Impact of a Mississippi Car Accident Can Last Lifetime

An automobile accident occurs in a split-second, but the impact can last a lifetime. The resulting injuries too often necessitate changes in lifestyle or cause strife in relationships.  The dad who used to throw the football around with his kids is suddenly unable to care for himself – let alone enjoy the simple pleasures of parenting. In other words, there’s nothing frivolous about seeking compensation for injuries sustained in an automobile accident. Although impossible to reposition the lives of you and your family to exactly the way it was pre-accident, a lawsuit seeking compensatory and punitive damages makes it possible for you and your loved ones to garner the financial resources to create a brighter future.

The word “injury” is frequently tossed around and can be misleading, sometimes making the average onlooker perceive a compensable injury as inconsequential – like a hang-nail. The reality is that auto accident injuries can be quite severe, often resulting in chronic pain, permanent disability, or even death. Victims who seek a judicial remedy for their injuries, pain, and suffering are quite deserving of the awards allowed under the law and more.

Among the injuries that can result from a car accident are:

  • Broken bones
  • Concussion
  • Contusions
  • Disfigurement
  • Funeral and burial costs
  • Internal organ damage
  • Loss of consortium
  • Loss of sensory function
  • Loss of limbs
  • Spinal injuries
  • Traumatic brain injury
  • Wrongful death

If you and your family are dealing with the immediate aftermath of car accident injuries, you understand the high-level of specialized medical care your loved-one-suddenly-turned-patient now requires. Some car accident victims require long-term care that families are generally not equipped to handle.  Medical care – especially long-term care – although necessary, is bank-breakingly expensive. Most families simply don’t have the resources lying around.

When faced with the adversity of automobile accident injuries, always contact a reputable attorney as soon as possible to discuss your circumstance before agreeing to sign-off on an insurance settlement. Hiring an experienced lawyer to handle your personal injury claim under Mississippi Code Annotated § 85-5-7 (2012) can bring you peace of mind and the compensation you deserve.

If you, or a loved one, have been injured in a car accident due to someone else’s negligence, make an appointment with one of our Mississippi attorneys by calling (800) 707-9577.

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The Economic Impact of Car Accidents in Mississippi

Injuries incurred as the result of a car accident can be devastating in both personal and financial terms. Families mourning the loss of loved ones, who were financial providers as heads of households or caregivers to children or elderly family members, face big financial concerns. Measuring the cost of injuries and deaths resulting from car accidents can be difficult for the courts. Yet, shrewd lawyers representing insurance companies generally play legal games in order to preserve insurers’ corporate bottom lines. The injured and their families or survivors deserve just compensation, but are often slighted without proper legal representation.

A report prepared by the Centers for Disease Prevention and Control (CDC) using 2005 crash death data, serves as a glaring example of the economic impact of roadway accident deaths. The costs of medical care and lost income for families impacted by the highway death of a loved one in Mississippi was $881-million, compared with $41-billion nationwide.

The primary areas of financial loss in the aftermath of a car accident are:

  • Lost income – The economic impact of a car accident on your household income can be devastating. Past and future wages forfeited as the result of death or injury can be compensated through a damages claim.
  • Medical bills – In some cases, injuries suffered in a car accident are so severe that lifelong medical care is required. Past and future medical bills, care, and treatment necessitated due to an injury accident may be recovered through a damages claim.
  • Mental anguish – The mental trauma suffered as the result of a car accident can sometimes become debilitating.  Emotional scars remain, regardless of how hard you work to overcome the experience. Compensatory damages are available to accident victims suffering mental anguish.
  • Physical suffering – Anyone who has been injured in a car accident can tell you that pain and suffering are real. The courts see it that way, too. Pain and suffering are compensable damages claims.
  • Property damage – Damages to your vehicle or other property (such as a bridge or signage belonging to a third party) are compensable.

If you, or a loved one, have been injured in a car accident due to someone else’s negligence, make an appointment with one of our attorneys by calling (800) 707-9577.

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What You Can Expect While On The Road In Mississippi

The road is one aspect in our lives that is presently all throughout the country. While we use the road for many things such as commuting, transporting much needed materials, or simply traveling, today, we use the road to ultimately live our lives. Today in our lives, we are not only responsible, but are also depended on to get tasks and errands done, and done so in a timely manner. Also, lets not forget about those in our lives that depend on us for their own commuting such as our children, and elderly loved ones.

While on the road today we would like to believe that the only issues we will face is that of having our radio stationed tuned properly, or having our air conditioning adjusted properly. Unfortunately, however, Mississippi drivers face bigger issues while on the road which is that of negligence, and distracted driving. Today, many individuals are under the impression they not only can multitask, but also do so behind the wheel of a vehicle while on the road. From texting while driving, personal grooming, showing a lack of attention to the road, or ultimately being negligent while behind the wheel not only endangers that driver of being involved in an auto accident, but also other drivers on the road as well.

When a driver not only participates in one, or both of these actions, they put their safety at risk, as well as other vehicle operators, and pedestrians on the road. Unfortunately, we are beginning to not only see an increase in the number of these accidents today on the road, but the true negative force of these accidents which leave individuals with property damage, personal injury, and even death.

Being involved in an auto accident is very serious regardless of how severe the accident is, or whether you think everything is alright or not. When you are involved in an auto accident of any kind it is extremely important that you contact an experienced auto accident attorney immediately in order to not only protect you, but also fight for your rights, your case, and the potential damages you may be entitled to.

At Barrett Law, our experienced Mississippi personal injury lawyers represent injury victims throughout Mississippi.  Our law firm has roots that reach back 75 years so contact us today for your free initial consultation at (800-707-9577)  to see how we can help.
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Understanding That of A DUI Crime

Mistakes are one aspect of our lives that can be seen literally almost every day. Whether we face the issue of spilling our coffee on the way to work, arriving late to an important meeting, or maybe simply trip and stumble on our way out the door we not only deal with our actually mistakes and the accident itself, but also the consequences that erupt from them. Usually, one can easily see that consequences of a mistake in most cases are determined by the severity of the mistake itself. So, what can you expect from participating in a DUI crime?

What Is A DUI?

A DUI, or driving under the influence, crime is something that can be seen all throughout the country. In most cases we associate alcohol to be the main contributor in DUI crimes, but it, however, is not the only substance that can cause an individual to drive under the influence. When an individual takes some prescription medications, uses drugs, or also that of illegal substances they also can be seen driving under the influence. When an individual drives under the influence they are not operating their vehicle, or holding their safety in a proper state of mind.

What You Can Expect

By committing this crime individuals not only put their lives at risk, but also other vehicle operators and pedestrians alike as well. When you are found to be driving with either a blood alcohol content, or BAC, high than that of 0.08, or test positive for drugs you will be charged with a DUI crime. The legal consequences that follow that of a DUI charge, and later conviction include, but are not limited to that of: license suspension, jail time, probation, community service, required involvement in substance abuse programs, and expensive legal fines. Personally, an individual who is charged, or convicted with a DUI crime can easily lose child custody, deal with risen insurance rates, be terminated of their employment, and ultimately be hindered from future opportunities as well.

Make sure when you have either had just a little too much to drink, or have taken some medicine to help you with that seasonal illness that you stay off the road, and rely on a friend, or family member to get you from one place to the next. Ultimately, by doing so, you not only are protecting your life now, but also your future as well.

At Barrett Law, our experienced Mississippi personal injury lawyers represent injury victims throughout Mississippi.  Our law firm has roots that reach back 75 years so contact us today for your free initial consultation at (800-707-9577) to see how we can help.

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How Seconds Can Make A Difference When You Are Hit By Another Vehicle

Our lives are full of experiences whether they are good, bad, or just plain ugly. We never can actually predict what we will come to terms with and meet each day in the multiple areas of our lives. One type of experience that the majority of us encounter on a regular basis is that of accidents. Typically, when we look at accidents we see a common pattern, which is that of cause and effect. When these two have been determined one can usually assess what consequences will follow.

Today, accidents on the road are at a record high, which means that more individuals are now dealing not only with damaged property and expenses that go hand-in-hand with the accident, but also serious health issues and injuries that can result in many cases when another vehicle collides with another. However, when it comes down to an auto accident you can never expect what will happen in the moments that follow it especially depending on your situation, and environment in which it takes place. Additionally, the few seconds that are prior to your accident, and after your accident are extremely crucial not only to your vehicle, but also your overall wellbeing.

The Race Against The Clock

Many times we will not realize that we are about to become involved in an automobile accident until everything is said and done. However, sometimes we are blessed with a few sheer seconds to see what is coming for us, and our vehicle. When you are granted these few, short seconds it is extremely important to brace yourself, and prepare for impact. By restraining yourself some you can greatly lessen the likelihood of sustaining serious injuries. Make sure that in the midst of your accident you do not press any pedals, because in many instances when collided with the force, and pressure of the collision will be exerted on to the vehicle, which then impacts its movement. Your pedals also do this, but when both interact with one another you can deal with serious injuries, and even broken bones.

The few moments after your accident it is very important to primarily remain calm. By staying calm you are able to address your situation such as what damage has been done, is everyone in your vehicle alright, were injuries sustained, as well as whether or not there is any further danger present by being in the vehicle. From there, call 911 and explain in detail the situation at hand, in a calm, and clear manner in order for them to get a complete understanding of the needs of you, and your vehicle.

At Barrett Law, our experienced Mississippi personal injury lawyers represent injury victims throughout Mississippi.  Our law firm has roots that reach back 75 years so contact us today for your free initial consultation at (800-707-9577) to see how we can help.

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The Importance of Being Cautious On The Road

Driving is one action that the majority of us can be seen participating in almost every day. We rely on driving to get us from one place to another whether it is that of running to the grocery store to pick up some milk, dropping our children off at school, or the weekly grind of commuting to work. Either way, driving is one aspect of our lives that we certainly would be put back without. However, driving is one aspect in our lives that is never the same and changes every single time you pull out on to the road.

Yet, how could something so normal, and regularly done change so much constantly? The overall aspect of driving, and that of the road that changes constantly. Whether it is due to either weather conditions, traffic jams, the hour of day in which you are on the road, or maybe even a holiday; all of these and more easily change the risk factors associated with auto accidents on the road. When we look at that of auto accidents we see a wide spectrum of consequences and expectations that can be associated with them, which range from a small fender bender to that of a fatale, debilitating accident.

Addressing The Issue At Hand

However, there is one interesting thing about auto accidents, which is different from that of other accidents in our lives in most cases. The fact of the matter is that auto accidents can almost always be completely avoided, especially in this day and age with the amount of safety features, and devices we have at our disposal. Unfortunately, however, drivers are getting out on the road and are not being as cautious as they should be, and not truly understanding the responsibility that they have in their hands pertaining to not only their safety, but also the safety of others around them.

Ultimately, as a driver your main focus while on the road should be that of the road, and how to operate your vehicle safely that benefits not only yourself, but other motor vehicle operators and pedestrians alike. If not, you can easily assume that at one point or another you will come face to face with that of an auto accident with serious consequences that follow.

At Barrett Law, our experienced Mississippi personal injury lawyers represent injury victims throughout Mississippi.  Our law firm has roots that reach back 75 years so contact us today for your free initial consultation at (800-707-9577) to see how we can help.

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Thanksgiving On The Road

Driving is one aspect of our lives that we rely on everyday whether it is that of commuting from our home to the office, running some of our many daily errands, or picking up and dropping off our loved ones. Ultimately, it can certainly be said, and seen that the majority of our day, and our lives are spent behind the wheel of a motor vehicle and on the road. One particular time of the year that many drivers can be seen on the road whether they usually rely on that of a motor vehicle, or not, is that of holidays.

On The Road Again

Throughout our year we have many holidays that are signify different meanings to us either religiously, nationally, or sentimentally. Soon to come this month is that of Thanksgiving, which is a holiday near and dear to the hearts of many Americans. During the Thanksgiving holiday there always seems to be a record number of drivers on the road traveling from their home to a family member’s, and then eventually back. However, with so many individuals on the road all focused on the destination versus that of the journey many dangers, and factors come to the road that could easily result in your involvement in an auto accident.

Taking Your Thanks and Applying It To The Road

During holiday seasons, especially Thanksgiving, traffic numbers increase greatly nation wide. Many people travel with their families, which means a great number of occupants in a vehicle than usual, and ultimately more distractions. In many cases, it has and will forever be seen that traffic patterns seem to vary in particular areas, which means you can sometimes expect to stop, go, stop, go, and eventually maybe sit in a particular spot on the highway for a number of minutes. The fact of the matter is that individuals are trying to get to their destination, and the majority of the time, in a hurried fashion and not considering their safety, and the safety of others.

Make sure this Thanksgiving holiday that you take your safety and the safety of others on the road seriously regardless of what condition you may be traveling in.

At Barrett Law, our experienced Mississippi personal injury lawyers represent injury victims throughout Mississippi.  Our law firm has roots that reach back 75 years so contact us today for your free initial consultation at (800-707-9577) to see how we can help.

 

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What To Do When Involved In An Automobile Accident

In our lives there are many things that we simply do not have control over no matter how hard we try. One of these things is that of mistakes, which occur every single day by our hand in one mannerism or another. However, the thing about mistakes is that they vary significantly not only on the premise of what happens, but also the consequences that result from it based on its severity. While mistakes and accidents alike can be seen in many various portions of our lives they certainly can hold different consequences when they occur on the road.

The Fact of The Matter Pertaining To Auto Accidents

Today, the road is something that is not only driver by many Americans, but also a necessity that we use for many different reasons that ultimately make sure our lives, and duties are running as smoothly as possible. While we can in fact predict some aspects of the road, such as whether or not an area will have a great deal of traffic, what some traffic signs and speed limits are in an area, as well as possible environmental factors that affect the road in a particular area. Unfortunately, one aspect of the road that is difficult for anyone to predict is that of an accident occurring.

Evaluating The Situation Properly

So, what should you actually do when involved in an accident on the road? The first thing anyone should do is call a law enforcement entity to the scene in order to have an acquire documentation of who’s at fault, how the accident took place, and noticeable damages at the time. Next, make sure to contact an auto accident attorney that is dedicated, and well versed in many different areas of automobile accidents, whether the accident itself was your fault or not. In many cases, individuals do not seek out an attorney and ultimately either settle for something entirely less than they are owed, or end up paying large, and ridiculous fees associated with the accident.

Ultimately, with an experienced auto accident attorney at your side you can rest assure that your case will be looked at thoroughly with your best interest in mind.

At Barrett Law, our experienced Mississippi personal injury lawyers represent injury victims throughout Mississippi.  Our law firm has roots that reach back 75 years so contact us today for your free initial consultation at (800-707-9577) to see how we can help.

 

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What You Can Expect From Wrong-Way Crashes

Driving and the road are two key parts of our lives that we rely, and depend on daily in order to get all of our many responsibilities, and duties completed whether they are personal, professional, or recreational. Either way, both aspects are necessary commodities to many Americans each day of the week. However, as we have all come to terms with in one form, or fashion accidents are also a common part of our lives whether they result from a mistake made on our part, or another individual. Usually, the consequences of mistakes heavily depend on the severity of the mistake itself, which can range from minor to major.

What Are Wrong-Way Crashes?

So, when on the road, what can you expect from mistakes that lead to wrong-way crashes? Wrong-way crashes usually occur in more urban areas that of suburban and rural, although not completely unheard of. How a wrong-way accident usually occurs is that a driver is either unfamiliar with the area that they are in and turn on a road that traffic is flowing in the opposing direction, or the driver is simply negligent when it comes down to following and abiding by traffic signs and signals.

What You Can Expect

However, what consequences can be seen associated with that of wrong-way crashes? Recently, a wrong-way accident crash took place that highlights exactly what you can easily encounter when dealing with this issue on the road. According to police reports, a vehicle with two passengers was headed down a Mississippi highway, like many Mississippi drivers can be seen doing each day. However, the vehicle came into contact with a vehicle that was driving towards them versus on the other side of the road and hit the vehicle head on. The passengers were rushed to the hospital, and suffered from injuries that were deemed “life-threatening”. Today, the cause of the vehicle driving in the wrong lane is still unknown, but law enforcement entities are insinuating it could be that of texting and driving.

Make sure that when you are on the road that you carefully pay attention and follow the signs, and signals that can be seen all throughout the road regardless of whether or not it is a residential, highway, or interstate road.

At Barrett Law, our experienced Mississippi personal injury lawyers represent injury victims throughout Mississippi.  Our law firm has roots that reach back 75 years so contact us today for your free initial consultation at (800-707-9577) to see how we can help.

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How To Prevent Teenage Automobile Crashes

Every time that we set out driving on the road we are taking on a responsibility not only to ourselves, but all other drivers, and pedestrians we may encounter. Unfortunately, automobile accidents are a very common occurrence on the road today, and can alter not only an automobile forever, but also an individual’s life. While some automobile accidents can be easily preventable other accidents can occur in the blink of an eye due to unnatural causes. However, one accident today that can be easily prevented is that of teenage driving accidents.

The Ideology of Teenage Drivers

The majority of the time teenage drivers are driving behind the wheel of motor vehicles and are not properly paying attention to their duties as a driver, and their responsibility to the road. From texting and talking on the phone, grooming themselves while looking in the mirror, or playing with the radio it seems that we see more and more cases of teenagers not only being a danger to themselves behind the wheel, but also other innocent drivers as well. Today, the number of teenage accidents on the road is not only high, but also continues to increase dramatically. Yet, what can teenagers and you do in order to help them prevent these accidents from occurring?

Taking Back The Roads and Safety

First things first, make sure that your teenagers always wear a seatbelt. By wearing your seatbelt many people actually have shown to have a safer mindset and ideology while behind the wheel. Next, make sure that your teenagers avoid using a cellphone at all while behind the wheel of a vehicle no matter if it is talking, or texting. If they need to make a call, or text advise them to pull off of the road, park, and then do so. Parents are advised to make curfews for their children, not to punish them, but protect them. Also, parents should consider implementing rules limiting the number of passengers in their teenager’s vehicle in order to help promote a safer driving atmosphere.

Teenagers are at the age in life that they are constantly absorbing the world around them. Remember, as a parent or a loved one, make sure to allow your teenagers the ability to absorb the proper information, especially when it comes down to driving etiquette and roadway safety.

At Barrett Law, our experienced Mississippi personal injury lawyers represent injury victims throughout Mississippi.  Our law firm has roots that reach back 75 years so contact us today for your free initial consultation at (662) 834-2376 to see how we can help.

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