Mississippi Commercial Truck Rear-End Collision Injury Lawsuits
Commercial truck rear-end collisions are among the most devastating accidents on Mississippi’s roads. These collisions often involve massive 18-wheelers or other commercial trucks striking smaller vehicles, resulting in catastrophic injuries and even fatalities. Victims of these crashes face not only physical and emotional trauma but also overwhelming medical bills, lost wages, and long-term financial stress. When an accident like this occurs, understanding your legal rights and seeking experienced representation is critical to securing the compensation you deserve.
At Barrett Law, PLLC, we have decades of experience helping victims of commercial truck rear-end collisions and their families across Mississippi. Attorney Jonathan Barrett has earned a reputation for being a relentless advocate for those injured in truck accidents, ensuring that trucking companies, insurers, and negligent parties are held accountable. If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in a commercial truck rear-end collision, you don’t have to face this fight alone—we are here to help.
What Makes Commercial Truck Rear-End Collisions So Severe?
When a commercial truck rear-ends a smaller vehicle, the results can be catastrophic. A fully loaded semi-truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, compared to the average 3,000 to 4,000 pounds of a passenger vehicle. This weight disparity often leads to devastating outcomes, including severe injuries, crushed vehicles, and multi-car pileups.
Common Causes of Commercial Truck Rear-End Collisions
- Distracted Driving: Truck drivers spending long hours on the road may become distracted by phones, GPS, or other devices.
- Driver Fatigue: Federal laws regulate how many hours truck drivers can be on the road, but violations of these regulations are common, leading to dangerous levels of fatigue.
- Brake Failure: Poor maintenance or defective equipment can cause brakes to fail, making it impossible for the truck to stop in time.
- Speeding or Tailgating: Trucks need significantly more time and distance to stop. Speeding or following too closely increases the likelihood of a rear-end collision.
- Poor Weather or Road Conditions: Slick roads, low visibility, and other hazardous conditions make it harder for trucks to stop safely.
Who is Affected and Why?
Victims of commercial truck rear-end collisions include drivers and passengers of the impacted vehicles, pedestrians, and even other motorists caught in chain-reaction crashes. These individuals often face life-changing consequences, such as:
- Severe Injuries: Common injuries include spinal cord damage, traumatic brain injuries, broken bones, and internal organ damage.
- Loss of Income: Many victims cannot work for weeks, months, or even permanently due to their injuries.
- Emotional Distress: Survivors and their families often experience long-term psychological effects, including anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
- Wrongful Death: Families who lose loved ones in these crashes are left grieving while also shouldering funeral costs and financial hardship.
At Barrett Law, PLLC, we understand how deeply these accidents impact victims and their families. Our team is committed to fighting for your rights and ensuring you receive compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Legal Obligations & Statutes
Commercial truck accidents are governed by a combination of Mississippi state law and federal regulations set forth by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
Key Legal Obligations for Trucking Companies and Drivers
- Proper Training: Trucking companies must ensure their drivers are properly trained and licensed.
- Maintenance of Vehicles: Trucks must undergo routine maintenance to ensure all parts, including brakes and tires, are in proper working condition.
- Adherence to Hours-of-Service Rules: Drivers must comply with regulations limiting their driving hours to prevent fatigue.
- Drug and Alcohol Testing: Trucking companies must conduct regular testing to ensure drivers are not under the influence while operating their vehicles.
Relevant Mississippi Laws
Under Mississippi law, injured victims can file personal injury or wrongful death claims to recover compensation. Additionally, Mississippi follows a pure comparative negligence rule, meaning you can recover damages even if you are partially at fault for the accident. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Practical Tips for Victims of Commercial Truck Rear-End Collisions
If you’ve been involved in a commercial truck rear-end collision, taking the right steps can protect your legal rights and strengthen your claim:
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Your health and safety come first. Even if injuries seem minor, see a doctor to document all injuries.
- Document the Accident Scene: Take photos of the vehicles, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Collect contact information from witnesses.
- Report the Accident: File a police report and request a copy for your records.
- Avoid Speaking with Insurance Companies: Do not make recorded statements or accept settlements without consulting an attorney. Insurers often try to minimize payouts.
- Consult an Experienced Attorney: An attorney can handle communications with insurers, gather evidence, and build a strong case for compensation.
FAQs About Commercial Truck Rear-End Collisions
What damages can I recover after a commercial truck rear-end collision?
You may recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and, in wrongful death cases, funeral expenses and loss of companionship.
How is fault determined in a commercial truck accident?
Fault is determined through evidence such as accident reports, witness testimony, truck maintenance records, and data from the truck’s black box.
What is the statute of limitations for filing a claim in Mississippi?
In Mississippi, you typically have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. For wrongful death cases, the statute of limitations is also three years.
Can I sue the trucking company?
Yes. Trucking companies may be held liable for accidents caused by their drivers if the driver was acting within the scope of their employment. Companies may also be liable for negligent hiring, training, or maintenance practices.
What if the truck driver’s insurance company denies my claim?
If your claim is denied, an experienced attorney can negotiate with the insurer or file a lawsuit to recover the compensation you are owed.
Can I still recover damages if I was partially at fault?
Yes. Under Mississippi’s comparative negligence rule, you can recover damages even if you are partially at fault. However, your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
What role does the truck’s black box play in the investigation?
The black box, or electronic logging device (ELD), records data such as speed, braking, and hours of service. This information can be crucial in proving negligence.
How long does it take to resolve a commercial truck accident claim?
The timeline varies depending on the complexity of the case and whether it goes to trial. Some cases settle in months, while others may take years.
What should I bring to my consultation with an attorney?
Bring any documentation related to the accident, including the police report, medical records, photos of the scene, and insurance correspondence.
Why should I choose Barrett Law, PLLC?
Jonathan Barrett has decades of experience handling commercial truck accident cases. He understands the complexities of these cases and has a proven track record of securing maximum compensation for his clients.
Injured or Lost a Loved One in a Commercial Truck Rear-End Collision in Mississippi? Call Mississippi Commercial Truck Rear-End Collision Injury Attorney Jonathan Barrett 24/7/365 at (601) 790-1505 for Your FREE Consultation
At Barrett Law, PLLC, we fight for the rights of commercial truck rear-end collision victims across Mississippi, including the Gulf Coast, Jackson, Hattiesburg, Oxford, Tupelo, Pine Belt, Central, Southern, and Northern Mississippi. Our Mississippi truck accident lawyer is dedicated to helping you recover the compensation you deserve while holding trucking companies and negligent drivers accountable. Call (601) 790-1505 any time, day or night, for your free consultation. Let us help you rebuild your life after a devastating accident.
