A car accident on a quiet Mississippi backroad or busy stretch of Highway 61 can instantly change your life. Whether in Greenville, Jackson, or driving through the Delta, collisions often have serious consequences.
If you’ve been in a crash, you may feel shocked, hurt, and unsure where to turn. This guide explains what to do after a car accident in Mississippi so you can protect your health, rights, and ability to seek compensation.
Immediate Steps After a Car Accident
Your actions after the accident can make a big difference in protecting your safety, preserving evidence, and strengthening future claims. Even if you’re shaken up or in shock after a crash, staying calm and taking the following steps is important.
Prioritize Safety
The moments after a crash are critical. Call 911 immediately, even for minor injuries, and stay at the scene. If it’s safe and your car is drivable, move it out of traffic and turn on your hazard lights.
Call the Police and Report the Accident
Mississippi requires you to file a written accident report within 10 days for crashes involving car accident injuries or damages exceeding $500. Even for minor crashes, it’s best to call the police and get an official report to support your insurance and legal claims.
Gather Evidence
While waiting for the police to arrive, start collecting the following evidence to help protect your claim:
- Photos—take clear pictures of vehicle damage, license plates, road signs, skid marks, crash scene, and injuries;
- Driver details—exchange names, phone numbers, driver’s license numbers, and insurance information with the other driver;
- Witness information—ask for the names and contact details of any bystanders who saw the accident; and
- Road and weather conditions—note anything unusual, like poor visibility, potholes, or traffic signals that weren’t working.
Store this information safely as you may need it weeks or months later.
Seek Medical Attention
Not all injuries show up immediately after a crash. Whiplash, internal bleeding, or brain trauma may take hours or days to cause noticeable symptoms. To protect your health and legal claim, visit a doctor as soon as possible, even if you feel fine.
Be Careful What You Say
Feeling disoriented after a crash is normal, but be mindful of your words. Avoid saying things like “I’m sorry” or admitting fault, since others can use your words against you. Mississippi’s pure comparative negligence rule reduces your compensation based on your share of responsibility.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Notify your insurance company with basic details like the location, parties involved, and police response. Avoid recorded statements or detailed explanations until you’ve spoken with a lawyer, as insurers may try to minimize your claim.
Steps to Take In the Days Following the Crash
After the initial shock fades, take these follow-up steps to support your recovery and legal claim:
- Follow doctor recommendations and attend all follow-up appointments;
- Keep records of accident-related expenses, including medical bills, vehicle repairs, and lost wages;
- Write down your version of the events while the memory is fresh; and
- Avoid posting anything about the accident on social media, as insurers may use your posts to weaken your claim.
It is also key to contact an experienced Mississippi car accident attorney who can advise you on your next steps.
Why Legal Guidance Matters After a Crash
You might feel tempted to handle things on your own, especially if the insurance company seems cooperative. But their goal is to minimize payouts. An experienced attorney can:
- Investigate the scene and gather evidence,
- Communicate with the insurance company,
- Evaluate the extent of your current and future damages,
- Negotiate a fair settlement, and
- File a lawsuit if needed and represent you in court.
Hiring an experienced lawyer is especially important if your injuries are severe, the other driver is uninsured, or there’s a dispute over fault.
Why Harris Law Firm?
At Harris Law Firm, we understand how overwhelming life feels after a car accident. Since 1981, our attorneys have helped people across Mississippi with what to do after a car accident and to get back on their feet.
Whether dealing with minor injuries or a life-changing crash, we fight for your rights and the compensation you deserve. Though we are a relatively small firm, we pack a big punch. We have helped clients recover hundreds of thousands of dollars for their car accident claims. Founders Noel and Katie Harris bring deep compassion and legal skill to every case. Clients praise our firm for honest guidance and responsive communication. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and learn how Harris Law Firm can help.
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