The latest data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that nearly 31,785 people died in traffic accidents in the first nine months of 2022. Moreover, according to an annual report by the Mississippi Office of Highway Safety (MOHS), there were 752 fatalities and 3630 serious injuries from traffic accidents in the last reporting year.
As Americans continue to drive more than they did during the pandemic’s peak, the country could experience a rise in car accidents. If you or a loved one has suffered injuries in a traffic accident, you should contact a Jackson car accident lawyer to discuss your rights and remedies.
Most Common Types of Crashes Near Jackson, Mississippi
According to the Jackson Metropolitan Planning Organization’s (MPO’s) safety report, the top five crash types near Jackson, Mississippi, make up nearly 78% of all the crashes in the county.
The most common crash types in Hinds County include the following:
- Rear-end collisions,
- Sideswipe crashes,
- Angled crashes,
- Impacts with a parked vehicle, and
- Crashes from getting run off the road.
Moreover, the report indicates the following general statistics:
- Approximately 82% of collisions occurred under dry conditions,
- Approximately 74% of crashes occurred during daylight hours,
- Approximately 46% of collisions occurred at intersections, and
- Approximately 48% of intersection crashes involved a rear-end collision.
Further, the study indicated the following behavior-related fatality data for 2020:
- Twenty-seven fatalities involved alcohol-impaired motorists,
- Thirty-four fatalities involved unrestrained occupants, and
- Twenty-four fatalities involved speeding.
The NHTSA reports that traffic fatalities in specific categories generally increased significantly over the past few years.
Meet Your Jackson Car Accident Lawyer
W. Noel Harris
Founder, Harris Law Firm, PLLC
Professional Associations
- Mississippi Association for Justice — Board of Governors
- American Association for Justice, Member
- National Trial Lawyers Association, Member
- Million Dollar Advocates Forum
- Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum
- Martindale-Hubbell AV Preeminent Rating
Bar Admissions
- Mississippi, 1981
- Arkansas, 2010
Years Practicing
Admitted to MS Bar
Noel Harris is the founder of Harris Law Firm, PLLC, and represents injured clients throughout Jackson and across Mississippi. He earned his Bachelor of Arts from Delta State University in 1978 and his Juris Doctor from the University of Mississippi School of Law in 1981. Since 1981, Mr. Harris has been a member of the Plaintiff’s bar, concentrating his practice on personal injury, medical malpractice, wrongful death, and products liability claims.
Mr. Harris is widely recognized for his knowledge of Mississippi injury law and his tenacious representation of clients across the state, including those in Jackson, Hinds County, and the surrounding metro. His litigation experience has resulted in successful million and multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements for injured clients.
Free consultation · No obligation
Common Injuries From Jackson Car Accidents
Car accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, from minor to life-altering. Common injuries we see in Jackson car accident cases include:
Traumatic Brain Injuries and Concussions
Head injuries can range from mild concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries, and symptoms don’t always appear right away.
Whiplash and Soft Tissue Injuries
Sudden impacts, especially in rear-end collisions, commonly cause neck and back strain that can take weeks or months to fully resolve.
Spinal Cord Injuries and Herniated Discs
These injuries can cause chronic pain, mobility issues, or in severe cases, permanent disability.
Broken Bones and Fractures
The force of a collision can fracture bones in the arms, legs, ribs, or facial area, sometimes requiring surgery and lengthy rehabilitation.
Internal Injuries
Internal bleeding or organ damage isn’t always visible right after an accident, which is one reason prompt medical evaluation matters.
Emotional and Psychological Impact
Beyond physical injuries, a serious accident can cause lasting anxiety, sleep disruption, or post-traumatic stress.
Liability for a Jackson Car Accident
Under Mississippi’s “at-fault” liability system, if you suffer injuries or the wrongful death of a loved one because of another motorist’s negligence, you could secure compensation for your losses and damages.
Mississippi auto insurance laws require motorists to carry a minimum amount of accident liability insurance. This insurance pays for your losses when the other motorist is at-fault for the accident.
However, in some cases, these amounts do not cover the extent of your damages. Car accident lawyers in Jackson, MS, can help you secure the maximum compensation from the at-fault parties.
Potential At-Fault Parties in Jackson Car Accident Lawsuit
In many cases, there may be more than one person or entity responsible for an accident. In addition to the at-fault motorist, some potentially liable parties in a car accident lawsuit may include the following:
- The at-fault driver’s employer,
- A governmental entity,
- The manufacturer of a car or truck,
- The manufacturer of a defective car or truck part,
- A cargo loading company (if dislodged cargo caused your accident), or
- A business or restaurant that served an impaired at-fault driver.
A Jackson, MS, car accident lawyer can work with you to determine who might be liable for your injuries.
Ready to Speak to a Jackson car accident lawyer?
If you were recently injured in a car accident, you shouldn’t face it alone. We want to hear from you. Simply fill out the form below and we will contact you to set up a consultation. We just need some brief information:
Comparative Negligence Claims in Mississippi Personal Injury Claims
Mississippi follows the pure comparative negligence model of liability. Under Mississippi Code 11-7-15, accident victims can recover compensation for their injuries in proportion to their level of fault, even if they were 99% responsible for the accident.
For example, suppose a court finds that you are 10% at fault for your accident, and your total damages come to $100,000. In that case, you would be able to collect 90% of your damages, or $90,000.
It is essential to understand that establishing or refuting fault requires the parties to gather relevant evidence, present a compelling argument, and engage in meaningful negotiations.
Mississippi Car Accident Lawsuit Statute of Limitations
Under Mississippi Code § 15-1-49, car accident victims must file their claim within three years of the date of the accident. Barring a few limited exceptions, those who miss the three-year statute of limitations will not have the opportunity to file a lawsuit or collect compensation from the liable parties.
Types of Compensation Available After a Car Accident
Mississippi law permits personal injury victims to collect compensation for their injuries and losses. Below is a breakdown of what that compensation can include and the factors that affect how much a case may be worth.
Economic Damages
Economic damages (also called special damages) cover your quantifiable financial losses, including:
- Past and future medical bills
- Lost income from missed work
- Reduced future earning capacity
- Vehicle repair or replacement costs
- Out-of-pocket expenses, such as rental cars or medical equipment
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages (also called general damages) address the more subjective, but very real, impact of your injuries:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Loss of consortium (impact on your relationship with a spouse)
Punitive Damages
Unlike compensatory damages, which work to make the victim “whole again,” punitive damages serve to punish the at-fault party for their egregious conduct. Courts rarely award punitive damages. They are only available when you can establish by “clear and convincing” evidence that the at-fault party acted with actual malice or gross misconduct that exhibited a willful, wanton, or reckless disregard for the safety of others.
What Affects Your Case Value
Every case is different, but several factors typically influence how much a car accident claim is worth:
- Your percentage of fault under Mississippi’s comparative negligence rule
- The severity and permanence of your injuries
- How well your medical treatment is documented
- The strength and clarity of the liability evidence
- The at-fault party’s available insurance coverage
Key Evidence in a Jackson Car Accident Case
Strong evidence is often what separates a fair settlement from a lowball offer. Depending on the circumstances of your accident, the following types of evidence can help establish liability and the extent of your damages:
Police Crash Report
The responding officer’s report often includes an initial assessment of fault, statements from those involved, and citations issued.
Event Data Recorder (“Black Box”) Data
Many modern vehicles record speed, braking, and other data in the moments before a crash, which can help establish exactly what happened.
Traffic and Surveillance Camera Footage
Nearby traffic cameras, business security cameras, or dash cams can capture the accident itself or the moments leading up to it. This footage is often overwritten within days or weeks, so it needs to be requested quickly.
Cell Phone Records
Phone records can help establish whether a driver was texting, calling, or otherwise distracted at the time of the crash.
Witness Statements
Independent witnesses can corroborate your account of how the accident occurred.
Medical Records and Bills
Complete, well-documented medical records tie your injuries directly to the accident and support the value of your claim.
Accident Reconstruction
In cases where fault is disputed, an accident reconstruction expert can analyze physical evidence to explain how the crash happened.
If a rideshare driver, delivery driver, or commercial vehicle was involved, additional insurance policies beyond the driver’s personal coverage may apply.
What to Do After a Car Accident in Jackson, MS
The steps you take after a car accident can significantly impact your future case. These are the recommended steps to take following a car accident in Jackson, MS.
Call 911
Immediately following the accident, call 911. If there are injuries, request medical attention. Police and an ambulance will arrive at the scene of the accident. The police officer will collect information to put in their police report.
Gather Information
If possible, try to gather crucial information while at the scene. Information to collect includes:
- The other driver’s name and contact information;
- Vehicle details;
- Driver license information; and
- Insurance information.
Also, try to take photos of the cars and surrounding area, and speak to any individuals that may have witnessed the accident.
While the police will put their information into a police report, you should also have your own details to fill in any gaps in the future.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Whether or not the accident was your fault, you must notify your insurance company. Most insurance companies require their drivers to report accidents as soon as they possibly can.
The insurance provider will ask you for details about the accident, and you may provide any relevant information or photos you have.
You will also be assigned an insurance adjuster. The adjuster will be your point of contact and is in charge of every detail pertaining to your claim.
Seek Medical Attention
Seeking medical attention is a crucial step. Even if you do not believe you sustained any injuries, you should still visit your primary physician as soon as you can.
Discuss your accident with them, and let them know if you are experiencing any aches or pains, no matter how menial they may seem.
Injuries are not always apparent at the moment, with some taking several days to surface.
If your doctor suggests further medical treatment or rehabilitation, be sure to follow their instructions. Attending these appointments as recommended and having them well documented can greatly impact your future case.
How Harris Law Firm Builds Your Car Accident Case
When you choose Harris Law Firm, we take a methodical approach to every Jackson car accident claim:
1. Initial Investigation
We start by gathering the police report, medical records, and photos from the accident scene to establish the facts of your case.
2. Witness Interviews
We track down and interview witnesses while their memories are fresh to strengthen your claim with firsthand accounts.
3. Documenting Your Damages
We work to fully document your medical treatment, lost wages, and other losses so your claim reflects the true impact of the accident.
4. Negotiation
Armed with evidence, we negotiate directly with the insurance company to pursue a fair settlement on your behalf.
5. Litigation, If Necessary
If the insurance company won’t offer a fair resolution, we’re prepared to file suit in Hinds County Circuit Court and take your case to trial.
Serving Car Accident Victims Throughout the Jackson Metro
At Harris Law Firm, PLLC, we represent car accident victims throughout Jackson and the surrounding metro area. From the interchanges along I-55 and I-220 to the commercial corridors of Lakeland Drive, our Jackson car accident lawyers know these roads and neighborhoods well.
Central Jackson: Downtown Jackson, Belhaven, Fondren, LeFleur East, Georgetown
North Jackson: Northeast Jackson, Eastover, Woodland Hills
South & West Jackson / Hinds County: Byram, Clinton, Terry, Utica
Rankin County (East of Jackson): Flowood, Pearl, Brandon, Richland
Madison County (North of Jackson): Madison, Ridgeland, Canton
No matter where in the Jackson metro your accident happened, whether on I-55, along Lakeland Drive, or near the County Line Road corridor, our Jackson car accident lawyers are ready to help you pursue the compensation you deserve.
Know Before You Go
Jackson’s Most Dangerous Roads for Car Accidents
Explore the map below to see where car accidents happen most often around Jackson, Mississippi. If you were hurt in a Jackson car accident, chances are it happened along one of these high-traffic corridors, and our Jackson car accident lawyers know these roads well.
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Hurt In A Car Accident On One Of These Roads?
You don’t have to sort it out alone. Talk to a Jackson car accident lawyer about your options, free of charge.
Car Accident Lawyers in Jackson, MS
If you or a loved one was recently involved in a car accident, reach out to the dedicated Jackson personal injury lawyer at the Harris Law Firm, PLLC. Our experienced Jackson car accident Lawyer have more than 40 years of experience aggressively advocating on behalf of our clients.
Over this time, we’ve connected countless clients with the compensation they need and deserve. To schedule a free consultation with a car accident lawyer today, call 662-262-8430. You can also reach us through our online contact form.
Where Your Jackson Car Accident Case Is Heard
Car accident lawsuits arising in Jackson are filed in the Hinds County Circuit Court, located at 407 E Pascagoula St, Jackson, MS. Circuit Court is Mississippi’s trial court for civil actions, including personal injury and car accident claims, and it is where your case would be heard if a fair settlement cannot be reached with the insurance company.
Harris Law Firm, PLLC has represented injured clients throughout Hinds County and is familiar with the procedures and filing requirements of the Hinds County court system.
Jackson Car Accident Lawyer FAQs
How much does it cost to hire a Jackson car accident lawyer?
We offer a free initial consultation, so you can discuss your case with us at no upfront cost or obligation. Ask us about the specific fee arrangement for your case during that consultation.
How much is my Jackson car accident case worth?
Case value depends on the severity of your injuries, your medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and the strength of the liability evidence. There is no fixed number that applies to every case. We can give you a realistic assessment after reviewing the specific facts of your accident.
Do I really need a lawyer for a minor car accident in Jackson?
Even accidents that seem minor can involve injuries that take days to appear, and insurance companies routinely offer less than a claim is worth to unrepresented claimants. A free consultation with us can help you understand whether your specific situation needs legal representation before you accept any settlement offer.
How long does it take to settle a car accident claim in Jackson, MS?
Straightforward cases with clear liability and minor injuries can resolve in a few months. Cases involving serious injuries, disputed fault, or a government entity typically take longer, since medical treatment needs to stabilize and, in government-entity cases, the mandatory notice period must run before we can even file a lawsuit.
The insurance company already offered me a settlement. Should I take it?
Early settlement offers are often calculated before the full extent of your injuries or future medical needs is known. Once you accept and sign a release, you typically cannot go back for more money later, even if your injuries turn out to be worse than expected. We recommend having us review any offer before you accept it.
Can I still hire you if I already gave a recorded statement to the insurance company?
Yes. An earlier statement doesn’t prevent you from hiring us. We can still review what was said and build your case around the facts, even if a statement was already given.
What if I can’t afford my medical bills while my case is pending?
Options can include your own health insurance, medical payments (MedPay) coverage if you carry it, or in some cases providers willing to treat on a lien basis pending the outcome of your claim. We can walk you through what’s realistically available for your situation.
Why should I choose Harris Law Firm for my Jackson car accident case?
We have specific experience handling Mississippi car accident claims and a track record of litigation experience, not just settlements. During your initial consultation, we’ll be upfront with you about the realistic strengths and weaknesses of your case.