Mississippi 18 Wheeler Accidents

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, large trucks were involved in more than 4,000 fatal accidents across the US in 2008. Occupants of passenger cars involved in a Mississippi 18 wheeler accident are ten times more likely to suffer fatality than the truck driver.  The Mississippi personal injury attorneys at the Gardner Law Firm, PC offer clients experienced, aggressive representation in personal injury and wrongful death claims caused by Mississippi 18 wheeler accidents.

Weighing in excess of 30,000 pounds fully loaded, 18-wheeler trucks—consisting of a tractor and trailer—are most commonly involved in Mississippi truck accidents. Because of the high profile, weight, and length of a semi-truck, 18 wheeler accidents in Mississippi can cause serious injuries including:

• Burns, exposure to hazardous cargo
• Laceration, broken bones
• Spinal cord injury and severe back trauma
• Traumatic brain injury
• Death

Although governed by state and federal regulation, enforcement of interstate trucking directives is often difficult. Critical causes of 18 wheeler accidents cluster around the driver, the driving environment, and other factors including mechanical failure. According to the US Department of Transportation (DOT), reasons for 18 wheeler accidents in Mississippi include the following.

Truck drivers: The decision-making and driving ability of the truck operator may be impacted by:

Use of alcohol or prescription or illegal drugs Fatigue and work-related pressure Driver distraction, often caused by on-board electronics Traveling too fast for conditions due to unreasonable deadlines

Unfamiliarity with roadway Lack of skill and experience with vehicle Aggressive driving Inadequate attention and poor driving

Mechanical difficulties: Mechanical breakdown is sometimes to blame in Mississippi 18 wheeler accidents. Poor use of brakes, brake failure, or improper adjustment of brakes contributes to jackknife accidents. Jackknife accidents occur when the trailer swings out at a 90-degree angle to the tractor. Causing enormous physical and property damage, this type of 18 wheeler accident in Mississippi is deadly serious.

Other factors: Factors affecting the truck cargo and driving environment are often the cause of severe large truck accidents, including:

• Traffic stops due to construction or road conditions
• Non-secure or shifting cargo loads en route
• Passenger car operator error

Devastating large truck accidents in Mississippi often give rise to legal claims for wrongful death or long-term medical compensation for catastrophic injuries. If you suffered injury in a truck accident, our 18 wheeler accident attorney in Mississippi can help with responsive, highly qualified legal counsel to achieve fair compensation for your suffering.

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Contact an 18 wheeler accident lawyer in Mississippi

With over 30 years experience helping injured clients and their families, the Gardner Law Firm, PC works aggressively to protect your right to fair compensation from an 18 wheeler accident in Mississippi. Contact the Gardner Law Firm, PC online or call 228-471-4204 for a free, initial consultation.