mississippi I-20 car and truck collisions

Accidents on I-55 in Mississippi

Our experienced lawyers are here to help when you’re injured in a Mississippi car crash

Interstate 55 runs through the heart of Mississippi, connecting communities from the Louisiana border to the Tennessee state line. It’s one of the busiest roadways in our state, used daily by commuters, long-haul truckers, tourists, and local drivers. Unfortunately, I-55 also has a reputation for being one of Mississippi’s most dangerous highways.

From rural stretches with poor lighting to urban areas choked with traffic, I-55 sees a steady pattern of serious and sometimes fatal collisions. Motorcycle wrecks, wrong-way car accidents, lone-vehicle rollovers, and deadly truck accidents are all too common. When you or a loved one is hurt in a crash on I-55, you need an experienced legal team to protect your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve. At Merkel & Cocke, P.A., we’ve handled countless cases involving accidents on I-55. We understand the road, the risk factors, and how to hold negligent drivers and companies accountable.

How can we help?

Talk to our Mississippi car accident attorneys after a collision on Interstate 55

The aftermath of a crash on I-55 can be overwhelming. Between medical care, vehicle repairs, missed work, and dealing with insurance companies, it’s easy to feel lost. Our attorneys take on the legal burden so you can focus on recovery. When you hire Merkel & Cocke, we can:

  • Investigate the cause of the crash, including reviewing police reports, traffic camera footage, and witness statements.
  • Work with accident reconstruction experts to determine fault.
  • Gather medical evidence to prove the full extent of your injuries.
  • Negotiate aggressively with insurance companies.
  • Take your case to court if a fair settlement isn’t offered.

We offer free consultations and only get paid if we recover money for you.

What are the common causes of crashes on I-55 in Mississippi?

I-55’s high accident rate isn’t random. It’s tied to several recurring dangers:

  • Wrong-way driving. The fatal December truck crash in Jackson that killed six people is a tragic reminder of how dangerous wrong-way incidents are. At interstate speeds, there’s often little or no time to react.
  • Excessive speed. Especially on rural stretches where drivers may exceed posted limits, making it harder to stop or avoid hazards.
  • Early-morning travel. Many serious crashes occur before dawn, when visibility is poor and drivers may be fatigued or impaired.
  • Rural highway risks. In areas like Panola and Pike counties, lack of lighting, roadside trees, and unprotected medians contribute to deadly rollovers and roadway departures.
  • Heavy commercial traffic. An April 2025 crash in Byram between two tractor-trailers highlights the dangers of high truck volumes, especially near congested urban exits.
  • Distracted driving. Texting, eating, or adjusting a GPS at highway speeds can lead to catastrophic outcomes.
  • Weather hazards. Rain, fog, and icy conditions can make rural stretches especially treacherous.

What types of injuries happen from car accidents on I-55?

Because of the high speeds involved, I-55 crashes often result in severe injuries, including:

  • Whiplash and other soft tissue injuries are common in rear-end collisions.
  • Broken bones, from the force of impact or being ejected from the vehicle.
  • Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) can be caused by blows to the head or violent shaking.
  • Spinal cord injuries can lead to partial or complete paralysis.
  • Internal organ damage from seatbelt trauma or blunt force impacts.
  • Burn injuries, in rare but devastating cases involving vehicle fires.

Some victims may fully recover, but many face long-term medical treatment, permanent disability, or chronic pain.

Truck accidents on I-55 in Mississippi

I-55 is a major commercial route, and with the constant flow of 18-wheelers comes increased risk. Fully loaded tractor-trailers can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, meaning even a so-called minor collision can be devastating for smaller passenger vehicles. Common causes of truck accidents on I-55 include:

  • Driver fatigue from long hours on the road
  • Improperly loaded cargo that shifts or spills
  • Brake or tire failure from poor maintenance
  • Speeding or following too closely
  • Wide turns or lane changes that trap other vehicles

Truck accident cases are often more complex than regular car accident claims because they may involve multiple liable parties, including the driver, the trucking company, maintenance contractors, or even cargo loaders. Merkel & Cocke has the resources and experience to handle these complicated claims.

What should I do if I’m in an accident on I-55 in Mississippi?

If you’re involved in a crash on I-55, here’s what you can do to protect both your health and your legal rights:

  • Get to safety. Move your vehicle out of traffic if possible, but don’t leave the scene.
  • Call 911 to report the accident to law enforcement and request medical help.
  • Seek medical attention. Even if you feel fine, some injuries aren’t immediately obvious.
  • Gather evidence by taking photos of the vehicles, road conditions, and your injuries.
  • Exchange information. Get names, contact info, driver’s license numbers, and insurance details.
  • Get witness statements. If anyone saw the crash, ask for their contact information.
  • Avoid admitting fault. Be cooperative with the police, but stick to the facts.

And, before speaking to the other driver’s insurance company, get in touch with an experienced Mississippi I-55 accident lawyer.

What are the accident statistics for I-55 in Mississippi?

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety reports 732 fatalities from accidents throughout the state in 2023. While exact numbers vary year to year, I-55 consistently ranks as one of Mississippi’s deadliest roads.

  • High rates of single-vehicle rollovers in rural areas.
  • Increased commercial vehicle involvement, particularly near urban centers like Jackson and Southaven.
  • Early morning hours (before sunrise) are among the most dangerous times to travel.
  • Wrong-way head-on collisions, while less frequent, are disproportionately fatal.

These trends underline why it’s so important to stay vigilant, maintain safe speeds, and check current traffic conditions before driving on I-55.

Frequently asked questions

How long do I have to file a claim after an I-55 accident?

In Mississippi, the statute of limitations for most personal injury claims is three years from the date of your accident. There are exceptions, however, so speak to a lawyer as soon as possible.

Can I recover damages if I was partly at fault?

Yes. Mississippi follows a pure comparative negligence rule, meaning you can recover damages even if you were 99% at fault, though your award will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

What damages can I recover after an I-55 accident?

You may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and in some cases, punitive damages.

Why are early morning accidents on I-55 so dangerous?

Before dawn, visibility is low, and drivers may be drowsy or under the influence. Combined with interstate speeds, this creates a higher risk of severe crashes.

Do I need a lawyer for an I-55 accident claim?

Even though you’re not required to have an attorney, insurance companies often try to settle for less than your claim is worth. An experienced attorney can protect your rights and work to maximize your recovery.

Do you have a Mississippi I-55 car accident lawyer near me?

Yes. We meet personal injury victims at the following Mississippi 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): 2121 5th Street, Suite 205, Meridian, MS 39301.

We meet clients who cannot physically travel to their homes or other locations when necessary. Our lawyers consult with clients by phone and through online video platforms, such as Zoom and FaceTime.

We can help when you’re injured in an accident on I-55 in Mississippi

When you’ve been injured in an I-55 accident, you need a legal team with the experience, resources, and determination to get results. Merkel & Cocke, P.A. has a long track record of success representing car and truck accident victims throughout Mississippi. We know the unique dangers of I-55, from its rural stretches to its congested city interchanges, and we understand the investigative steps needed to prove fault and maximize compensation. And, you pay nothing unless we win your case. Contact us by phone or complete our contact form to schedule a complimentary consultation. We represent clients throughout Mississippi and the Gulf Coast.