Mississippi Drunk Driving Accident Attorneys

Fighting For Drunk Driving Accident Victims 

If you’ve been injured in an accident involving a drunk driver, you’re likely experiencing a mix of emotions: anger, frustration, pain, and confusion. You want justice as you heal, and you need someone on your side who understands your situation. The auto accident attorneys at Stroud, Flechas & Dalton understand your circumstances and will fight for your rights as a driver and citizen, helping you to focus on healing.

Call us today at (662) 371-6580 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our Mississippi drunk driving accident lawyer.

Drunk Driving Accident Statistics

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), of the 989 traffic fatalities in the State of Tennessee in 2009, 303 were related to alcohol-impaired driving. In Mississippi, out of 700 traffic fatalities, 234 were as a result of drunk drivers. These figures are staggering, especially in light of the fact that these deaths could easily have been avoided had the responsible party simply obeyed the law or designated someone who was sober to drive.

Both Mississippi and Tennessee law provide that if an individual negligently operates a vehicle under the influence of alcohol and he/she is involved in a traffic accident with injuries, the responsible party can be held liable criminally, as well as civilly. In other words, the person is not only charged with a crime, he/she is also accountable to pay the injured party damages for the harm caused.

In addition, the law allows for the awarding of punitive damages against the drunk driver responsible for causing the injury. These damages are meant to punish the wrongdoer and deter this type of conduct in the community as a whole.

Common Injuries in Drunk Driving Accidents

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI): Head trauma can lead to memory loss, cognitive difficulties, and permanent disability.
• Spinal cord injuries and paralysis: Harm to the spinal cord can cause partial or full loss of movement and sensation.
• Broken or fractured bones: High-impact collisions often result in multiple fractures that require surgery and lengthy rehabilitation.
• Internal bleeding and organ damage: Internal injuries could not be immediately noticeable but could be life-threatening if untreated.
• Whiplash and other neck or back injuries: Even seemingly minor collisions can cause severe soft tissue damage and chronic pain.
• Burn injuries and disfigurement: Fires or explosions following a crash can leave victims with permanent scars and emotional trauma.
• Amputations and crush injuries: Serious crashes can result in the loss of limbs or significant mobility issues.
• Severe lacerations and contusions: Broken glass and debris can cause deep cuts, leading to infection or permanent scarring.
• Emotional trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD): Psychological injuries are common and can affect every aspect of a victim’s life.

FAQs

What to do after a drunk driving accident?

After a drunk driving crash, what you do in the minutes and days that follow can make a real difference to your financial recovery in Mississippi. Check for injuries and safety first, then call law enforcement and report the accident. Mississippi police officers who respond will investigate and can perform sobriety tests if they believe alcohol played a role. Request a copy of the police report, as this document often becomes important evidence in your case.

Seek medical attention for any injuries, even those that seem minor at first. Some symptoms can appear hours or days later, so prompt documentation by healthcare professionals helps support your claim. Take photos of vehicle damage, the crash scene, and physical injuries. Also, collect contact and insurance information from drivers and witnesses. In areas like Southaven and throughout DeSoto County, first responders act fast and help preserve important information. By keeping clear records and acting quickly, you protect your ability to recover damages after a drunk driving accident.

What damages can I recover after a drunk driving accident in Mississippi?

You may pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. In certain cases, courts consider punitive damages to punish reckless conduct. Each claim is evaluated based on the facts and losses involved.

Does Mississippi have a time limit for filing a drunk driving accident claim?

Yes. Mississippi law generally gives you three years from the accident date to file a personal injury claim. Acting quickly improves your ability to secure critical evidence and meet legal deadlines.

How does a criminal DUI case impact my civil claim?

A criminal conviction can provide strong evidence in a civil case, but the two processes are separate. Even if there is no criminal conviction, you may still have the right to seek damages in civil court.

Contact Our Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer in Mississippi Today

The attorneys at Stroud, Flechas & Dalton believe that an individual who intentionally operates a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs should be held accountable for the damages–physical, emotional, economic, and sometimes even punitive–that result from their actions; or, in some cases, their inactions. We have worked hard to build a solid reputation for helping our clients obtain the compensation–and the justice–they deserve, both through jury verdicts in a courtroom and settlements at the negotiation table.

If you’ve been injured in a drunk driving accident near Southaven, Mississippi, contact the experienced auto accident attorneys at Stroud, Flechas & Dalton today for help with your case, so you can focus on healing and moving on with your life.

Contact us today to get started with our Mississippi drunk driving accident attorney.