Mississippi Truck Accident Attorneys

Holding Negligent Truck Drivers & Companies Accountable Since 1998

Collisions involving semi-trucks and trailers can leave victims with life-altering injuries, emotional trauma, and mounting financial burdens. At Stroud, Flechas & Dalton, we understand how painful and stressful it can be to seek justice after a wrongful injury. Our semi-truck and trailer accident lawyers are committed to recovering the maximum compensation you need to reclaim your life and focus on healing. 

Since 1998, our firm has recovered millions in settlements for the wrongfully injured across Mississippi. With decades of experience, recognition from The National Trial Lawyers Top 100®, and a proven track record of results in and out of the courtroom, our attorneys are well-equipped to pursue justice on your behalf. We can work diligently to recover a full settlement while protecting your rights at every step, giving you peace of mind that your health and financial future are in trusted hands. 

If you were injured in a semi-truck accident, choose a firm that has recovered millions for injured Mississippians. Call (662) 371-6580 to schedule a free consultation to get started with our truck accident attorney in Mississippi.

Why Are Semi-Truck Accidents So Dangerous?

Compared to typical car accidents, collisions involving semi-trucks and trailers are inherently more dangerous due to the sheer size of these commercial vehicles. While the average passenger vehicle weighs approximately 3,000 pounds, a fully loaded big rig can weigh as much as 80,000 pounds. Loaded tractor-trailers require 20-40% more distance to come to a stop than cars, especially during wet or slippery conditions. This increases the risk of life-changing injuries and fatalities on Mississippi roads.

What Are Some High-Risk Areas for Truck Accidents in Mississippi?

Being aware of the most hazardous roadways for truck accidents is essential to preventing serious accidents and injuries. Some high-risk areas for truck accidents in Mississippi include: 

• MS 302/Goodman Road. This thoroughfare passes through Southaven to the Tennessee border. It crosses multiple interstates and highways where semi-trucks and big rigs are common.
• Interstate 55. This major route for commercial trucks runs north to south through Mississippi and connects to major cities like Memphis, New Orleans, and Jackson, making it a heavily traveled roadway for large trucks.
• Highway 49. This highway stretches from Gulfport on the coast to Clarksdale in the northern part of the state. It intersects with several interstates and is a common route for trucks transporting goods across Mississippi.
• Interstate 20/59. This interstate runs east to west through the state and is a major route for commercial trucks. It connects with major cities like Birmingham, Atlanta, and Dallas, making it a critical roadway for interstate commerce.
• Highway 82. This highway runs east to west through the northern part of the state and connects with several interstates, including I-55 and I-20/59, making it a popular route for trucks traveling between Mississippi and neighboring states.

Common Injuries Resulting from Truck Accidents

Due to the tremendous size and weight of commercial trucks, collisions involving semi-trucks and trailers often result in catastrophic harm. Some of the most common injuries include:

• Brain injuries: Passengers frequently suffer head and brain injuries due to the high force involved in semi-truck collisions.
• Burn injuries: Burns are common in truck accidents involving the transportation of fuel and other flammable or hazardous materials. 
• Wrongful death: Semi-truck accidents have a high fatality rate due to their large mass, opening the door to wrongful death lawsuits.
• Spinal cord injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can result in full or partial paralysis and other lifelong disabilities that often require ongoing medical care. 
• Internal injuries: Blunt force trauma during a collision can lead to internal bleeding, organ damage, and other life-threatening internal injuries. 

Common Causes of Semi-Truck & Trailer Accidents

Semi-truck and trailer collisions can occur for a variety of reasons. These accidents often involve complex factors, such as poorly loaded cargo, malfunctioning brakes or tires, inadequate vehicle maintenance, and poor visibility due to inclement weather. 

Some other common causes of truck accidents include: 

Driver Inexperience

Commercial truck operators must undergo rigorous training to operate tractor-trailers safely. However, many trucking companies fail to properly screen or train employees, provide adequate training, or follow safety protocols, increasing the risk of collisions.

Distracted Driving

Driving while distracted is a common cause of collisions involving semi-trucks. This may include behaviors like talking on the phone, texting, eating and drinking, or fiddling with the radio, GPS, or system controls. 

Impaired Driving

Many semi-truck operators take over-the-counter medications or prescription drugs that may impair their ability to drive safely. Fatigued driving is another cause for concern due to tight schedules and long, tedious hours on the road. 

What Damages Are Recoverable in a Semi-Truck Accident Claim?

Victims may be entitled to various forms of compensation in a semi-truck accident claim. Common recoverable damages include economic losses (such as medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage) and non-economic losses (such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life).

In rare cases, the court may also award punitive damages to punish the defendant for extreme negligence and deter similar behavior in the future. Regardless of the extent of your injuries, consulting a knowledgeable injury lawyer is a must to assess every avenue for financial recovery and calculate the full scope of damages available to you.

What to Do After a Truck Accident in Mississippi

If you are involved in a collision with a tractor-trailer, big rig, or 18-wheeler in Mississippi, your actions afterward matter. Always prioritize safety. Move vehicles out of traffic and check for injuries before calling emergency responders. Local police and EMS regularly respond to crashes involving large trucks, especially on busy roads like I-20 or Highway 49.

Get the truck driver's contact and insurance details, and document the scene with photographs of vehicles, injuries, skid marks, and road layouts. Collect names and phone numbers from any witnesses. Filing a report with local authorities creates an official crash record, which can be helpful if you pursue a claim later. Even if you do not think you are injured, seek medical care right away, as some injuries do not present symptoms until hours or days later. Store all crash records together for reference.

Truck accidents in Mississippi often involve several responsible parties. State law allows a claim to include multiple at-fault drivers, companies, or other contributors. Meeting with a knowledgeable legal professional can clarify your rights and options under Mississippi law, providing guidance and support while you move forward.

FAQs

How long do I have to file a claim after a truck accident in Mississippi?

You generally have three years from the date of a crash to file an injury claim in Mississippi. If you miss the deadline, you may lose your right to recover compensation related to the accident. Acting quickly helps protect your rights and allows evidence to be preserved.

Who can be held responsible for a truck accident in Mississippi?

Multiple parties can be liable for a truck accident, including the truck driver, the trucking company, contractors, or equipment manufacturers. A thorough investigation reviews details to determine which parties may be accountable under state law.

What should I do if the trucking company’s insurer contacts me?

Insurance companies for commercial carriers may reach out after a crash. Before providing a statement or agreeing to a settlement, consider consulting a legal professional who can help protect your interests during the process.

Contact Our Truck Accident Attorney in Mississippi Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, don’t deal with the aftermath by yourself. Our Mississippi truck accident attorneys are here to protect your legal rights and fight for the full settlement you rightfully deserve. We understand how devastating these accidents can really be and are ready to guide you through every step of the legal process. Contact us today for a consultation to explore your case and learn how our team can help you pursue justice and recovery.

If you were harmed by a negligent semi-truck operator, we can fight tirelessly to hold the at-fault party accountable. Contact us online to discuss your case with our Mississippi truck accident lawyer.