What Happens if You Speed and Crash?

Generally, speeding significantly increases the likelihood of accidents and can lead to severe legal and financial consequences. In addition to risking personal injury, speeding impacts how liability is determined in an accident.

First, speeding typically means you’re more at fault in an accident, even if other factors contribute. In some states follow a “comparative negligence” rule, the amount of compensation you can claim may be reduced by your percentage of fault. 

While in others, such as Mississippi, there is a “pure comparative fault” rule, meaning you can recover damages even if you’re primarily at fault, but your compensation will be reduced by your degree of responsibility for the accident. For example, if you are 70% at fault, you can still recover 30% of the total damages.

However, if speeding results in an accident causing injury or death, you could face criminal charges, such as reckless driving. Depending on the severity, this may result in hefty fines, points on your license, suspension, or even jail time.

Regularly, speeding violations, particularly those involving accidents, lead to significantly higher auto insurance premiums. Frequently, insurance companies view speed-related accidents as a sign of reckless driving, raising your risk profile.

Also, speeding accidents frequently result in serious injuries, leading to lawsuits for medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you’re found liable, you may be required to pay damages to the other party, further compounding the financial fallout.

Overall, understanding these implications highlights the importance of adhering to speed limits to avoid costly and dangerous consequences.

How a Lawyer Can Help After a Speeding Accident in Mississippi

If you’ve been involved in a speeding-related accident in Mississippi, consulting a personal injury lawyer can make a significant difference in how your case is handled and its outcome. For instance, Ballard Law is a Jackson law firm, that focuses on personal injury cases. Their lawyers will provide you with a personalized guidance, ensuring your rights’ protection.

Firstly, Mississippi follows a “pure comparative negligence” rule; meaning even if you’re partially at fault for the accident, you may still be able to recover damages. In a speeding accident, determining who is at fault is crucial. Therefore, your lawyer will gather evidence such as police reports, eyewitness testimonies, traffic camera footage, and accident reconstruction analysis to prove that the other party’s negligence contributed to the accident, despite your speeding.

More often than not, dealing with insurance companies can be overwhelming, especially when they try to minimize your claim due to your speeding. A lawyer will negotiate on your behalf, ensuring that the insurance company doesn’t unfairly reduce your settlement. Also, They can help calculate fair compensation for property damage, medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.

If speeding led to a serious accident, you may face criminal charges for reckless driving or vehicular manslaughter. Furthermore, your attorney will help defend you, potentially reducing penalties or even getting charges dropped.

Mississippi’s legal system allows you to seek compensation even if you’re found partially at fault. Moreover, your lawyer will ensure you receive the maximum amount of compensation possible by presenting a strong case and negotiating favorable settlements.

In conclusion, having a lawyer by your side is essential for navigating Mississippi’s legal system, protecting your rights, and securing the best possible outcome after a speeding accident.

Firm contact info:

Ballard Law PLLC

108 S President Street

Jackson, MS 39201

769-572-5111

https://www.ballardlaw.ms/