Document the Scene While You Wait

If you’re physically able, use your phone to take photos and video of the scene. Capture the damage to all vehicles involved, license plates, nearby traffic signs, skid marks, debris, and anything else that might help tell the story of how the crash occurred. Get the names and contact information of any witnesses nearby and ask for their brief account of what they saw. These details can be critical when building your injury claim.

Seek Medical Attention Right Away

Even if you think your injuries are minor, you should be evaluated by a doctor as soon as possible. Some injuries—like concussions, internal bleeding, or whiplash—may not be immediately apparent. Delaying treatment can not only harm your health but may also give insurance companies reason to argue that your injuries were unrelated to the crash. Whether it’s an urgent care clinic, emergency room, or your primary care provider, make getting checked out a top priority.

Avoid Admitting Fault or Apologizing

In the aftermath of a crash, it’s natural to feel shaken and emotional, but be mindful of what you say. Avoid apologizing or admitting fault at the scene, even if you feel partially responsible. Mississippi uses a comparative negligence system, and the insurance company can use anything you say to reduce your claim’s value. Let the facts and investigation speak for themselves.

Don’t Talk to the Other Driver’s Insurance Adjuster

It’s common for the at-fault driver’s insurance company to contact you quickly after a crash, often within 24 to 48 hours. Their goal? To get a recorded statement or get you to say something against your interests. Anything you say can be twisted to reduce or deny your claim. Politely decline to speak with them in-depth and refer any calls to your car accident attorney. 

Never Accept a Settlement Offer Without Legal Advice

Insurance adjusters or even other drivers might offer you a quick settlement to resolve the matter quickly and walk away. Never accept a fast settlement offer without first speaking to a car accident lawyer for several reasons. 

First, it is usually an attempt to convince you to accept much less than you deserve, so the insurer can minimize their liability. Further, you likely have little idea of the extent of your losses, so you do not yet know the value of your claim. Always contact our legal team to review any offers before signing anything. 

Contact an Olive Branch Car Accident Lawyer

The sooner you contact one of our qualified car accident attorneys in Olive Branch, the better. Your car accident lawyer can step in immediately to preserve evidence, guide you through the claims process, and shield you from aggressive insurance tactics. 

Your car accident attorney can also ensure all documentation is collected correctly. Most importantly, they’ll build a strong case for the compensation you’re owed so you can focus on healing while they handle the legal battle.

Damages You May Be Entitled to After a Car Accident

A car crash can affect every part of your life, from your physical health to your financial stability and emotional well-being. Under Mississippi law, accident victims have the right to pursue compensation for a wide range of losses depending on the circumstances of the crash and the severity of their injuries.

Medical Expenses

Medical expenses are often the most immediate and overwhelming cost. You may be entitled to recover the cost of ambulance transportation, emergency room care, surgery, and hospitalization. 

As your recovery continues, ongoing treatments such as physical therapy, follow-up visits, rehabilitation programs, and pain management may also be covered. 

If your injuries require long-term care, you can seek compensation for anticipated future medical costs. Prescription medications, medical equipment, and mobility aids like braces or wheelchairs are also recoverable expenses.

Lost Wages

In addition to medical costs, you can recover lost income if your injuries prevent you from working. This includes time missed from your job during recovery, as well as a reduced earning capacity if you cannot return to your previous role. If your injuries affect your long-term career trajectory, you may also be entitled to compensation for lost promotions, training opportunities, or professional development.

Property Damage

Property damage is another important area of compensation. This includes the cost to repair or replace your vehicle, as well as reimbursement for towing services, rental car fees, and other out-of-pocket expenses incurred after the crash. You can also recover compensation for personal property damaged in the accident, such as electronic devices, clothing, tools, or children’s safety seats.

Pain and Suffering

Beyond the tangible losses, Mississippi law also recognizes non-economic damages such as pain and suffering. This compensation accounts for the physical pain caused by your injuries, as well as emotional distress, anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) that may follow a traumatic crash. You may also be compensated for the loss of enjoyment of life if you can no longer participate in hobbies, relationships, or daily activities the way you did before the accident.

In cases where the accident results in disfigurement or disability, you may seek additional damages. Permanent injuries that affect your appearance, physical ability, or independence often result in long-term hardship, and the law allows compensation to reflect those challenges.

Punitive Damages

Finally, in rare but serious situations involving gross negligence, such as a drunk driver or someone intentionally violating traffic laws, the court may award punitive damages. These are not tied to your specific losses but are designed to punish the at-fault party and deter similar reckless behavior in the future.

How Our Olive Branch Car Accident Lawyers Can Help

After a crash, you need more than just a legal advisor; you need a powerful advocate who can level the playing field and protect your future. At Stroud, Flechas & Dalton you will find just that.

We are committed to representing our community members in Olive Branch and throughout the Desoto County area following unexpected and preventable injuries. With more than 50 years of combined experience to bring to the table, we are confident we can present a strong case for maximum compensation. 

We limit our caseloads to ensure every client gets the attention and allocated resources they need and deserve. Further, you never pay any legal fees upfront or unless we win compensation for you. There is no risk to discussing your legal options with our firm and hopefully gaining some peace of mind about your future. 

When you need legal support in the Olive Branch area, turn to your Mississippi neighbors at Stroud, Flechas & Dalton.

Contact Our Car Accident Lawyers in Olive Branch, MS

If you’ve suffered an injury in a car accident in Olive Branch or anywhere in Mississippi, don’t wait. Your health, finances, and future are too important. Let Stroud, Flechas & Dalton fight for the compensation you deserve.

We’ve recovered millions of dollars for injured clients across Mississippi. Whether through settlement or trial, our results speak for themselves. Again, you don’t pay anything unless we win your case. Our free consultations and no-risk fee structure make it easy to get help when you need it most. 

Call us at (662) 371-6580 or contact us online. Get the local legal support you need today.