18-Wheeler Accident Attorneys in Greene County, Mississippi

When 80,000 Pounds Changes Everything

The impact was catastrophic. One moment you’re driving through Greene County on your way to work, visiting family, or just running errands. The next, an 80,000-pound 18-wheeler has jackknifed across your lane, rear-ended your vehicle, or blown a tire that sends debris crashing through your windshield.

In an instant, everything changes.

Every 16 minutes, someone in America is injured in a commercial truck crash. While the national average is sobering, Greene County’s position along Mississippi’s critical trucking corridors makes this stretch of highway particularly dangerous. Interstate 59 cuts through the heart of our county, connecting the Gulf Coast to the Midwest, while U.S. Highway 63 serves as a major north-south freight route. These aren’t just roads—they’re lifelines for commerce that carry thousands of heavy trucks through Greene County every single day.

If you or someone you love has been hurt in an 18-wheeler accident in Greene County, you need more than just a lawyer. You need a fighter who understands federal trucking regulations, knows how to preserve critical evidence before it disappears, and has the experience to stand up to trucking companies and their insurance giants.

That’s exactly what we do at Attorney911.

Why 18-Wheeler Accidents in Greene County Are Different

Trucking accidents aren’t just bigger car crashes. They’re an entirely different category of catastrophe with unique causes, multiple liable parties, and complex federal regulations that most personal injury attorneys simply don’t understand.

The Physics of Devastation

A fully loaded 18-wheeler can weigh up to 80,000 pounds—twenty times the weight of an average passenger car. When that much mass collides with your vehicle at highway speed, the forces involved are catastrophic. The truck doesn’t just hit you; it overwhelms you.

Consider the stopping distances. At 65 mph, a car needs roughly 300 feet to stop—about the length of a football field. An 18-wheeler needs approximately 525 feet to stop from the same speed. That’s nearly two football fields. When traffic slows suddenly on I-59 through Greene County, truck drivers who are following too closely, distracted, or fatigued simply cannot stop in time.

The Regulatory Maze

Commercial trucking is one of the most heavily regulated industries in America. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) enforces hundreds of regulations governing everything from how long drivers can operate to how cargo must be secured to how often brakes must be inspected.

When trucking companies violate these regulations—and they often do to save time and money—they create the dangerous conditions that cause accidents. Proving these violations is the key to establishing negligence and securing maximum compensation. But it requires an attorney who understands the regulations and knows how to obtain the evidence that proves violations.

At Attorney911, we’ve spent over 25 years mastering these regulations. We know exactly what to look for, where to find it, and how to use it to build an ironclad case against negligent trucking companies.

The Most Common 18-Wheeler Accidents in Greene County

Every trucking corridor has its own accident patterns based on geography, traffic, weather, and industry. In Greene County, Mississippi, these are the accident types we see most often—and the ones you need to be prepared for.

Jackknife Accidents on I-59

I-59 runs north-south through Greene County, carrying heavy freight traffic between the Gulf Coast and the Midwest. When truck drivers brake suddenly on this highway—whether for traffic, weather, or debris—their trailers can swing out perpendicular to the cab in what’s called a jackknife.

Once a jackknife starts, the driver has almost no control. The trailer sweeps across multiple lanes, creating a massive obstacle that other vehicles cannot avoid. On I-59 through Greene County, where speeds are high and traffic can be heavy, jackknife accidents often result in multi-vehicle pileups with catastrophic injuries.

Jackknifes typically occur because of:

• Sudden braking on wet or slippery roads
• Improper brake maintenance causing uneven braking
• Driver error in emergency situations
• Speeding, especially on curves
• Empty or lightly loaded trailers that are more prone to swing

Under 49 CFR § 393.48, truck brakes must be properly maintained and adjusted. When brake failures cause jackknifes, the trucking company is liable for negligent maintenance.

Rear-End Collisions on Highway 63

U.S. Highway 63 serves as a major north-south route through Greene County, connecting local communities and carrying significant truck traffic. The combination of high speeds, frequent intersections, and varying traffic patterns makes rear-end collisions a constant danger.

When an 80,000-pound truck rear-ends a passenger vehicle, the results are devastating. The truck’s massive weight and momentum can push the smaller vehicle into other lanes, off the road, or into oncoming traffic. Occupants of the struck vehicle often suffer catastrophic injuries including traumatic brain injury, spinal cord damage, and internal organ trauma.

Rear-end truck accidents typically result from:

• Following too closely (tailgating)
• Driver distraction (cell phone, GPS, dispatch radio)
• Driver fatigue and delayed reaction time
• Excessive speed for traffic conditions
• Brake failures from poor maintenance
• Failure to anticipate traffic slowdowns

Under 49 CFR § 392.11, truck drivers must maintain a safe following distance. Violations of this regulation prove negligence and strengthen your case.

Rollover Accidents on County Roads

Greene County’s rural roads and highways include curves, hills, and varying road conditions that can challenge even experienced truck drivers. When trucks take these curves too fast, encounter unexpected road conditions, or experience cargo shifts, rollovers can occur.

A rollover is among the most dangerous types of trucking accidents. The truck’s high center of gravity and massive weight make it prone to tipping, especially when improperly loaded or operated at excessive speeds. Once a rollover begins, the driver has virtually no control, and the truck becomes a deadly obstacle that can crush other vehicles, spill cargo across the roadway, and cause multi-vehicle pileups.

Rollovers typically result from:

• Speeding on curves, ramps, or turns
• Improperly secured or unevenly distributed cargo
• Liquid cargo “slosh” shifting the center of gravity
• Overcorrection after tire blowout or lane departure
• Driver fatigue causing delayed reaction
• Road design defects or inadequate banking

Under 49 CFR § 393.100-136, cargo must be properly secured to prevent shifting. When cargo shifts cause rollovers, multiple parties—including the trucking company, cargo owner, and loading company—may share liability.

Tire Blowouts on I-59

Interstate 59 through Greene County carries heavy truck traffic in all weather conditions. Mississippi’s hot, humid summers and occasional severe weather create conditions that stress truck tires to their limits. When tires fail at highway speeds, the results can be catastrophic.

A tire blowout on an 18-wheeler is fundamentally different from a passenger car flat tire. The sudden loss of pressure causes immediate instability, often leading to loss of control, jackknifing, or rollover. Debris from the blown tire—sometimes called “road gators”—can strike following vehicles with deadly force. The truck driver may swerve into other lanes or off the road, creating secondary accidents.

Tire blowouts typically result from:

• Underinflation causing overheating
• Overloading beyond tire capacity
• Worn or aging tires not replaced
• Road debris punctures
• Manufacturing defects
• Improper tire matching on dual wheels
• Heat buildup on long hauls
• Inadequate pre-trip inspections

Under 49 CFR § 393.75, truck tires must meet specific tread depth and condition requirements. When tire failures cause accidents, we investigate maintenance records, inspection logs, and tire specifications to prove negligence.

Who Can Be Held Liable for Your Greene County Trucking Accident

One of the most critical differences between trucking accidents and car accidents is the number of potentially liable parties. While a typical car crash might involve only two drivers, an 18-wheeler accident can implicate a web of companies and individuals who all contributed to the dangerous conditions that caused your injuries.

At Attorney911, we investigate every possible defendant because more liable parties means more insurance coverage means higher compensation for you. Here’s who we look at in every Greene County trucking accident case.

The Truck Driver

The driver who caused your accident may be personally liable for their negligent conduct. Common driver errors include:

• Speeding or reckless driving
• Distracted driving (cell phone, texting, GPS, dispatch communications)
• Fatigued driving beyond federal legal limits
• Impaired driving (drugs, alcohol, prescription medications)
• Failure to conduct proper pre-trip inspections
• Violation of traffic laws
• Failure to yield, improper lane changes, running red lights
• Following too closely
• Unsafe lane changes

We pursue the driver’s personal assets and insurance when their conduct was particularly egregious. But more importantly, the driver’s errors often implicate the trucking company that employed them.

The Trucking Company / Motor Carrier

The trucking company is often the most important defendant in your case because they have the deepest pockets and the most responsibility for safety. Under the legal doctrine of respondeat superior—”let the master answer”—employers are responsible for their employees’ negligent acts committed within the scope of employment.

But trucking companies can also be directly liable for their own negligence:

Negligent Hiring: The company failed to properly check the driver’s background, driving record, or qualifications before hiring. Maybe they hired a driver with a history of DUIs, or someone without a valid CDL, or a driver who had been fired by other carriers for safety violations.

Negligent Training: The company failed to provide adequate safety training. This includes training on hours-of-service regulations, cargo securement, defensive driving, and emergency procedures.

Negligent Supervision: The company failed to monitor driver performance and compliance. They didn’t review ELD data, ignored hours-of-service violations, or failed to address complaints about unsafe driving.

Negligent Maintenance: The company failed to properly maintain vehicles in safe operating condition. They deferred brake repairs, ignored tire wear, or skipped required inspections to save money.

Negligent Scheduling: The company pressured drivers to violate hours-of-service regulations to meet delivery deadlines. They created impossible schedules that forced drivers to choose between safety and their jobs.

Trucking companies carry much higher insurance limits than individual drivers—typically $750,000 to $5,000,000 or more. This makes them the primary target for maximizing your recovery.

The Cargo Owner / Shipper

The company that owned the cargo being transported may share liability if they contributed to unsafe conditions. Common shipper negligence includes:

• Providing improper loading instructions that led to unsafe weight distribution
• Failing to disclose the hazardous nature of cargo
• Requiring overweight loading that exceeded vehicle ratings
• Pressuring the carrier to expedite delivery beyond safe limits
• Misrepresenting cargo weight or characteristics

In Greene County, where agricultural products, timber, and manufactured goods move constantly through our highways, shipper liability is particularly relevant. When a load of pulpwood shifts on Highway 63 or a shipment of poultry products creates hazardous conditions on I-59, the company that arranged that shipment may share responsibility for your injuries.

The Cargo Loading Company

Third-party loading companies that physically place cargo onto trucks can be liable when improper loading causes accidents. This includes:

• Improper cargo securement violating 49 CFR § 393.100-136
• Unbalanced load distribution creating rollover risks
• Exceeding vehicle weight ratings
• Failure to use proper blocking, bracing, or friction mats
• Not training loaders on federal securement requirements

In many cases, the trucking company contracts with separate loading companies at distribution centers, warehouses, or port facilities. These loaders may work for entirely different companies with their own insurance policies—creating additional sources of recovery for your injuries.

The Truck and Trailer Manufacturer

When defective design or manufacturing causes accidents, the companies that built the truck or trailer may be liable. Common product defects include:

• Brake system design flaws
• Stability control failures
• Fuel tank placement creating fire risks
• Defective steering mechanisms
• Faulty airbag or collision warning systems
• Manufacturing defects in critical components

Product liability claims against manufacturers can result in substantial recoveries, particularly when defects cause catastrophic injuries. These cases often involve complex engineering analysis and expert testimony, requiring attorneys with significant resources and experience.

The Parts Manufacturer

Companies that manufacture specific components—brakes, tires, steering systems, lighting—may be liable when their defective products fail and cause accidents. This includes:

• Defective brake pads, rotors, or air brake components
• Tire manufacturing defects causing blowouts
• Defective steering linkages or power steering systems
• Lighting component failures
• Defective coupling devices between tractor and trailer

When we investigate a trucking accident, we preserve all failed components for expert analysis. If a manufacturing defect contributed to your injuries, we’ll pursue the parts manufacturer for compensation.

The Maintenance Company

Third-party maintenance companies that service trucking fleets can be liable when negligent repairs cause accidents. This includes:

• Negligent repairs that failed to fix known problems
• Failure to identify critical safety issues during inspections
• Improper brake adjustments creating failure risks
• Using substandard or incorrect parts
• Returning vehicles to service with known dangerous defects

Many trucking companies outsource maintenance to specialized shops. When these shops cut corners or make mistakes, they may share liability for resulting accidents.

The Freight Broker

Freight brokers who arrange transportation between shippers and carriers—but don’t own trucks themselves—can be liable for negligent carrier selection. This includes:

• Selecting carriers with poor safety records without due diligence
• Failing to verify carrier insurance and operating authority
• Ignoring carrier CSA scores and violation histories
• Choosing the cheapest carrier despite known safety concerns

In today’s logistics industry, freight brokers play a massive role in moving goods. When they prioritize cost over safety, they may share liability for resulting accidents.

The Truck Owner (If Different from Carrier)

In owner-operator arrangements, the individual who owns the truck may have separate liability from the company they’re hauling for. This includes:

• Negligent entrustment of their vehicle to an unqualified driver
• Failure to maintain their owned equipment
• Knowledge of a driver’s unfitness that they failed to disclose

Owner-operators often carry their own insurance policies, creating additional coverage for accident victims.

Government Entities

In limited circumstances, federal, state, or local government agencies may share liability for trucking accidents. This includes:

• Dangerous road design that contributed to the accident
• Failure to maintain roads (potholes, debris, worn markings)
• Inadequate signage for known hazards
• Failure to install safety barriers where needed
• Improper work zone setup creating dangerous conditions

Government liability cases have special requirements, including strict notice deadlines and sovereign immunity limitations. But when government negligence contributes to a trucking accident, we pursue those claims aggressively.

Federal Trucking Regulations That Protect You

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) enforces hundreds of regulations designed to keep our highways safe. When trucking companies and drivers violate these rules, they create the dangerous conditions that cause catastrophic accidents. Proving these violations is often the key to winning your case.

The Six Critical Areas of FMCSA Regulation

Part 390: General Applicability

These regulations establish who must comply with federal trucking laws. They apply to all commercial motor vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating over 10,001 pounds, vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers, and any vehicle transporting hazardous materials requiring placards.

Part 391: Driver Qualification Standards

Before a driver can legally operate a commercial truck, they must meet strict qualification requirements under 49 CFR § 391.11. They must be at least 21 years old for interstate commerce, able to read and speak English sufficiently, physically qualified per § 391.41, and hold a valid commercial driver’s license.

Most critically, motor carriers must maintain a complete Driver Qualification File for every driver. This file must include the employment application, motor vehicle record from the licensing state, road test certificate or equivalent, medical examiner’s certificate, annual driving record review, previous employer inquiries for the past three years, and drug and alcohol test records.

When trucking companies fail to maintain these files or hire drivers with poor safety records, they can be held liable for negligent hiring. We subpoena these records in every case.

Part 392: Driving of Commercial Motor Vehicles

This section establishes the rules for safe truck operation. Under 49 CFR § 392.3, no driver shall operate a commercial motor vehicle while their ability or alertness is so impaired through fatigue, illness, or any other cause as to make it unsafe. This regulation makes both the driver and the trucking company liable when fatigued driving causes accidents.

Section 392.4 prohibits drivers from being on duty while under the influence of any Schedule I substance, amphetamines, narcotics, or any substance rendering them incapable of safe driving. Section 392.5 prohibits alcohol use within four hours before going on duty, while on duty, or possession of alcohol while on duty, with a blood alcohol concentration limit of 0.04—half the limit for passenger vehicle drivers.

Section 392.11 requires drivers to maintain a safe following distance—”more closely than is reasonable and prudent, having due regard for the speed of such vehicle and the traffic upon, and conditions of, the highway.” This regulation is violated in nearly every rear-end trucking collision.

Section 392.82 prohibits hand-held mobile telephone use and texting while driving. Given the prevalence of distracted driving in modern trucking, violations of this regulation are increasingly common and devastating.

Part 393: Parts and Accessories for Safe Operation

This section establishes equipment standards for commercial vehicles. The cargo securement regulations under §§ 393.100-136 are particularly critical. Cargo must be contained, immobilized, or secured to prevent leaking, spilling, blowing, or falling from the vehicle, shifting that affects vehicle stability or maneuverability, and blocking the driver’s view or interfering with operation.

The performance criteria require cargo securement systems to withstand forward deceleration of 0.8 g, rearward acceleration of 0.5 g, lateral forces of 0.5 g, and downward forces of at least 20 percent of cargo weight if not fully contained.

Brake system requirements under §§ 393.40-55 mandate properly functioning service brakes on all wheels, parking and emergency brake systems, and specific air brake requirements. Lighting requirements under §§ 393.11-26 cover headlamps, tail lamps, stop lamps, clearance and side marker lamps, reflectors, and turn signals.

When trucking companies violate these equipment standards, they create the dangerous conditions that cause rollovers, jackknifes, and loss-of-control accidents.

Part 395: Hours of Service Regulations

These are the most commonly violated regulations in fatal trucking accidents—and the most important for proving driver fatigue.

For property-carrying drivers (the vast majority of 18-wheelers), the regulations are strict and specific:

• 11-Hour Driving Limit: No driving beyond 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty
• 14-Hour Duty Window: No driving beyond the 14th consecutive hour after coming on duty
• 30-Minute Break: Mandatory break after 8 cumulative hours of driving
• 60/70-Hour Weekly Limit: No driving after 60 hours in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days
• 34-Hour Restart: May restart the 60/70-hour clock with 34 consecutive hours off duty

The sleeper berth provision allows drivers to split their 10-hour off-duty period into at least 7 consecutive hours in the sleeper berth plus at least 2 consecutive hours off duty.

Since December 18, 2017, the ELD mandate requires most commercial drivers to use Electronic Logging Devices that automatically record driving time and synchronize with the vehicle engine. Unlike the paper logbooks that drivers could falsify, ELD data is objective and tamper-resistant.

This ELD data is critical evidence in your case. It proves exactly how long the driver was on duty, whether they took required breaks, their speed before and during the accident, GPS location history, and any hours-of-service violations. We send spoliation letters immediately to preserve this data before it can be overwritten or deleted.

Part 396: Inspection, Repair, and Maintenance

This section requires motor carriers to systematically inspect, repair, and maintain all vehicles under their control. Every driver must conduct pre-trip inspections before driving and prepare written post-trip reports on vehicle condition, covering at minimum: service brakes, parking brake, steering mechanism, lighting devices and reflectors, tires, horn, windshield wipers, rear vision mirrors, coupling devices, wheels and rims, and emergency equipment.

Every commercial motor vehicle must pass a comprehensive annual inspection covering 16+ systems, with inspection decals displayed and records retained for 14 months. Maintenance records must be kept for one year and include identification of each vehicle, schedules for inspection and repair, and records of all repairs and maintenance performed.

When trucking companies defer maintenance to save money, ignore known defects, or fail to keep proper records, they create the conditions that cause brake failures, tire blowouts, and other mechanical failures that lead to catastrophic accidents.

The 48-Hour Evidence Preservation Protocol

In 18-wheeler accident cases, evidence disappears fast. While you’re dealing with medical treatment, pain, and disruption to your life, the trucking company is already building their defense. They have rapid-response teams that arrive at accident scenes within hours, sometimes before the ambulance has even left.

Critical evidence in your case has a short lifespan:

That’s why we act immediately. Within 24-48 hours of being retained, we send formal spoliation letters to the trucking company, their insurer, and all potentially liable parties. These letters put them on legal notice of their obligation to preserve all evidence related to the accident.

The spoliation letter demands preservation of:

Electronic Data: ECM/EDR data, ELD records, GPS and telematics data, dashcam and forward-facing camera footage, dispatch communications, cell phone records, Qualcomm or fleet management system data

Driver Records: Complete Driver Qualification File, employment application, background check and driving record, medical certification, drug and alcohol test results, training records, previous accident and violation history

Vehicle Records: Maintenance and repair records, inspection reports, out-of-service orders, tire records, brake inspection records, parts purchase records

Company Records: Hours of service records, dispatch logs, bills of lading, insurance policies, safety policies, training curricula, hiring procedures

Physical Evidence: The truck and trailer themselves, failed or damaged components, cargo and securement devices

Once a party receives our spoliation letter, destroying evidence becomes a serious legal violation. Courts can impose sanctions, instruct juries to assume destroyed evidence was unfavorable, or even enter default judgment. The spoliation letter transforms the trucking company’s duty from a mere administrative requirement into a legal obligation with serious consequences for non-compliance.

Catastrophic Injuries: The Human Cost of Trucking Negligence

The injuries sustained in 18-wheeler accidents are rarely minor. The physics of these collisions—80,000 pounds of steel and cargo impacting a 4,000-pound passenger vehicle at highway speed—produces catastrophic, life-altering trauma.

At Attorney911, we’ve spent over 25 years helping victims of trucking accidents rebuild their lives. We understand that no amount of money can erase what happened, but fair compensation can provide the resources for the best possible medical care, rehabilitation, and quality of life.

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

Traumatic brain injury occurs when the extreme forces of a truck collision cause the brain to impact the inside of the skull. Even “mild” TBIs—concussions—can have lasting effects. Moderate and severe TBIs can cause:

• Extended unconsciousness and coma
• Memory problems and cognitive deficits
• Difficulty concentrating and processing information
• Personality changes and mood disorders
• Speech and language difficulties
• Sensory problems (vision, hearing, taste)
• Sleep disturbances
• Increased risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s

The lifetime care costs for TBI can range from $85,000 to over $3,000,000 depending on severity. Our firm has recovered between $1,548,000 and $9,838,000 for traumatic brain injury victims, providing resources for the specialized care and support these injuries require.

Spinal Cord Injury and Paralysis

Spinal cord injuries from trucking accidents can result in partial or complete paralysis. The level of injury determines the extent of disability:

• Paraplegia: Loss of function below the waist, affecting leg movement and often bladder and bowel control
• Quadriplegia: Loss of function in all four limbs, potentially requiring ventilator assistance for breathing
• Incomplete injuries: Some nerve function remains, with variable outcomes depending on rehabilitation
• Complete injuries: Total loss of sensation and movement below the injury level

Lifetime care costs for spinal cord injuries are staggering: $1.1 million to $2.5 million for paraplegia, $3.5 million to $5 million or more for quadriplegia. These figures represent only direct medical costs—not lost wages, pain and suffering, or loss of quality of life. Our firm has secured settlements between $4,770,000 and $25,880,000 for spinal cord injury victims.

Amputation

Trucking accidents can cause traumatic amputation at the scene or injuries so severe that surgical amputation becomes necessary. Common causes include:

• Crushing forces from truck impact
• Entrapment requiring amputation for extraction
• Severe burns damaging tissue beyond repair
• Infections from open wounds necessitating removal

Amputation requires not just initial surgery but ongoing care throughout life: prosthetic limbs ($5,000 to $50,000+ each), replacement prosthetics as technology improves and wear occurs, physical and occupational therapy, psychological counseling for body image and trauma, and home and vehicle modifications for accessibility.

Our firm has recovered between $1,945,000 and $8,630,000 for amputation victims, ensuring they have resources for the best possible prosthetics and rehabilitation.

Severe Burns

Burns in trucking accidents typically result from fuel tank ruptures and fires, hazmat cargo spills and ignition, electrical fires from damaged wiring, or chemical burns from hazardous materials exposure. The severity depends on the depth of tissue damage:

• First-degree burns affect only the outer skin layer
• Second-degree burns damage deeper skin layers and may scar
• Third-degree burns destroy full skin thickness and require grafting
• Fourth-degree burns extend to muscle and bone, often requiring amputation

Severe burns require multiple surgeries, skin grafts, reconstructive procedures, and lifelong scar management. The psychological trauma of disfigurement adds to the physical suffering.

Internal Organ Damage

The extreme forces of truck collisions can cause devastating internal injuries even without obvious external wounds:

• Liver laceration or rupture
• Spleen damage requiring surgical removal
• Kidney trauma
• Lung contusion or collapse
• Internal bleeding requiring emergency surgery
• Bowel and intestinal damage

These injuries are particularly dangerous because symptoms may not appear immediately. Internal bleeding can become life-threatening before the victim realizes they’re seriously hurt. This is why immediate medical evaluation after any trucking accident is critical—even if you feel “fine.”

Wrongful Death

When trucking accidents kill, surviving family members may pursue wrongful death claims. In Mississippi, these claims can recover:

• Lost future income and benefits the deceased would have earned
• Loss of consortium—companionship, care, and guidance
• Mental anguish and emotional suffering of survivors
• Funeral and burial expenses
• Medical expenses incurred before death
• Pain and suffering experienced by the deceased before death
• Punitive damages when gross negligence is proven

Our firm has recovered between $1,910,000 and $9,520,000 in wrongful death trucking cases. While no amount of money can replace a loved one, fair compensation can provide financial security for families facing an unimaginable loss and hold negligent trucking companies accountable for their actions.

Mississippi Law: What You Need to Know

Understanding Mississippi’s specific legal framework is essential for maximizing your recovery after a Greene County trucking accident.

Statute of Limitations

In Mississippi, you have three years from the date of your trucking accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. For wrongful death claims, the three-year period runs from the date of death.

This is longer than some neighboring states—Louisiana and Kentucky allow only one year—but it’s still not unlimited time. Critical evidence in trucking cases disappears much faster than three years. Black box data can be overwritten in 30 days. Dashcam footage may be deleted within weeks. Witness memories fade. The trucking company begins building its defense immediately.

We recommend contacting an attorney within days of your accident, not months or years. The sooner we can send spoliation letters and begin our investigation, the stronger your case will be.

Comparative Negligence

Mississippi follows a pure comparative fault system. This means you can recover damages even if you were partially at fault for the accident—but your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault.

For example, if you suffer $500,000 in damages but are found 30% at fault, you would recover $350,000 (70% of your total damages). Even if you were 99% at fault, you could theoretically recover 1%—though practically, cases with such high plaintiff fault rarely proceed.

This is more plaintiff-friendly than Mississippi’s neighboring states of Alabama and Tennessee, which bar recovery if the plaintiff is 50% or more at fault. But it still means the trucking company and their insurance will try to shift blame to you. Our job is to investigate thoroughly, gather objective evidence, and prove what really happened.

Punitive Damages

Mississippi allows punitive damages in trucking accident cases when the defendant’s conduct was grossly negligent, reckless, or showed a conscious disregard for the safety of others. Unlike some states, Mississippi does cap punitive damages—but the cap is high: $20 million.

Punitive damages are awarded not to compensate the victim but to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct. They’re available when trucking companies knowingly put dangerous drivers on the road, systematically violate safety regulations, falsify logbooks, destroy evidence, or demonstrate a pattern of negligence that shows conscious disregard for human life.

These damages can transform a case, turning a substantial recovery into a truly life-changing one. We pursue punitive damages aggressively when the facts support them.

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Greene County Trucking Accident

You’ve seen the statistics. You understand the complexity. You know that trucking companies have teams of lawyers working to minimize your claim while you’re still in the hospital. So why should you choose Attorney911 to fight for you?

25+ Years of Experience Fighting Trucking Companies

Ralph Manginello has been representing injury victims since 1998. For over two decades, he’s been taking on trucking companies and winning. He’s admitted to federal court in the Southern District of Texas, giving him the ability to handle complex interstate trucking cases that require federal jurisdiction.

This experience matters. Trucking companies and their insurers know which attorneys have actually tried cases and which ones always settle. They offer better settlements to lawyers who are willing to go to trial. Ralph Manginello has the track record and the willingness to take your case all the way if that’s what justice requires.

The Insurance Defense Advantage

Here’s something most personal injury firms can’t offer: our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, spent years working for a national insurance defense firm before joining Attorney911. He defended trucking companies and their insurers. He learned exactly how they evaluate claims, train adjusters to minimize payouts, and develop strategies to deny legitimate claims.

Now he uses that insider knowledge against them. He knows when they’re bluffing. He recognizes their manipulation tactics immediately. He understands what makes them settle and what makes them fight. That knowledge is your advantage in negotiations and litigation.

As Lupe Peña told ABC13 Houston in our $10 million University of hazing lawsuit: “If this prevents harm to another person, that’s what we’re hoping to do. Let’s bring this to light. Enough is enough.” That same commitment to justice drives everything we do.

Multi-Million Dollar Results

We don’t just talk about results—we deliver them. Our firm has recovered over $50 million for clients across all practice areas. In trucking and catastrophic injury cases specifically, our documented results include:

• $5+ million for a traumatic brain injury victim struck by a falling log
• $3.8+ million for a car accident victim who suffered partial leg amputation due to staph infection during treatment
• $2.5+ million for a commercial truck crash victim
• $2+ million for a maritime worker with a back injury
• Millions in multiple wrongful death trucking cases

We’re currently litigating a $10 million lawsuit against the University of Houston and Pi Kappa Phi fraternity for hazing that caused rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure. This case has generated national media coverage on KHOU 11, ABC13, KPRC 2, the Houston Chronicle, and other major outlets—demonstrating our ability to handle high-stakes, complex litigation against well-funded defendants.

The Client Experience That Sets Us Apart

Our clients consistently tell us we’re different from other law firms. Here’s what they say:

Chad Harris: “You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.”

Donald Wilcox: “One company said they would not accept my case. Then I got a call from Manginello… I got a call to come pick up this handsome check.”

Glenda Walker: “They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.”

Angel Walle: “They solved in a couple of months what others did nothing about in two years.”

Kiimarii Yup: “I lost everything… 1 year later I have gained so much in return plus a brand new truck.”

These aren’t just nice words—they reflect how we actually work. Ralph Manginello personally involves himself in cases. Our team includes former insurance defense attorneys who know the other side’s playbook. We treat you like family, not a case number. And we fight for every dollar you deserve.

Three Offices Serving Mississippi and Beyond

With offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, Texas, we serve trucking accident victims throughout the region. For Greene County, Mississippi clients, we offer remote consultations and travel to you for your case. Our federal court experience means we can represent you effectively regardless of state lines.

No Fee Unless We Win

We work on contingency. You pay absolutely nothing unless we recover compensation for you. We advance all investigation costs, expert fees, and litigation expenses. You never receive a bill from us. When we win, our fee comes from the recovery—not your pocket.

This means you can afford the same quality of representation that wealthy corporations enjoy. The trucking company has lawyers working right now to protect their interests. You deserve the same level of advocacy.

What to Do After a Trucking Accident in Greene County

If you’ve been in an 18-wheeler accident, the actions you take in the hours and days afterward can dramatically affect your case. Here’s what you need to know:

Immediately at the Scene

Call 911 and report the accident. Ensure police respond and file a report. This creates an official record that will be crucial evidence.

Seek medical attention immediately. Even if you feel “fine,” adrenaline masks pain and serious injuries. Internal bleeding, traumatic brain injury, and spinal damage may not show symptoms for hours or days. Getting checked out protects both your health and your legal case.

Document everything if you’re able. Photograph all vehicles involved, damage close-ups, wide scene shots, street signs, traffic signals, road conditions, weather conditions, and your injuries. Photograph the truck’s DOT number, license plates, and any company logos. Get contact and insurance information from the driver and any witnesses.

Do not give recorded statements to insurance companies. The trucking company’s insurer will likely contact you quickly. Anything you say can be used to minimize your claim. Politely decline to give a statement and refer them to your attorney.

In the Days Following

Continue medical treatment. Follow your doctor’s orders exactly. Attend all appointments. Document your symptoms, pain levels, and how injuries affect your daily activities. Gaps in treatment or failure to follow medical advice will be used against you.

Keep records of everything. Medical bills, prescription receipts, mileage to appointments, time missed from work, and how your injuries affect your daily life. This documentation builds your case.

Stay off social media. Insurance companies will search your profiles for anything they can use against you. Even innocent photos of you smiling at a family gathering can be twisted to argue you’re not really injured.

Contact an experienced trucking accident attorney immediately. The trucking company is already building their defense. You need someone protecting your interests just as aggressively.

Frequently Asked Questions About 18-Wheeler Accidents in Greene County

How long do I have to file a trucking accident lawsuit in Mississippi?

In Mississippi, you have three years from the date of your trucking accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. For wrongful death claims, the three-year period runs from the date of death.

But waiting anywhere near that long is dangerous. Critical evidence in trucking cases disappears much faster than three years. Black box data can be overwritten in 30 days. Dashcam footage may be deleted within weeks. Witness memories fade. The trucking company begins building its defense immediately.

We recommend contacting an attorney within days of your accident, not months or years. The sooner we can send spoliation letters and begin our investigation, the stronger your case will be.

Who can be held liable for my trucking accident?

Multiple parties may be liable in trucking accidents, which is why these cases require thorough investigation. Potentially liable parties include:

• The truck driver for negligent operation
• The trucking company for negligent hiring, training, supervision, or maintenance
• The cargo owner for improper loading instructions or hazardous materials
• The loading company for negligent cargo securement
• The truck or trailer manufacturer for defective design or manufacturing
• Parts manufacturers for defective components
• Maintenance companies for negligent repairs
• Freight brokers for negligent carrier selection
• Government entities for dangerous road design or maintenance

At Attorney911, we investigate every possible defendant because more liable parties means more insurance coverage means higher compensation for you.

What is a truck’s “black box” and why does it matter?

Commercial trucks have Electronic Control Modules (ECM) and Event Data Recorders (EDR) that continuously record operational data—similar to airplane black boxes. This data can show:

• Speed before and during the crash
• Brake application timing and force
• Engine RPM and throttle position
• Whether cruise control was engaged
• GPS location history
• Hours of service compliance

This objective data often contradicts driver claims and proves negligence. But it can be overwritten in as little as 30 days. That’s why immediate legal action to preserve this evidence is critical.

How much is my trucking accident case worth?

Case values depend on many factors: severity of injuries, medical expenses (past and future), lost income and earning capacity, pain and suffering, degree of defendant negligence, and available insurance coverage.

Trucking companies carry much higher insurance than passenger vehicles—federal law requires minimum coverage of $750,000 for non-hazardous freight, $1 million for oil and equipment, and $5 million for hazardous materials. Many carriers carry $1-5 million or more.

Our documented results in catastrophic injury cases include:

• $1,548,000 to $9,838,000+ for traumatic brain injuries
• $4,770,000 to $25,880,000+ for spinal cord injuries
• $1,945,000 to $8,630,000 for amputations
• $1,910,000 to $9,520,000 for wrongful death

Every case is unique, and past results don’t guarantee future outcomes. But we fight for maximum compensation in every case we handle.

What if the trucking company’s insurance adjuster calls me?

Do not give any recorded statement. Insurance adjusters work for the trucking company, not you. They’re trained to ask questions in ways that get you to say things they can use against you. Even innocent-seeming answers like “I’m fine” or “I didn’t see the truck” can be twisted to minimize your claim.

Politely decline to give a statement. Tell them you will have your attorney contact them. Then call us immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911.

Our firm includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who spent years inside the system. He knows exactly how adjusters are trained, what tactics they use, and when they’re bluffing. That insider knowledge is your advantage in negotiations.

How do I pay for an attorney if I’m already dealing with medical bills?

You don’t pay anything upfront. We work on contingency, which means we only get paid if we win your case. Our standard fee is 33.33% if we settle before trial, 40% if we go to trial. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation—expert fees, court costs, deposition expenses, everything.

You never receive a bill from us. When we win, our fee comes from the recovery, not your pocket. If we don’t win, you owe us nothing.

This means you can afford the same quality of representation that wealthy corporations enjoy. The trucking company has lawyers working right now to protect their interests. You deserve the same level of advocacy.

What makes Attorney911 different from other personal injury firms?

Several things set us apart:

25+ Years of Experience: Ralph Manginello has been fighting for injury victims since 1998. He’s admitted to federal court and has secured multi-million dollar verdicts against Fortune 500 companies.

Former Insurance Defense Attorney on Staff: Lupe Peña worked for a national defense firm before joining us. He knows every tactic the trucking company will use, and he uses that knowledge against them.

We Take Cases Other Firms Reject: When other attorneys say a case is too difficult, too complex, or not valuable enough, we often take it—and win. As client Donald Wilcox told us: “One company said they would not accept my case. Then I got a call from Manginello… I got a call to come pick up this handsome check.”

Family Treatment: Our clients consistently tell us they feel like family, not case numbers. As Chad Harris said: “You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.”

Fast Resolution: We work efficiently without sacrificing results. Angel Walle told us: “They solved in a couple of months what others did nothing about in two years.”

Spanish Language Services: Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish and provides direct representation without interpreters. Hablamos Español. Llame al 1-888-ATTY-911.

What should I do right now if I or a loved one was hurt in a trucking accident?

Call us immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911. We’re available 24/7, and we answer trucking accident calls immediately.

The trucking company is already building their defense. Evidence is disappearing. You need someone fighting for you just as aggressively.

The consultation is free. You pay nothing unless we win. And with 25+ years of experience, former insurance defense attorneys on staff, and a track record of multi-million dollar results, we have what it takes to stand up to the trucking companies and win.

Don’t wait. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 now.

Attorney911 / The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC

Houston Office: 1177 West Loop S, Suite 1600, Houston, TX 77027

Austin Office: 316 West 12th Street, Suite 311, Austin, TX 78701

Beaumont: Available for client meetings

Phone: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)

Email: ralph@atty911.com

Website: https://attorney911.com

Available 24/7 for trucking accident emergencies