Fatal I-55 Truck Accident in Byram: What You Need to Know

On April 8, 2025, a tragic truck accident on Interstate 55 in Byram, near Jackson, Mississippi, claimed the life of a Brandon man and left a Jackson woman injured. This devastating crash, involving an 18-wheeler, underscores the dangers of truck accidents in our community and the importance of seeking experienced legal help. At The Diaz Law Firm, our Jackson personal injury attorneys are here to guide victims and their families through the complexities of truck accident claims.

Details of the April 8, 2025, I-55 Truck Accident

The crash occurred around 11:00 a.m. on I-55 between the Siwell Road and Wynndale Road exits in Byram, Hinds County. A 1999 Peterbilt 18-wheeler, driven by a 50-year-old Jackson woman, collided with a 2023 International MV60 driven by a 50-year-old Brandon man. Tragically, the Brandon man was pronounced dead at the scene, and the Jackson woman was hospitalized with injuries.

The Mississippi Highway Patrol (MHP) is investigating, but the cause of the crash remains unclear. While driver fatigue—a common factor in truck accidents—has not been confirmed, the investigation is ongoing to determine liability.

Why Truck Accidents Are So Dangerous

Truck accidents, like the one on I-55, often result in severe injuries or fatalities due to the massive size and weight of commercial vehicles. In Jackson, 35 truck accidents were reported in 2023, with Mississippi seeing 108 fatal truck crashes in a recent year. Common causes include:

• Driver Fatigue: Long hours on the road can lead to drowsy driving, especially if drivers violate federal Hours of Service (HOS) rules.
• Distracted Driving: Texting or other distractions can cause catastrophic collisions.
• Mechanical Failures: Faulty brakes or tires can make trucks uncontrollable.
• Road Conditions: I-55’s heavy traffic and construction zones increase risks.

I-55 is a busy corridor for commercial trucks, making it a hotspot for accidents. This crash highlights the need for stricter safety measures and accountability.

Is Driver Fatigue to Blame?

While the MHP has not identified driver fatigue as the cause of the April 8 crash, it’s a leading factor in many truck accidents. Federal regulations require truckers to use Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) to track HOS compliance, limiting driving to 11 hours within a 14-hour window after 10 hours of rest. Violations can establish negligence in accident claims.

In Jackson, fatigue-related incidents are a concern. A recent social media post described a trucker falling asleep and veering off a local highway, nearly crashing into a reservoir. If fatigue contributed to the I-55 crash, our attorneys can investigate driver logs and ELD data to build a strong case.

Your Rights After a Truck Accident in Mississippi

If you or a loved one were affected by a truck accident, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Wrongful death damages

Mississippi’s statute of limitations gives you three years from the date of the accident to file a claim. However, acting quickly is critical to preserve evidence like driver logs, crash reports, and witness statements.

At The Diaz Law Firm, we have extensive experience handling truck accident cases in Jackson. We work tirelessly to investigate crashes, negotiate with insurance companies, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

How The Diaz Law Firm Can Help

Truck accident claims are complex, involving multiple parties like drivers, trucking companies, and insurers. Our Jackson personal injury lawyers will:

• Investigate the crash, including MHP reports and ELD data.
• Identify liable parties, such as negligent drivers or companies with poor safety records.
• Calculate the full extent of your damages, including future medical costs.
• Negotiate or litigate to secure maximum compensation.

Contact Us Today for a free consultation to discuss your case and learn how we can help.

Diaz Law Firm: Big Truck Accident Injuries

Injured in a truck accident? The Diaz Law Firm is here to help. Get a free case evaluation, answers to your questions, and explore your compensation options.

The April 8, 2025, crash underscores the dangers on Mississippi’s highways. Stay vigilant and hold negligent parties accountable for safer roads. If you or a loved one were injured, don’t wait—call Diaz Law Firm at (601) 607-3456 or fill out our online form for a free consultation. We’ll fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.