Commercial trucks are giants on the roadways, towering over passenger cars and outweighing them by as much as 38 tons. Their design alone makes them dangerous neighbors on Mississippi roads. But when a truck driver or someone else behaves negligently, disaster can strike. Over 2,000 truck wrecks occurred in the Magnolia State in a recent year, killing 60 people and injuring over 1,000 more.

Due to the massive size difference between tractor-trailers and cars, the occupants of the smaller vehicle usually suffer the worst injuries in a collision. From traumatic brain injuries and paralysis to compound fractures and internal bleeding, truck accident victims are often left with extensive injuries, sky-high medical bills, and sometimes, no promise of a full recovery.

At Mama Justice – MW Law Firm, our Columbus truck accident lawyers know the devastating toll a wreck can have on victims and their families. We want to help during this difficult time. Truck accident claims are more complex than the average car accident case. Maximizing your compensation requires a thorough understanding of state and federal laws. Don’t take on this responsibility alone. Instead, turn to a skilled attorney from our law firm for hard-hitting legal support and a sympathetic ear.

With millions recovered for truck accident victims, Mama Justice has the talent and resources to build robust personal injury claims that rise above the toughest challenges. We’ll fight tooth and nail for the money you need to rebuild your life. With over 400 five-star reviews from satisfied clients, you can count on us for top-quality legal representation and holistic service that includes support from our caring staff and medical management personnel.

Ready to get started? Call or contact us today for a free consultation with a Columbus truck accident attorney.

Common Causes of Truck Accidents

Commercial trucks are complicated machines prone to mechanical defects and worn-out parts. However, data from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) suggests that most large truck crashes are caused by driver error.

The most common mistakes that lead to Columbus truck wrecks include:

  • Distracted driving
  • Impaired driving
  • Drowsy driving
  • Speeding
  • Following too closely
  • Failure to yield the right of way
  • Failure to obey traffic laws
  • Failure to check blind spots
  • Unsafe lane changes
  • Aggressive driving behaviors

Other factors, such as driver inexperience, poor driver training, negligent hiring, and poor cargo loading or safety practices also contribute to truck accidents in Mississippi.

Common Types of Truck Accidents

Here are the most common types of truck wreck cases we see at Mama Justice:

  • Jackknife accidents
  • Rollovers and tip-overs
  • Blind-spot accidents
  • Wide-turn collisions
  • Underride and override accidents
  • Multi-vehicle pileups
  • T-bone crashes
  • Head-on collisions
  • Hazardous spills

Accidents involving a commercial truck often leaving victims struggling to cope with severe injuries, mental trauma, and financial instability. A successful truck accident claim can reimburse victims for these losses and more. An experienced Columbus personal injury lawyer can place an appropriate estimate on your case after reviewing what happened.

Who Is Responsible for My Truck Accident?

It’s tempting to blame the truck driver after a wreck. However, the actions of other parties may also be contributing factors. That is one of the reasons that Columbus truck accident cases are so complex. Maximizing your compensation means identifying every liable party and filing claims against them.

Potential defendants in your semi-truck accident claim could include:

  • The truck driver
  • The commercial truck company
  • The truck or parts manufacturer
  • The cargo loading company
  • Third-party mechanics or maintenance company
  • Other drivers

Uncovering who is responsible for an 18-wheeler crash can be challenging without help from an experienced Mississippi truck accident attorney who understands where to look for evidence of liability and how to file claims with all relevant insurance companies.

What Should I Do After a Truck Accident in Columbus, MS?

A commercial vehicle crash can leave you shaken to your core. If you suffered serious injuries, you may have no choice but to go to the hospital. If you are able, taking the following steps at the accident scene can protect your legal rights:

  • Call 911 to bring police and an ambulance to the scene.
  • Seek immediate medical attention.
  • Document the scene with photographs and videos if possible.
  • Exchange information with the truck driver and any others involved in the wreck.
  • Get contact information for witnesses.
  • Check your auto insurance policy. There could be a deadline to notify the insurance company that you were in an accident.
  • Contact a Columbus truck accident attorney before speaking to any insurance representatives.
  • Keep track of medical expenses, repair bills, time away from work, and out-of-pocket costs.
  • Stick to your doctor’s treatment plan.
  • Do not discuss the truck crash or your injuries on social media.

The trucking company takes immediate and decisive action to protect itself from liability after an accident. You need to do the same. However, you shouldn’t worry if your injuries prevented you from collecting evidence at the accident scene. At Mama Justice, we can take care of the investigation for you.

Statute of Limitations for Truck Accident Injury Claims in Mississippi

One of the ways that you can pursue compensation for your injuries is by filing a personal injury lawsuit. However, Mississippi law gives you a limited amount of time to take legal action. In most cases, victims have three years to file suit. If you attempt to sue after the deadline passes, the court can dismiss your case. You lose negotiating leverage and your day in court.

What Can I Recover from My Truck Accident Claim?

One of the most common questions personal injury lawyers hear is, “How much is my case worth?” Unfortunately, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. The value of a commercial truck accident claim depends on several factors, including the severity of a victim’s injuries, the cause of the crash, the limits on the liable party’s insurance policy, and more.

Every truck accident case is unique. However, in most situations, victims can recover compensation for the following:

  • Medical expenses
  • Lost wages
  • Loss of earning capacity
  • Property damage
  • Pain and suffering

It’s rarely in your best interest to accept an initial insurance settlement offer. Instead, it is best to discuss your situation with an experienced truck accident lawyer who can calculate the fair value of your claim and advocate for you during negotiations.

What Is the Average Settlement for Truck Accidents?

Truck accident settlements in Columbus vary. All cases have unique facts and challenges to overcome. At Mama Justice, we don’t rely on averages or statistics to determine what’s fair for you. We carefully evaluate your situation, calculate your losses, and fight to recover maximum compensation for your injuries.

Contact Our Experienced Columbus, MS Truck Accident Attorneys

A truck wreck can turn your life upside down in a fraction of a second. Let the Columbus truck accident attorneys at Mama Justice fight to make things right again.

At our firm, we believe the best lawyers do the best work when they put people first. That’s why we make a point to manage every aspect of your case from start to finish, providing personalized solutions and making recommendations based on your financial, physical, and emotional needs.

Learning more about our services is simple. Call or contact our office today to arrange a free legal consultation with a truck accident lawyer in Columbus.