Two Injured in Decatur Two-Vehicle Collision on FM 51: What Happened and What Comes Next

The evening of February 21, 2026, took a devastating turn for two Decatur, Texas residents when a sedan rear-ended a pickup truck on Farm Road 51 near County Road 2112. The collision, which occurred around 9:20 p.m., left both drivers with injuries—one serious—and closed FM 51 for over an hour as emergency responders worked the scene.

At Attorney911, we’ve seen how quickly lives change after collisions like this. One moment, you’re driving home on familiar Texas roads. The next, you’re facing medical emergencies, insurance battles, and an uncertain future. This incident on FM 51 isn’t just another news story—it’s a stark reminder of the dangers we all face on Wise County roads and the importance of knowing your rights when tragedy strikes.

The Crash: What We Know

The collision happened on Farm Road 51 near County Road 2112, a stretch of road that many Decatur residents know well. According to reports:

• Time: Approximately 9:20 p.m. on February 21, 2026
• Location: FM 51 near County Road 2112, north of Decatur
• Vehicles Involved: A sedan and a pickup truck
• Collision Type: The sedan rear-ended the pickup truck
• Injuries:
• The sedan driver, a man, was taken to Medical City Decatur with serious injuries
• The pickup truck driver was also transported to Medical City Decatur and listed in stable condition
• Road Impact: FM 51 was closed for more than an hour following the collision
• Current Status: The collision remains under investigation

While details are still emerging, this much is clear: two Wise County residents are facing medical treatment, vehicle repairs, and the emotional toll of a sudden, violent collision. And if past cases are any indication, they’re also facing an uphill battle with insurance companies looking to minimize their claims.

The Dangers of FM 51 and Wise County Roads

FM 51 is a familiar route for Decatur residents, connecting rural communities to the city and serving as a vital corridor for local traffic. But like many Farm-to-Market roads in Texas, it presents unique challenges:

• Mixed Traffic: FM 51 sees a mix of local passenger vehicles, commercial trucks, agricultural equipment, and livestock trailers
• Limited Lighting: Rural stretches often lack adequate street lighting, making nighttime driving more hazardous
• Variable Speed Limits: Speed limits can change quickly from 70 mph to 55 mph or lower in populated areas
• Intersection Risks: County Road 2112 and other intersections along FM 51 can be dangerous, especially when drivers fail to yield or misjudge speeds
• Commercial Traffic: While not an interstate, FM 51 does see commercial truck traffic serving local businesses and agricultural operations

This collision occurred at night, when visibility is reduced and driver fatigue becomes a significant factor. The fact that it was a rear-end collision suggests several possible causes that our team investigates in every truck and vehicle accident case:

• Driver distraction (cell phone use, in-vehicle electronics, fatigue)
• Following too closely (tailgating)
• Speeding (especially for conditions)
• Brake failure (poor maintenance)
• Impaired driving (alcohol, drugs, or prescription medication)
• Sudden stops by the lead vehicle

Why Rear-End Collisions Are More Dangerous Than They Seem

Many people assume rear-end collisions are minor “fender benders.” But when a sedan strikes a pickup truck—especially at highway speeds—the physics tell a different story.

The Physics of Rear-End Collisions:

While this crash didn’t involve an 18-wheeler, the principle is the same: the striking vehicle’s energy transfers to the vehicle it hits. In this case, the sedan’s momentum was absorbed by the pickup truck, likely causing:

• Whiplash injuries to both drivers
• Spinal compression from the sudden force
• Head trauma if airbags deployed or if heads struck steering wheels/dashboards
• Internal injuries from seatbelt restraint
• Secondary collisions if the pickup truck was pushed into other vehicles or objects

The fact that the sedan driver suffered serious injuries while the pickup driver was listed in stable condition suggests the sedan driver may have been traveling at significant speed or failed to brake in time. This is precisely why we always demand black box data from vehicles involved in serious collisions.

The Investigation: What Happens Next

The collision remains under investigation, which means authorities are working to determine:

1. Who was at fault (liability)
2. Why the collision occurred (causation)
3. Whether any laws were violated (negligence)

In our experience handling hundreds of Texas vehicle collisions, investigations typically focus on:

1. Driver Actions

• Speed: Was either driver exceeding the speed limit or driving too fast for conditions?
• Distraction: Were cell phones, GPS devices, or other distractions involved?
• Impairment: Were drugs, alcohol, or fatigue factors?
• Following Distance: Was the sedan driver following too closely?
• Brake Usage: Did the sedan driver brake in time? Did the pickup driver make a sudden stop?

2. Vehicle Conditions

• Brake Systems: Were brakes properly maintained and functional?
• Lighting: Were all lights (headlights, brake lights, turn signals) working?
• Tires: Were tires properly inflated and within tread limits?
• Mechanical Issues: Were there any pre-existing mechanical problems?

3. Roadway Factors

• Visibility: Was darkness, fog, or other visibility issues a factor?
• Road Conditions: Were there potholes, debris, or other hazards?
• Signage: Were traffic signs, signals, or road markings adequate?
• Intersection Design: Is County Road 2112 known for visibility issues or confusing traffic patterns?

4. Environmental Conditions

• Weather: Was rain, fog, or other weather a factor?
• Lighting: Was the area properly lit for nighttime driving?
• Wildlife: Did animals on the roadway contribute to the collision?

The Legal Landscape: What Victims Need to Know

If you or a loved one were involved in this collision—or any vehicle accident in Wise County—here’s what you need to understand about your legal rights:

1. Texas Is a Comparative Negligence State

Texas follows a “modified comparative negligence” rule. This means:

• You can recover damages only if you are 50% or less at fault
• Your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault
• If you are more than 50% at fault, you cannot recover anything

Example: If the sedan driver is found 60% at fault and the pickup driver 40% at fault, the pickup driver cannot recover damages. If the fault split is 50/50, both can recover—but their damages are reduced by 50%.

This is why independent investigations are critical. Insurance companies will try to shift as much blame as possible onto you to reduce their payout. Our team fights to ensure fault is assigned fairly.

2. The Statute of Limitations Clock Is Ticking

In Texas, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This deadline is strict, and missing it means losing your right to compensation forever.

Important: The two-year clock starts ticking the day of the accident, not when you discover injuries or when you realize the insurance company is lowballing you.

3. Insurance Companies Are Not on Your Side

The pickup truck driver’s insurance company will likely contact them quickly—often within hours—with a settlement offer. This first offer is almost always a lowball. Insurance adjusters are trained to:

• Get you to admit fault (even partial fault)
• Downplay your injuries
• Pressure you to accept quick settlements
• Use your own words against you

Never give a recorded statement without consulting an attorney first. At Attorney911, we include Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney, on our team. He knows exactly how insurance companies evaluate claims and how to counter their tactics.

4. Multiple Parties May Be Liable

In vehicle collisions, multiple parties can share responsibility:

Our investigations don’t stop at the obvious. We dig deep to identify all responsible parties to maximize your recovery.

Common Injuries in Rear-End Collisions

Rear-end collisions often cause injuries that aren’t immediately apparent. The adrenaline and shock of the accident can mask symptoms for hours or even days. Common injuries include:

1. Whiplash and Neck Injuries

• What it is: Sudden back-and-forth motion of the head strains neck muscles and ligaments
• Symptoms: Neck pain, stiffness, headaches, dizziness, shoulder pain
• Delayed onset: Symptoms may not appear for 24-48 hours
• Long-term impact: Chronic pain, reduced range of motion, permanent disability

Texas Whiplash Statistics:
– Whiplash accounts for 65% of all injury claims from rear-end collisions
– Average settlement range: $15,000 – $60,000 (varies by severity)
– Severe cases with disc herniation: $346,000 – $1,205,000

2. Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

• What it is: Sudden impact causes the brain to collide with the skull
• Symptoms: Headaches, confusion, memory loss, mood changes, nausea, sensitivity to light/sound
• Delayed onset: Symptoms may develop over days or weeks
• Long-term impact: Cognitive impairment, personality changes, increased dementia risk

TBI in Texas:
– 1.7 million Americans suffer TBI annually
– 52,000 die from TBI each year
– 275,000 are hospitalized
– 80,000-90,000 experience long-term disability
– Settlement range: $1,548,000 – $9,838,000+ for moderate to severe TBI

3. Spinal Cord Injuries

• What it is: Damage to the spinal cord from compression or trauma
• Symptoms: Back pain, numbness, tingling, loss of sensation, paralysis
• Types:
• Paraplegia: Loss of function below the waist
• Quadriplegia: Loss of function in all four limbs
• Long-term impact: Permanent disability, lifelong medical care

Spinal Cord Injury Costs:
– First year costs: $347,000 – $1,064,000
– Lifetime costs: $1.5 million – $4.7 million
– Settlement range: $4,770,000 – $25,880,000+

4. Soft Tissue Injuries

• What it is: Damage to muscles, ligaments, and tendons
• Symptoms: Pain, swelling, bruising, limited mobility
• Common types: Sprains, strains, contusions
• Long-term impact: Chronic pain, arthritis, reduced mobility

5. Internal Injuries

• What it is: Damage to internal organs from blunt force trauma
• Symptoms: Abdominal pain, dizziness, fainting, internal bleeding
• Common injuries: Liver laceration, spleen rupture, kidney damage, internal bleeding
• Danger: Can be life-threatening if not treated immediately

6. Psychological Trauma

• What it is: Emotional and mental health impact of the collision
• Symptoms: PTSD, anxiety, depression, sleep disturbances, flashbacks
• Long-term impact: Reduced quality of life, inability to drive or work
• Compensation available: Pain and suffering, mental anguish, loss of enjoyment

PTSD After Car Accidents:
– 9% of accident victims develop PTSD
– 60% of people involved in serious crashes experience PTSD symptoms
– Settlement range: $50,000 – $500,000+ depending on severity

What to Do If You’re Involved in a Similar Collision

If you or a loved one are ever involved in a collision like the one on FM 51, follow these critical steps:

1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately

• Go to the ER or urgent care even if you feel fine
• Follow all treatment recommendations from doctors
• Document all symptoms and how they affect your daily life
• Keep all medical records and bills

Why this matters: Delaying treatment gives insurance companies ammunition to argue your injuries weren’t caused by the accident.

2. Document Everything at the Scene

If you’re able to do so safely:

• Call 911 and report the accident
• Take photos and videos of:
• All vehicles involved (exterior and interior damage)
• License plates
• Road conditions (skid marks, debris, potholes)
• Traffic signs and signals
• Your injuries
• The surrounding area
• Get contact information from:
• Other drivers
• Witnesses
• Responding officers
• Write down details while they’re fresh:
• Time, location, weather conditions
• What happened before, during, and after the collision
• Any statements made by other drivers

3. Do NOT Admit Fault

• Do not apologize or say “I’m sorry”
• Do not speculate about what happened
• Do not give recorded statements to insurance companies
• Stick to the facts when speaking to police

4. Contact an Experienced Vehicle Accident Attorney

Call Attorney911 immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911. Here’s what we’ll do for you:

✅ Send preservation letters to all parties demanding they preserve evidence (black box data, maintenance records, etc.)
✅ Investigate the collision using accident reconstruction experts
✅ Obtain critical evidence including:
– Police reports
– Witness statements
– Vehicle black box data
– Cell phone records
– Surveillance footage
– Maintenance and inspection records
✅ Handle all communications with insurance companies
✅ Calculate your full damages including:
– Medical expenses (past and future)
– Lost wages and earning capacity
– Pain and suffering
– Property damage
– Loss of enjoyment of life
✅ Negotiate aggressively for maximum compensation
✅ File a lawsuit if necessary to protect your rights

Critical Timing: Evidence disappears quickly. Black box data can be overwritten in 30 days. Dashcam footage is often deleted within 7-14 days. Witness memories fade. The sooner you call us, the stronger your case will be.

The Attorney911 Advantage: Why Choose Our Firm

At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for Texas accident victims for over 25 years. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has built a reputation for aggressive representation and multi-million dollar results. Here’s what sets us apart:

1. Ralph Manginello’s 25+ Years of Experience

Ralph Manginello has been practicing law since 1998, with a focus on personal injury and trucking litigation. His experience includes:

• Federal court admission to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
• Multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements for accident victims
• Extensive trial experience in complex personal injury cases
• Deep knowledge of FMCSA regulations and trucking industry practices

Ralph’s track record speaks for itself:

• $5+ Million – Logging brain injury settlement
• $3.8+ Million – Car accident amputation settlement
• $2.5+ Million – Truck crash recovery
• $2+ Million – Maritime back injury settlement
• Millions recovered for families in trucking-related wrongful death cases

2. Our Insurance Defense Insider

Our team includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney. This gives us a unique advantage:

• He knows how insurance companies evaluate claims from the inside
• He understands their settlement strategies and negotiation tactics
• He can anticipate their arguments before they make them
• He knows how to counter their lowball offers

This insider knowledge helps us maximize settlements and win at trial when insurance companies refuse to play fair.

3. We Handle Cases Other Firms Reject

Many large firms turn away “smaller” cases or those with disputed liability. At Attorney911:

• We take cases other firms reject
• We fight for every client regardless of case size
• We treat you like family, not a case number

Client Testimonial:

“One company said they would not accept my case. Then I got a call from Manginello… I got a call to come pick up this handsome check.”
— Donald Wilcox, Attorney911 Client

4. No Fee Unless We Win

We work on a contingency fee basis, which means:

• You pay nothing upfront
• We advance all case costs (investigation, experts, court fees)
• You only pay if we win your case
• Our fee comes from the settlement, not your pocket

This makes quality legal representation accessible to everyone, not just those who can afford expensive retainers.

5. We’re Trucking Accident Specialists

While we handle all types of personal injury cases, we specialize in trucking and commercial vehicle accidents. This specialization gives us:

• Deep knowledge of FMCSA regulations (49 CFR Parts 390-399)
• Experience with trucking industry defendants (Walmart, Amazon, Werner, J.B. Hunt, Swift, etc.)
• Access to trucking-specific experts (accident reconstruction, maintenance, hours-of-service)
• Understanding of trucking insurance policies and coverage limits

6. We Fight for Maximum Compensation

We don’t just settle for what the insurance company offers. We fight for every dollar you deserve, including:

Recent Trucking Verdicts Nationwide:
– $462 Million (2024, Missouri) – Underride collision with two fatalities
– $160 Million (2024, Alabama) – Rollover left driver quadriplegic
– $141.5 Million (2023, Florida) – Defunct carrier crash
– $730 Million (2021, Texas) – Oversize load killed 73-year-old woman

While every case is unique, these verdicts show what’s possible when trucking companies are held fully accountable.

The Investigation Process: How We Build Your Case

When you hire Attorney911, we launch a comprehensive investigation to build the strongest possible case. Here’s what that process looks like:

Phase 1: Immediate Response (0-72 Hours)

• Accept your case and send preservation letters same day
• Deploy accident reconstruction expert to the scene if needed
• Obtain police crash report
• Photograph your injuries with medical documentation
• Photograph all vehicles before they are repaired or scrapped
• Identify all potentially liable parties

Phase 2: Evidence Gathering (Days 1-30)

• Subpoena black box/ECM data from all vehicles
• Request driver’s paper log books (backup documentation)
• Obtain complete Driver Qualification File from carrier
• Request all truck maintenance and inspection records
• Obtain carrier’s CSA safety scores and inspection history
• Order driver’s complete Motor Vehicle Record (MVR)
• Subpoena driver’s cell phone records
• Obtain dispatch records and delivery schedules
• Secure surveillance footage from nearby businesses
• Interview witnesses before memories fade

Phase 3: Expert Analysis

• Accident reconstruction specialist creates crash analysis
• Medical experts establish causation and future care needs
• Vocational experts calculate lost earning capacity
• Economic experts determine present value of all damages
• Life care planners develop comprehensive care plans for catastrophic injuries
• FMCSA regulation experts identify all violations

Phase 4: Litigation Strategy

• File lawsuit before statute of limitations expires
• Pursue aggressive discovery against all potentially liable parties
• Depose truck driver, dispatcher, safety manager, maintenance personnel
• Build case for trial while negotiating settlement from position of strength
• Prepare every case as if going to trial (creates leverage in negotiations)

Common Trucking Industry Violations We Investigate

In cases involving commercial vehicles, we always investigate for FMCSA violations. Common violations that cause accidents include:

1. Hours of Service (HOS) Violations

FMCSA Regulations (49 CFR Part 395):
– 11-hour driving limit after 10 consecutive hours off duty
– 14-hour on-duty window (cannot drive beyond 14th consecutive hour)
– 30-minute break required after 8 cumulative hours of driving
– 60/70-hour weekly limit (60 hours in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days)
– 34-hour restart required after hitting weekly limits

Why it matters: Fatigued driving causes 31% of fatal truck crashes. Drivers who violate HOS regulations are too tired to react safely.

2. False Log Entries

FMCSA Regulation: 49 CFR § 395.8 (ELD Mandate)

What we look for:
– Paper logs that don’t match ELD data
– Edited or altered ELD records
– “Off duty” time that was actually driving time
– Multiple drivers using the same log book

Why it matters: Falsifying logs is evidence of intentional negligence and can support punitive damages.

3. Brake System Deficiencies

FMCSA Regulations (49 CFR Part 393):
– § 393.40-55 – Brake system requirements
– § 396.3 – Systematic inspection and maintenance
– § 396.11 – Driver post-trip report of brake condition

Common violations:
– Worn brake pads or shoes
– Improper brake adjustment
– Air brake system leaks
– Contaminated brake fluid
– Defective brake components

Why it matters: Brake problems are a factor in 29% of large truck crashes.

4. Cargo Securement Failures

FMCSA Regulations (49 CFR § 393.100-136):
– Cargo must be contained, immobilized, or secured
– Must withstand 0.8g deceleration forward, 0.5g rearward and lateral
– Aggregate working load limit must be at least 50% of cargo weight
– Specific requirements for different cargo types

Why it matters: Improperly secured cargo causes rollover accidents and road debris hazards.

5. Unqualified Drivers

FMCSA Regulations (49 CFR Part 391):
– § 391.11 – Minimum driver qualifications
– § 391.21 – Employment application requirements
– § 391.41 – Physical qualification standards
– § 391.51 – Driver Qualification File requirements

Common violations:
– No valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)
– Expired or invalid medical certificate
– Disqualifying medical conditions
– No background check
– No previous employer verification

Why it matters: Hiring unqualified drivers is negligent hiring—a separate basis for liability.

6. Drug and Alcohol Violations

FMCSA Regulations (49 CFR Part 382):
– § 382.201 – Prohibition on drug use
– § 382.205 – Prohibition on alcohol use
– § 382.301 – Pre-employment testing
– § 382.303 – Random testing
– § 382.305 – Post-accident testing

Why it matters: Drivers under the influence are 2.5 times more likely to be involved in fatal crashes.

7. Mobile Phone Use

FMCSA Regulations:
– 49 CFR § 392.82 – Prohibition on hand-held mobile phone use
– 49 CFR § 392.80 – Prohibition on texting while driving

Why it matters: Texting while driving increases crash risk by 23 times.

The Settlement Process: What to Expect

Most vehicle accident cases settle before trial, but the process can take time. Here’s what to expect:

1. Initial Demand Letter

• We calculate your full damages (medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering)
• We send a comprehensive demand package to the insurance company
• The insurance company reviews and responds with an offer

2. Negotiation Phase

• We negotiate aggressively for maximum compensation
• We reject lowball offers and counter with evidence-based demands
• We prepare for trial to create leverage in negotiations

3. Mediation (If Needed)

• A neutral mediator helps facilitate settlement discussions
• Both sides present their positions
• The mediator helps find common ground
• Most cases settle at mediation

Mediation Insight from Peter Taaffe (Mediator):

“Mediation is about finding a resolution both sides can live with. It’s less formal than court, often faster, and gives you more control over the outcome.”

4. Trial (If Necessary)

• If settlement negotiations fail, we file a lawsuit
• We present your case to a jury
• The jury determines liability and damages
• We fight for maximum compensation

Important: We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This preparation creates leverage in negotiations and ensures we’re ready if the case does go to court.

Case Timeline: How Long Will Your Case Take?

Every case is unique, but here are general timelines:

Factors that can delay your case:
– Ongoing medical treatment
– Disputed liability
– Multiple defendants
– Insurance company delays
– Court backlogs

Factors that can speed up your case:
– Clear liability
– Complete medical records
– Cooperative insurance company
– Willingness to accept reasonable settlement

What Your Case Might Be Worth

Case values depend on many factors, including:

• Severity of injuries
• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost wages and earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Degree of defendant’s negligence
• Insurance coverage available

Texas Personal Injury Settlement Ranges:

Important: These are ranges, not guarantees. Every case is unique. Our job is to maximize your recovery based on the specific facts of your case.

The Dangers of Going It Alone

After a collision, many people try to handle their claim without an attorney. This is almost always a mistake. Here’s why:

1. Insurance Companies Have Teams of Lawyers

The moment you’re in an accident, the insurance company activates their rapid response team to:

• Minimize your claim
• Shift blame onto you
• Pressure you to accept lowball offers
• Use your words against you

Insurance Adjuster Tactics:
– Quick settlement offers before you know the full extent of your injuries
– Recorded statements used to twist your words
– Delay tactics to pressure you into accepting less
– Denying or minimizing injuries to reduce payouts
– Blaming the victim to reduce their liability

2. You Don’t Know What Your Case Is Really Worth

Without experience, it’s impossible to know:

• The full value of your medical expenses (including future care)
• The impact on your earning capacity
• The value of your pain and suffering
• The potential for punitive damages

Client Testimonial:

“They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.”
— Glenda Walker, Attorney911 Client

3. You Don’t Know the Law

Personal injury law is complex. Key legal concepts include:

• Negligence: The legal standard for fault
• Comparative Negligence: How shared fault affects your recovery
• Statute of Limitations: The deadline to file your claim
• Damages: What you can recover
• Evidence Rules: What can be used in court

4. You Don’t Know How to Gather Evidence

Critical evidence disappears quickly:

• Black box data (overwritten in 30 days)
• Dashcam footage (deleted in 7-14 days)
• Witness memories (fade over time)
• Physical evidence (vehicles repaired or scrapped)

Our Advantage: We send spoliation letters immediately to preserve evidence before it’s lost.

5. You Don’t Know How to Negotiate with Insurance Companies

Insurance adjusters are trained negotiators. They know:

• How to lowball your claim
• How to pressure you into accepting less
• How to delay until you’re desperate
• How to use your words against you

Our Advantage: We include Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney, on our team. He knows all their tactics and how to counter them.

What to Do If You’ve Been Injured in a Vehicle Collision

If you or a loved one were injured in the FM 51 collision—or any vehicle accident in Wise County—here’s what to do right now:

1. Call Attorney911 Immediately

1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)

We answer calls 24/7 and offer free consultations. The sooner you call, the stronger your case will be.

2. Don’t Talk to Insurance Companies

• Do not give recorded statements
• Do not sign anything without legal review
• Do not accept settlement offers without consulting us
• Refer all calls to your attorney

3. Follow Your Doctor’s Orders

• Attend all medical appointments
• Follow all treatment recommendations
• Keep all medical records and bills
• Document how your injuries affect your daily life

4. Document Everything

• Keep a pain journal (daily symptoms, limitations)
• Save all medical records (bills, reports, prescriptions)
• Track missed work and lost wages
• Document property damage (vehicle repairs, personal items)

5. Let Us Handle the Rest

We’ll take care of:
✅ Investigating your collision
✅ Gathering critical evidence
✅ Dealing with insurance companies
✅ Calculating your full damages
✅ Negotiating for maximum compensation
✅ Filing a lawsuit if necessary

The Attorney911 Promise

When you hire Attorney911, you’re not just getting a lawyer—you’re getting a team of fighters who will stand by your side every step of the way.

Our Promise to You:

✔ We treat you like family – You’re not a case number to us
✔ We fight for maximum compensation – Every dollar you deserve
✔ We handle the legal battle – So you can focus on healing
✔ We work on contingency – You pay nothing unless we win
✔ We answer your calls – 24/7 availability
✔ We keep you informed – Regular updates on your case

Client Testimonial:

“You are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.”
— Chad Harris, Attorney911 Client

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much does it cost to hire Attorney911?

Nothing upfront. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means:
– You pay no attorney fees unless we win your case
– We advance all case costs (investigation, experts, court fees)
– Our fee comes from the settlement, not your pocket
– If we don’t win, you owe nothing

2. How long do I have to file a claim?

In Texas, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This deadline is strict, and missing it means losing your right to compensation forever.

Important: The two-year clock starts ticking the day of the accident, not when you discover injuries or when the insurance company lowballs you.

3. What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Texas follows a “modified comparative negligence” rule. This means:
– You can recover damages only if you are 50% or less at fault
– Your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault
– If you are more than 50% at fault, you cannot recover anything

Example: If you’re found 30% at fault, you can recover 70% of your damages.

4. What if the other driver doesn’t have insurance?

If the at-fault driver doesn’t have insurance, you may still recover through:
– Your own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage
– A personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault driver
– Other liable parties (vehicle manufacturer, maintenance company, etc.)

Important: UM/UIM coverage is optional in Texas. If you don’t have it, recovering damages can be difficult.

5. What if I don’t feel injured right after the accident?

Many injuries don’t show symptoms immediately. Adrenaline and shock can mask pain for hours or days. Common delayed-onset injuries include:

• Whiplash (symptoms may take 24-48 hours to appear)
• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) (symptoms may develop over days or weeks)
• Internal bleeding (can be life-threatening if not treated)
• Spinal injuries (may not cause immediate pain)
• Soft tissue injuries (pain and stiffness may develop over time)

Always seek medical attention immediately after an accident, even if you feel fine.

6. Should I accept the insurance company’s first offer?

Almost never. The first offer is almost always a lowball designed to:
– Get you to settle quickly
– Pay you far less than your case is worth
– Close your claim before you understand the full extent of your injuries

Always consult an attorney before accepting any settlement offer.

7. What if the insurance company denies my claim?

Insurance companies deny claims for many reasons:
– Disputed liability (they claim you were at fault)
– Policy exclusions (they claim your injuries aren’t covered)
– Late reporting (you didn’t report the accident quickly enough)
– Pre-existing conditions (they claim your injuries existed before the accident)

If your claim is denied, call us immediately. We can:
– Appeal the denial with additional evidence
– File a lawsuit to force the insurance company to pay
– Sue for bad faith if the denial was unreasonable

8. Can I still recover if I didn’t go to the hospital immediately?

Yes, but it’s more difficult. Delaying medical treatment gives insurance companies ammunition to argue:
– Your injuries weren’t caused by the accident
– Your injuries aren’t as serious as you claim
– You made your injuries worse by delaying treatment

Always seek medical attention immediately after an accident.

9. What if I can’t afford medical treatment?

We can help you get the medical care you need through:
– Letters of Protection (LOP) – We connect you with doctors who will treat you now and get paid from your settlement
– Health insurance – If you have it, we’ll help you use it
– Medicaid or Medicare – If you qualify
– Payment plans – We’ll negotiate with medical providers

Never delay treatment because of cost. Your health comes first.

10. How long will my case take?

Every case is unique, but here are general timelines:

Factors that can delay your case:
– Ongoing medical treatment
– Disputed liability
– Multiple defendants
– Insurance company delays
– Court backlogs

Factors that can speed up your case:
– Clear liability
– Complete medical records
– Cooperative insurance company
– Willingness to accept reasonable settlement

The Bottom Line: You Deserve Justice

The collision on FM 51 near County Road 2112 is more than just a news story—it’s a life-changing event for the two drivers involved. One moment, they were driving home on familiar Wise County roads. The next, they were facing medical emergencies, insurance battles, and an uncertain future.

If you or a loved one find yourselves in a similar situation, remember:

✅ You have rights – The law protects accident victims
✅ You deserve compensation – For your injuries, lost wages, and pain
✅ You don’t have to fight alone – We’re here to help
✅ Time is critical – Evidence disappears quickly

At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for Texas accident victims for over 25 years. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has built a reputation for aggressive representation and multi-million dollar results. Our team includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how insurance companies try to minimize claims.

We don’t just settle for what the insurance company offers. We fight for every dollar you deserve.

Take Action Now: Your Future Depends on It

Every hour you wait, evidence in your case is disappearing. Black box data can be overwritten. Dashcam footage gets deleted. Witness memories fade. The trucking company’s rapid response team is already working to protect their interests—not yours.

Don’t let them win by default.

Call Attorney911 Now: 1-888-ATTY-911

We answer calls 24/7 and offer free consultations. Here’s what happens when you call:

1. We listen to your story – No pressure, no obligation
2. We evaluate your case – Based on 25+ years of experience
3. We explain your options – In plain English, not legal jargon
4. We take action immediately – Sending preservation letters to protect evidence
5. We fight for you – While you focus on healing

Remember: The insurance company has lawyers working right now to protect them. You deserve the same level of representation.

Or Contact Us Online:

📧 ralph@atty911.com
🌐 https://attorney911.com

Hablamos Español. Lupe Peña y nuestro equipo están listos para ayudarle.

Your Next Step: Call Now Before It’s Too Late

The collision on FM 51 is a wake-up call for all Wise County drivers. The roads we travel every day can turn dangerous in an instant. When that happens, you need someone in your corner who knows how to fight back.

Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911.

We’re ready to fight for you.

Attorney911 – Fighting for Texas Accident Victims Since 1998

📍 Serving Decatur, Wise County, and all of Texas
📞 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
📧 ralph@atty911.com | lupe@atty911.com
🌐 https://attorney911.com

Hablamos Español. Llame al 1-888-ATTY-911.