Mississippi Truck Accident Attorney

Big rig or 18-wheeler accidents often result in serious or catastrophic injuries. This is because of the huge weight difference between a car and a truck of this type. Spine injuries, head injuries, broken bones and fatal injuries are common results of truck accidents. If you or a loved one has suffered injuries in an accident, call the Mississippi truck accident attorneys at Haug, Farrar, Franco & Ruiz, PLLC at (228) 872-8752.

Life-altering injuries come with a high price, which means the stakes are high as you prepare to file an injury claim or lawsuit. Your legal advocate after a truck accident on Interstate 10 or elsewhere in Mississippi should have ample experience in personal injury law practice. He or she should have a track record of recording top-dollar compensation for people who have suffered from serious and catastrophic injuries.

Reviewing doctors’ reports and taking statements from family members and friends is all part of the process of preparing a compelling claim or lawsuit. Rest assured that at Haug, Farrar, Franco & Ruiz, PLLC, we will take no shortcuts in your motor vehicle accident case. After a truck accident on Interstate 10 or nearby, in Biloxi, Gulfport, Pascagoula or Ocean Springs, we are ready to work hard on the investigation needed to build a compelling claim for compensation for you.

Causes of Truck Accidents 

Accidents involving heavy commercial trucks can be severe and even fatal. Some of the most common causes of these accidents include the following:

1. Driver fatigue: Truck drivers often work long hours and deal with tight deadlines, leading to fatigue and drowsiness behind the wheel. Driver fatigue can result in slower reaction times, poor decision-making, and ultimately, accidents.
2. Improper loading: An improperly loaded truck is a major hazard on the road. Incorrect weight distribution or unsecured cargo can lead to the loss of control of a truck or spillage onto the roadway.
3. Equipment failure: Trucks require regular maintenance, and if this is neglected, various components may fail, such as brakes or tires. This can cause a driver to lose control and result in an accident.
4. Weather conditions: Adverse weather can create dangerous driving conditions for all vehicles, but trucks are especially susceptible due to their size and weight. Drivers may not anticipate how their trucks will handle in heavy rain, fog, or on icy roads, increasing the risk of accidents.
5. Distracted driving: Any driver can become distracted, but due to the size and power of their vehicles, the consequences of a truck driver becoming distracted can be catastrophic.

Common Truck Accident Injuries

Victims of truck accidents often suffer from a range of injuries that vary in severity, including:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs): A forceful blow to the head or a violent jolt of the body can lead to permanent brain damage or even death.

• Spinal cord injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can result in paralysis or loss of sensation in the affected areas.

• Broken bones: Collisions at high speeds can cause multiple fractures and even crush injuries.

• Internal injuries: The force of impact in a truck accident can cause internal bleeding and damage to organs.

• Cuts and lacerations: Shattered glass, metal, and other debris can lead to deep cuts or puncture wounds.

In-Depth Knowledge Of Trucking That Your Lawyer Should Possess

Legally and in other ways, truck accident is not like an ordinary car accident. Special rules and laws apply to the operation of commercial trucks on our highways and other roads. Understanding trucking laws and norms is essential in truck accident cases. This is not the time to work with just any lawyer who can file a lawsuit. It is a time to seek an attorney with detailed knowledge of:

• Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Regulations
• Insurance structures pertaining to trucking operations
• Truck inspection requirements
• Trucker’s log rules
• Equipment failures and defects that can cause accidents

Haug, Farrar, Franco & Ruiz, PLLC, in Ocean Springs has this proficiency. Our personal injury lawyers have recovered large settlements and verdicts on behalf of people injured by commercial vehicles. We are prepared to dig deeply into the facts and the relevant laws as we develop a successful injury claim on your behalf.

Truck Accident Liability: Who’s Responsible?

Determining liability in truck accident cases can be challenging, as multiple parties could potentially be held responsible, including:

• The truck driver: If the driver was engaging in negligent behavior or violated any traffic laws, they could be held responsible.

• The employer: Trucking companies may be liable if they negligently hired, retained, or failed to train the driver involved in the accident.

• The truck manufacturer: Defective products or improper design of parts of the truck could lead to a manufacturer’s liability.

• Local authorities: Poor road maintenance or design could put the blame on the city or state responsible for the roadway.
• The loading company: Improperly loaded cargo could make the company responsible for loading the truck liable for damages.

Evidence and Investigation After a Truck Accident

In the aftermath of a truck accident, it’s essential to take the following steps:

Gather contact information: Make sure you collect the name, contact information, and insurance information of the truck driver, as well as the contact information of any witnesses.

Photograph the scene: Capture images of the accident scene, including the positions of the vehicles, any debris, skid marks, or other property damage, and any visible injuries you or your passengers sustained.

Preserve truck and cargo data: Electronic logging devices (ELDs) are installed in most commercial trucks to monitor driving hours, speed, and other data. Request that the trucking company preserve this information, as well as any data on the cargo being hauled, as it can be crucial in proving negligence.

Obtain the police report: The responding law enforcement officer will create a police report detailing their observations and any traffic citations issued. This report can help strengthen your case, so it’s vital to request a copy as soon as it becomes available.

Seek medical attention: Even if your injuries seem minor, it’s crucial to see a doctor immediately after the accident. Medical records documenting your injuries can provide essential evidence in your personal injury case.

If You Were Injured In A Trucking Accident Or Lost A Loved One

We would like to explain the process of filing an injury claim or lawsuit — and help you get started right away if you are ready. Contact us today to speak with one of our experienced Mississippi truck accident lawyers.