I have to file (statute of limitations)?
In Texas: 2 years from the date of accident for personal injury, 2 years from date of death for wrongful death. Miss it = case barred forever.

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.

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.

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.

How long will my case take to settle?
Depends on injury severity. We don’t settle until you’ve reached maximum medical improvement (MMI). Could be 6 months for minor injuries, 18-24 months for serious injuries.

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

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

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

Can I get compensation for pain and suffering?
Yes. Pain and suffering is a significant component of personal injury cases in Texas. There is NO CAP on pain and suffering (except medical malpractice).

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.

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.

How is the value of my claim determined?
Based on: medical bills, future treatment costs, lost income, permanent impairment rating, comparable verdicts, severity of injuries, impact on daily life.

Attorney Relationship

How much do car accident lawyers cost in Schertz?
Attorney911 works on contingency: 33.33% before trial, 40% if trial. You pay nothing upfront. We don’t get paid unless we win.

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

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.

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.”

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. 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

What common mistakes can hurt my case?

Giving recorded statement without attorney
Accepting quick settlement
Delaying medical treatment
Gaps in treatment
Posting on social media
Signing releases or authorizations
Not documenting everything

Watch our video: “Client Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Case” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY.

Should I post about my accident on social media?
NO. Make all profiles private. Don’t post about accident, injuries, or activities. Insurance monitors everything.

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.

What if I didn’t see a doctor right away?
See one NOW. Explain you didn’t realize severity of injuries. Delayed symptoms are common. We can still help.

Additional Common Questions

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: if you had mild occasional back pain before the accident, but the crash caused a herniated disc requiring surgery, you recover for the NEW injury, not just the pre-existing pain. We hire medical experts to prove the difference. Lupe knows how insurance attacks pre-existing conditions because he used this defense for years.

Can I switch attorneys if I’m unhappy with my current lawyer?
YES. You can fire your attorney at any time. If your attorney isn’t communicating, isn’t fighting for you, or is pushing you to settle cheap, you have the right to switch. Attorney911 has taken over many cases from other attorneys. As Greg Garcia said: “In the beginning I had another attorney but he dropped my case although Mangiello law firm were able to help me out.” Call 1-888-ATTY-911 to discuss switching.

What if the insurance company is my own insurance (UM/UIM claim)?
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist claims are against YOUR insurance when the other driver has no insurance or insufficient insurance. Your insurance company will fight your claim just like the other driver’s insurance would. You need attorney representation. Texas allows inter-policy stacking (combining multiple UM policies). Lupe’s insurance knowledge is critical for maximizing UM/UIM recovery.

How do you calculate pain and suffering?
Most commonly using the multiplier method: Medical expenses × multiplier (1.5 to 5) = pain & suffering. The multiplier depends on: injury severity, permanency, impact on life, clear liability. For example: $100,000 medical × 4 multiplier = $400,000 pain & suffering. Lupe calculated these for years – he knows how to justify higher multipliers. See Section G for detailed breakdown.

What if I was hit by a government vehicle (city bus, police car, etc.)?
Government claims have special rules. You must file notice within 6 months (much shorter than the 2-year statute of limitations). Sovereign immunity protects government entities. Damage caps may apply. These cases are complex – you need an experienced attorney. Ralph’s 25+ years includes government litigation. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately – the 6-month deadline is strict.

What if the other driver fled the scene (hit and run)?
File a police report immediately (hit and run is a criminal offense). Your Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage applies. Surveillance footage is CRITICAL – most footage is deleted within 7-30 days. We send preservation letters immediately. Texas allows UM stacking. We’ve recovered substantial settlements in hit and run cases through UM claims.

What if I’m an undocumented immigrant – can I still file a claim?
YES. Immigration status does NOT affect your right to compensation for injuries. You’re entitled to full recovery regardless of immigration status. Your case is confidential. We’ve successfully represented clients of all immigration statuses. Lupe is fluent in Spanish. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 – we protect your rights and your privacy.

What if the accident happened in a parking lot?
Parking lot accidents are fully compensable. Insurance companies often argue “parking lot accidents are always 50/50 fault” – this is a lie. We prove fault through: surveillance video, witness statements, damage analysis, traffic patterns. Texas comparative negligence rules apply. We’ve won many parking lot cases with clear liability findings.

What if I was a passenger in the at-fault vehicle?
You can sue the driver even if you were riding with them (friend, family member, Uber driver). You’re an innocent victim. The driver’s insurance covers passengers. No comparative fault issues (you weren’t driving). These cases often settle quickly because liability is clear. We handle the difficult conversation so you don’t have to.

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. 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.

Schertz Location Intelligence: Serving Guadalupe County and Beyond

Attorney911 serves Schertz and all of Guadalupe County from our strategically located offices across Texas. While we’re based in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, our Texas-wide practice means we understand the unique accident patterns in the Schertz area.

Schertz residents face specific traffic challenges:

I-35 Corridor: High truck traffic volume increases risk of catastrophic collisions
FM 3009 and Gibbs Sprawl Road: Busy intersections with frequent T-bone accidents
Judson Road and Schertz Parkway: Growing residential areas with pedestrian risks
Local Employers: Large employers like Randolph Air Force Base mean more commuter traffic

Our attorneys regularly handle cases in:

Schertz Municipal Court
Guadalupe County District Courts
Federal courts when necessary (Southern District of Texas)

We’ve helped numerous Guadalupe County residents recover compensation after accidents on:

I-35 (from New Braunfels to San Antonio)
FM 3009
Loop 1604
Judson Road
Schertz Parkway
Gibbs Sprawl Road

Whether you were injured in a car accident near the Forum Shopping Center, a truck collision on I-35, or a pedestrian accident near Schertz City Hall, our Schertz car accident lawyers are ready to fight for you.

Call Attorney911 Now: 1-888-ATTY-911

If you’ve been injured in a motor vehicle accident in Schertz, Texas, don’t wait – evidence disappears daily. Every day you wait:

Surveillance footage is being deleted (gas stations: 7-14 days, retail stores: 30 days)
Witness memories are fading
Insurance companies are building their case against you
Trucking ELD data can be overwritten (30-180 days)
Your 2-year statute of limitations is ticking

Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for your free consultation. We don’t get paid unless we win your case. Our Schertz car accident lawyers are standing by 24/7 to provide immediate legal guidance and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.

Remember – insurance companies have teams of lawyers working against you. Shouldn’t you have a former insurance defense attorney on YOUR side? Call 1-888-ATTY-911 now. Hablamos Español.

Attorney911 – Legal Emergency Lawyers™
The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC
Serving Schertz, Guadalupe County, and all of Texas
1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
https://attorney911.com