Accidents in Mississippi, from highway crashes to job site injuries, can lead to devastating physical, emotional, and financial consequences. Whether you live in Jackson, Biloxi, or a rural town, knowing where to turn after an accident is critical to recovery.

This guide outlines important Mississippi accident victim resources for those injured or who have lost a loved one in a serious or fatal accident. You’ll find help with police reports, legal rights, medical care, grief support, and financial assistance.

Help for Injury Victims After Accidents in Mississippi

If you’ve been hurt in a car accident, slip and fall, or another preventable incident, medical attention should be your first priority. But once you’re stable, understanding your legal options can help protect your future.

Medical and Rehabilitation Services

Mississippi has hospitals and rehab centers to support short-term care and long-term recovery:

• University of Mississippi Medical Center (Jackson) – Level I trauma center with comprehensive emergency care
• Singing River Health System (Pascagoula) – Offers trauma care and physical therapy
• Baptist Memorial Hospital (multiple locations) – Emergency care and orthopedic rehab services
• Methodist Rehabilitation Center (Jackson) – Specialized in spinal cord and brain injury recovery

You can also visit the Mississippi State Department of Health at https://msdh.ms.gov to locate clinics, vaccine sites, and more.

Legal Rights for Injury Victims in Mississippi

Mississippi law allows injured victims to seek compensation from the party responsible for their injuries. These claims may include damages for:

• Medical treatment
• Lost income and reduced earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Property damage

Mississippi follows a pure comparative negligence rule. That means you can still recover damages even if you were mostly at fault—though your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

The deadline to file a personal injury lawsuit in Mississippi is three years from the date of the accident.

Support for Families After Fatal Accidents in Mississippi

Fatal accidents—whether caused by drunk driving, poor road conditions, unsafe workplaces, or defective products—leave families with grief, questions, and financial stress. Fortunately, there are resources and legal options that can help.

Grief Support and Counseling Services

Grieving families in Mississippi can access these support services:

• Mississippi Hospice and Palliative Care Organization – Offers bereavement services through local hospice centers
• The Compassionate Friends (Jackson Chapter) – Grief support for families who have lost a child
• Center for Violence Prevention (Pearl) – Counseling and trauma recovery services
• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call or text 988 anytime for support

Filing a Wrongful Death Claim in Mississippi

Under Mississippi Code § 11-7-13, a wrongful death claim can be filed by:

• The surviving spouse
• Children
• Parents
• Siblings
• Personal representative of the estate

Wrongful death damages may include:

• Medical bills related to the fatal injury
• Funeral and burial costs
• Lost wages and benefits
• Pain and suffering of the deceased and their family
• Loss of companionship or parental guidance

The statute of limitations for wrongful death cases is also three years in most situations.

How to Get a Police Report After an Accident in Mississippi

Crash reports are often needed to file insurance claims or pursue legal action. They include vital details like officer observations, driver information, and incident timelines.

Requesting a Crash Report in Mississippi

You can obtain your report through:

• Mississippi Department of Public Safety (DPS): Order crash reports online at https://www.dps.ms.gov
• Local Police Departments or Sheriff’s Offices: Call the records division or visit in person
• Mississippi Highway Patrol: For state-handled incidents

Be ready to provide:

• Date and location of the accident
• Names of people involved
• Crash report number (if available)
• A small fee, typically $10 to $15

Reports are generally available 7–10 business days after the incident.

Financial Assistance and Social Services for Mississippi Accident Victims

Accident victims and grieving families may face financial strain due to medical costs, funeral expenses, or lost income. Mississippi offers several safety-net programs.

Mississippi Department of Human Services (MDHS)

The MDHS provides:

• SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) – Grocery assistance
• TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) – Monthly cash assistance
• Medicaid – Health coverage for low-income individuals
• Child care assistance and utility help for eligible households

Apply at https://www.mdhs.ms.gov

Mississippi Crime Victims’ Compensation Program

If your injuries or the death of a loved one were caused by a crime—like drunk driving or a hit-and-run—you may qualify for compensation from the Mississippi Crime Victim Compensation Division.

You may be eligible for:

• Medical and counseling expenses
• Funeral and burial costs
• Loss of wages
• Replacement of essential personal property

Apply by calling (800) 829-6766.

Frequently Asked Questions About Accidents in Mississippi

How long do I have to file a lawsuit?

You have three years from the date of the injury or death to file a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit in most cases.

What if I was partly at fault for the accident?

Mississippi uses pure comparative negligence, which means you can still recover damages even if you were up to 99% at fault. Your compensation will be reduced based on your share of fault.

Can I file a wrongful death claim for a sibling?

Yes. Siblings can file a wrongful death claim in Mississippi if there is no surviving spouse, parent, or child—or if designated by the estate.

Do I need a police report to file an insurance claim?

While not always required, having a crash report strengthens your claim and may be necessary for legal or court proceedings.

Should I talk to a lawyer after an accident?

Yes. A lawyer can help you understand your rights, gather important evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and file a lawsuit within the correct time frame.

Call a Mississippi Accident Attorney Today

Accidents and unexpected deaths can leave families facing uncertainty, grief, and financial strain. If you’re recovering from an injury or mourning the loss of a loved one, you don’t have to go through it alone.

A qualified Mississippi accident lawyer can:

• Help you obtain your crash report
• Investigate the cause of the accident
• File claims within the legal deadlines
• Pursue full and fair compensation for your losses

Call a Mississippi accident attorney today to get the guidance and support you need to move forward with confidence.