Monthly Archives: July 2023

Defensive Driving Tips to Avoid Accidents on Mississippi Roads

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Defensive driving refers to the practice of driving in a manner that not only adheres to the rules and laws of the road but also anticipates potential problems or risks caused by other drivers and conditions. Mississippi roads, like others, present unique challenges, from changing weather conditions to varied traffic patterns. Here are some tips to help drivers navigate Mississippi roads safely:

1. Stay Alert and Focused

– Limit Distractions: Keep mobile devices, food, and other distractions away. Always have both hands on the wheel and eyes on the road.

– Avoid Fatigue: Fatigue can impair judgment. If you’re feeling drowsy, it’s safer to pull over and rest before continuing.

2. Maintain Safe Following Distance – Three-Second Rule: Choose a landmark, like a road sign or tree. Once the car in front of you passes it, count three seconds. You should pass the same point no sooner than when you reach three. Adjust this distance according to weather conditions.

3. Be Wary of Blind Spots

– Adjust Mirrors: Ensure your rearview and side mirrors are properly adjusted to minimize blind spots.

– Double-Check: Even with mirrors, always turn your head to check blind spots before changing lanes or merging.

4. Anticipate Others’ Actions

– Predict Potential Hazards: If a car ahead swerves occasionally, they might be distracted or intoxicated. Keep a safe distance and be prepared for sudden movements.

– Watch for Brake Lights: This is especially important in heavy traffic. If cars ahead start braking, you should be prepared to slow down or stop.

5. Respect Weather Conditions

Mississippi weather can change rapidly. Adapt your driving to the conditions:

– Rain: Reduce speed, increase following distance, and use headlights.

– Fog: Use low-beam headlights or fog lights, reduce speed, and stay focused on the road.

– Ice/Snow: Slow down, avoid sudden movements, and ensure your vehicle is equipped with suitable tires.

6. Use Indicators Consistently – Always signal your intentions, whether changing lanes, turning, or pulling off the road. It gives other drivers time to react.

7. Approach Intersections with Caution – Always scan intersections before passing through, even if you have the right of way. Watch for pedestrians, especially in urban areas.

8. Adjust to Traffic Flow – While you should never exceed the speed limit, it’s also dangerous to drive much slower than the flow of traffic. Try to maintain a speed consistent with the cars around you, as long as it’s within legal limits.

9. Be Prepared for Emergencies – Keep an emergency kit in your car, complete with flares, first aid, and basic tools. Familiarize yourself with basic emergency procedures, such as changing a flat tire.

10. Attend Defensive Driving Courses – Consider enrolling in a defensive driving course. It can provide hands-on experience, teach techniques to avoid accidents, and might even reduce your insurance premium.

Staying safe on Mississippi roads—or any roads, for that matter—requires proactive thinking, attentiveness, and the ability to anticipate potential problems. Defensive driving is a skill that can be honed with practice and education, ensuring that you and your loved ones stay safe on the road.

If you have more questions or need expert assistance, consider reaching out to our experienced Mississippi car accident lawyer who can provide guidance tailored to your specific situation.

Don’t hesitate to call us today at (601) 969-2709 to receive your free consultation. We will evaluate your case and determine the best course of action to help you recover from your injuries and get your life back on track. We understand how difficult it can be to deal with the aftermath of an accident in Mississippi, and we are here to help. Call us today to speak with Attorney Bill Kellum and take the first step towards justice.

Kellum Law Firm, P.C.
1438 North State St.
Jackson, MS 39202
(601) 969-2709
DIRECTIONS

Kellum Law Firm, P.C.
617 Market St.
Port Gibson, MS 39150
(601) 590-9000
DIRECTIONS

Why Legal Representation is Crucial After a Serious Accident

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Experiencing a serious accident can be a traumatic and life-altering event. In the aftermath, victims often face a myriad of challenges: physical recovery, emotional trauma, financial strains from medical bills, and potential loss of income. Navigating the complexities of the legal system without expert guidance can exacerbate this stress. Here’s why securing legal representation after a serious accident is pivotal:

1. Expert Knowledge of the Law

– Understanding Your Rights: Personal injury laws vary from state to state, and a seasoned attorney can help you understand your rights as a victim.

– Statute of Limitations: Legal claims must be filed within specific time frames. Missing these deadlines can forfeit your right to compensation. A lawyer ensures timely filing and adherence to all legal procedures.

2. Accurate Evaluation of Damages

– Comprehensive Damage Assessment: Beyond immediate medical bills, there might be long-term medical needs, rehabilitation, loss of earning capacity, and non-economic damages like pain and suffering. An attorney can offer a holistic assessment of all potential damages.

– Future Needs: In cases of serious injuries, the victim might require ongoing medical treatment or therapy. A lawyer can work with medical professionals to estimate these future costs.

3. Negotiating with Insurance Companies

– Fair Settlements: Insurance companies, focused on their bottom line, often aim to minimize payouts. A skilled attorney can negotiate effectively, ensuring you receive a fair settlement that truly reflects your needs and suffering.

– Avoiding Pitfalls: Insurance adjusters can be adept at getting claimants to make statements that weaken their claim. Legal representation can guide you on what to say and what not to disclose.

4. Proving Liability

– Evidence Collection: Establishing fault requires evidence, from accident reports and witness statements to photos and expert testimonies. Attorneys have resources and experience to gather and preserve this evidence effectively.

– Expert Witnesses: Your attorney can bring in experts, such as accident reconstructionists or medical professionals, to provide testimony that strengthens your claim.

5. Legal Strategy and Litigation

– Deciding the Best Course: While many claims are settled out of court, some might require going to trial. A lawyer can advise on the best strategy based on the specifics of your case.

– Representation in Court: If your case goes to trial, having an attorney ensures that all legal protocols are followed, witnesses are examined correctly, and your case is presented compellingly.

6. Emotional Support and Objectivity

– Objective Counsel: After an accident, emotions can run high, clouding judgment. A lawyer provides objective advice, ensuring decisions are made in your best interest and not based on emotions.

– Guidance Through Complexity: The legal aftermath of an accident can be overwhelming. Having an attorney means having a guide to navigate this complexity, offering peace of mind.

In the wake of a serious accident, victims need to focus on recovery and healing. By securing legal representation, they can ensure that their rights are protected, potential damages are accurately assessed, and the intricacies of the legal system are adeptly managed. Having a skilled attorney on your side can make all the difference in achieving a fair resolution and securing the resources necessary for recovery.

If you have more questions or need expert assistance, consider reaching out to our experienced Mississippi car accident lawyer who can provide guidance tailored to your specific situation.

Don’t hesitate to call us today at (601) 969-2709 to receive your free consultation. We will evaluate your case and determine the best course of action to help you recover from your injuries and get your life back on track. We understand how difficult it can be to deal with the aftermath of an accident in Mississippi, and we are here to help. Call us today to speak with Attorney Bill Kellum and take the first step towards justice.

Kellum Law Firm, P.C.
1438 North State St.
Jackson, MS 39202
(601) 969-2709
DIRECTIONS

Kellum Law Firm, P.C.
617 Market St.
Port Gibson, MS 39150
(601) 590-9000
DIRECTIONS

The Role of Expert Witnesses in Personal Injury and Wrongful Death Cases

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In both personal injury and wrongful death cases, the presentation of evidence is crucial to establishing fault, causation, and the extent of damages. Expert witnesses play an indispensable role in this process. These individuals, due to their specialized knowledge, training, or experience, can offer insight into areas that laypersons may not understand. Let’s delve deeper into the role they play:

Establishing Liability

– Accident Reconstruction Experts: In cases involving car accidents or other types of incidents, these experts can piece together the events that led to the accident. They can explain how the event occurred, the sequence of events, and potentially, who was at fault.

– Engineering and Product Experts: In product liability or malpractice cases, these experts can determine if a product was faulty or if there was a deviation from standard procedures.

Proving Medical Impact and Treatment

– Medical Experts: These are typically doctors or medical professionals who can confirm the nature and extent of the plaintiff’s injuries. They can also attest to the future medical needs of the injured party.

– Mental Health Professionals: In cases where psychological trauma is claimed, therapists or psychiatrists can testify about the mental and emotional damage suffered by the plaintiff.

Quantifying Damages

– Economic Experts: These professionals, often economists or accountants, can help calculate economic losses, such as lost wages, loss of earning capacity, and future medical expenses.

– Life Care Planners: They can outline the future needs of an injured individual, from therapy and medication to any necessary assistive devices or home modifications.

Establishing Standard of Care

– Professional and Industry Experts: In cases like medical malpractice, experts in the specific field can testify about the accepted standards in the profession, helping the jury understand whether the defendant failed to meet those standards.

Demonstrating Causation

In wrongful death or personal injury cases, it’s crucial to link the defendant’s actions to the injury or death in question.

– Toxicologists or Chemists: In cases involving exposure to harmful substances, these experts can speak on the effects of exposure and link them to the victim’s injuries or death.

– Biomechanical Engineers: They can explain how certain forces or actions would have caused the specific injuries claimed in a lawsuit.

Providing Specialist Insight

In some cases, very specific expertise may be required.

– Forensic Pathologists: In wrongful death cases, they can determine the exact cause of death.

– Specialists: Depending on the nature of the injury, specialists like orthopedic surgeons, neurologists, or pediatricians may be called upon.

Expert witnesses play a pivotal role in personal injury and wrongful death cases by bridging the gap between intricate, specialized knowledge and the layman’s understanding. Their testimonies can influence the jury’s perception of fault, the severity of damages, and the amount of compensation awarded. For lawyers, having the right expert can strengthen their case and improve the chances of a favorable outcome for their client.

If you have more questions or need expert assistance, consider reaching out to our experienced Mississippi car accident lawyer who can provide guidance tailored to your specific situation.

Don’t hesitate to call us today at (601) 969-2709 to receive your free consultation. We will evaluate your case and determine the best course of action to help you recover from your injuries and get your life back on track. We understand how difficult it can be to deal with the aftermath of an accident in Mississippi, and we are here to help. Call us today to speak with Attorney Bill Kellum and take the first step towards justice.

Kellum Law Firm, P.C.
1438 North State St.
Jackson, MS 39202
(601) 969-2709
DIRECTIONS

Kellum Law Firm, P.C.
617 Market St.
Port Gibson, MS 39150
(601) 590-9000
DIRECTIONS

Mississippi Traffic Laws Every Driver Should Be Aware Of

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Driving in Mississippi, like any other state, comes with a set of rules and regulations that are designed to keep roads safe for everyone. Whether you’re a resident or just passing through, here’s a list of Mississippi traffic laws that every driver should be familiar with:

Seat Belts and Child Restraints

– Seat Belts: All front-seat passengers are required to wear seat belts in Mississippi. The driver is responsible for ensuring that all passengers under the age of 16 are buckled up, regardless of their seating position in the vehicle.

– Child Restraints: Children under the age of 4 must be in a child safety seat, while those aged 4 to 7 and under 65 pounds should be in a booster seat.

 Distracted Driving – Texting and Driving: It’s illegal for drivers to write, send, or read text messages, emails, or access social media while driving. This law applies even if the vehicle is stationary at a traffic signal.

DUI Laws – Mississippi has stringent DUI laws. The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.08% for regular drivers and 0.04% for commercial drivers. For those under 21, any detectable amount of alcohol can result in DUI charges.

Mississippi’s Move Over Law – If there’s an emergency vehicle with flashing lights on the side of the road, drivers are required to move over one lane. If it’s not possible to change lanes safely, drivers should slow down.

Motorcycle Helmet Law – Every motorcycle and motor scooter operator and passenger is required to wear a helmet.

Right on Red – After coming to a complete stop, drivers in Mississippi are permitted to make a right turn at a red light unless a sign indicates otherwise.

Open Container Law – It’s illegal to have an open container of alcohol in the vehicle, even if you aren’t drinking. This law applies to drivers and passengers alike.

Speed Limits – While speed limits can vary depending on the area and road conditions, the typical limits are:

– 70 mph for interstates
– 65 mph for four-lane highways outside of cities
– 55 mph for other state highways and county roads
– Lower limits are often set for urban areas, school zones, and construction zones. Always adhere to posted speed limits.

Headlights – Drivers are required to use headlights from half an hour after sunset to half an hour before sunrise. Headlights should also be used during unfavorable weather conditions where visibility is compromised.

Passing School Buses – It’s illegal to pass a school bus that’s stopped to load or unload children. This applies to vehicles traveling in both directions unless there’s a divided highway.

While this list provides a general overview of some important traffic laws in Mississippi, it’s by no means exhaustive. It’s crucial for drivers to familiarize themselves with the state’s complete set of rules and regulations, and when in doubt, always opt for the safer driving choice. Keeping updated on Mississippi’s traffic laws not only ensures a smoother drive but also helps in avoiding potential legal complications.

If you have more questions or need expert assistance, consider reaching out to our experienced Mississippi car accident lawyer who can provide guidance tailored to your specific situation.

Don’t hesitate to call us today at (601) 969-2709 to receive your free consultation. We will evaluate your case and determine the best course of action to help you recover from your injuries and get your life back on track. We understand how difficult it can be to deal with the aftermath of an accident in Mississippi, and we are here to help. Call us today to speak with Attorney Bill Kellum and take the first step towards justice.

Kellum Law Firm, P.C.
1438 North State St.
Jackson, MS 39202
(601) 969-2709
DIRECTIONS

Kellum Law Firm, P.C.
617 Market St.
Port Gibson, MS 39150
(601) 590-9000
DIRECTIONS

The Impact of Weather Conditions on Road Safety in Mississippi

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Mississippi, known for its Southern charm, lush landscapes, and rich history, is also home to a variety of weather patterns that can significantly influence road conditions. As a state with a predominantly humid subtropical climate, Mississippi experiences warm summers, mild winters, and a fair share of extreme weather events. Here’s a closer look at how these weather conditions can impact road safety in the Magnolia State.

1. Rain and Thunderstorms

Mississippi frequently faces rain and thunderstorms, especially during spring and summer.

  • Hydroplaning: Wet roads can cause vehicles to hydroplane, which occurs when tires glide over a thin layer of water, leading to a loss of traction.
  • Reduced Visibility: Heavy rainfall can drastically reduce visibility, making it harder for drivers to see the road, other vehicles, and traffic signals.
  • Flooding: Intense storms can result in flash floods, making some roads impassable or dangerous.

2. Tornadoes

Mississippi is part of the southeastern U.S., occasionally referred to as “Dixie Alley”, known for its tornado activity.

  • Debris: Tornadoes can scatter debris onto roadways, posing a hazard for drivers.
  • High Winds: Even if a tornado doesn’t directly hit a roadway, the peripheral high winds can push vehicles off course, especially high-profile vehicles like trucks.

3. Fog

Fog can be particularly dense in Mississippi, especially in areas close to water bodies.

– Limited Visibility: Dense fog reduces visibility drastically, often making it difficult for drivers to see more than a few feet ahead.
– Tailgating: Reduced visibility often leads to vehicles following too closely, increasing the risk of rear-end collisions.

4. Winter Weather

Though mild, Mississippi winters can occasionally bring icy conditions and even snow.

  • Slippery Roads: Ice patches, especially “black ice”, can form on roads, bridges, and overpasses, leading to slippery conditions and reduced traction.
  • Snow Accumulation: While rare, significant snowfall can obstruct roads, reduce tire traction, and lead to unexpected hazards.

5. Extreme Heat

Mississippi’s summer temperatures can soar, impacting both vehicles and the road.

  • Tire Blowouts: Hot weather can cause the air inside tires to expand, increasing the risk of blowouts, especially if tires are worn out or underinflated.
  • Road Softening and Rutting: Extreme heat can soften asphalt, leading to ruts or grooves, especially in areas with heavy traffic.

Weather plays a significant role in road safety, particularly in states like Mississippi that experience a range of climatic conditions. While these conditions can be challenging, being aware of the potential hazards and adapting driving techniques accordingly can make a difference. This includes slowing down in adverse conditions, maintaining a safe following distance, ensuring your vehicle is well-maintained, and staying informed about current and forecasted weather conditions before hitting the road.

For those involved in accidents due to weather conditions, it’s essential to understand the intricacies of liability and how weather can influence accident claims. Consulting with professionals, like personal injury lawyers, can provide insights specific to individual cases.

If you have more questions or need expert assistance, consider reaching out to our experienced Mississippi car accident lawyer who can provide guidance tailored to your specific situation.

Don’t hesitate to call us today at (601) 969-2709 to receive your free consultation. We will evaluate your case and determine the best course of action to help you recover from your injuries and get your life back on track. We understand how difficult it can be to deal with the aftermath of an accident in Mississippi, and we are here to help. Call us today to speak with Attorney Bill Kellum and take the first step towards justice.

Kellum Law Firm, P.C.
1438 North State St.
Jackson, MS 39202
(601) 969-2709
DIRECTIONS

Kellum Law Firm, P.C.
617 Market St.
Port Gibson, MS 39150
(601) 590-9000
DIRECTIONS