What You Should Know After a Car Accident in Mississippi

Jul 24 2025 15:00

A car accident can leave you overwhelmed—with injuries, medical bills, lost work, and insurance companies that don’t always play fair. If you're trying to understand your rights or research an accident in Mississippi, you're not alone. Whether you're injured in Gulfport or anywhere along the Gulf Coast, knowing the law can make a real difference in your recovery.

Here at Hopkins Barvié & Hopkins, our Mississippi car accident lawyers are answering some of the most common questions drivers ask after a crash.

How can I find out about local car accidents?

To learn about recent car crashes in Mississippi, you can:

  • Check local news outlets like WLOX, WDAM, or The Sun Herald
  • Follow social media updates from local law enforcement
  • Use real-time traffic apps like Waze or Citizen
  • Request a copy of an accident report through the Mississippi Highway Patrol or your local police department

If you're involved in the accident, you'll want to obtain the official crash report as soon as possible—it’s critical for filing a claim or building a case.

How can I find out if a car has been in an accident before?

Before purchasing a used vehicle, it's smart to check its accident history. You can run a vehicle history report using the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) through services like:

  • Carfax
  • AutoCheck
  • NMVTIS (National Motor Vehicle Title Information System)

These tools can reveal past crashes, total loss declarations, or frame damage—all of which may affect both value and safety. If you're unsure, ask a qualified mechanic or auto accident attorney in Mississippi about how prior damage might impact legal claims or resale.

Is Mississippi a no-fault state for car accidents?

No— Mississippi is an at-fault state for auto accidents. This means the driver who caused the crash is responsible for damages, including:

  • Medical expenses
  • Lost income
  • Vehicle repairs
  • Pain and suffering

In an at-fault system like Mississippi’s, working with a skilled car accident lawyer is essential. Insurance companies will often try to blame the injured driver or minimize payouts. A personal injury attorney in Gulfport MS can protect your rights and maximize your claim.

Are all car accidents public record in Mississippi?

Car crash data is public, but individual police reports are not fully public. In Mississippi, only certain people can request a crash report:

  • Drivers or passengers involved in the accident
  • Attorneys or legal representatives
  • Insurance companies
  • Law enforcement or government agencies

To request your report, contact the Mississippi Department of Public Safety or the police agency that responded to the crash. These records are essential in any car crash claim in Mississippi.

Injured in a Car Accident? Talk to a Mississippi Personal Injury Lawyer Today.

If you've been hurt in a crash—whether caused by a distracted driver, unsafe road, or negligent trucking company— you have legal rights under Mississippi law. At Hopkins Barvié & Hopkins, our auto accident injury attorneys provide tough courtroom advocacy and compassionate guidance to help you recover physically, financially, and emotionally.

Submit a message on our Contact Us page or call us today to schedule a free consultation. Let our experienced Mississippi personal injury lawyers help you take the next step toward justice.