Mississippi drivers buy car insurance because it’s required by law, and in the hope that it will protect them in the event of an accident. But how does car insurance really work when it comes to an accident in Jackson, MS? What’s covered and what’s not? And how do you get compensation?
Mississippi Insurance Requirements
Liability insurance is required by law in Mississippi. Getting caught without the required insurance could result in a $1,000 fine and license suspension for one year. Car owners must carry the following liability insurance minimums:
Liability insurance covers damages that you cause in an accident. Forbes recommends that you buy more than the minimums required by law. In a car accident, expenses can easily exceed the above liability minimums. If the expenses do exceed your minimums, you’ll be required to pay the difference from your own pocket!
Should You Buy More Than Just Liability Insurance?
While liability coverage is the only type of car insurance required by law in Mississippi, Forbes advises that you consider the following additional types of insurance:
What If You’re At Fault For The Accident?
Mississippi law requires drivers to pay for damages that they caused in a car accident. If you cause an accident, you’ll be responsible for covering the property and bodily losses of the other driver, including (but not limited to):
If your liability insurance doesn’t fully cover these expenses, you’ll be responsible for making up the difference. You might also face a lawsuit from the other driver if your insurance is inadequate or if the other driver wants to sue you for punitive damages and/or other non-economic damages. Punitive damages are a kind of punishment for negligence. And non-economic damages can include “pain and suffering” – such as emotional distress or loss of enjoyment in life.
What If The Other Driver Is At Fault?
If another party caused the car accident and your resulting damages, they are legally responsible for the expenses. You can file a claim against their insurance. The other driver’s insurance (if they are insured) will cover your expenses up to the limits of their policies. After that, you can file a lawsuit to claim additional compensation that their insurance didn’t cover. If you have MedPay and/or Uninsured/Underinsured motorist coverage, these policies will kick in for your benefit.
Do You Need An Attorney?
An attorney is helpful in car accident cases for multiple reasons.
Contact our Jackson office at 601-914-1025 or online to get started on a successful case.
4266 I-55 North, Suite 106
Jackson, Mississippi 39211
Phone: 601-914-1025
Fax: 601-960-4200