Car Accident Lawyers in the Village of Buffalo Springs, Texas

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in the Village of Buffalo Springs, Texas, you’re not alone. With a crash occurring every 57 seconds in Texas, car accidents are an unfortunate reality on our roads. At Attorney911, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll these accidents can take. With over 25 years of experience fighting for accident victims across Texas, our team is here to help you navigate this challenging time and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Why Car Accidents Happen in the Village of Buffalo Springs

The Village of Buffalo Springs, like many communities in Lubbock County, sees its share of car accidents. Whether you’re traveling on local roads or nearby highways, understanding the common causes can help you stay safe and know your rights if an accident occurs.

Common Causes of Car Accidents

1. Distracted Driving: With 380 deaths in Texas attributed to distracted driving in 2024, this remains a leading cause of accidents. Texting, eating, or adjusting the radio can take your attention off the road for critical seconds.

2. Speeding: Excessive speed reduces reaction time and increases the severity of crashes. In the Village of Buffalo Springs, where local roads may have lower speed limits than highways, speeding can be particularly dangerous.

3. Failure to Yield: Many accidents at intersections occur when drivers fail to yield the right of way, especially when turning left or entering traffic.

4. Running Red Lights and Stop Signs: Disregarding traffic signals is a common cause of T-bone collisions, which can result in severe injuries.

5. Following Too Closely: Tailgating reduces the time you have to react to sudden stops, increasing the risk of rear-end collisions.

6. Driving Under the Influence (DUI): With 1,053 alcohol-impaired driving deaths in Texas in 2024, DUI remains a significant problem. These accidents are entirely preventable and often result in severe injuries or fatalities.

7. Weather Conditions: While the Village of Buffalo Springs may not experience extreme weather as frequently as other parts of Texas, rain, fog, and occasional ice can create hazardous driving conditions.

8. Fatigue: Drowsy driving can be as dangerous as drunk driving, impairing reaction time and decision-making.

Common Injuries from Car Accidents

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

• Whiplash and Soft Tissue Injuries: These are common in rear-end collisions and can cause significant pain and limited mobility.
• Herniated Discs: The force of a collision can damage the discs in your spine, leading to chronic pain and requiring extensive treatment.
• Broken Bones and Fractures: Arms, legs, ribs, and other bones can be broken in a crash, often requiring surgery and long recovery periods.
• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Even a mild TBI can have long-lasting effects on cognitive function, memory, and mood.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: These can result in partial or complete paralysis, dramatically altering your life.
• Internal Organ Damage: Internal bleeding and organ damage may not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening.
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Many accident victims experience anxiety, depression, and PTSD symptoms long after the physical injuries have healed.

Why You Need an Experienced Car Accident Lawyer

After a car accident, you may be dealing with physical pain, emotional distress, and financial stress from medical bills and lost wages. Insurance companies often take advantage of this vulnerable time to minimize your claim. That’s where Attorney911 comes in.

Insurance Company Tactics

Insurance companies are in the business of making money, not paying out claims. They use several tactics to reduce or deny your claim:

1. Quick Settlement Offers: Within days of your accident, you may receive a lowball settlement offer. These offers are often far below what your case is truly worth and are designed to take advantage of your financial desperation.

2. Recorded Statements: Insurance adjusters may ask you to give a recorded statement about the accident. They use leading questions to get you to say things that can be used against you later.

3. Independent Medical Exams (IMEs): The insurance company may require you to see a doctor of their choosing. These doctors are often biased and may downplay your injuries.

4. Surveillance: Insurance companies may hire private investigators to follow you and record your activities, looking for any evidence that contradicts your injury claims.

5. Delay Tactics: Insurance companies may drag out the claims process, hoping you’ll become desperate and accept a lower settlement.

6. Comparative Fault Arguments: Texas uses a modified comparative negligence rule, which means if you’re found to be 51% or more at fault for the accident, you can’t recover any compensation. Insurance companies often try to shift blame onto you to reduce their payout.

How Attorney911 Protects Your Rights

At Attorney911, we have a unique advantage in fighting insurance companies: our team includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney. Lupe spent years working for insurance companies, learning their tactics from the inside. Now, he uses that knowledge to fight for accident victims like you.

Here’s how we protect your rights:

1. Immediate Action: We act quickly to preserve evidence before it’s lost or destroyed. This includes sending preservation letters to businesses near the accident scene to secure surveillance footage before it’s deleted.

2. Thorough Investigation: We gather all available evidence, including police reports, witness statements, medical records, and electronic data from vehicles.

3. Medical Coordination: We help you get the medical treatment you need and ensure your medical records accurately reflect your injuries.

4. Insurance Negotiation: We handle all communication with insurance companies, so you don’t have to deal with their tactics. We know how to counter their arguments and fight for a fair settlement.

5. Trial Preparation: We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This approach gives us leverage in negotiations and ensures we’re ready to take your case to court if necessary.

Our Results Speak for Themselves

At Attorney911, we have a proven track record of success in car accident cases. Here are just a few examples of our results:

“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.”

This case demonstrates our commitment to fighting for our clients, even when complications arise. We understand that injuries can worsen over time, and we ensure our clients receive compensation for all their damages, not just the initial injuries.

Our clients consistently praise our dedication and results:

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

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

What to Do After a Car Accident in the Village of Buffalo Springs

If you’ve been in a car accident, taking the right steps immediately can protect your health and your legal rights. Here’s what to do:

At the Scene

1. Check for Injuries: First, check yourself and others for injuries. Call 911 if anyone is hurt.

2. Move to Safety: If possible, move your vehicle to a safe location to avoid further accidents.

3. Call the Police: Even for minor accidents, a police report is crucial evidence. In Texas, you’re required to report accidents that result in injury, death, or property damage over $1,000.

4. Exchange Information: Get the other driver’s name, contact information, driver’s license number, license plate number, and insurance information.

5. Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, injuries, and road conditions. This evidence can be crucial later.

6. Talk to Witnesses: If there are witnesses, get their names and contact information.

7. Don’t Admit Fault: Be careful what you say at the scene. Even a simple “I’m sorry” can be used against you later.

After the Accident

1. Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, see a doctor as soon as possible. Some injuries, like whiplash or traumatic brain injuries, may not show symptoms immediately.

2. Notify Your Insurance Company: Report the accident to your insurance company, but be careful what you say. Don’t give a recorded statement without consulting an attorney.

3. Don’t Sign Anything: Insurance companies may try to get you to sign a release or accept a settlement. Don’t sign anything without consulting an attorney.

4. Keep Records: Keep track of all medical bills, repair estimates, and other expenses related to the accident.

5. Call Attorney911: Contact us as soon as possible. The sooner we can start working on your case, the better we can protect your rights.

How We Handle Your Car Accident Case

At Attorney911, we handle every car accident case with the same level of dedication and expertise. Here’s what you can expect when you work with us:

1. Free Consultation: We offer a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your case. We’ll review the details of your accident and explain your legal options.

2. Case Investigation: We’ll conduct a thorough investigation of your accident, gathering evidence to support your claim.

3. Medical Coordination: We’ll help you get the medical treatment you need and ensure your medical records accurately reflect your injuries.

4. Insurance Negotiation: We’ll handle all communication with insurance companies, fighting for a fair settlement on your behalf.

5. Lawsuit Filing: If we can’t reach a fair settlement, we’re prepared to file a lawsuit and take your case to trial.

6. Settlement or Trial: We’ll continue to negotiate with the insurance company. If we can’t reach a fair settlement, we’ll present your case to a jury.

Throughout this process, we’ll keep you informed and involved. As client Dame Haskett said:

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

Understanding Texas Car Accident Laws

Texas has specific laws that affect car accident cases. Understanding these laws can help you know your rights and what to expect.

Statute of Limitations

In Texas, you have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This is known as the statute of limitations. If you don’t file your lawsuit within this time frame, you may lose your right to compensation.

There are some exceptions to this rule, such as when the injured person is a minor or when the injury wasn’t discovered immediately. However, these exceptions are rare, and it’s always best to act quickly.

Comparative Negligence

Texas uses a modified comparative negligence rule. This means that if you’re found to be partially at fault for the accident, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. However, if you’re found to be 51% or more at fault, you can’t recover any compensation.

For example:

• If you’re found to be 20% at fault for an accident with $100,000 in damages, you can recover $80,000.
• If you’re found to be 51% at fault, you can’t recover any compensation.

Insurance companies often try to shift blame onto accident victims to reduce their payout. That’s why it’s crucial to have an experienced attorney on your side who can fight these arguments.

Minimum Insurance Requirements

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 per accident

However, many drivers carry only the minimum coverage, which may not be enough to cover your damages in a serious accident. That’s why it’s important to have uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage on your own policy.

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage

UM/UIM coverage protects you if you’re in an accident with a driver who doesn’t have insurance or doesn’t have enough insurance to cover your damages. In Texas, you can “stack” UM/UIM coverage from multiple policies, increasing your potential recovery.

We’ve helped many clients recover compensation through UM/UIM claims, including hit-and-run accidents where the at-fault driver couldn’t be identified.

Types of Compensation You May Be Entitled To

If you’ve been injured in a car accident, you may be entitled to several types of compensation, including:

Economic Damages

These are quantifiable financial losses, such as:

• Medical Expenses: Past and future medical bills related to your accident injuries.
• Lost Wages: Income you’ve lost due to time off work for recovery.
• Lost Earning Capacity: If your injuries prevent you from returning to your previous job or reduce your ability to earn income in the future.
• Property Damage: The cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle and other damaged property.
• Out-of-Pocket Expenses: Other expenses related to your accident, such as transportation to medical appointments or home modifications.

Non-Economic Damages

These are intangible losses that don’t have a specific dollar value, such as:

• Pain and Suffering: Physical pain and discomfort from your injuries.
• Mental Anguish: Emotional distress, anxiety, depression, or PTSD related to the accident.
• Physical Impairment: Loss of physical function or disability.
• Disfigurement: Scarring or other permanent changes to your appearance.
• Loss of Consortium: The impact of your injuries on your relationship with your spouse.
• Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Inability to participate in activities you previously enjoyed.

Punitive Damages

In rare cases, you may be entitled to punitive damages. These are designed to punish the at-fault party for particularly egregious conduct, such as drunk driving. Punitive damages are capped in Texas at the greater of $200,000 or two times the amount of economic damages plus an amount equal to non-economic damages (up to $750,000).

How Much Is My Car Accident Case Worth?

The value of your car accident case depends on several factors, including:

1. Severity of Your Injuries: More severe injuries typically result in higher compensation.
2. Medical Expenses: Higher medical bills generally lead to higher settlements.
3. Lost Wages: If you’ve missed work due to your injuries, you may be compensated for lost income.
4. Permanent Disability or Disfigurement: If your injuries result in permanent disability or disfigurement, your case may be worth more.
5. Pain and Suffering: The more pain and suffering you’ve experienced, the higher your potential compensation.
6. Comparative Negligence: If you’re found to be partially at fault, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
7. Insurance Coverage: The amount of insurance coverage available can limit your potential recovery.

At Attorney911, we have the experience to accurately value your case and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve. As client Kiimarii Yup shared:

“I lost everything… my car was at a total loss and because of Attorney Manginello and my case worker Leonor… 1 year later I have gained so much in return plus a brand new truck.”

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Car Accident Case

With so many law firms to choose from, why should you trust Attorney911 with your car accident case? Here are just a few reasons:

1. Insurance Defense Insider

Our firm includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney. Lupe spent years working for insurance companies, learning their tactics from the inside. Now, he uses that knowledge to fight for accident victims like you.

“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 in negotiating with insurance companies and fighting for maximum compensation.

2. Proven Results

At Attorney911, we have a proven track record of success in car accident cases. We’ve recovered millions of dollars for our clients, including:

• Multi-million dollar settlements for catastrophic injuries
• Significant recoveries for clients with herniated discs, broken bones, and other serious injuries
• Compensation for clients who were initially denied by insurance companies

As client Donald Wilcox shared:

“One company said they would not except my case. Then I got a call from Manginello…I got a call to come pick up this handsome check.”

3. Federal Court Experience

Ralph Manginello is admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas. This federal court experience allows us to handle complex cases that other firms may not be equipped to handle, including cases involving federal regulations or out-of-state defendants.

4. Personal Attention

At Attorney911, you’re not just another case. You’ll work directly with Ralph Manginello or Lupe Peña, not a case manager or paralegal. We believe in providing personal attention to every client.

As client Chad Harris said:

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

5. Contingency Fee – No Risk to You

We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing unless we win your case. There are no upfront costs or hidden fees. If we don’t recover compensation for you, you owe us nothing.

6. Bilingual Services

We offer bilingual services to serve the diverse community in the Village of Buffalo Springs and surrounding areas. Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish, and we have staff members who can assist Spanish-speaking clients.

As client Celia Dominguez shared:

“Especially Miss Zulema, who is always very kind and always translates.”

Frequently Asked Questions About Car Accidents in the Village of Buffalo Springs

What should I do immediately after a car accident in the Village of Buffalo Springs?

If you’ve been in a car accident in the Village of Buffalo Springs:

1. Call 911 and report the accident.
2. Seek medical attention, even if you feel fine.
3. Document everything: take photos of the scene, vehicle damage, and injuries.
4. Exchange information with the other driver.
5. Get witness names and contact information.
6. Do NOT give a recorded statement to any insurance company.
7. Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate legal guidance.

Should I call the police even for a minor accident?

Yes, you should always call the police after an accident. A police report is crucial evidence for your claim. In Texas, you’re required to 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, such as traumatic brain injuries or internal bleeding, may not show symptoms immediately. Adrenaline can mask pain at the scene. Insurance companies use delays in treatment against you, so it’s important to get checked out right away.

What information should I collect at the scene?

Collect the following information:

• Other driver: name, phone number, address, driver’s license number, insurance information
• Vehicle: make, model, color, license plate number
• 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?

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

How do I obtain a copy of the accident report?

In the Village of Buffalo Springs, 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 or discuss injuries or fault.

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

No. Their estimate is just an offer, and it’s usually far below what your case is truly 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 when the other driver has no insurance or insufficient insurance. We can help you navigate this complex process.

Why does insurance want me to sign a medical authorization?

They want unlimited access to your entire medical history to find pre-existing conditions to use against you. Never sign anything without 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

When should I hire a car accident lawyer?

Immediately. Evidence disappears daily, and insurance companies start building their defense against you from day one. Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 as soon as possible.

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

In Texas, you have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. If you don’t file within this time frame, you may lose your right to compensation.

What is comparative negligence, and how does it affect me?

Texas uses a modified comparative negligence rule. If you’re found to be 50% or less at fault, you can recover damages (reduced by your percentage of fault). If you’re found to be 51% or more at fault, you can’t recover any compensation.

Will my case go to trial?

Most cases settle before trial. However, Attorney911 prepares every case as if it’s going to trial. This approach gives us leverage in negotiations and ensures we’re ready to take your case to court if necessary.

How long will my case take to settle?

The timeline depends on the severity of your injuries. We don’t settle until you’ve reached maximum medical improvement (MMI), which could be 6 months for minor injuries or 18-24 months for serious injuries.

What is the legal process step-by-step?

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

What is my case worth?

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

What types of damages can I recover?

You may be entitled to:

• 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 damages (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 known as the “eggshell plaintiff” rule.

Will I have to pay taxes on my settlement?

Generally, compensation for physical injuries is not taxable. Punitive damages are taxable. Consult a tax professional for specific advice.

How is the value of my claim determined?

The value is determined based on:

• Medical bills
• Future treatment costs
• Lost income
• Permanent impairment rating
• Comparable verdicts
• Severity of injuries
• Impact on daily life

How much do car accident lawyers cost?

Attorney911 works on a contingency fee basis: 33.33% before trial, 40% if the case goes to trial. You pay nothing upfront, and we don’t get paid unless we win your case.

What does “no fee unless we win” mean?

You pay zero unless we recover money for you. If we don’t win, you owe us nothing. We advance all case costs.

How often will I get updates on my case?

Attorney911 provides regular updates. As client Dame Haskett said:

“Consistent communication and not one time did I call and not get a clear answer.”

Who will actually handle my case?

At Attorney911, you’ll work directly with Ralph Manginello or Lupe Peña, not just paralegals. As client Chad Harris said:

“You are NOT just some client…You are FAMILY to them.”

What if I already hired another attorney?

You can switch attorneys at any time. Attorney911 has taken over many cases from other attorneys. As client Greg Garcia shared:

“In the beginning I had another attorney but he dropped my case although Mangiello law firm were able to help me out.”

What if I was hit by a government vehicle (city bus, police car, etc.)?

Government claims have special rules. You must file notice within 6 months (much shorter than the 2-year statute of limitations). Sovereign immunity protects government entities, and damage caps may apply. These cases are complex, and you need an experienced attorney.

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

File a police report immediately. Your Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage applies in hit-and-run cases. Surveillance footage is critical, as most footage is deleted within 7-30 days. We send preservation letters immediately to secure this evidence.

What if I’m an undocumented immigrant—can I still file a claim?

Yes. Your immigration status does not affect your right to compensation for injuries. You’re entitled to full recovery regardless of immigration status. Your case is confidential, and we’ve successfully represented clients of all immigration statuses. Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish.

What if the accident happened in a parking lot?

Parking lot accidents are fully compensable. Insurance companies often 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.

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, and the driver’s insurance covers passengers. No comparative fault issues apply to you.

What if the other driver died in the accident?

You can still pursue a claim against the deceased driver’s estate and insurance. The death doesn’t eliminate liability, and the insurance policy still applies. These cases can be emotionally complex but are legally straightforward.

Contact Attorney911 Today

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in the Village of Buffalo Springs, don’t wait to get the help you need. Evidence disappears daily, and the insurance company is already building its case against you.

At Attorney911, we’re here to fight for your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve. With our unique insurance defense insider advantage, proven track record of success, and commitment to personal attention, we’re the obvious choice for car accident victims in the Village of Buffalo Springs and surrounding areas.

Call us today at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free, no-obligation consultation. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing unless we win your case. Don’t face this alone—let Attorney911 be your legal emergency response team.

Attorney911 | The Manginello Law Firm
1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
https://attorney911.com

Se habla español. Hablamos con Zulema y Lupe Peña para clientes hispanohablantes.