If you or a loved one have been involved in a truck accident in Greenville, MS, don’t wait any longer to seek legal representation. Contact our experienced Mississippi truck accident lawyer at Harris Law Firm, PLLC today to schedule a free consultation and get the justice you deserve.
Anyone who has driven near a large truck knows the unsettling feeling.
Most drivers aim to get past large trucks as quickly as possible is the goal.
They have a good reason–the results can be catastrophic when a crash involves a large truck.
The damages from a truck accident are much different from a car accident. They are usually more severe, and the process for recovering damages changes.
A Mississippi truck accident lawyer at Harris Law Firm knows how a trucking accident can change a person’s life. If you or a family member is facing serious injuries from a truck crash, please contact us today.
Key Takeaways
What You Should Know as a Mississippi Truck Accident Victim
Truck accident claims work differently than typical car accident cases. Here’s what matters most.
- More Than One Party May Be Liable:
The truck driver, trucking company, cargo loader, and even a parts manufacturer can all share responsibility for a crash. - Federal Rules Add Another Layer:
FMCSA regulations, like the 14-hour driving limit, create additional grounds for a claim when violated. - Evidence Disappears Quickly:
Driver logs, black box data, and maintenance records aren’t kept forever, making an early investigation critical. - Mississippi’s Comparative Negligence Rule Applies:
Even if you’re partly at fault, you can still recover damages reduced by your percentage of fault.
Potentially Liable Parties in a Truck Accident in Mississippi
There can be numerous parties that are liable for a truck accident. Liable parties might include:
- The truck driver,
- The trucking company,
- A driver of a passenger car,
- The victim of the car accident,
- The cargo loader or shipper,
- The manufacturer of the cargo, and
- The manufacturer of the truck or a truck part.
Your Mississippi truck accident lawyer will help you identify the appropriate liable parties.
Causes of Truck Accidents in Mississippi
Some of the most common types of negligence that lead to large truck collisions include:
- Truck driver errors,
- Violation of hours of service regulations,
- Truck driver fatigue or impairment,
- Improper truck driver training,
- Lack of vehicle maintenance,
- Defective vehicle parts, and
- Cargo/loading errors leading to cargo shifts.
Our Mississippi truck accident lawyers have extensive experience identifying the cause of truck accidents and fighting to protect their clients’ rights.
Consequences of Improper Loaded Trucks
All truck drivers must ensure that the cargo is safe. Overloaded or improperly loaded cargo makes the truck top-heavy, potentially leading to a rollover crash. The cargo could also fall off, spreading debris on the road. Additionally, falling cargo can obstruct the highway, cause a car to crash, or even fall onto another vehicle.
Improperly loaded trucks can lead to many different truck accidents, such as:
- Jackknife accidents,
- Rollover accidents,
- Sideswipe accidents,
- Rear-end crashes, and
- Accidents due to loose debris.
Several federal guidelines were established specifically to ensure the safety of big rig trucks. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), the trucking companies or employers are responsible for instructing the driver to understand how to load the cargo correctly and use the correct techniques for securing the cargo. These companies can also be held liable for the damages and injuries caused.
Negligent Hiring
Trucking companies can be liable for hiring inexperienced or unqualified drivers or failing to provide adequate training. They have the duty of ensuring drivers are ready to take on the rigors of the job and maintain safety practices. Some examples of negligent hiring practices include:
- Failing to conduct drug testing;
- Failing to perform thorough background checks;
- Failure to discipline drivers for any past violations;
- Failing to inquire about the employee’s driving history or ask about past accidents; and
- Failing to validate the employee’s education, training, certifications, and licenses.
When trucking companies neglect these basic precautions at the hiring stage, they could have legal responsibility for harm that results.
Fatigued Driving
Truck drivers face great pressure to meet deadlines and deliver cargo by a certain date or time, so they will often stay out on the road longer than is allowed. By doing this, they may be violating federal guidelines that govern how drivers should regulate their time and mileage.
Under the FMCSA, drivers should only be on the road for a maximum of 14 hours. If you have been injured because of a drowsy driver in a truck accident, you may be entitled to receive compensation.
Improper Truck Driver Training
Operating a commercial truck safely requires specialized instruction. When drivers are not adequately prepared, they may struggle with vehicle handling, hazard response, or emergency maneuvers. Inadequate training can lead to costly mistakes on the road.
Lack of Vehicle Maintenance
Regular inspections and repairs are essential to keep heavy trucks in safe operating conditions. Failing to replace worn tires, faulty brakes, or damaged lights can create dangerous situations. A trucking company that neglects its maintenance duties may be held accountable for accidents that arise.
Defective Vehicle Parts
Sometimes, mechanical failures result from parts that were poorly designed or manufactured. When a defective component—like a braking system or steering column—contributes to a crash, the company that produced or sold that part may be liable for resulting harm.
Cargo Loading Errors Leading to Cargo Shifts
Shifting cargo can destabilize a trailer, especially during turns or sudden stops. Overloaded trucks or improperly secured freight increases the risk of rollovers, jackknifes, or load spills. IN these situations, responsibility may lie with the shipping or logistics provider that failed to secure the cargo correctly.
No matter the cause of the accident, Harris Law Firm can help you seek justice and compensation.
You’re Not Alone in This
A Truck Accident Changes Everything, But You Don’t Have to Face It Alone
The size and force of a commercial truck often means catastrophic injuries and mounting medical bills. Harris Law Firm is here to shoulder the legal fight so you can focus on healing.
Our Mississippi Truck Accident Attorney | W. Noel Harris
W. Noel Harris is the founder of Harris Law Firm, PLLC, and has dedicated more than four decades to representing individuals and families harmed by the negligence of others. Since earning his Juris Doctor from the University of Mississippi School of Law in 1981, he has focused his practice on personal injury, wrongful death, medical malpractice, and complex litigation. Licensed to practice in Mississippi and Arkansas, Mr. Harris is recognized for his extensive courtroom experience, multimillion-dollar case results, and membership in numerous respected legal organizations, including the Million Dollar Advocates Forum and the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum. He is committed to providing skilled, compassionate, and results-driven representation for injured clients.
Common Truck Accident Injuries in Mississippi
Truck accidents are devastating due to commercial vehicles’ size and weight. A fully loaded truck can weigh tens of thousands of pounds, making the force of impact far greater than that of a typical car crash. This impact often results in severe injuries for those involved. Common injuries from truck accidents include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI),
- Spinal cord injuries,
- Broken bones,
- Burns,
- Lacerations,
- Whiplash,
- Amputations,
- Facial injuries,
- Internal organ damage,
- Back injuries,
- Concussions,
- Severe bruising,
- Paralysis,
- Coma, and
- Death.
These injuries can have life-altering consequences, requiring long-term medical care. An experienced Mississippi truck accident attorney can help you pursue compensation for your medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages resulting from the crash.
Steps to Take After a Truck Accident in Mississippi
After a truck accident in Mississippi, following a series of steps to protect your legal rights is critical. These actions are vital, as truck accidents often involve severe injuries, large-scale property damage, and complicated insurance claims. Here’s what you should do immediately after a crash.
Call Law Enforcement
Always contact the police after a serious truck accident. The responding law enforcement agency will file an official report, which may be necessary for your claim. Trucking companies may have powerful insurance companies on their side, making it crucial to have this documentation.
Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine, get checked by a medical professional. Truck accidents can cause internal injuries or delayed symptoms, so having a record of medical evaluation is crucial for your health and any potential legal claims. Mississippi truck accident lawyers often rely on medical documentation to prove the extent of your injuries.
Collect Evidence at the Scene
If you are able, gather as much evidence as possible. Take pictures of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, road conditions, skid marks, and injuries. Ask for contact information from witnesses who may have seen the accident. This evidence is invaluable for a Mississippi truck accident lawyer building your case.
Avoid Admitting Fault
In the chaos of an accident, people often apologize or admit fault, even when they aren’t responsible. Be cautious with what you say, as these statements can be used against you by the trucking company’s insurance.
Notify Your Insurance Company
You must notify your insurance provider of the accident, but be careful about what you disclose. Insurance companies may attempt to settle for less than what you deserve. It’s advisable to consult a Mississippi truck accident lawyer before agreeing to any settlements.
Consult a Mississippi Truck Accident Attorney
One of the most critical steps after a truck accident is contacting a seasoned attorney. An attorney can investigate your case, handle negotiations with insurance companies, and ensure you get the compensation you’re entitled to for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. Hiring an experienced truck accident attorney in Mississippi is one of the most effective ways of working toward a successful outcome.
Standing Up to Trucking Companies
Large Trucking Companies Have Teams of Lawyers. You Deserve One Too.
From the moment a truck accident happens, trucking companies and their insurers begin building a defense. Our team steps in to protect your rights and pursue the compensation your family needs to move forward.
Evidence and Investigation After a Truck Accident in Mississippi
An experienced truck accident attorney will do a thorough analysis of the accident. Their investigation will include reviewing not only any negligence above but also the following:
- Police reports relating to the accident,
- Driving records of the parties involved,
- Weather reports on the day of the accident,
- Social media account postings of parties to the accident,
- The trucking company’s general record regarding negligence and company conduct, and
- Relevant medical records of all involved.
You must hire an attorney as soon as possible after a truck accident. Doing so will allow them time to evaluate all required information.
Ready to Speak to a Mississippi Trucking Accident Attorney?
If you were recently involved in a truck accident and have suffered injuries, 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:
Trucking Company Defenses in Mississippi
Knowing and anticipating what the other side might say is key to a strong case and successful outcome. Trucking companies are well-versed in defending themselves in lawsuits. They will be prepared to try to avoid responsibility in a trucking accident. Trucking defense law firms often focus on the following arguments:
- The plaintiff caused the accident;
- The percentage of fault for which they can be held responsible should be reduced;
- Road or weather conditions that caused the incident;
- Another driver, not named in the current lawsuit, was at fault;
- There was a malfunction of one of the vehicles involved in the accident; and
- The plaintiff’s injury resulted from a prior injury, not the truck accident.
Our experienced truck accident attorneys will combat these claims. They will help protect your rights, defend your interests, and thoroughly present your side.
Damages Recoverable with a Truck Accident Claim in Mississippi
Truck accident victims in Mississippi may be entitled to various forms of compensation, known as damages, including the following:
- Medical bills. You may claim current and future medical expenses, including emergency room visits, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, and ongoing care.
- Lost wages. If your injuries prevent you from working, you can claim compensation for lost income. This compensation also includes any future loss of earning capacity if your injuries affect your ability to return to work.
- Property damage. Truck accidents can lead to severe vehicle damage, and you can seek compensation to cover the cost of repairs or vehicle replacement.
- Funeral and burial expenses. In the tragic event of a fatal truck accident, family members can recover the costs associated with funerals and burials.
- Pain and suffering. This damage covers the physical pain and emotional distress experienced as a result of the truck accident.
- Emotional distress. Truck accidents can cause lasting trauma, including anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
- Loss of consortium. In cases where the accident has negatively impacted a close relationship, such as between spouses, compensation may be available for the loss of companionship and support.
Each truck accident is unique, and determining the full extent of recoverable damages can be complex. We can help you evaluate your case and ensure you get the best chance at financial recovery.
Average Truck Accident Settlements in Mississippi
Truck accident settlements in Mississippi range widely depending on the nature and consequences of the collision. While some resolve for under $100,000, others involving severe harm or loss of life can exceed millions. Ultimately, there is no standard amount to expect in a settlement, since each case involves unique facts and losses.
What Affects the Value of a Truck Accident Settlement?
The amount you may recover depends on several important variables. A knowledgeable Mississippi truck accident attorney can help evaluate how the following factors apply to your situation:
- Severity of injuries. Catastrophic outcomes, such as traumatic brain injuries or paralysis, typically increase the value of a case.
- Medical treatment costs. Emergency care, hospital stays, rehabilitation, and long-term care all factor into your compensation.
- Lost earnings and reduced income. If you missed work or can no longer do the same job, those financial losses are part of your claim.
- Vehicle damage and other property loss. The cost of repairs or replacement can add to the overall value of a settlement.
- Pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life. These noneconomic harms are also compensable under Mississippi law.
- Insurance coverage. The trucking company’s policy limits and any additional coverage available may influence the total settlement.
- Degree of fault. Establishing clear liability through investigation strengthens your negotiating position and supports a larger recovery.
Our team at Harris Law Firm carefully examines each of these elements to fight for the highest compensation available. While no two cases are alike, we strive to obtain the maximum recoverable compensation for each of our clients.
Mississippi Comparative Negligence Laws
In Mississippi, the law operates under pure comparative negligence, allowing individuals to recover damages even if they share some fault in a truck accident. According to the law, the fact that a person injured or the property owner may have contributed to the accident does not bar recovery. Instead, the damages awarded are reduced by the percentage of negligence attributed to the injured party.
For instance, if you are found to be 30% at fault for a truck accident and your total damages amount to $100,000, you would be entitled to $70,000 after accounting for your percentage of fault. So, even if you are considered primarily responsible—up to 99%—you can still recover 1% of your damages. This approach ensures that victims receive compensation to cover some of their damages regardless of fault.
Time Limits for Filing a Truck Accident Lawsuit in Mississippi
Under Mississippi law, most victims have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This legal deadline—called the statute of limitations—is strictly enforced. If you miss this window, you may lose your right to seek compensation.
Certain exceptions may apply, such as when a minor is injured or the at-fault party leaves the state for an extended period. However, these situations are limited and must be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. To preserve your legal rights and strengthen your case, it is wise to speak with a Mississippi truck accident lawyer as early as possible.
Without the Right Mississippi Truck Accident Attorney, You Greatly Risk Losing Your Case
A plaintiff must have an attorney with experience in personal injury law. A knowledgeable personal injury trucking accident lawyer will:
- Investigate and gather evidence effectively,
- Effectively deal with insurance companies,
- Know how to calculate fair compensation,
- Skilfully negotiate settlements,
- Represent you in court if necessary,
- Understand trucking regulations and industry standards, and
- File all necessary paperwork on time.
The truck company and its driver will have the advocacy of a reputable trucking defense firm. You will be at a grave disadvantage if you do not have an equally experienced attorney.
Filing a Truck Accident Lawsuit in Mississippi
Our truck accident lawyer in Greenville, MS, recommends initiating the claims process by filing a claim against the at-fault party’s insurance company. From there, we will do everything we can to investigate the accident, gather evidence, prove fault, and prove the extent of damages suffered.
Then, we will aggressively negotiate on your behalf to recover a compensation award that fully compensates you for your losses. We must move fast to collect evidence and file a claim with the insurance company. The statute of limitations for filing a truck accident lawsuit is only three years.
If we cannot reach a settlement agreement with an insurance company, filing a lawsuit and taking your case to court may be the best course of action. We have trial experience and are not intimidated by the idea of a courtroom. We have recovered millions of dollars on clients’ behalf as a result of both settlements and court decisions.
Contact Our Mississippi Truck Accident Attorney Today
The aftermath of a truck crash can be very traumatic and confusing. You may be dealing with significant injuries or have to care for a loved one who has suffered significant injuries. In the most severe of cases, you may even be dealing with the death of a family member.
Our law firm understands that immediately after a truck accident, the last thing that you’re probably focused on is getting compensation and calling a lawyer–you’re likely too overwhelmed.
We urge you to contact our law offices as soon as possible, as we cannot stress enough the importance of acting quickly in truck accident claims. Schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with our law offices as soon as possible. Reach us online.
Common Questions
Mississippi Truck Accident Claims: Frequently Asked Questions
Truck accident cases raise questions that don’t come up in a typical car accident claim. Here’s what our Mississippi truck accident lawyers hear most often.
The truck driver, trucking company, cargo loader, and even the truck or parts manufacturer can all be held liable, depending on what caused the crash. An attorney investigates each potential party, since more than one may share responsibility for your damages.
Mississippi uses pure comparative negligence, so you can still recover damages even if you’re partly at fault. For example, if you’re 30% at fault and your damages total $100,000, you could still recover $70,000. Your compensation is simply reduced by your percentage of fault.
Truck accidents often involve federal trucking regulations, multiple liable parties, and more catastrophic injuries than a typical passenger vehicle crash. Because trucking companies aggressively defend these claims, truck accident cases usually require more extensive investigation and evidence-gathering from the start.
Settlement values vary widely based on the severity of your injuries, medical costs, lost income, and degree of fault. Mississippi truck accident settlements have ranged from under $100,000 to several million dollars in catastrophic cases. An attorney can evaluate your specific damages to estimate a fair value.
Know the Risk Areas
Mapping Mississippi’s Truck Accident Hotspots
Truck accidents are especially common along Mississippi’s busiest freight corridors, where high truck volume, long hours, and highway speeds combine into serious risk. As a Mississippi truck accident lawyer, Harris Law Firm has represented drivers and families hurt in crashes across the interstates and highways below. Explore the map or the list to see where truck traffic is heaviest and what to do if you’re hurt in one of these areas.
Interactive map loading… select a location from the list to explore Mississippi’s truck accident hotspots.
Hotspot corridors above are illustrative, based on well-known Mississippi freight routes and interstate truck traffic patterns. Every accident is different — contact Harris Law Firm to discuss the specifics of yours.
Hurt in a Truck Accident on One of These Roads?
Schedule a free consultation with a Mississippi truck accident lawyer today.
Local Resources in Mississippi
If you’ve been injured in a truck accident anywhere in Mississippi, these statewide resources can help with emergency medical care, accident reporting, vehicle recovery, transportation, and other essential services. While these organizations can assist immediately after a crash, speaking with an experienced Mississippi truck accident attorney as soon as possible can help protect your rights and maximize your claim.
Police & Public Safety
Mississippi Highway Patrol (Mississippi Department of Public Safety) – Patrols Mississippi’s interstate highways, state highways, and rural roadways, responding to serious traffic collisions, commercial vehicle accidents, DUI crashes, and fatal accidents throughout the state. Troopers investigate crashes, prepare official accident reports, and assist motorists statewide. Call 911 for emergencies or 601-987-1212 for non-emergency assistance. Visit Website.
Mississippi Department of Public Safety (MDPS) – Oversees statewide law enforcement operations, including the Mississippi Highway Patrol, driver services, and public safety initiatives. Provides information on traffic safety, crash investigations, and emergency preparedness. Visit Website.
Mississippi Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) – 1 Mema Dr, Pearl, MS 39208, United States, Coordinates statewide emergency response and disaster assistance during major emergencies affecting Mississippi residents. Call 601-933-6362. Visit Website.
Accident Reports & Records
Mississippi Highway Patrol Crash Reports – Obtain official traffic collision reports for crashes investigated by the Mississippi Highway Patrol throughout the state. Request Report.
Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) Traffic Information – Offers statewide road conditions, highway alerts, bridge closures, construction updates, and travel advisories that may affect motorists after an accident. Visit Website.
Medical & Emergency Care
University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC) – 2500 N State St, Jackson, MS 39216, United States. Mississippi’s only Level I Adult and Pediatric Trauma Center providing 24/7 emergency care, trauma surgery, neurosurgery, orthopedic treatment, rehabilitation, and specialized care for seriously injured accident victims. Call 601-984-1000. Visit Website.
North Mississippi Medical Center – Tupelo, MS. Regional trauma and emergency care hospital offering emergency treatment, surgery, imaging services, and rehabilitation for accident victims across North Mississippi. Visit Website. 830 S Gloster St, Tupelo, MS 38801, United States. Call +1 662-377-3000.
Memorial Hospital Gulfport – Gulfport, MS. Provides 24-hour emergency services, trauma care, orthopedic care, imaging, and rehabilitation for individuals injured in motor vehicle accidents along the Gulf Coast. Visit Website.
Rental Car Services
Enterprise Rent-A-Car (Multiple Mississippi Locations) – Provides insurance replacement rentals, daily vehicle rentals, SUVs, and long-term rental options throughout Mississippi. Visit Website.
Hertz Car Rental (Mississippi Locations) – Offers rental vehicles and insurance replacement transportation for accident victims across the state. Visit Website.
Budget Car Rental (Mississippi Locations) – Provides affordable rental cars and insurance replacement rentals at locations throughout Mississippi. Visit Website.
Transportation Services
Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) – Provides statewide highway information, travel resources, ferry information, road conditions, and transportation updates for Mississippi motorists. Visit Website.
Amtrak Mississippi Service – Passenger rail service connecting several Mississippi communities, providing transportation options for individuals unable to drive following an accident. Visit Website.
Coast Transit Authority (CTA) – Public transportation serving Mississippi Gulf Coast communities with fixed-route buses and paratransit services. Visit Website.
Mental Health & Support
Mississippi Department of Mental Health (DMH) – ROBERT E. LEE OFFICE BUILDING, 239 N Lamar St, Jackson, MS 39201, United States. Provides statewide mental health resources, behavioral health programs, crisis intervention services, and referrals for individuals coping with the emotional effects of serious accidents and injuries. Visit Website. Call +1 601-359-1288.
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI Mississippi) – 298 Commerce Park Dr Ste C, Ridgeland, MS 39157, United States. Offers mental health education, peer support programs, family resources, and referrals to counseling services throughout Mississippi. Visit Website. Call +1 601-899-9058
Mississippi State Department of Health – Injury Prevention Program – Provides public health education, injury prevention resources, and connections to community support services for Mississippi residents recovering from serious injuries. Visit Website.