Accidents involving 18-wheelers, semi-trucks, and other commercial trucks can be much more devastating because they usually weigh 20-30 times as much as passenger vehicles (IIHS). This fact makes a passenger’s survival rate in the smaller car much lower, and if the injuries are not fatal, they are usually life-altering.
At Andy Citrin Injury Attorneys, we dedicate our time and knowledge to assisting citizens in Harrison County, Jackson County, Biloxi, D’Iberville, Ocean Springs, Pascagoula, and other surrounding Mississippi areas. If you think you might be eligible for compensation after an accident and are looking to file a claim, consult with a Pascagoula personal injury lawyer from our team.
What Causes Truck Accidents in Mississippi?
According to the Mississippi State Department of Health, vehicle crashes are “the leading cause of injury-related deaths in the state.” Unfortunately, they stated that Mississippi also has “the highest per-capita motor vehicle fatality rates in the nation.”
But, of course, semi-truck accidents contribute to these statistics, so what are the causes of these fatal accidents?
Driver Fatigue
- Driving under exhaustion is not a strange thing for many people. Those who are making their daily commute to work in the morning are often tired, and truck drivers for big corporations are no strangers to driver fatigue. These accidents are deadly and frequently occur on highways or rural roads like Highway 613 in Pascagoula, Mississippi.
Improper Cargo Loading & Maintenance
- A semi-truck or 18-wheeler can cause an accident if a worker does not load it properly. For example, suppose the cargo placed within the truck is unbalanced, overloaded, or not secure. In that case, it experiences unnecessary strain, leading to decreased mobility on the road, content within it falling, and potential accidents.
Drug or Alcohol Abuse
- Alcohol-impaired driving in Mississippi also happens frequently, according to the NHTSA, 772 fatalities occurred in 2021. Driving under the influence and any distraction or impairment is against the law, but sadly, it still occurs. These accidents are reckless and dangerous, and the damages are often irreversible and life-changing.
What You Should Do After Being in an Accident
Being involved in a truck crash on Highway 90, on the Pascagoula Bay Bridge, Myrtle Street, Howard Avenue, or anywhere on Biloxi’s busiest roads is a terrifying experience. It is normal to feel confused in the minutes, hours, and days following the accident, and trying to follow the correct protocols is all that more difficult.
Here are the key steps you should take after a truck accident occurs:
- Contact emergency services. If you have been in an auto or commercial truck accident, you must call 911 immediately! Medical professionals can help on the scene if you have sustained any injuries. If you are in a minor incident, calling the police to the scene is still vital for filing a report.
- Exchange contact information. After being involved in a truck accident, exchange names, addresses, phone numbers, insurance company information, policy numbers, driver’s license numbers, and license plate numbers with the other party.
- Capture photographs of the scene. Visual reminders of the accident might be painful, but you will need pictures of yourself, any injuries you sustained, and your vehicle. These photographs will be helpful evidence for your case.
- Get a medical examination. Whether you are experiencing severe pain after the accident or not, you must seek out a medical professional after the accident. They can diagnose unseen issues or treat any current physical trauma that the crash caused.
- Gather all documentation. You will need the police report, medical documents, insurance paperwork, repair receipts, and other documentation about your accident. This evidence will only make your case stronger.
- Consult with a Mississippi truck accident lawyer. Your best bet at getting justice on your case is to seek legal consultation from an experienced truck accident attorney near Pascagoula, Mississippi.
Who is at Fault for My Pascagoula 18-Wheeler Accident?
Many factors determine who is at fault for a semi-truck accident in Pascagoula and who will ultimately be responsible for covering any personal injury expenses or compensatory claims for mental hardships. Mississippi law considers the truck driver’s training, the weight of cargo the truck was transporting, and the management of said cargo.
As a result, the 18-wheeler or semi-truck accident claim will involve multiple defendants, which typically include:
- The Driver: They’ll assess whoever was driving the truck at the time of the accident.
- Trucking Company: Whoever hired the driver will be taken into consideration.
- Truck Maintenance Company: The company responsible for the truck’s maintenance might take partial responsibility.
- Manufacturer: The truck’s manufacturer and any faulty parts produced might cause blame.
Bills from hospital visits and repairs after an accident with an 18-wheeler can cause immense financial, physical, and emotional burdens. Whether you have sustained a head injury, broken bones, burns, or dealing with a wrongful death after an accident, it is crucial to have an 18-wheeler accident attorney by your side.
Compensable Damages in Pascagoula
If you’ve been involved in a truck accident in Pascagoula, understanding the scope of compensable damages is key to your recovery process. The compensation you’re entitled to depends on the specifics of your case and the impact of the accident on your life.
An experienced truck accident lawyer can help you identify and pursue damages for:
- Pain and Suffering: Acknowledges the physical discomfort and mental anguish you’ve endured.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Compensates for the limitations placed on your daily activities and hobbies.
- Emotional Distress: Covers the psychological impacts, such as anxiety or depression, stemming from the accident.
- Lost Wages: Reimburses earnings lost due to time away from work.
- Current and Future Medical Expenses: Includes costs for immediate and ongoing medical care.
- Costs of Rehabilitation and Surgical Procedures: Addresses expenses related to recovery and surgeries.
- Loss of Companionship: Recognizes the impact on relationships with loved ones.
- Loss of Consortium: Compensates for the loss of a familial or marital relationship.
Navigating the aftermath of a truck accident involves addressing both the immediate and long-term effects on your life. With professional legal guidance, you can ensure that you’re seeking the full spectrum of damages you’re due, helping you move forward from this challenging time.
Time Limits on Filing a Pascagoula Truck Accident Lawsuit
In Mississippi, the law generally grants truck accident victims three years to file a lawsuit against trucking companies and other liable entities (Miss. Code Ann. § 15-1-49). However, this timeframe can vary, with circumstances potentially shortening or extending this period. It’s vital to be aware of these deadlines because missing them can result in losing the right to sue the responsible parties.
To ensure your rights are protected, it’s crucial to understand these time limits. If you’ve been in a truck accident in Pascagoula, consider consulting with the Andy Citrin Injury Attorneys as soon as possible after your injuries stabilize. Our team offers free case evaluations to help you navigate the deadlines and work towards securing your financial recovery efficiently.
Consult With a Knowledgeable Pascagoula Personal Injury Lawyer
Building knowledge over three decades of experience, the Andy Citrin Injury Attorneys team is here to provide the best legal support during your trying times. We understand what it is like to grapple with the aftermath of a semi-truck accident and the stress of handling bills while trying to overcome a personal injury or grief.
If you or a loved one has been hurt or killed due to the negligent actions of a truck driver and are battling with insurers and trucking companies, give us a call today for a free consultation. No one should go through this alone. Our injury lawyers have an extensive history of fighting for our Mississippi clients, find us in the following communities across the Gulf Coast:
Other Areas We Serve
- Dog Bites
- ATV Accidents
- Personal Injury
- Premises Liability
- Nursing Home Abuse
Our Pascagoula Truck Accident Attorneys Stand Up To Insurance Companies
Following a truck accident, you might quickly hear from an insurance adjuster looking to settle your claim cheaply. Their priority is to cut costs, often at your expense, by offering minimal compensation for your injuries and the impact on your life. It’s crucial not to accept their initial offer without consulting a lawyer.
Insurance companies typically aim to pay out as little as possible, presenting lowball offers as your only option. However, an experienced attorney can challenge this, fighting to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. The personal impact of your accident is often underestimated by these companies, which fail to consider how your life has been disrupted.
This is where Andy Citrin Injury Attorneys step in. We specialize in helping Mississippi Gulf Coast accident victims navigate the aftermath of their accidents, dealing with medical bills and insurance claims so you can focus on recovery. Our goal is to relieve you of the stress of negotiating with insurance companies, ensuring you get the justice and financial support necessary to move forward.
Andy Citrin Injury Attorneys: Fighting For Gulfport & Pascagoula Mississippi Victims
Let our experienced Pascagoula personal injury attorneys go to work for you to gather the necessary evidence and protect your rights. You can trust us! We are here to answer questions and provide information or a free case consultation. Give us a call today at 228-888-8888 or complete our simple contact form.
