Monthly Archives: September 2023

Common Types of Personal Injury Cases in Jackson, MS

Posted on by

Personal injury cases can arise from a wide range of accidents and incidents in Jackson, Mississippi. Understanding the common types of personal injury cases is essential, as it helps individuals recognize when they may have a valid claim for compensation. In this article, we will explore some of the most prevalent types of personal injury cases in Jackson, MS.

1. Car Accidents: Car accidents are one of the most common causes of personal injury in Jackson. These accidents can result from various factors, including distracted driving, speeding, drunk driving, or reckless behavior. Victims of car accidents often pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering.

2. Slip and Fall Accidents: Slip and fall accidents can happen in public places, private residences, or commercial establishments due to hazardous conditions like wet floors, uneven surfaces, or inadequate lighting. Property owners or managers may be held responsible for injuries sustained on their premises.

3. Medical Malpractice: Medical malpractice occurs when a healthcare professional’s negligence leads to harm or injury to a patient. This can include misdiagnosis, surgical errors, medication mistakes, or inadequate care. Victims of medical malpractice may seek compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering.

4. Product Liability: Product liability cases involve injuries caused by defective or dangerous products. This can include faulty automobiles, defective pharmaceuticals, or poorly designed consumer goods. Manufacturers, distributors, and sellers may be held liable for injuries caused by their products.

5. Dog Bites: Dog bite incidents can result in severe injuries, both physical and emotional. Mississippi follows a strict liability rule, meaning that dog owners can be held responsible for injuries caused by their dogs, even if the dog had no prior history of aggression. Victims of dog bites can seek compensation for medical bills and pain and suffering.

6. Workplace Accidents: Workplace accidents can lead to injuries, illnesses, or even fatalities. Workers’ compensation laws in Mississippi provide benefits to employees injured on the job. In some cases, third-party liability claims may be pursued against parties other than the employer if their negligence contributed to the workplace injury.

7. Nursing Home Abuse: Cases of nursing home abuse and neglect can result in physical injuries, emotional trauma, or medical complications for elderly residents. Families of nursing home residents can file personal injury claims to seek justice and compensation for their loved ones.

8. Construction Accidents: Construction sites are inherently dangerous, and accidents can happen due to falls, equipment malfunctions, or unsafe conditions. Injured construction workers may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits or pursue third-party liability claims.

Recognizing the common types of personal injury cases in Jackson, Mississippi, is vital for anyone who has suffered harm due to someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing. If you or a loved one has been injured in any of these situations, it’s essential to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney in Jackson, MS, who can assess your case and guide you through the legal process to seek the compensation you deserve.

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 a personal injury in Mississippi, and we are here to help. Call us today to speak with Personal Injury 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

Understanding Mississippi’s Personal Injury Laws

Posted on by

Personal injury cases in Mississippi are governed by a set of laws and regulations that determine how claims are handled, who is responsible for injuries, and what compensation may be available to victims. This article aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of Mississippi’s personal injury laws, shedding light on key principles and important aspects of the legal framework. It’s important to note that these laws are subject to change, so consulting an attorney for the most up-to-date information is advisable.

  • Statute of Limitations:
    • Mississippi has specific time limits, known as statutes of limitations, within which you must file a personal injury lawsuit. Generally, the statute of limitations for most personal injury cases is three years from the date of the injury or accident.
    • Failing to file within this timeframe may result in your claim being barred.
  • Comparative Fault:
    • Mississippi follows a comparative fault system. This means that even if you are partially at fault for your injury, you can still recover damages. However, your recovery may be reduced in proportion to your level of fault. For example, if you are found 20% at fault for an accident and awarded $10,000 in damages, your recovery will be reduced to $8,000.
  • Auto Insurance Requirements:
    • Mississippi law mandates that all drivers carry liability insurance coverage. The minimum coverage requirements are $25,000 for bodily injury per person, $50,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 for property damage.
    • Uninsured motorist coverage is also required unless it is explicitly rejected in writing.
  • 4. Dog Bite Liability:
    • Mississippi follows a strict liability rule for dog bite cases. This means that a dog owner can be held liable for injuries caused by their dog, regardless of whether the dog had shown previous aggressive behavior.
    • The owner may be held responsible for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other damages resulting from the dog bite.
  • 5. Premises Liability:
    • Property owners in Mississippi have a duty to maintain their premises in a reasonably safe condition. If a person is injured due to a hazardous condition on someone else’s property, the property owner may be held liable.
    • Visitors are categorized as invitees, licensees, or trespassers, and the level of care owed by the property owner varies accordingly.
  • 6. Damages:
    • In personal injury cases, damages may include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and more.
    • Mississippi places a cap on non-economic damages in medical malpractice cases at $500,000.
  • 7. Wrongful Death Claims:
    •  Mississippi allows surviving family members to file wrongful death claims when a loved one dies due to another party’s negligence.
    • Damages in wrongful death cases may include funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and financial losses incurred due to the death.

Understanding Mississippi’s personal injury laws is essential when pursuing a claim for damages. These laws are designed to protect the rights of injured individuals and hold negligent parties accountable. If you’re involved in a personal injury case in Mississippi, it’s advisable to consult with an experienced attorney who can provide legal 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 a personal injury 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

How to Document Evidence for Your Personal Injury Claim in Mississippi

Posted on by

When pursuing a personal injury claim in the aftermath of an accident, one of the most critical factors in achieving a successful outcome is the quality and comprehensiveness of your evidence. Strong evidence can make or break your case, as it serves as the foundation upon which your claims are built. In this article, we will explore how to effectively document evidence for your personal injury claim, ensuring that you have the best chance of obtaining the compensation you deserve.

1. Capture Photographs and Videos: In today’s digital age, capturing visual evidence is easier than ever. Use your smartphone or a camera to take photographs and videos of the accident scene, your injuries, property damage, and any other relevant details. These visual records can provide a clear and unbiased account of the circumstances surrounding the accident.

2. Obtain Witness Statements: Eyewitness testimonies can be incredibly powerful in bolstering your case. If there were witnesses to the accident, collect their contact information and request statements regarding what they observed. Witness accounts can corroborate your version of events and provide credibility to your claims.

3. Preserve Medical Records: Seek immediate medical attention after the accident, as your medical records serve as crucial evidence. Keep copies of all medical documents, including hospital records, diagnostic tests, treatment plans, prescription receipts, and bills. These records establish a direct link between the accident and your injuries.

4. Maintain a Journal: Keeping a personal injury journal can be invaluable. Document your daily experiences, noting your pain levels, physical limitations, and emotional struggles. This journal can provide a candid and continuous account of how the injuries have affected your life and well-being.

5. Gather Police Reports: If law enforcement responded to the scene of the accident, request a copy of the police report. These reports typically include details about the accident, statements from involved parties, and the officer’s assessment of fault. Police reports can serve as an objective account of the incident.

6. Keep Correspondence: Maintain a record of all communications related to the accident and your injuries. This includes emails, letters, text messages, and voicemail messages from insurance companies, medical professionals, and other relevant parties. Such correspondence can be valuable in establishing liability and assessing damages.

7. Document Financial Losses: In personal injury claims, you are entitled to seek compensation for economic damages. Keep track of all financial losses, including medical bills, property repair or replacement costs, and lost wages. Maintain receipts and invoices as proof of these expenditures.

8. Consult with Experts: In some cases, consulting with expert witnesses may be necessary. Experts in fields like accident reconstruction, medicine, or vocational rehabilitation can provide professional opinions and testimony that bolster your case’s credibility.

9. Secure Surveillance Footage: If your accident occurred in a public place or on commercial property, there may be surveillance cameras that captured the incident. Promptly request and secure any available surveillance footage, as it can provide an unbiased account of what transpired.

10. Consult with an Attorney: Finally, consider seeking legal representation from an experienced personal injury attorney. A knowledgeable attorney can guide you on what evidence is crucial for your specific case, help you gather and organize that evidence effectively, and advocate for your rights throughout the claims process.

In conclusion, documenting evidence for your personal injury claim is a meticulous and essential process. Strong evidence strengthens your case’s credibility, increases your chances of obtaining fair compensation, and helps you secure the justice you deserve. Following these steps and consulting with an attorney can ensure that you are well-prepared to pursue your personal injury claim successfully.

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 Car Accident 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