Three people died and many others sustained injuries in a fiery crash on I-55. The wreck involved nine vehicles – including two 18-wheelers.
According to MS News Now, police have not yet identified the cause of the accident, but there is construction in the area. The crash caused a four-hour traffic backup as vehicles were diverted to the Siwell Road exit 85.
One of the deceased was Jasmine Peterson, a four-year police officer. Her supervisors have described her as hardworking, dedicated and caring.
If you were injured by a negligent driver, then you may be able to recover compensation from the at-fault motorist by making a personal-injury claim. If your family member died, then you may have grounds for a wrongful death lawsuit.
A Biloxi injury lawyer from Morris Bart, LTD will evaluate your case to determine if you have grounds for a claim. Our legal team will compassionately and aggressively represent your interests. Call 800-537-8185 to schedule a free consultation.
4 Tips for Avoiding Rear-End Accidents
The nine-vehicle crash that took the lives of three people in Mississippi demonstrates how tragic a single wreck can be. Most multi-vehicle accidents are rear-enders. According to The Washington Post, there are more than 1.7 million rear-end collisions in the United States each year.
Fortunately, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk:
For a free legal consultation, call 800-537-8185
Reduce Your Speed
Drivers who speed have less time to react when the leading vehicle brakes suddenly. Also, they have a longer stopping distance.
Avoid Distracted Driving
According to Distraction.gov, distracted drivers caused at least 430,000 injuries in 2014. A significant portion of these wrecks were rear-end accidents.
Common distractions include:
- Rowdy passengers;
- Talking, texting or using social media behind the wheel;
- Drinking or eating;
- Changing climate or radio settings; and
- Reaching across the vehicle.
Here are a few tips to help you avoid distracted driving accidents:
- Do not carry passengers if you are an inexperienced driver;
- Do not be afraid to tell passengers to calm down if they are misbehaving;
- Put your cell phone on silent;
- Do not eat or drink behind the wheel; and
- Ask a passenger to adjust audio and climate controls for you.
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Brake Gradually
No matter how safe you are behind the wheel, you never know when other drivers are distracted. If you slam on your brakes and the driver behind you is not alert, then he or she may rear-end your vehicle. As such, you should brake early and gradually when approaching intersections and heavy traffic.
Monitor the Vehicle behind You
Drivers who follow too closely are more likely to cause rear-end accidents. If a motorist is tailgating you, then change lanes and let him or her pass.
If you were injured by a negligent driver in Mississippi, contact Morris Bart, LTD. A personal-injury attorney in Biloxi will help you claim compensation for medical bills, lost income and non-economic damages. Call 800-537-8185 to schedule a free consultation.
Questions?Call 800-537-8185
to find a Morris Bart office near you.
