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.