Truck Brake Accident Lawyers in Mississippi: Protect Your Rights After a Crash

On August 28, 2025, a fiery 18-wheeler incident on Interstate 55 at Waterworks Curve in Jackson, Mississippi, showed how quickly a routine drive can turn dangerous. The fire, caused by a brake malfunction, disrupted traffic but fortunately resulted in no injuries, thanks to the driver’s quick action to detach the trailer.

If you’ve been involved in a truck accident, Truck Brake Accident Lawyers in Mississippi at The Diaz Law Firm are ready to help. Serving Jackson, Madison, and Gulfport, we understand how truck accidents, even “minor” ones, can have long-lasting effects.

Why Truck Brakes Fail

Brake failures in 18-wheelers are more common than many drivers realize. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), brake issues contribute to nearly 30% of large truck crashes. Common causes include:

• Overheating from Prolonged Use: Heavy trucks, especially on Mississippi highways like I-55, require frequent braking. Continuous use can overheat brake pads or drums, reducing effectiveness.
• Poor Maintenance: Trucking companies must follow strict maintenance schedules. Neglecting brake inspections or using substandard parts can lead to dangerous failures.
• Defective Components: Faulty brake systems—whether from manufacturing defects or improper installation—can fail under pressure, creating liability for manufacturers or repair shops.
• Driver Error: Overloading the truck or improper braking techniques can push the system beyond safe limits.

The I-55 incident shows how a brake issue can escalate quickly. While this driver’s quick thinking prevented injuries, not every accident ends so safely.

Who Can Be Held Responsible in a Truck Brake Accident?

Determining liability in truck accidents can be complex. Multiple parties may share responsibility. Truck Brake Accident Lawyers in Mississippi investigate every angle to ensure clients receive full compensation. Potentially liable parties include:

• Trucking Company: Poor maintenance or missed inspections can make the company accountable under Mississippi law.
• Driver: Reckless behavior or ignoring warning signs may make a driver liable.
• Manufacturer: Defective brakes or components can trigger a product liability claim.
• Third-Party Contractors: Repair shops or maintenance crews could be responsible if they performed substandard work.

Mississippi’s comparative negligence laws allow you to recover damages even if you share some fault. Our attorneys examine maintenance logs, driver records, and accident data to build strong cases.

Steps to Take After a Truck Brake Accident in Mississippi

Acting quickly after an accident can protect your legal rights:

1. Ensure Safety and Seek Medical Attention: Move to a safe area and call 911. Even minor injuries like whiplash or concussions should be evaluated.
2. Document the Scene: Take photos of vehicles, road conditions, and damages. Collect witness contacts and note details like the truck’s company or license plate.
3. Report the Accident: File a police report; it is critical for insurance and legal purposes. Mississippi law requires reporting accidents with significant damage or injuries.
4. Avoid Speaking to Insurance Adjusters: Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. Let our lawyers handle all communications.
5. Contact The Diaz Law Firm: Evidence like black box data or maintenance records can vanish quickly. Call Truck Brake Accident Lawyers in Mississippi at 1-800-459-2222 for a free case review.

FAQs About Truck Brake Accidents

Q1: What should I do if a truck’s brakes fail?
Move to a safe area, call 911, document the scene, seek medical attention, and contact an experienced lawyer immediately.

Q2: Who can be held liable in a truck brake accident?
Liability may include the trucking company, the driver, manufacturers, or repair contractors. Our lawyers investigate every detail.

Q3: How long do I have to file a truck accident claim in Mississippi?
Typically, you have three years from the accident date to file a personal injury claim, but acting quickly preserves critical evidence.

Q4: Can I recover if I share some fault?
Yes. Mississippi’s comparative negligence laws allow recovery even if you are partially at fault.

How The Diaz Law Firm Helps Truck Accident Victims

At The Diaz Law Firm, our Truck Brake Accident Lawyers in Mississippi handle cases across Jackson, Madison, and Gulfport. Our no-fee-unless-we-win policy ensures you pay nothing upfront. We offer:

• Insurance Negotiations: We fight bad faith tactics to secure compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
• Investigations: Our team works with accident reconstruction experts to prove liability, even in complex multi-party accidents.
• Litigation: If a fair settlement isn’t possible, we are ready to take your case to court using years of experience in Mississippi’s legal system.

Truck accidents can change lives instantly. Don’t let negligence derail your future.

Contact Us Today

If you or a loved one has been affected by a truck brake accident, Truck Brake Accident Lawyers in Mississippi at The Diaz Law Firm are ready to help. Serving Jackson, Madison, Gulfport, and all of Mississippi, we’re available 24/7.

Call 1-800-459-2222 or visit our website for a free consultation. Let us handle the legal heavy lifting while you focus on recovery.