Truck Accidents and Fault

In a Mississippi trucking accident, there's more involved than just two drivers. In fact, the carrier, insurance companies, and even manufacturer of the truck can be held at fault. Because of the large number of parties and the many federal and state laws and regulations that cover Mississippi truckers, it is important to accurately determine fault in a Mississippi truck accident. However, this can be complicated due to factors such as weather, speed, driver fatigue, and other factors such as intoxication or drug use. All commercial truck drivers in the United States are covered by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration ("FMCSA") and the U.S. Department of Transportation ("DOT"), but Mississippi truck drivers also fall under Mississippi laws governing commerce and trucking.

Getting Help and Advice

An experienced Mississippi truck accident attorney can help sort out who was at fault and what evidence to save in a trucking accident. He or she can also protect you against insurance companies looking to pay lower amounts for injuries or property damage sustained in a truck accident. In addition, your Mississippi truck accident lawyer can help you navigate the confusing web of insurance laws and local and national regulations that cover truckers. The Mississippi Department of Transportation can also provide more information about these laws, which cover inter- and intra-state commerce and regulate such areas as length of work days, speed, and required insurance.

Insurance Regulations

Though each state's insurance regulations vary, the federal government requires that all commercial trucks engaged in commerce that cross state lines (interstate commerce) carry at least $750,000 in insurance in case of property damage or bodily injury. This number can be raised by as much as $5 million with the addition of cargos containing hazardous materials. Mississippi also requires special licensure and background checks for hazmat cargoes - check with the Mississippi Insurance Department for more information.

What to Do

What if you were hit by a truck? On your end, the rules for a Mississippi truck accident are the same as any other motor vehicle accident - don't admit fault, document any physical or property damage, and file a police report if necessary. However, given the number of potential parties involved and the amount of damage that a big-rig can inflict upon a passenger vehicle, it's a good idea to contact a Mississippi truck lawyer as soon as possible. Your Mississippi truck accident attorney will help you decide what legal theories to pursue and can help you file a claim and recover damages for injury and loss of property.

If you have been hurt or suffered property damage in a Mississippi truck accident, contact an experienced lawyer for legal advice and help filing your claim. Interested in a no-cost, no-obligation case evaluation? Fill out our free case evaluation form and an experienced Mississippi truck accident attorney will get in touch.