mississippi I-20 car and truck collisions

Accidents on I-20 in Mississippi

Talk to our Mississippi car accident attorney after a collision on Interstate 20

Interstate 20 (I-20) is one of the most heavily traveled highways in Mississippi, stretching across the state from Vicksburg to Meridian and connecting major cities like Jackson to Louisiana and Alabama. While I-20 plays an important role in Mississippi's transportation system, it is also one of the most dangerous roadways in the state. With an average of approximately 0.66 fatalities per mile, accidents along this highway can be catastrophic and life-altering. Whether the crash involves passenger vehicles or large commercial trucks, the results are often devastating.

If you've been involved in an accident on I-20, you don't have to navigate the complicated legal and insurance process alone. The experienced Mississippi car accident attorneys at Merkel & Cocke, P.A. are here to help you understand your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.

How can we help?

What are the common causes of crashes on I-20 in Mississippi?

Several factors make I-20 a particularly dangerous highway in Mississippi. The following are some of the most common causes of crashes:

  • Many parts of I-20 have narrow lanes and tight curves, which make it difficult for vehicles to maneuver safely, especially large trucks like semi-trailers, big rigs, and eighteen-wheelers.
  • Along several stretches of I-20, dense roadside vegetation can block drivers' views, reducing reaction time and increasing the risk of collisions.
  • Interstate 20 is a major shipping route for semi-trucks and tractor-trailers. The sheer size and weight of these vehicles mean that truck accidents often result in catastrophic injuries or fatalities.
  • Drivers frequently exceed speed limits on I-20, especially in rural areas. Speeding reduces stopping distances and can turn minor mistakes into deadly crashes.
  • Texting, using GPS, adjusting the radio, or other distractions are common causes of accidents on I-20.
  • Fatigue is a significant factor, particularly among truck drivers who may push themselves to meet tight delivery deadlines.
  • Rain, fog, and poor road maintenance can make I-20 especially dangerous by increasing the chances of hydroplaning and reducing visibility.

What types of injuries happen from car accidents on I-20?

Due to the high speeds and large commercial vehicles traveling along I-20, accidents often result in serious, sometimes life-threatening injuries. Common injuries include:

  • Traumatic brain injuries are common in high-speed collisions, especially when seat belts fail or airbags do not deploy properly.
  • The force of impact can lead to spinal cord damage, resulting in partial or complete paralysis.
  • Severe bone breaks and fractures can require surgery and long-term rehabilitation.
  • The violent forces in highway crashes can lead to internal bleeding and organ damage that may not be immediately visible.
  • When vehicles catch fire or hazardous materials are involved, burn injuries can occur.
  • Whiplash and other soft tissue injuries may seem minor at first but can lead to chronic pain and mobility issues.

Sadly, some I-20 crashes result in fatalities, particularly those involving tractor-trailers and semi-trucks.

Truck accidents on I-20 in Mississippi

Truck accidents on I-20 are particularly dangerous. Semi-trailers, eighteen-wheelers, tractor-trailers, and truck and trailer combinations regularly travel this highway, carrying goods across the state and beyond. When one of these massive vehicles is involved in a crash, the damage is often severe.

Common causes of truck accidents on I-20 include:

  • Driver fatigue due to long hours.
  • Improperly secured cargo that can shift and cause the truck to overturn.
  • Equipment failure from poor maintenance.
  • Speeding to meet tight delivery deadlines.
  • Distracted or impaired driving.

Truck crashes typically involve multiple liable parties, including the truck driver, the trucking company, cargo loaders, vehicle maintenance crews, and sometimes manufacturers. These cases also involve federal regulations, higher insurance limits, and aggressive corporate legal teams.

Our Mississippi truck accident lawyers at Merkel & Cocke, P.A. have the experience to navigate these complex cases, gather evidence quickly, and negotiate with trucking companies to fight for the maximum compensation available.

What should I do if I'm involved in an accident on I-20 in Mississippi?

If you’re involved in an accident on I-20, here are the critical steps you should take to protect yourself and your legal claim:

  • Call 911 immediately. Report the accident and request medical help and police assistance.
  • Seek medical attention as soon as possible. Some injuries are not immediately visible but can become life-threatening if untreated.
  • Exchange names, contact info, driver's license numbers, and insurance details with all involved drivers. Get contact info from any witnesses.
  • Document the scene. Take photos and videos of the accident, vehicle damage, road conditions, and visible injuries.
  • Do not admit fault. Even if you feel partially responsible, fault can only be properly determined after a full investigation.
  • Reach out to Merkel & Cocke, P.A. as soon as possible to protect your rights and handle insurance company negotiations.
  • Avoid speaking to insurance adjusters alone. The trucking company’s insurer may try to contact you quickly. Always have your attorney present when speaking to them.
  • Follow all medical instructions. Complete all follow-up appointments and treatments, and keep detailed records of your recovery.

What are the accident statistics for I-20?

Interstate 20 is one of the most dangerous roads in Mississippi. Some key statistics include:

  • Approximately 0.66 fatalities per mile, significantly higher than many other state highways.
  • The central Mississippi section, particularly around Jackson and through rural areas, is known for frequent and deadly crashes.
  • Contributing factors include narrow lanes, blind curves, dense roadside vegetation, speeding, and heavy commercial truck traffic.

Frequently asked questions

Can I recover damages if I was partially at fault?

Yes. Mississippi follows a pure comparative negligence system, which means you can still recover compensation even if you were partially at fault. Your total award will simply be reduced by your percentage of responsibility.

How long do I have to file a car accident claim in Mississippi?

The statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Mississippi is generally three years from the date of the accident. It’s essential to act quickly to preserve evidence and protect your rights.

Do I need to report the accident to my insurance company?

Yes. You should report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible, even if you believe the other driver is completely at fault. Failing to report promptly could risk losing coverage.

Why are truck accidents on I-20 so complicated?

Truck accident claims often involve multiple responsible parties, federal trucking regulations, and aggressive insurance defense teams. The injuries are typically more severe, and the insurance policies are much larger, making the stakes higher.

What should I avoid after a truck accident on I-20?

Avoid admitting fault, giving recorded statements to the trucking company’s insurer without a lawyer, delaying medical treatment, and accepting a quick settlement offer. All of these mistakes can seriously harm your case.

Do you have a Mississippi I-20 car accident attorney near me?

Yes. Our lawyers meet personal injury victims and families throughout Mississippi at the following locations:

  • Jackson Office (Hinds County): 2630 Ridgewood Road, Suite D. Jackson, MS 39216
  • Clarksdale Office (Coahoma County): 30 Delta Avenue. Clarksdale, MS 38614
  • Greenville Office (Washington County): 540 Main Street, ICON Building, Suite 302. Greenville, MS 38701
  • Oxford Office (Lafayette County): 2084 Old Taylor Road, Suite 110. Oxford, MS 38655
  • Meridian Office (Lauderdale County):Regions Bank Building, Suite 205, 406 22nd Avenue. Meridian, MS 39301

We’re prepared to listen to you. If you cannot physically come to one of our offices, we can make arrangements to meet you away from the office. We also consult with clients by phone and through online video consultations.

I-20 car accident lawyers serving all of Mississippi

If you or someone you love has been hurt in a car or truck accident on I-20 in Mississippi, don’t face the insurance companies alone. Contact Merkel & Cocke, P.A. today for a free consultation. Our team is ready to fight for you and help you secure the compensation you need to recover and move forward with your life. Please call us today or fill out our contact form to schedule a free consultation.