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Experienced Tupelo Commercial Vehicle Accident Lawyers

Tupelo, Mississippi is the intersection of major transportation routes and commercial activity, making it a bustling hub for both local and interstate travel. This strategic location contributes to the high volume of commercial vehicle traffic, which unfortunately increases the risk of accidents. If you have been involved in a commercial vehicle accident in Tupelo, the experienced lawyers at Wettermark Keith are here to help you navigate the complexities of your case and secure the compensation you deserve.

What is a Commercial Vehicle?

A commercial vehicle is any type of motor vehicle used for transporting goods or passengers for business purposes. This broad category includes a variety of vehicles, such as commercial trucks, buses, and delivery vans. In Tupelo, Mississippi, commercial vehicles are a common sight due to the city's strategic location at the intersection of major transportation routes.

Key indicators that a vehicle might be a commercial vehicle include: 

Cargo: Vehicles carrying large quantities of goods, equipment, or passengers for a fee are usually considered commercial.

Vehicle Size and Type: Large trucks, such as semi-trucks and 18-wheelers, are typically used for commercial purposes. Delivery vans and buses also fall into this category.

Company Logos and Branding: Many commercial vehicles display the name, logo, and contact information of the business they are associated with.

Commercial trucks, often operated by trucking companies, are a significant subset of commercial vehicles. These include semi-trucks, 18-wheelers, and other large freight carriers designed to transport goods over long distances. Given their size and weight, accidents involving commercial trucks can result in severe injuries and substantial property damage. Due to the potential for significant harm, these accidents often lead to multi-million dollar claims and settlements, reflecting the serious impact on victims' lives and the high costs of medical care, lost wages, and other related expenses.

Common Injuries From Commercial Vehicle Accidents

Accidents involving commercial vehicles or trucks often result in severe injuries due to the size and weight of these vehicles compared to passenger cars. Here are some of the most common injuries sustained in commercial vehicle wrecks:

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

Spinal Cord Injuries

Whiplash and Neck Injuries

Broken Bones

Internal Injuries

Burns

Lacerations and Contusions

Amputations

Psychological Trauma

Wrongful Death

Commercial vehicle accidents are often devastating, and the injuries sustained can have a profound impact on the victims' lives. If you or a loved one has been injured in such an accident, it's crucial to seek medical attention immediately and consult with a knowledgeable personal injury attorney.

At Wettermark Keith, we are dedicated to helping you navigate the complex legal landscape and secure the compensation you need to recover and rebuild your life. Contact our Tupelo truck accident lawyers today for a free consultation.

Steps to Take Immediately After a Commercial Vehicle Accident

Being involved in a commercial vehicle accident can be a traumatic and overwhelming experience. Taking the right steps immediately after the incident can protect your health and legal rights.

Ensure Safety: The first priority is to check for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately. Move to a safe location if the vehicles are causing a hazard.

Call the Police: Report the accident to the police, and ensure an official report is filed. This document will be crucial for any legal claims.

Gather Information: Collect the contact information of all drivers, passengers, and witnesses. Note the license plate numbers, insurance details, and the name of the trucking company involved.

Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries. These can serve as vital evidence.

Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, get a medical evaluation to rule out any hidden injuries. Keep all medical records and receipts.

Report the Accident: Notify your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. Provide them with the information and documents you have gathered.

Avoid Making Statements: Do not admit fault or make any statements to the other party’s insurance company without consulting an attorney.

Consult a Lawyer: Contact an experienced personal injury attorney to discuss your case. They can guide you through the legal process and help protect your rights.

By following these steps, you can protect your health and legal interests after a commercial vehicle accident. At Wettermark Keith, our experienced attorneys are ready to assist you through every stage of the process, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve. Contact our truck accident attorneys today for a free consultation.

How Do These Accidents Happen in Tupelo, Mississippi?

Commercial vehicle accidents in Tupelo, Mississippi, can result from a variety of factors, each contributing to the complexity and frequency of these incidents. The city's vibrant commercial activity and constant movement of goods create a dynamic yet challenging driving environment. Here are some common causes of commercial vehicle accidents in Tupelo:

Driver Fatigue: Long hours on the road without adequate rest can significantly impair reaction times and decision-making abilities. Tight delivery schedules and pressure from employers can lead to violations of federal regulations limiting the number of hours a driver can operate a vehicle.

Distracted Driving: Distracted driving takes the driver’s attention away from the road. Common distractions include using mobile phones, eating, adjusting the radio, or using GPS devices while driving.

Speeding and Reckless Driving: Driving at excessive speeds or engaging in reckless behaviors such as aggressive lane changes can lead to serious accidents. Tight delivery deadlines and the desire to maximize efficiency can prompt commercial drivers to exceed speed limits and take unnecessary risks.

Improper Maintenance: Commercial vehicles require regular maintenance to ensure they are safe to operate. Neglecting maintenance can lead to mechanical failures such as faulty brakes, tire blowouts, and engine failures.

Weather Conditions: Adverse weather conditions such as heavy rain, fog, or ice can make driving hazardous, especially for large commercial vehicles. Reduced visibility and slippery roads increase the likelihood of accidents.

Improper Loading: Overloading or improperly securing cargo can cause commercial vehicles to become unstable and difficult to control. Shifting loads can lead to rollovers or the cargo spilling onto the roadway, creating hazards for other drivers.

Inadequate Training: Commercial vehicle drivers must undergo extensive training to handle large vehicles safely. Inadequate training can lead to poor driving practices. Some trucking companies may cut corners on training to save time and money, putting poorly trained drivers on the road.

Violation of Traffic Laws: Ignoring traffic signals, failing to yield, and other traffic violations contribute to many commercial vehicle accidents. Stress, impatience, and the pressure to meet tight schedules can lead drivers to disregard traffic laws.

Substance Abuse: Operating a commercial vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs significantly impairs a driver’s ability to operate the vehicle safely. Despite strict regulations and testing, some drivers may still engage in substance abuse, increasing the risk of accidents.

Commercial vehicle accidents in Tupelo, MS can have devastating consequences, leading to severe injuries and significant property damage. If you or a loved one has been involved in a commercial vehicle accident, it is crucial to seek legal assistance. Schedule a free consultation with a personal injury lawyer at Wettermark Keith today. 

Why it is Important to find the right Commercial Vehicle Accident Lawyer

Given the complexity of commercial vehicle accidents, seeking legal representation from experienced truck accident attorneys in Tupelo is crucial. Unlike typical car accidents, commercial vehicle accidents involve multiple parties, including the driver, the trucking company, and their insurance provider. Each party may try to shift blame or minimize their liability, making it challenging for victims to obtain the compensation they deserve.

Proving negligence in commercial vehicle accidents is essential for a successful claim. Commercial vehicles encompass a wide range of vehicles, including tractor-trailers, delivery trucks, buses, and vans. These vehicles are subject to specific regulations and standards, and violations of these regulations can contribute to accidents.

An experienced commercial vehicle accident lawyer understands the intricacies of these regulations and how to gather the necessary evidence to prove negligence. This includes obtaining driver logs, maintenance records, and data from the vehicle's electronic logging devices. The lawyer will also conduct thorough investigations, interview witnesses, and work with experts to build a strong case.

Having the right attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. They can navigate the legal complexities, negotiate with multiple parties, and ensure that all responsible parties are held accountable. This comprehensive approach increases the chances of securing the compensation needed to cover medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and other related costs.

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Our 3-Step Process

Connect With Us:

Call our office at (877) 715-9300 or use our online form to arrange a no-cost, no-obligation consultation with our Tupelo legal team.

We Assess Your Case

In our initial review, our experienced Tupelo legal team will analyze the details of your case and map out potential strategies. If you've experienced an injury due to negligence, we’ll assign one of our expert personal injury attorneys to handle your case.

We Defend Your Rights

As one of the Southeast’s top personal injury firms, Wettermark Keith is fully committed to advocating for your rightful compensation and recovery. If an injury has disrupted your life, let our dedicated Tupelo attorneys seek justice on your behalf.

Frequently Asked Questions

Seek medical attention, report the accident to the police, gather evidence, and contact a personal injury lawyer for guidance.

Determining fault in accidents involving commercial vehicles is a complex process that can involve multiple parties. Fault may be attributed to the driver, the trucking company, maintenance providers, manufacturers, or other parties depending on the specific circumstances of the accident.

Each accident is unique and can involve different variables, such as driver negligence, vehicle maintenance issues, improper loading of cargo, or manufacturing defects. Investigations typically include analyzing driver logs, vehicle maintenance records, accident reports, and sometimes data from the vehicle’s electronic logging device. Witness statements and expert testimonies may also play a crucial role in establishing fault.

At Wettermark Keith, our experienced attorneys meticulously investigate all aspects of the accident to identify responsible parties and build a strong case for our clients.

Handling claims against commercial insurers differs significantly from dealing with personal auto insurance claims due to the complexities and scale involved. Here are key differences to be aware of:

  • Higher Policy Limits: Commercial policies usually have higher coverage limits, resulting in larger potential settlements but also more rigorous defenses by insurers.
  • Multiple Parties: Claims often involve several parties, including the driver, trucking company, and maintenance providers, requiring thorough investigation to identify all liable entities.
  • Extensive Investigations: Commercial insurers conduct detailed investigations, reviewing maintenance records, driver logs, and using accident reconstruction experts.
  • Regulatory Complexity: Commercial vehicles are subject to strict federal and state regulations, which must be understood and navigated in claims.
  • Aggressive Defense: Commercial insurers employ strong defense tactics and extensive legal resources to challenge claims and minimize payouts.
  • Longer Process: The complexity of these claims often results in a longer resolution process compared to personal auto insurance claims.
  • Specialized Legal Representation: It is crucial to have an experienced attorney specializing in commercial vehicle accidents to handle these claims effectively.

Yes, you can seek compensation for emotional distress after a commercial vehicle accident in Mississippi. Under Mississippi law, emotional distress is considered a type of non-economic damage that can be included in a personal injury claim. Emotional distress refers to the psychological impact and emotional suffering that result from an accident, which can include anxiety, depression, fear, insomnia, and other mental health issues.

Mississippi courts recognize the legitimacy of emotional distress claims and may award compensation to cover therapy costs, medication, and the overall impact on your quality of life. Given the complexities involved in proving emotional distress, it is advisable to work with an experienced personal injury attorney who can help gather the necessary evidence and advocate on your behalf.

The statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit in Mississippi is typically three years from the date of the accident, but it's best to consult with a lawyer to understand your specific situation.

If you have been involved in a commercial vehicle accident in Mississippi, you may be entitled to various types of compensation to cover the damages and losses you have incurred. These compensations are generally categorized into economic and non-economic damages.

  • Economic Damages include: medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, rehabilitation costs, medications and more.
  • Non-Economic Damages include: pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of consortium, and loss of enjoyment of life.
  • Punitive Damages: In some cases, if the conduct of the at-fault party was particularly egregious or reckless, you may be awarded punitive damages. These are intended to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct in the future.

No Recovery, No Fee - Guarantee!

At Wettermark Keith, we are dedicated to easing the financial and emotional burdens that accidents and injuries impose on you and your family. We recognize the stress and financial difficulties that can arise when seeking justice and compensation for your injuries.

To support you through this challenging time, we operate on a contingency fee basis. This means that you will not incur any legal fees unless we successfully recover compensation on your behalf. This approach ensures that you can pursue your case with confidence, knowing that your financial risk is minimized. Our commitment is to provide you with the highest level of legal representation without adding to your financial worries.

Schedule a Free Consultation With Our Truck Accident Attorneys Today

At Wettermark Keith™, we have an excellent reputation as one of the most accomplished personal injury firms in the country. We offer a diverse range of practice areas, including personal injury cases, auto wrecks, trucking wrecks, nursing home abuse, medical malpractice, on-the-job injuries, social security, and VA disability, to name just a few. At Wettermark Keith, we believe in taking cases personally. Our purpose is to practice with care and compassion - to tell our clients' stories and make their voices heard. We achieve this by building strong relationships based on constant communication and an unwavering dedication to truth and trust.

Wettermark Keith was extremely professional and helpful. This personal injury law firm helped my husband over 10 years ago when he fell and broke his foot on vacation. I called them first because I liked their TV commercials. They are very nice people and I would call them again if I needed a lawyer.

- Juanita

Law firm Wettermark Keith has exceeded my expectations! I recommend these lawyers to anyone and everyone I come across. Their commitment to their clients is outstanding. Communication is easy. And I got my settlement very fast. I definitely recommend working with Lee Hawker. He is very gracious and kind. He looked out for me and my family and went above and beyond for us. I’m very grateful!

- Alexa

My personal embattlement with the Social Security Administration went downhill. From a personal recommendation, I reached out to Wettermark Keith law firm. Brian Smith and his team took my case and throughout the whole process, I felt more than just another number. Frequent updates were provided, and emphasis was placed on ensuring all needed documentation was in place. In the end, the accident case resulted in a favorable victory. A big thank you to my lawyer Brian Smith and the team at Wettermark Keith for the hard work throughout the entire personal injury process.

- Dallas

I had the pleasure of working with Mr. Mark English at Wettermark Keith law firm after my car accident in December 2021. He was very thorough in everything, did a wonderful job of explaining everything that was happening, and was super easy to get in touch with when I needed him. I never had a question that was left unanswered by this lawyer. He's very kind and patient, and he made the personal injury claims process so easy for me. I absolutely recommend him, it was a pleasure working with him!

- Rose

I am so elated that I utilized Mr. Muhammad Abdullah’s services. In the beginning, he told me the compensation that I would receive for my personal injury claim and I actually received more than that! After my car wreck (in my brand-new vehicle), I was actually surprised that I was in the pain that I was in. Mr. Abdullah made sure I saw the necessary people for therapy and worked hard to get me back into my car after the accident. I felt that he was diligent, listened to my concerns, and quickly got me back in my car and compensated! I will be utilizing Mr. Abdullah again and again, anytime I ever have to hire a lawyer.

- Madinah