Best Car Accident Lawyers in Jackson

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Jackson, Mississippi?

  The non-emergency number for the Jackson Police Department is 601-960-1234.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Jackson, Mississippi?

  You can get a copy of a police report by visiting the Police Department Records Section during normal business hours, from Mondays to Fridays, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (excluding major holidays). After an incident has been reported, copies of the police report are typically available in seven to 10 working days.

• What losses are compensable following a car accident in Jackson?

  Injured parties may be entitled to different forms of compensation following a car accident in Jackson, including future medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional anguish, and property damage. Jackson car accident lawyers can help plaintiffs calculate the potential damages for the incurred injuries and losses and negotiate with the defendants' insurance companies.

• How soon after a car accident in Jackson must plaintiffs submit a claim?

  Individuals who were hurt in a car accident in Jackson must make a claim as soon as possible. This is because the statute of limitations in Mississippi is only three years, which begins the day after the accident. Consequently, the court is unlikely to entertain the matter after this timeframe. Before the deadline, plaintiffs must retain a car accident lawyer to build and manage their cases.

• Is it required to report an automobile collision to the Jackson Police Department?

  Within 10 days after a car accident in Jackson, a written accident report needs to be filed with the Jackson Police Department if someone is hurt or there is property damage exceeding $250. If a car accident occurs in an incorporated municipality, it must be reported to the local police force following Mississippi Code §63-3-411. If not, the involved parties must notify the nearest highway patrol or sheriff's office. Additionally, if the victims want to sue the negligent drivers, they must hire a car accident lawyer.

• Can car accident victims in Jackson still pursue a claim even if the defendants disappear or hide?

  Yes, car accident victims may still file a suit against reckless drivers in Jackson who vanished or relocated even after the three-year deadline to pursue a claim has passed. This is one of the exceptions to Mississippi's statute of limitations, which states that the clock will only begin to run once the defendant has been found or enters the state again.

• Can victims of a car accident in Jackson still receive compensation for their losses if the at-fault drivers have no auto insurance?

  Yes, a car accident victim in Jackson can still be compensated if the at-fault party has no insurance by contacting their own insurer to have their bills covered. In this case, the uninsured motorist coverage in the plaintiff's policy will pay for the cost of injuries and losses they have sustained. If the victims want to sue the at-fault drivers, they should hire an attorney to help them determine the value of their claims.

• How do I choose a car accident lawyer?

  To select a car accident lawyer, consider the lawyer's experience, focus, and reputation. While nearly any attorney can negotiate with insurers for a settlement, not all attorneys have amassed experience litigating a claim in a court of law. Choose an attorney with a background that includes car accident claimants; it's helpful if the attorney is focused on personal injury law. Lastly, read reviews from previous clients to get a feel for the attorney's helpfulness and responsiveness to clients. The best lawyer for your case is one that you feel comfortable and confident working with.

• What steps should I take after a car accident?

  Immediately following a car accident, get out of traffic as soon as possible and dial 9-1-1. Exchange car insurance information with any other involved drivers and get a police report as soon as possible. Be truthful about what happened, even if you are at fault, but stick to reporting the facts of the accident without offering an opinion on who is to blame. If possible, take photos of your car, other cars at the scene, and the scene itself.

• (When) Do I need a lawyer after a car accident?

  Start working with a car accident lawyer as soon as possible following your car accident (some attorneys even make hospital visits). By reaching out for legal help early on, you avoid some of the pitfalls of trying to handle your claim on your own. Your attorney can also get the ball rolling on reimbursement for your medical bills and lost wages while awaiting the outcome of your claim.

• How long after a car accident can you claim an injury?

  The length of time you can file a claim for an injury following a car accident is governed by the statute of limitations in your state. Although it varies, most states set the statute of limitations for injured parties to seek compensatory damages at three years following the accident or three years after you discover your injuries. In cases where children are injured, the statute of limitations may be longer.

• What do I do after a car accident that I'm not responsible for?

  After an accident that's not your fault, seek immediate medical help if you are injured. Once it's safe to do so, obtain the other driver's contact and insurance information, any statements from witnesses, and photos of the scene. Obtain a police report and contact your insurer and the at-fault party's insurer. If you are injured, schedule a consultation with a car accident attorney to discuss your legal options.

• What happens if someone sues you after a car accident?

  If you have car insurance in force at the time of the accident, your insurance is contractually bound to represent you on any claims that arise, indemnifying you against loss up to the limits of your policy. You can help your insurance company by cooperating fully. If the plaintiff in any lawsuit obtains a judgment above your policy limits, then you can be held personally responsible for any damages awarded.

• What/how much can I expect from a car accident settlement?

  According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average bodily injury claim in 2018 was $15,785. The amount of any particular car accident settlement hinges primarily on the severity of the injuries sustained as a result and whether or not any partial or total permanent disability was caused by the accident. Claims that involve broken bones or nerve damage likely settle for more than claims where soft tissue injuries are present.

• How do I arrange a rental car after an accident?

  To arrange a rental car after an accident, first consider whether your insurance or the other party's insurance will be paying for the rental. If another driver is found to be at-fault for the accident, that driver's insurance may pay the costs. If you are responsible, your insurance may pay if your policy covers such expenses. Speak with your insurance adjuster to determine if you have benefits available.

• How long does it take for car insurance to go back down after an accident?

  Post-accident rate spikes can last anywhere from three to five years, depending on your insurer. However, if damages incurred during the accident are less than $2,000, your rate may not go up at all. Three years is typical for collision and property damage claims. Five years is not uncommon in accidents involving bodily injury claims, DUI or DWI, reckless driving, or serious violations at the time of the accident.

• How to settle a car accident claim without a lawyer?

  To negotiate a car accident settlement without a lawyer, you'll have to prove that the other party was to blame for your damages. Gather evidence at the scene to support your claim, including witness statements and photos. Seek medical treatment for your injuries immediately. Notify the other driver's insurer of your intent to file a claim. If you reside in a no-fault state, you will need to use your personal injury protection (PIP) benefits first before filing a claim against the other party for medical expenses and bodily injury. Be prepared with medical records, police reports, receipts for out-of-pocket accident-related costs, and proof of lost income due to the accident before beginning negotiations.