Car Accident Lawyer in Westlake, Texas | Attorney911

If You’ve Been Injured in a Car Accident in Westlake, Texas, We’re Here to Help

Every 57 seconds, another car accident occurs on Texas roads. In Westlake and across Tarrant County, these accidents often result in serious injuries, financial hardship, and emotional distress. If you’ve been hurt in a collision, you need more than just legal representation—you need a team that understands the physical, financial, and emotional toll these incidents take on victims and their families.

At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for car accident victims in Texas for over 25 years. Founded by Ralph Manginello, our firm has recovered millions for clients who suffered life-altering injuries through no fault of their own. We know the roads in Westlake, the local courts, and the insurance adjusters who handle claims in this area. 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 up for your rights.

The Reality of Car Accidents in Westlake, Texas

Texas consistently ranks among the most dangerous states for motor vehicle accidents, and Westlake is no exception. With major highways like I-30 and SH 114 running through the area, along with busy local roads, the risk of serious collisions is ever-present.

Consider these alarming statistics:

• Over 251,977 people were injured in Texas motor vehicle crashes in 2024 alone
• One person is injured in a Texas car accident every 2 minutes and 5 seconds
• In Tarrant County, thousands of accidents occur annually, many resulting in serious injuries

These aren’t just numbers—they represent real people in Westlake and surrounding communities whose lives have been disrupted by negligent drivers.

Common Causes of Car Accidents in Westlake

Car accidents in Westlake can happen for many reasons, but some of the most common causes we see include:

Distracted Driving: Whether it’s texting, adjusting the radio, or eating while driving, distracted driving claimed 380 lives in Texas in 2024. In Westlake, where drivers often commute to nearby cities, the temptation to multitask behind the wheel can be particularly dangerous.

Speeding: Excessive speed reduces reaction time and increases the severity of collisions. On Westlake’s roads, where speed limits can vary suddenly, speeding is a major contributor to accidents.

Failure to Yield: Many accidents occur at intersections when drivers fail to yield the right of way. In Westlake, busy intersections can be particularly hazardous.

Drunk Driving: Despite strict laws, drunk driving remains a significant problem. In 2024, alcohol-impaired driving caused 1,053 deaths in Texas—25.37% of all traffic fatalities.

Running Red Lights: When drivers ignore traffic signals, the results can be catastrophic. Red-light running is particularly dangerous in urban areas like Westlake.

Following Too Closely: Tailgating gives drivers little time to react if the vehicle in front stops suddenly. This is a common cause of rear-end collisions on Westlake’s highways.

Weather Conditions: While Westlake doesn’t experience extreme weather as often as other parts of Texas, rain and fog can still create hazardous driving conditions.

Common Injuries from Car Accidents

Car accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, from minor to life-threatening. Some of the most common injuries we see in our Westlake clients include:

Whiplash and Soft Tissue Injuries: These are among the most common car accident injuries. While they may not seem serious at first, whiplash can lead to chronic pain and require extensive treatment.

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

Broken Bones and Fractures: The impact of a car accident can easily break bones, particularly in the arms, legs, ribs, and face.

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Even a minor impact can cause a TBI, which may result in cognitive impairment, memory loss, and other serious symptoms.

Spinal Cord Injuries: These devastating injuries can lead to partial or complete paralysis, requiring lifelong medical care.

Internal Organ Damage: The force of a collision can damage internal organs, leading to internal bleeding and other life-threatening conditions.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Many accident victims experience anxiety, depression, and other psychological symptoms long after their physical injuries have healed.

One of our clients suffered a leg injury in a car accident that initially seemed manageable. However, during treatment, staff infections developed, and doctors ultimately had to perform a partial amputation. This case settled in the millions, demonstrating our commitment to fighting for full compensation for our clients’ injuries and complications.

Why Insurance Companies Are Already Building a Case Against You

If you’ve been in a car accident in Westlake, you might think the at-fault driver’s insurance company is on your side. Nothing could be further from the truth. Insurance companies are for-profit businesses, and their primary goal is to minimize payouts—not to ensure you receive fair compensation.

Here’s what they’re doing right now:

• Reviewing your social media accounts for any posts that could be taken out of context
• Searching for pre-existing conditions to blame for your injuries
• Looking for gaps in your medical treatment that they can use to minimize your claim
• Preparing to offer you a quick, lowball settlement before you realize the full extent of your injuries

Our firm includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who spent years working for national insurance companies. He knows their tactics because he used them himself. Now, he uses that insider knowledge to fight for victims like you.

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Westlake Car Accident Case?

When you’re recovering from a car accident, the last thing you need is to navigate the complex legal system alone. Here’s why Westlake residents choose Attorney911:

Insurance Defense Insider Advantage: Lupe Peña worked for years at a national defense firm, learning firsthand how large insurance companies value claims. He knows their playbook because he wrote it. Now, he uses that knowledge to fight for victims, not against them.

Multi-Million Dollar Results: Our firm has recovered millions for car accident victims. In one 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.

25+ Years of Experience: Ralph Manginello has been practicing law since 1998. His extensive experience in personal injury law means he knows how to build strong cases and negotiate effectively with insurance companies.

Federal Court Admission: Ralph is admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas. This allows us to handle complex cases that other firms may not be equipped to manage.

Personal Attention: Unlike high-volume firms where you’re just a case number, we treat our clients like family. As Chad Harris, one of our clients, said: “You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client…You are FAMILY to them.”

Contingency Fee Structure: We don’t get paid unless we win your case. This means you can focus on your recovery without worrying about upfront legal fees.

What Our Clients Say About Us

Don’t just take our word for it—here’s what our clients have to say about their experience 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

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

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

What to Do After a Car Accident in Westlake

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

1. Call 911: Report the accident and request medical assistance if anyone is injured.
2. Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, get checked out. Adrenaline can mask injuries, and some symptoms may not appear immediately.
3. Document Everything: Take photos of all vehicle damage, injuries, and the accident scene. Get the names and contact information of any witnesses.
4. Exchange Information: Get the other driver’s name, phone number, address, driver’s license number, and insurance information.
5. Do NOT Give a Recorded Statement: Insurance adjusters may call you shortly after the accident. Do not give a recorded statement without consulting an attorney first.
6. Call Attorney911: Our legal emergency line, 1-888-ATTY-911, is available 24/7. We can guide you through the next steps and protect your rights.

Evidence Disappears Every Day—Call Now

Time is not on your side after a car accident. Critical evidence can disappear quickly:

• Surveillance footage from nearby businesses is typically deleted within 7-30 days
• Witness memories fade over time
• Physical evidence at the scene can be lost or altered
• Medical conditions may worsen if not properly documented

Every day you wait, your case becomes harder to prove. Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911. We’ll send preservation letters immediately to secure critical evidence before it’s gone forever.

Texas Car Accident Laws You Need to Know

Understanding Texas car accident laws is crucial for protecting your rights:

Statute of Limitations: In Texas, you have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to compensation forever.

Comparative Negligence (51% Rule): Texas uses a modified comparative negligence system. If you are found to be 50% or less at fault for the accident, you can still recover damages, but your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. If you are found to be 51% or more at fault, you cannot recover any compensation.

Minimum Insurance Requirements: Texas requires all drivers to carry minimum liability insurance of $30,000 per person, $60,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 for property damage.

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UM/UIM): This coverage protects you if the at-fault driver doesn’t have insurance or doesn’t have enough insurance to cover your damages. Texas allows you to stack UM/UIM coverage from multiple policies.

How We Prove Liability in Your Car Accident Case

To recover compensation for your injuries, we must prove that the other driver was negligent and that their negligence caused your injuries. Here’s how we do it:

Accident Reconstruction: We work with accident reconstruction experts to analyze the scene, vehicle damage, and other evidence to determine how the accident occurred.

Witness Statements: We interview witnesses to get their account of what happened. Witness testimony can be crucial in proving liability.

Police Reports: The police report contains valuable information about the accident, including the officer’s assessment of fault.

Medical Records: Your medical records document your injuries and link them to the accident.

Electronic Data: In some cases, we can retrieve data from vehicle black boxes or cell phones to prove negligence.

Expert Testimony: We work with medical experts, economists, and other professionals to build a strong case for your compensation.

What You Can Recover in a Car Accident Case

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

Medical Expenses: This includes past and future medical bills related to your injuries, such as hospital stays, surgeries, doctor visits, physical therapy, and medications.

Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you can recover compensation for lost income. This includes both past lost wages and future lost earning capacity if your injuries affect your ability to work long-term.

Pain and Suffering: You can recover compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by your injuries.

Property Damage: This includes the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle and any other personal property damaged in the accident.

Loss of Consortium: If your injuries affect your relationship with your spouse, they may be entitled to compensation for loss of companionship and support.

Punitive Damages: In cases involving gross negligence or intentional misconduct, you may be entitled to punitive damages, which are designed to punish the at-fault party and deter similar behavior in the future.

Insurance Tactics to Watch Out For

Insurance companies use a variety of tactics to minimize or deny your claim. Here are some of the most common:

Quick Settlement Offers: Insurance companies often offer quick settlements shortly after an accident. These offers are almost always far below what your case is actually worth. Once you accept a settlement, you can’t go back for more money, even if your injuries worsen.

Recorded Statements: Insurance adjusters may ask you to give a recorded statement about the accident. They’ll use this statement to find inconsistencies or admissions of fault that they can use against you.

Independent Medical Exams (IMEs): The insurance company may require you to see a doctor of their choosing for an “independent” medical exam. These doctors are often hired to minimize your injuries.

Surveillance: Insurance companies may hire private investigators to follow you and record your activities. They’ll use any footage that shows you doing something that contradicts your injury claims against you.

Delay Tactics: Insurance companies may drag out your claim in the hopes that you’ll become desperate and accept a lowball offer.

Blame-Shifting: Insurance adjusters may try to shift blame onto you to reduce your compensation. They might argue that you were speeding, distracted, or otherwise at fault.

Lupe Peña, our former insurance defense attorney, knows all these tactics because he used them himself. Now, he uses that knowledge to protect our clients from these unfair practices.

Frequently Asked Questions About Car Accidents in Westlake

What should I do immediately after a car accident in Westlake?

If you’ve been in an accident in Westlake:

• Call 911 and report the accident
• Seek medical attention, even if you feel fine
• Document everything: take photos, get witness information
• Exchange information with the other driver
• Do NOT give a recorded statement to any insurance company
• Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate legal guidance

Should I call the police even for a minor accident?

Yes. Always call the police after an accident. The police report is critical evidence for your case. In Texas, you must report accidents that result in injury, death, 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. For example:

• Traumatic brain injuries can take days to manifest
• Internal bleeding may not be obvious at first
• 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.

What information should I collect at the scene?

Collect the following information:

• 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” (this can be used as an admission of fault)
• Do NOT give your opinion on what happened
• Stick to facts only

How do I obtain a copy of the accident report?

In Westlake and Tarrant County, 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?

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 on what to say.

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 what your case is actually worth. 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 or underinsured?

Your own UM/UIM coverage can compensate you. Watch our video on Uninsured & Underinsured Motorists: 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.

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?

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 the accident for personal injury, 2 years from the 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?

It depends on the severity of your injuries. We don’t settle until you’ve reached maximum medical improvement (MMI). This could be 6 months for minor injuries 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

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

What is my case worth?

It depends on: injury severity, medical costs, lost wages, permanent impairment, pain and suffering, and 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 in medical malpractice 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 called the “eggshell plaintiff” rule.

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, and clear liability. Lupe calculated these for years—he knows how to justify higher multipliers.

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—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.

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 love to argue “parking lot accidents are always 50/50 fault” (this is a lie). 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.

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. 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.

Why Westlake Residents Choose Attorney911

When you’ve been injured in a car accident in Westlake, you need a law firm that understands the local landscape. Here’s why Westlake residents trust Attorney911:

Local Knowledge: We know the roads in Westlake, from the busy intersections to the residential streets. We’re familiar with the local courts and the insurance adjusters who handle claims in Tarrant County.

Insurance Defense Insider: Our firm includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who spent years working for national insurance companies. He knows their tactics because he used them himself. Now, he uses that knowledge to fight for victims like you.

Proven Results: We’ve recovered millions for car accident victims in Texas. In one recent case, our client suffered a leg injury in a car accident that led to a partial amputation due to complications. This case settled in the millions.

Personal Attention: Unlike high-volume firms where you’re just a case number, we treat our clients like family. As Chad Harris said, “You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client…You are FAMILY to them.”

Contingency Fee Structure: We don’t get paid unless we win your case. This means you can focus on your recovery without worrying about upfront legal fees.

24/7 Availability: Our legal emergency line, 1-888-ATTY-911, is available around the clock. When you call, you’ll speak with someone who can help, not an answering service.

Contact Attorney911 Today

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Westlake, Texas, don’t wait to get the help you need. Evidence disappears every day, and insurance companies are already building their case against you.

Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We’ll review your case, answer your questions, and explain your legal options—with no obligation. Remember, we don’t get paid unless we win your case.

Don’t let the insurance company take advantage of you. With Attorney911 on your side, you have a team of experienced attorneys who know how to fight for maximum compensation. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 today—your recovery starts here.