Jackson Car Accident Attorney

Fighting For Car Accident Victims in Jackson

Despite the stream of automobile innovations meant to keep us safe, car accidents remain one of the leading causes of death across the globe. In fact, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, more than 43,000 people die in the United States every year as a result of automobile accidents, while another 2.9 million are injured—ranging from relatively minor injuries to severe, life-changing injuries. Even more alarming, experts estimate that by the year 2020, car accident casualties will exceed the HIV/AIDS mortality and disability rates.

Unfortunately, as if dealing with the physical injuries of a car accident is not enough, victims are likely to suffer serious financial burdens as well. Medical expenses, car damage costs, and the cost of being unable to return to work can cause those injured in a car accident to feel as though they have few options to get their life back on track. Those affected by a car accident are fully aware of the pain—physical, mental, and financial—resulting from an accident caused by the negligence of another, yet are unsure of what steps need to be taken.

In such scenarios, having a knowledgeable auto accident lawyer in Jackson by your side can prove invaluable. An experienced attorney can guide victims through the complex legal landscape, helping them navigate insurance claims and legal processes efficiently. Legal representation ensures that all avenues for compensation are explored, including pain and suffering, which may not always be immediately apparent. Moreover, legal support can relieve victims of the additional stress of handling insurance companies, allowing them to focus on recovery.

The Jackson injury attorneys at Coxwell & Associates have a solid understanding of what victims go through following a car accident. Our attorneys conduct a thorough investigation in each case to ensure those injured are fully and fairly compensated for their losses. To gain a greater understanding of how often serious car accidents occur in the state of Mississippi, take a look at this report.

Contact Coxwell & Associates online or call (601) 265-7766 today to get started with our Jackson car accident attorney.

Common Injuries in Car Accidents

Common injuries may include:

• Whiplash & Soft Tissue Injuries: These often occur when the neck is jerked backward and forward, causing strain on the muscles and ligaments. Soft tissue injuries can also include strains, sprains, and tears in muscles, tendons, and ligaments throughout the body.
• Head & Brain Injuries: Concussions, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), and other head injuries can occur even in low-speed accidents. These injuries vary from mild concussions to more serious cases that cause long-term cognitive and emotional challenges. Head injuries can be particularly dangerous because their symptoms are often subtle and may take time to manifest.
• Broken Bones: The impact of a car accident can result in fractures or broken bones. Common fractures include broken arms, legs, ribs, and collarbones. In severe cases, these injuries can require surgery and long rehabilitation periods.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: These injuries often require extensive medical treatment, therapy, and, in some cases, permanent lifestyle changes. Spinal cord injuries can lead to partial or complete paralysis, significantly impacting a person's ability to lead a normal life. Developing a comprehensive treatment plan is crucial for the affected individuals to regain their independence.
• Internal Injuries: The force of a car wreck can cause damage to internal organs such as the lungs, spleen, or liver. Internal bleeding is a life-threatening condition that demands immediate medical attention. Beyond the immediate threat, the management of internal injuries often involves ongoing medical supervision to prevent further complications.
• Cuts, Bruises, & Burns: Broken glass, loose objects, and even airbag deployment can cause lacerations and bruising. In more serious crashes, victims may suffer burns from car fires or from coming into contact with hot surfaces like the engine or exhaust system. Recovery from such injuries frequently demands an intricate mix of medical, surgical, and physical therapy interventions.

What Damages Could Be Recovered in a Car Accident Claim?

Potential damages may include:

• Medical Expenses: Medical costs can quickly add up after an accident, especially if your injuries require hospitalization, surgery, or long-term treatment. You may be entitled to compensation for:

Emergency room visits
Hospital stays
Surgeries
Physical therapy
Medications
Ongoing medical care

• Lost Wages: If your injuries stop you from working, you could qualify to recover compensation for lost earnings. This includes not only the income you lost while recovering but also any future income loss if your injuries stop you from returning to your previous place of employment or working full-time. Calculating future lost wages can be complex, often requiring expert testimony and financial analysis to accurately assess the compensation you deserve.
• Pain & Suffering: Compensation for pain and suffering is designed to address the physical pain, emotional despair, and diminished quality of life caused by the accident. While these damages are more challenging to quantify, they are an essential part of a car accident claim. Emotional distress, including anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), frequently accompanies serious accidents and adds a critical layer to the recovery evaluation.
• Property Damage: Your vehicle and any personal property that was damaged in the accident can also be included in your claim. This may cover the cost of repairs or the fair market value of your car if it was totaled. Ensuring that the valuation of property is done accurately provides financial relief in what can otherwise be an overwhelming situation.
• Loss of Consortium: If your injuries have impacted your relationships with your spouse or family, you could be eligible to recover damages for loss of consortium. This commonly refers to the loss of companionship, affection, and support that a partner or close family member experiences due to the accident. These damages underscore the broader impact of an accident, recognizing that injuries and disability extend far beyond the individual alone.
• Permanent Disability or Disfigurement: In cases where the accident has caused long-term or permanent injuries, such as paralysis or disfigurement, additional compensation may be awarded. This is intended to cover the long-term medical care, lifestyle adjustments, and emotional toll these injuries cause. Life care planning is often involved to map out the financial needs associated with ongoing care and adapting to permanent changes.
• Wrongful Death: If you have lost a loved one in a car accident, you may be able to file a wrongful death claim. This type of claim seeks compensation for funeral fees, loss of income, and loss of companionship and support. Engaging with a knowledgeable car accident lawyer in Jackson can provide families with the legal guidance needed to pursue these sensitive and complex claims effectively, ensuring that justice is sought for the loved ones lost prematurely.

Local Roads & Accident Statistics in Jackson

Jackson, Mississippi, is an epicenter for several major highways and interstates that increase traffic congestion, leading to higher accident rates. Notably, I-55 and I-20 intersect within the area, seeing tens of thousands of vehicles daily. According to the Mississippi Department of Transportation, these highways are among the busiest, which often results in collisions. Understanding the local traffic patterns and accident hotspots can offer valuable insights for avoiding hazardous situations.

Recent statistics highlight a significant number of rear-end collisions and side-impact accidents happening around these high-traffic zones. Contributing factors include distracted driving, sudden braking in congested areas, and poor weather conditions exacerbating driver errors. By focusing on these common issues, local officials aim to improve road safety measures, which emphasizes the importance of being guided by skilled auto accident lawyers experienced in these types of local accident scenarios.