Mississippi highways may offer some nostalgic and lush scenic views, but those same highways can generally be a dangerous place for car drivers when sharing the road with an 18-wheeler. When you include the hazards of texting, inebriation, or just plain distractions, risk can be multiplied.

But before we dive into Mississippi’s state-wide truck accident statistics, let’s take a look at the nationwide data collected in 2021. According to Policy Advice, there has been a 52% increase in big truck accidents in the U.S. since 2009, and 74% of fatal passenger vehicle cases include a large truck. Most of these accidents occur during the day, and around 30% can be attributed to tire defects. 

Mississippi Big Truck Accident Statistics 

In 2021, there were 1,443 18-wheeler accidents and 597 total fatal crashes in Mississippi. Over 1,580 vehicles were involved, and of those accidents, 62 were large truck and bus related. In terms of serious injuries, a total of 771 accidents resulted in major injuries statewide in 2021. 

What Causes Serious Truck Accidents? 

Roadways can bring danger to operating a vehicle, and tractor-trailers are a large part of that danger. The most common reason why truck accidents happen are driver-related errors although there is hardly ever just one single reason for a crash. Some factors that can occur on the highway at one time include: 

  • Reckless driving 
  • Distracted driving 
  • Impaired driving
  • Improper loading 
  • Negligent hiring practices 
  • Improper truck maintenance 

Common Injuries from 18-Wheeler Accidents 

Truck accidents involving passenger vehicles are more likely to cause injury or death than almost any other motor vehicle accident. Semi-trucks can weigh 20-30 times as much as a passenger vehicle and have much higher ground clearance, which can make collisions deadly for anyone in a smaller vehicle. Fatality is unfortunately a common result of 18-wheeler accidents. Other traumas include: 

Neck and Brain Trauma 

Big truck and motor vehicle accidents are one of the most common ways to receive a traumatic brain injury (TBI). TBIs are serious and can cause an array of symptoms, health problems, and can even alter your life indefinitely. While a mild TBI or concussion is relatively easy to treat and cure, moderate and severe TBIs can lead to life-long changes and difficulties. 

While it may be obvious to consider head injuries in a big truck accident, it’s important to keep in mind that neck injuries are even more common. The neck is a tremendously vulnerable part of the body, and when in a crash, the driver’s head can be whipped back and forth in a way that can lead to extreme pain and injury. It’s also important to note that neck injuries aren’t always immediately obvious and can include symptoms such as: 

  • Neck pain and stiffness
  • Pain that radiates to the shoulders, arms, and hands
  • Tingling, numbness, or weakness in the arms, hands, and fingers
  • Dizziness
  • Headaches 
  • Nausea 

Common neck injuries include: 

  • Soft tissue damage
  • Whiplash 
  • Slipped or herniated disc
  • Facet joint injury 
  • Neck fracture 
  • Cuts and lacerations 

These injuries can linger or lead to long term complications including: 

  • Chronic neck and back pain
  • Frequent headaches
  • Cognitive issues or mental disorders
  • Depression and anxiety 

Wilson Law Firm | Truck Accident Attorney in Mississippi 

Both parties should be paying attention to the road, but when you get involved in an 18-wheeler accident in Mississippi, you need the best personal injury attorney on your side. Wilson Law Firm understands that damages caused by large commercial trucks can be severe and life-altering. We want to help you make it through this difficult time and help you take the steps you need to heal and look forward to life once more. If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in a truck accident in Mississippi, demand the justice you deserve by contacting Wilson Law Firm today.