Experienced Car Accident Attorney In Picayune, MS
Motor vehicle crashes can lead to extensive medical care, costly repairs, lost wages, and uncertainty about what happens next. Accidents happen on Interstate 59, Highway 11, Memorial Blvd., and other streets in Picayune regularly. Understanding your rights under Mississippi law is vital, and a Picayune car accident lawyer can provide invaluable assistance to injury victims throughout the claims process.
Due to the frequency of motor vehicle collisions in Mississippi, many accident victims also consult with a Picayune personal injury lawyer to learn about their legal rights.
Learn About WaideLaw
WaideLaw serves injury victims across Mississippi, including Picayune and the surrounding communities. Daniel Waide was raised on a multi-generational family farm in Clay County. Growing up with farm animals and parents who served in the community taught Daniel the value of being held accountable, standing up for what is right, and working hard for what you want to achieve.
Following the teachings of Isaiah 1:17, Daniel Waide strives to provide justice to those who have been injured by the carelessness and wrongdoing of others. Daniel actively participates in local youth sports programs, community health fairs, and public safety initiatives. He currently serves as Executive Committee Chair of the Employment Law Section of the Mississippi Bar Association.
Common Causes of Car Accidents in Picayune
Situated along the Mississippi-Louisiana border, Picayune is a major stop for travelers from both states. With easy access to Interstate 59, the city experiences heavy traffic from passenger vehicles, 18-wheelers, and visitors passing through the Gulf Coast. These roads can be highly susceptible to accidents caused by a number of things, including:
- Distracted driving
- Driver error
- Poor road conditions
- Inclement weather
- Mechanical issues
- Drunk driving
- Aggressive driving
- Failing to obey traffic laws
In 2023, there were 3,205 serious traffic injuries, down from 3,334 in 2022, and 732 fatalities, 86 of which were pedestrian fatalities.
Mississippi Car Accident Laws
Motor vehicle accidents are governed by various Mississippi laws. The statute of limitations is one of many laws that can affect a car accident claim. Under Mississippi Code § 15-1-49, car accident victims have three years from the date of the accident to file a claim. After this time limit expires, you could lose your right to file a claim permanently.
Mississippi operates under a pure comparative negligence rule. This law allows injured victims to recover compensation even if they were partially at fault. However, your recoverable damages may be reduced based on your percentage of fault. There are many other Mississippi car accident laws that could affect the value of your claim. A knowledgeable Picayune car accident attorney can help you understand how specific laws apply to your case.
Types of Injuries Commonly Seen After Car Accidents
Every motor vehicle collision is different, and the resulting injuries can vary. The speed at impact, whether a person was wearing their seatbelt, and the size of the vehicle can all play a factor in the severity of an accident. Common injuries from car accidents include:
- Broken bones
- Whiplash
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Back injuries
- Internal injuries
- Burns
Some injuries are easily recognized immediately after a crash. However, other injuries can take days or weeks to manifest. Getting medical help right away is key to making sure your injury gets diagnosed correctly and to building a strong case later.
When to Hire a Car Accident Lawyer
There are some crashes that have simple facts and minor injuries. Others can be much more complicated. A lot of people choose to hire a car accident lawyer when there are serious injuries, disputed liability, multiple cars involved, or if an insurance company is trying to dispute your claim.
It’s beneficial to contact an attorney sooner rather than later. An attorney can preserve evidence, determine who may be liable, and make sure you don’t miss critical filing deadlines. A lawyer can also determine the full extent of your damages before you agree to settle.
Picayune Car Accident Lawyer: FAQs
What if the Driver Who Hit Me Was From Another State?
Drivers who are from out of state can typically still be held liable for damages they cause when driving in Mississippi. Claims with Louisiana drivers, Alabama drivers, or drivers of any other state can present you with different insurance requirements as well as jurisdiction issues.
Not only can other states have different insurance requirements, but speaking to an out-of-state insurance company can also prolong your claim. The location of the accident typically factors into which state’s laws apply.
Can a Vehicle Defect Contribute to a Car Accident Case?
Yes. Although driver error is typically responsible for car accidents, vehicle defects can also cause wrecks. Brake problems, tire defects, steering defects, and airbag defects are some examples of vehicle parts that can impact safety. The manufacturer, distributor, or mechanic could be partially liable if their defect or mechanical failure played a role in causing the accident or enhancing the injuries.
How Do Pre-Existing Injuries Affect a Car Accident Claim?
Pre-existing injuries do not automatically bar a car accident claim. Many accident victims suffer from previous injuries, chronic pain, or underlying medical conditions before an accident. If your condition was aggravated or worsened by the collision, then a claim still exists. Medical records are often used to differentiate between previous symptoms and accident-related injuries.
What if My Accident Happened in a Parking Lot?
Parking lot accidents can still cause injuries and property damage despite vehicles generally driving at slower speeds. Fault may need to be determined by reviewing footage of the accident, witness statements, damage to vehicles, and traffic laws that apply. Examples of common parking lot accidents include backing accidents, distracted driving crashes, and hitting pedestrians in business parking lots or shopping centers.
Schedule Your Consultation With Picayune Car Accident Lawyer At WaideLaw
Getting into a car accident can not only be emotionally devastating, but it can also cause physical injury as well as significant property damage. These can cause inconveniences to your life, work, and overall future. At WaideLaw, we handle these cases with care so victims can advocate for the compensation they need. Contact us today to speak with a representative and begin protecting your future.
