Hernando, MS Automobile Accident Prompts New Stop Signs

Four automobile accidents have occurred since Ice Plant Drive was made a one-way street in Hernando, MS. According to a recent article in the The Desoto Times, these accidents only emphasized the need for new and better signage. The latest accident occurred on July 29th and, along with the other accidents, city officials were prompted to take a second look at the signage at the intersection of Ice Plant Drive and Center Street. The original stop sign was located on a body shop rather than at the corner of the intersection, but signage for the street now includes two properly located stop signs and a “One Way Do Not Enter” message painted on the street at the intersection.

People rely upon road signs to tell them what they can expect ahead. As a result, accidents often occur when stop signs are vandalized, removed, left in disrepair, or are not properly placed. Mississippi and federal laws often provide immunity for governments in situations where the government’s failure to place or repair a sign is the cause of an accident. With that in mind, it is important to determine how long the sign has been in its current condition, whether there have been complaints in the past from other motorists about the sign, and whether anyone else has been harmed as a result. The answers to these questions will often determine whether the injured party can recover or whether their claim will be barred as a matter of law.

Making streets and roadways safer for the residents of Hernando should be first priority. Especially when there is a history of previous accidents due to road signage that is difficult to see. If you are involved in a car wreck and are injured as a result of an improperly placed or inadequate road signs or other condition of the roadway, you will likely need the services of an effective personal injury lawyer to represent your interests. Governmental entities often enjoy immunity from claims brought by citizens. That is why it is important to seek out and find an attorney that understands the law and will fight for you.