Being hit by a car can be a traumatic and life-changing event. It can result in serious injuries, property damage, and financial losses. If you have been hit by a car in Mississippi, it’s important to understand the process for filing a hit-by-car accident claim. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps of filing a hit-by-car accident claim in Mississippi.
Mississippi Car Insurance Laws
In Mississippi, all drivers are required to carry liability insurance. The minimum liability insurance requirements in Mississippi are:
- $25,000 for bodily injury per person
- $50,000 for bodily injury per accident
- $25,000 for property damage per accident
Liability insurance covers damages or injuries that the driver causes to others. It does not cover damages or injuries to the pedestrian. Pedestrians can also purchase personal injury protection (PIP) coverage, which covers medical expenses and lost wages in the event of an accident.
Steps to File a Hit-by-Car Accident Claim in Mississippi
- Seek medical attention
If you have been hit by a car, the first step is to seek medical attention immediately. Even if you don’t feel injured, it’s still important to get a medical evaluation to ensure that there are no hidden injuries. If your injuries are severe, call 911 for emergency medical assistance.
- Exchange information with the driver
Exchange contact information with the driver involved in the accident, including their name, phone number, and insurance information. If there were any witnesses to the accident, get their contact information as well.
- Gather evidence
If possible, take photos of the accident scene and any damages to your property or injuries. Also, gather any medical records, bills, or other documentation related to your injuries.
- Notify your insurance company
Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Your insurance company will ask for details about the accident, including the date and time of the accident, the location, and the damages or injuries sustained.
- Determine fault
In Mississippi, hit-by-car accidents are determined by fault. This means that the driver who is at fault for the accident is responsible for paying for the damages or injuries that result from the accident. If there is any dispute over fault, an investigation may be necessary.
- File a claim with the driver’s insurance company
If the driver was at fault for the accident, you can file a claim with their insurance company to receive compensation for damages and injuries. To file a claim, contact the driver’s insurance company and provide them with the details of the accident, including any evidence or documentation that supports your claim.
- Negotiate a settlement
The insurance company will investigate the claim and may offer a settlement to cover damages and injuries. It is important to review the settlement offer carefully and negotiate if necessary to ensure that you receive fair compensation.
- Consider legal action
If you are unable to reach a settlement with the insurance company, you may need to consider legal action. It’s essential to work with an experienced personal injury attorney who can guide you through the legal process and ensure that your rights are protected.
Statute of Limitations for Hit-by-Car Accident Claims in Mississippi
In Mississippi, there is a statute of limitations for filing hit-by-car accident claims. The statute of limitations is the time limit for filing a claim after an accident. In Mississippi, the statute of limitations for hit-by-car accident claims is three years from the date of the accident. If you do not file a claim within the statute of limitations, you may lose your right to seek compensation for damages or injuries.
Tips for Filing a Hit-by-Car Accident Claim in Mississippi
Here are some tips to help you file a hit-by-car accident claim in Mississippi:
Seek medical attention: If you have been hit by a car, seek medical attention immediately. Even if you don’t feel injured, it’s still important to get a medical evaluation to ensure that there are no hidden injuries.
Don’t admit fault: Do not admit fault for the accident, even if you believe you may have been at fault. It’s important to wait for an investigation to determine fault.
Keep track of all expenses: Keep track of all expenses related to the accident, including medical bills, property damage, and lost wages. This information will be important when filing a claim with the insurance company.
Don’t sign anything without consulting an attorney: If the driver’s insurance company offers a settlement, do not sign anything without consulting an experienced personal injury attorney. An attorney can review the settlement offer and negotiate on your behalf to ensure that you receive fair compensation.
Work with an experienced attorney: Hit-by-car accident claims can be complex and time-consuming. It’s essential to work with an experienced personal injury attorney who can guide you through the process and ensure that your rights are protected.
Filing a hit-by-car accident claim in Mississippi can be a complicated process, but it’s essential to ensure that you receive fair compensation for damages and injuries. If you have been hit by a car in Mississippi, it’s important to follow the steps outlined in this article, including exchanging information with the driver, gathering evidence, and notifying your insurance company. If you are unable to reach a settlement with the insurance company, consider working with an experienced personal injury attorney to protect your rights and seek fair compensation. Remember to keep track of all expenses related to the accident, and don’t sign anything without consulting an attorney. With the right guidance and support, you can navigate the hit-by-car accident claim process and receive the compensation you deserve.
