Motor Vehicle Accident Lawyers in Guadalupe County, Texas

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Guadalupe County, Texas, you’re not alone. With Texas seeing one crash every 57 seconds and over 250,000 people injured annually, our roads have become increasingly dangerous. At Attorney911, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a motor vehicle accident can take on you and your family. That’s why we’re here to fight for you.

Ralph Manginello, our founding attorney with over 25 years of experience, has built a team that includes former insurance defense attorneys who know exactly how insurance companies operate. This insider knowledge gives us a unique advantage in securing maximum compensation for our clients. When you call 1-888-ATTY-911, you’re not just calling a law firm – you’re calling your neighbors who are ready to stand by your side.

The Reality of Car Accidents in Guadalupe County

Guadalupe County’s roads and highways present unique challenges for drivers. Whether you’re commuting on I-10, navigating the busy streets of Seguin, or traveling through the scenic Hill Country roads, accidents can happen anywhere. In fact, Texas consistently ranks among the states with the highest number of motor vehicle accidents and fatalities.

Some of the most dangerous intersections and roadways in Guadalupe County include:

• The I-10 corridor through Seguin and surrounding areas
• Highway 46 (FM 46) connecting New Braunfels to Seguin
• The intersection of FM 78 and FM 467
• The stretch of Highway 90 through Seguin

These areas see heavy traffic from commuters, commercial vehicles, and tourists, increasing the risk of accidents.

Why Guadalupe County Accidents Require Local Legal Expertise

When you’re injured in a Guadalupe County accident, you need attorneys who understand the local legal landscape. Our team is familiar with:

• The Guadalupe County District Courts and their procedures
• Local judges and their preferences
• Insurance adjusters who handle claims in this region
• Nearby medical facilities like Guadalupe Regional Medical Center
• The unique traffic patterns and accident hotspots in the county

We know that every accident is different, and we treat each case with the individual attention it deserves. Whether you were rear-ended on I-10, involved in a multi-vehicle collision on Highway 90, or struck by a distracted driver in Seguin, we have the experience to handle your case effectively.

The Attorney911 Difference: Insurance Defense Insider Knowledge

What truly sets Attorney911 apart is our team’s background. Lupe Peña, our associate attorney, spent years working for a national insurance defense firm. He knows exactly how insurance companies evaluate claims, what tactics they use to minimize payouts, and how to counter their strategies.

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

This insider knowledge gives our clients a significant advantage. While other firms are learning the insurance playbook as they go, we already know all the moves – because we used to make them. Now, we use that knowledge to fight for you.

Comprehensive Accident Coverage for Guadalupe County Residents

At Attorney911, we handle all types of motor vehicle accidents that occur in Guadalupe County and throughout Texas. Our experience spans:

Car Accidents (Tier 1 – 600-800 words)

Car accidents are the most common type of motor vehicle collision in Guadalupe County. With over 250,000 people injured in Texas car crashes annually, the impact on victims can be devastating. These accidents often result in injuries ranging from whiplash and soft tissue damage to traumatic brain injuries and spinal cord damage.

Common causes of car accidents in Guadalupe County include:

• Distracted driving (texting, eating, using GPS)
• Speeding and aggressive driving
• Failure to yield right-of-way
• Running red lights or stop signs
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Fatigued driving
• Poor weather conditions

One of our clients suffered a leg injury in a car accident that led to complications requiring partial amputation. Despite the insurance company’s attempts to minimize the claim, we secured a multi-million dollar settlement for our client.

“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.”

If you’ve been injured in a Guadalupe County car accident, don’t let the insurance company lowball your claim. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation.

18-Wheeler and Trucking Accidents (Tier 1 – 600-800 words)

Guadalupe County’s location along major trucking routes like I-10 makes it particularly vulnerable to commercial vehicle accidents. With nearly 40,000 commercial motor vehicle crashes in Texas annually, these accidents often result in catastrophic injuries due to the sheer size and weight of large trucks.

Trucking accidents in Guadalupe County can involve:

• Semi-trucks and tractor-trailers
• Delivery trucks
• Tanker trucks
• Flatbed trucks
• Dump trucks

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets strict regulations for commercial drivers, including:

• Maximum 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off-duty
• 30-minute break required after 8 hours of driving
• Weekly driving limits (60/70-hour rule)
• Electronic Logging Device (ELD) requirements
• Regular vehicle inspections and maintenance

When these regulations are violated, it can establish negligence per se, making it easier to prove liability. Our firm has recovered millions for victims of trucking accidents.

“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.”

With Ralph Manginello’s federal court admission and our involvement in complex litigation like the BP explosion case, we have the experience to take on major trucking companies and their insurers. If you’ve been injured in a Guadalupe County trucking accident, call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately – critical evidence like ELD data can be overwritten in as little as 30 days.

Drunk Driving Accidents (Tier 1 – 600-800 words)

Despite increased awareness and stricter laws, drunk driving remains a significant problem in Guadalupe County and throughout Texas. With over 1,000 alcohol-impaired driving deaths annually in Texas, these preventable accidents continue to devastate families.

Under Texas law:

• A blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher is considered legally intoxicated
• Commercial drivers have a lower limit of 0.04%
• Drivers under 21 can be charged with DUI with any detectable amount of alcohol

What makes drunk driving cases unique is the potential for dram shop liability. Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code § 2.02 allows victims to sue establishments that served alcohol to obviously intoxicated individuals who then caused accidents. This can include:

• Bars and nightclubs
• Restaurants
• Liquor stores
• Event venues
• Social hosts (in limited circumstances)

Signs of obvious intoxication that can establish liability include:

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

Drunk driving cases often qualify for punitive damages, which are designed to punish the defendant and deter similar behavior. Our firm has extensive experience handling these complex cases, and we know how to maximize your recovery.

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

This insider knowledge is particularly valuable in drunk driving cases, where insurance companies often try to minimize their exposure. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 if you’ve been injured by a drunk driver in Guadalupe County.

Motorcycle Accidents (Tier 1 – 400-600 words)

Motorcycle accidents present unique challenges for riders in Guadalupe County. With 585 motorcyclist fatalities in Texas annually, these accidents often result in severe injuries due to the lack of protection for riders.

Common causes of motorcycle accidents in Guadalupe County include:

• Drivers failing to see motorcycles in traffic
• Left-turn accidents at intersections
• Lane change accidents
• Rear-end collisions
• Road hazards (potholes, debris, uneven surfaces)
• Speeding and reckless driving

Texas law requires all riders under 21 to wear helmets. Riders 21 and older may ride without a helmet if they have completed a safety course or have adequate medical insurance. However, helmets are proven to reduce the risk of death by 37% and head injuries by 69%.

Insurance companies often try to blame motorcyclists for accidents, even when they’re not at fault. Texas’ 51% comparative fault rule means that if you’re found to be 51% or more at fault, you can’t recover any damages. This makes it crucial to have experienced legal representation.

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

With Lupe’s insurance defense background, we know how insurance companies try to shift blame onto motorcyclists. We fight to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries. If you’ve been injured in a Guadalupe County motorcycle accident, call 1-888-ATTY-911.

Pedestrian Accidents (Tier 1 – 400-600 words)

Pedestrian accidents are a growing concern in Guadalupe County, particularly in urban areas like Seguin. With 768 pedestrian fatalities in Texas annually, these accidents often result in catastrophic injuries due to the complete lack of protection for pedestrians.

Under Texas law, pedestrians always have the right-of-way at intersections, even unmarked crosswalks. This means that anytime there’s an intersection of two streets, the distance between them is considered a crosswalk – even if it’s not marked.

Common causes of pedestrian accidents in Guadalupe County include:

• Drivers failing to yield at crosswalks
• Distracted driving
• Speeding
• Drunk driving
• Poor visibility at night
• Backing out of parking spaces without checking

Pedestrian accidents often result in severe injuries, including:

• Traumatic brain injuries
• Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
• Broken bones (pelvis, legs, arms)
• Internal organ damage
• Fatalities

If you’ve been injured in a Guadalupe County pedestrian accident, it’s crucial to act quickly. Evidence like surveillance footage can be deleted within days. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately to protect your rights.

Rideshare Accidents (Uber/Lyft) (Tier 2 – 300-450 words)

Rideshare accidents present unique challenges due to the complex insurance coverage involved. With over 17 million Uber trips daily in the U.S., accidents involving rideshare vehicles are becoming increasingly common in Guadalupe County.

Rideshare insurance coverage varies dramatically depending on what the driver was doing at the time of the accident:

This means that the same accident can have dramatically different coverage depending on what the driver was doing at the time. Lupe’s insurance defense experience is particularly valuable in these complex cases.

If you’ve been injured in a Guadalupe County rideshare accident, whether as a passenger, driver, or third party, call 1-888-ATTY-911. We know how to navigate the complex insurance landscape to maximize your recovery.

What to Do After a Guadalupe County Accident: 48-Hour Protocol

If you’ve been injured in a Guadalupe County accident, what you do in the first 48 hours can significantly impact your case. Follow this protocol to protect your rights:

Hour 1-6 (Immediate Crisis):

1. Safety First: If you can move safely, get to a secure location away from traffic
2. Call 911: Report the accident and request medical assistance if anyone is injured
3. Medical Attention: Get checked out immediately, even if you feel fine – adrenaline can mask injuries
4. Document Everything:
   • Take photos of all vehicle damage (every angle)
   • Photograph the accident scene, road conditions, and traffic signals
   • Take photos of visible injuries
   • Screenshot any messages visible on your phone
5. Exchange Information:
   • Other driver’s name, phone, address
   • Insurance company and policy number
   • Driver’s license number
   • License plate number
   • Vehicle make, model, color
6. Witnesses: Get names and phone numbers of any witnesses
7. Call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate legal guidance before speaking to any insurance company

Hour 6-24 (Evidence Preservation):

1. Digital Preservation:
   • Preserve all texts, calls, photos, and videos related to the accident
   • Do NOT delete anything from your phone
   • Screenshot everything relevant
   • Email copies to yourself for backup
2. Physical Evidence:
   • Secure damaged clothing, glasses, or personal items
   • Keep receipts for any expenses (towing, rental car, medications)
   • Do NOT repair your vehicle yet
3. Medical Records:
   • Request copies of all ER/hospital records
   • Keep all discharge paperwork
   • Follow up with your primary care physician within 24-48 hours
4. 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”
5. Social Media:
   • Make ALL profiles private immediately
   • Do NOT post about the accident
   • Do NOT post photos of injuries or activities
   • Tell friends and family not to tag you in posts

Hour 24-48 (Strategic Decisions):

1. Legal Consultation:
   • Speak with an experienced motor vehicle accident attorney
   • Call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation
2. 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
3. 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
4. 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

Week One Priorities:

1. Medical Follow-Up:
   • Continue documenting all injuries
   • See specialists if recommended
   • Follow ALL doctor recommendations
   • Get written work restrictions if needed
2. Investigation Begins:
   • Attorney obtains police report
   • Preservation letters sent to all parties
   • Surveillance footage secured before deletion
   • Witness statements recorded
3. Communication:
   • Attorney handles ALL insurance communication
   • You focus on recovery
   • Document any pressure from insurance or other parties

Texas Motor Vehicle Law: What Guadalupe County Accident Victims Need to Know

Understanding Texas motor vehicle laws is crucial for protecting your rights after an accident in Guadalupe County. Here are the key legal concepts you need to know:

Statute of Limitations

In Texas, you have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This deadline is absolute – if you miss it, your case will be barred forever. For wrongful death claims, the 2-year clock starts from the date of death.

Comparative Negligence (51% Bar Rule)

Texas uses a modified comparative negligence system. This means:

• If you are 50% or less at fault, you can recover damages (reduced by your percentage of fault)
• If you are 51% or more at fault, you cannot recover anything

For example:

• If you’re found 20% at fault in a $100,000 case, you can recover $80,000
• If you’re found 51% at fault, you recover nothing

Insurance companies often try to maximize your percentage of fault to reduce their payout. Having an experienced attorney can help counter these arguments.

Texas Minimum Auto Insurance Coverage

Texas requires all drivers to carry minimum insurance coverage:

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

However, with the high cost of medical care, these minimum limits are often insufficient to cover serious injuries.

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage

Texas allows you to purchase UM/UIM coverage, which protects you if:

• The at-fault driver has no insurance
• The at-fault driver’s insurance is insufficient to cover your damages
• You’re the victim of a hit-and-run accident

Texas allows inter-policy stacking, which means you can combine coverage from multiple policies to increase your protection.

Proving Liability in Guadalupe County Accident Cases

To win your motor vehicle accident case in Guadalupe County, you must prove four elements of negligence:

1. Duty of Care: All drivers have a legal duty to operate their vehicles safely and obey traffic laws
2. Breach of Duty: The at-fault driver violated their duty of care through action or inaction
3. Causation: The breach of duty directly caused your injuries
4. Damages: You suffered actual harm (physical, financial, or emotional)

Types of Evidence We Use:

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

Multiple Liable Parties

In many accidents, more than one party may be responsible. For example:

• In trucking accidents: the driver, trucking company, cargo loader, and manufacturer may all share liability
• In rideshare accidents: the driver, rideshare company, and other at-fault drivers may be liable
• In drunk driving accidents: the driver and the establishment that served them alcohol may be liable

Having multiple liable parties can increase the available insurance coverage and improve your chances of full compensation.

Damages You Can Recover in Guadalupe County Accident Cases

If you’ve been injured in a Guadalupe County accident, you may be entitled to various types of compensation:

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
• Loss of consortium (impact on relationships)
• Loss of enjoyment of life

Punitive Damages (Capped):

Punitive damages are available in cases involving fraud, malice, or gross negligence. 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)

Drunk driving cases often qualify for punitive damages.

Insurance Company Tactics: How They Try to Minimize Your Claim

Insurance companies are not on your side. Their goal is to pay you as little as possible, and they have sophisticated tactics to achieve this. At Attorney911, we know these tactics because Lupe Peña used them for years when he worked for insurance companies. Now, he uses that knowledge to fight for you.

Tactic #1: Quick Contact and Recorded Statement

Within days of your accident, insurance adjusters will contact you – often while you’re still in the hospital or on pain medication. 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”

What they’re really doing is trying to get you to say something that can be used against you. They’ll ask leading questions designed to:

• Minimize the severity of the collision
• Suggest you were partially at fault
• Get you to admit you’re feeling better
• Downplay your injuries

NEVER give a recorded statement without an attorney present. Once you’ve said something, you can’t take it back.

Tactic #2: Quick Settlement Offer

Within weeks of your accident, the insurance company may offer you a quick settlement. These offers typically range from $2,000 to $15,000 and may seem tempting when you’re facing mounting medical bills and lost income.

However, these offers are almost always far below the true value of your case. The insurance company is hoping you’ll accept before you realize the full extent of your injuries.

NEVER accept a settlement offer without consulting an attorney. Once you sign a release, you cannot get more money – even if you later need surgery or discover permanent injuries.

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

After a few months of treatment, the insurance company may request that you undergo an “Independent Medical Exam” (IME) with a doctor of their choosing. Despite the name, these exams are anything but independent.

Insurance companies select IME doctors based on:

• Their history of giving insurance-favorable reports
• Their willingness to minimize injuries
• Their track record of finding “pre-existing conditions”

At the IME, you’ll undergo a cursory examination (often just 10-15 minutes) and the doctor will look for any reason to minimize your injuries. Common IME findings include:

• “Patient has pre-existing degenerative changes”
• “Injuries consistent with minor trauma”
• “Patient can return to full duty work”
• “Treatment has been excessive”
• “Subjective complaints out of proportion to objective findings”

With Lupe’s insurance defense background, we know how to counter these biased reports and ensure your injuries are properly documented.

Tactic #4: Delay and Financial Pressure

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

• “We’re still investigating your claim”
• “We’re waiting for medical records”
• “Your file is under review”
• Ignoring your calls and emails

While they’re delaying, they’re earning interest on your settlement money. Meanwhile, you’re facing:

• Mounting medical bills
• Lost income
• Financial stress
• Pressure from creditors

This financial pressure often leads victims to accept lowball settlement offers just to end the nightmare.

At Attorney911, we don’t let insurance companies play this game. We file lawsuits when necessary to force them to take your claim seriously.

Tactic #5: Surveillance and Social Media Monitoring

Insurance companies hire private investigators to:

• Video you doing daily activities
• Follow you to appointments and errands
• Monitor your social media accounts

They’re looking for any activity that can be taken out of context to suggest you’re not really injured. For example:

• A photo of you smiling at a family gathering might be used to claim you’re not in pain
• A video of you walking to your car might be used to claim you’re not disabled
• A check-in at a restaurant might be used to claim you’re “living your life” and not really hurt

NEVER post about your accident, injuries, or activities on social media. Make all your profiles private and tell friends and family not to tag you in posts.

“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 #6: Comparative Fault Arguments

Insurance companies will try to assign you maximum fault to reduce their payout. They might claim:

• You were speeding
• You weren’t paying attention
• You could have avoided the accident
• You were distracted

Even if you’re only partially at fault, this can significantly reduce your recovery. For example:

• 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

With Lupe’s insurance defense background, we know how to counter these comparative fault arguments and fight for your full compensation.

Colossus: How Insurance Companies Secretly Value Your Claim

Most major insurance companies use a software system called Colossus to calculate the value of personal injury claims. This system determines the settlement range they’ll offer for your case.

Here’s how it works:

1. Data Entry: The insurance adjuster inputs information about your case, including injury codes, treatment types, medical costs, and jurisdiction
2. Coding: Your injuries are coded using standardized medical terms
3. Calculation: The software applies algorithms to determine the “value” of your claim
4. Range Output: The system provides a recommended settlement range

The problem is that insurance companies manipulate this system to minimize payouts. They do this by:

• Using low injury codes (e.g., “soft tissue strain” instead of “disc herniation”)
• Flagging “excessive” treatment (e.g., more than “normal” physical therapy sessions)
• Penalizing conservative treatment (e.g., valuing chiropractic care less than MD treatment)
• Reducing value for pre-existing conditions

With Lupe’s experience working with Colossus for insurance companies, we know:

• How to properly code injuries for maximum value
• Which medical terms trigger higher valuations
• When the Colossus output is artificially low
• How to present medical records to beat the algorithm

This insider knowledge gives our clients a significant advantage in settlement negotiations.

Medical Knowledge: Understanding Your Injuries

At Attorney911, we understand that the medical aspects of your case are just as important as the legal ones. We work with medical experts to ensure your injuries are properly documented and valued.

Common Injuries in Guadalupe County Accidents:

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

TBIs can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage. Symptoms may include:

• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Memory problems
• Mood changes
• Sleep disturbances
• Sensitivity to light and noise

In severe cases, TBIs can result in permanent cognitive impairment, personality changes, and increased risk of dementia.

Spinal Cord Injury

Spinal cord injuries can result in partial or complete paralysis. The level of injury determines the extent of impairment:

• Cervical (neck): Can result in quadriplegia (paralysis of all four limbs)
• Thoracic (mid-back): Can result in paraplegia (paralysis of the lower body)
• Lumbar (lower back): Can result in varying degrees of leg weakness

Spinal cord injuries often require lifetime medical care and can cost millions of dollars over a lifetime.

Herniated Disc

Herniated discs occur when the soft center of a spinal disc pushes through a crack in the tougher exterior. This can cause:

• Severe back or neck pain
• Numbness or tingling in the arms or legs
• Weakness in the muscles served by affected nerves

Treatment may include physical therapy, epidural injections, or surgery.

Broken Bones

Fractures are common in motor vehicle accidents and can range from simple breaks to complex fractures requiring surgery. Common fractures include:

• Broken arms and legs
• Broken ribs
• Broken pelvis
• Broken collarbone
• Facial fractures

Soft Tissue Injuries

Soft tissue injuries include damage to muscles, ligaments, and tendons. Common types include:

• Whiplash
• Sprains and strains
• Contusions (bruises)

While these injuries may seem minor, they can result in chronic pain and long-term disability.

Psychological Injuries

Motor vehicle accidents can also result in psychological injuries, including:

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Fear of driving

These injuries are just as real and compensable as physical injuries.

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Guadalupe County Accident Case

When you’ve been injured in a Guadalupe County accident, you need attorneys who will fight for your maximum compensation. Here’s what sets Attorney911 apart:

1. Insurance Defense Insider Knowledge

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

This insider knowledge gives us a unique advantage. While other firms are learning the insurance playbook as they go, we already know all the moves – because we used to make them. Now, we use that knowledge to fight for you.

2. Multi-Million Dollar Results

At Attorney911, we have a proven track record of securing multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts for our clients. Some of our results include:

• Multi-million dollar settlement for a client who suffered a brain injury with vision loss
• Multi-million dollar settlement for a client whose leg injury led to partial amputation
• Millions recovered for families in trucking-related wrongful death cases
• Significant cash settlement for a client who injured his back while lifting cargo on a ship

Our results speak for themselves. When insurance companies see that we’re representing you, they know we won’t accept lowball offers.

3. Federal Court Experience

Ralph Manginello is admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas. This federal court admission is crucial for handling complex cases, including:

• Trucking accidents involving FMCSA regulations
• Cases against out-of-state defendants
• Product liability cases against vehicle manufacturers
• Cases with multiple liable parties

Our involvement in complex litigation like the BP explosion case demonstrates our ability to take on billion-dollar corporations.

4. Personal Attention

At Attorney911, you’re not just another case number. You’ll work directly with Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña, not just paralegals or case managers. Our clients consistently praise our communication and personal attention:

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

“I never felt like ‘just another case’ they were working on.” – Ambur Hamilton

“Consistent communication and not one time did i call and not get a clear answer.” – Dame Haskett

5. Contingency Fee – No Risk to You

At Attorney911, we work on a contingency fee basis. This means:

• You pay nothing upfront
• We advance all case costs
• You pay nothing unless we win your case
• Our fee is a percentage of your recovery

This arrangement ensures that everyone has access to quality legal representation, regardless of their financial situation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Guadalupe County Accident Cases

Immediate After Accident

1. What should I do immediately after a car accident in Guadalupe County?
If you’ve been in an accident in Guadalupe County:

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

2. Should I call the police even for a minor accident?
Yes. Always call the 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 can mask 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 Guadalupe County, 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 a recorded statement. 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: 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 = case 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?
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.

20. 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

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?
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).

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 medical malpractice).

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, impact on daily life.

Attorney Relationship

27. How much do car accident lawyers cost?
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

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 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

33. 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.

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 you didn’t realize severity of injuries. Delayed symptoms are common. We can still help.

Additional 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, if you had mild occasional back pain before the accident and the accident caused 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. Lupe knows how insurance companies attack pre-existing conditions – he used this defense for years.

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

38. 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.

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 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.

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

41. What if the other driver fled the scene (hit and run)?
File a police report immediately (hit and run is a criminal offense). Your Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage applies. Surveillance footage is CRITICAL – gas stations, businesses, Ring doorbells, traffic cameras. 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.

42. 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.

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 not true. We prove fault through: surveillance video, witness statements, damage analysis, and traffic patterns. Texas comparative negligence rules apply. We’ve won many parking lot cases with clear liability findings.

44. What if I was a passenger in the at-fault vehicle?
You can sue the driver even if you were riding with them (friend, family member, Uber driver). You’re an innocent victim. The driver’s insurance covers passengers. There are 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.

45. What if the other driver died in the accident?
You can still pursue a claim against the deceased driver’s estate and insurance. 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.

Guadalupe County: Our Community, Your Legal Team

At Attorney911, we’re proud to serve Guadalupe County and the surrounding communities. We understand the unique challenges faced by local residents, and we’re committed to fighting for your rights.

Serving All of Guadalupe County

We handle cases throughout Guadalupe County, including:

• Seguin
• New Braunfels (partial)
• Schertz (partial)
• Cibolo
• Marion
• McQueeney
• Geronimo
• Kingsbury
• Redwood
• Staples
• Zuehl

Nearby Communities We Serve

In addition to Guadalupe County, we also serve clients in:

• Comal County (New Braunfels, Canyon Lake)
• Bexar County (San Antonio)
• Hays County (San Marcos)
• Caldwell County
• Gonzales County
• Wilson County

Local Resources for Accident Victims

If you’ve been injured in a Guadalupe County accident, these local resources may be helpful:

• Guadalupe Regional Medical Center (Seguin): 1215 E Court St, Seguin, TX 78155
• Guadalupe County Sheriff’s Office: 2605 N Martin Luther King Ave, Seguin, TX 78155
• Seguin Police Department: 313 W Court St, Seguin, TX 78155
• Guadalupe County District Courts: 211 W Court St, Seguin, TX 78155

Why Local Matters

When you choose Attorney911 for your Guadalupe County accident case, you’re choosing attorneys who:

• Understand the local roads and accident hotspots
• Are familiar with local courts and judges
• Know the insurance adjusters who handle claims in this area
• Are committed to serving our community
• Are just a phone call away when you need us

Contact Attorney911 Today

If you’ve been injured in a Guadalupe County motor vehicle accident, don’t wait to get the legal help you need. Evidence disappears daily, and the insurance company is already building its case against you.

Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911) for a free, no-obligation consultation. We don’t get paid unless we win your case.

Remember:

• Free consultation
• No upfront costs
• We advance all case expenses
• We don’t get paid unless we win
• Hablamos Español

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

“They make you feel like family and even though the process may take some time, they make it feel like a breeze. They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.” – Glenda Walker

“This place feels like having a family over your case. And communication with you every step of the way. That’s how you know you’re in good hands.” – Kiwi Potato

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 now. Your recovery starts here.