Deadly I-20 Truck Accident in Rankin County Leaves One Dead and Two Injured

On May 22, 2025, a tragic multi-vehicle crash involving an 18-wheeler shut down a stretch of Interstate 20 near the Old Highway 49 exit in Rankin County, Mississippi. According to WLBT News, at least three vehicles were involved in the collision, which resulted in the death of one individual at the scene and left two others hospitalized. The crash occurred in the westbound lanes and caused major traffic disruptions throughout the morning and afternoon.

Mississippi Highway Patrol Troop C confirmed that emergency responders—including Rankin County Fire Services, multiple EMS units, and law enforcement—were dispatched around 7:00 a.m. Upon arrival, responders encountered extensive vehicle damage and blocked lanes, prompting a full investigation and cleanup that lasted several hours.

While the names of those involved have not yet been released, authorities noted that the accident was severe enough to require traffic redirection and a prolonged on-site investigation. The cause of the crash is still under active review, with early speculation pointing to either driver error or equipment malfunction on the part of the commercial truck.

At Germany Law Firm, PLLC, we understand how life can change in an instant, especially when large commercial vehicles are involved. Truck accidents often result in devastating injuries or fatalities, and survivors are frequently left to navigate a complex legal and insurance landscape while also dealing with grief or trauma. This blog will explore the possible causes of the crash on I-20, outline the legal rights of those affected, and offer guidance to families in Rankin County and beyond who may be facing similar tragedies.

What We Know So Far About the Rankin County I-20 Crash

Tragedies involving 18-wheelers are often the result of more than a single moment of error—they reflect systemic dangers on our highways, including overburdened freight corridors, poor road design, and preventable driver fatigue. The fatal collision in Rankin County on May 22, 2025, is no exception. Below is a detailed breakdown of the early facts surrounding the crash and why it could lead to serious legal consequences for those affected.

Date of the Crash May 22, 2025

The crash occurred early Thursday morning, a day and time when commercial traffic is at its peak. Weekday morning hours are especially hazardous as they combine commuter congestion with long-haul freight activity. Crashes during these periods are more likely to result in chain reactions and high-impact collisions, especially on major corridors like Interstate 20.

Time of the Incident Around 7:00 A.M.

Authorities received reports of the crash shortly after 7:00 a.m.—a time when visibility may still be limited due to early morning light and heavy eastbound glare. Morning traffic volume often leads to abrupt braking and aggressive lane changes, particularly near interchanges like Old Highway 49. When large trucks are involved, the consequences of a sudden stop or miscalculation can be catastrophic. The Federal Highway Administration notes that traffic congestion and volume increase crash risks significantly during peak commuting times.

Exact Location I-20 Westbound Near Old Highway 49

The crash took place in the westbound lanes of Interstate 20 near the Old Highway 49 exit in Rankin County. This stretch of I-20 is known for its high-speed traffic, limited shoulder space, and a mix of commercial and commuter vehicles. The Old Highway 49 exit is a frequent site of merging traffic, which heightens the risk of collisions when visibility or maneuvering room is limited. You can review Mississippi’s highway system data on the Mississippi Department of Transportation website.

Vehicles Involved At Least Three Vehicles Including a Semi-Truck

Early reports confirm that the crash involved at least one 18-wheeler and two smaller passenger vehicles. When large commercial trucks collide with cars, the occupants of the smaller vehicles often suffer the worst injuries. This is due to the significant weight difference and the increased force of impact during a collision. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), truck crashes are far more likely to result in fatalities for passenger vehicle occupants than for truck drivers.

Casualties Reported One Fatality and Two Hospitalizations

The Mississippi Highway Patrol has confirmed that one individual died at the scene, while two others were transported to local hospitals with injuries. Fatalities in truck accidents are tragically common and often preventable. For the surviving victims and the family of the deceased, this incident marks the beginning of a difficult and emotionally charged legal journey. To understand how Mississippi compares to other states in fatal crash rates, explore NHTSA’s Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS).

Responding Agencies Local and State Authorities

Multiple agencies responded to the scene, including the Mississippi Highway Patrol, Rankin County Sheriff’s Office, EMS personnel, and Rankin County Fire Services. Their coordinated response helped secure the area, administer medical care, and begin an initial investigation. The collaboration of these entities will also be essential in compiling the official crash report, which serves as the foundation for any legal claims that follow.

Current Status of the Investigation

As of now, the investigation into the cause of the crash remains active. Investigators are expected to examine factors such as truck driver fatigue, possible mechanical failure, road conditions, and driver behavior in the moments leading up to the crash. The final report will help determine whether negligence or regulatory violations contributed to the tragedy. For more on how commercial trucking is regulated, visit the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).

Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Mississippi

Truck accidents rarely happen without warning signs. Whether it’s a missed inspection, a distracted driver, or an overloaded trailer, there’s almost always a chain of preventable failures that lead to disaster. In Mississippi, where major freight corridors like I-20 are active daily, these issues are especially common. Understanding the most frequent causes of truck crashes is essential for identifying liability and protecting victims’ rights.

Fatigue and Hours-of-Service Violations

Driver fatigue is one of the leading causes of fatal truck accidents across the U.S. and Mississippi is no exception. Long hours on the road, lack of proper rest, and pressure to meet delivery deadlines can push commercial drivers past their physical limits. Fatigued drivers have slower reflexes, impaired judgment, and reduced situational awareness—conditions that make a crash far more likely.

According to the FMCSA, drivers are limited to 11 hours of driving in a 14-hour shift and must rest for at least 10 hours between shifts. Violations of these limits are common in the industry, especially when companies prioritize speed over safety.

Distracted Driving Behind the Wheel of an 18-Wheeler

When a truck driver takes their eyes off the road for even a few seconds, the results can be catastrophic. Distracted driving includes texting, eating, adjusting controls, or using GPS while the vehicle is in motion. For truckers navigating high-traffic areas like I-20, these distractions can be deadly.

Federal regulations strictly prohibit commercial drivers from texting or using handheld devices while driving. The FMCSA mobile phone rule holds drivers and their employers accountable for violations, which can serve as strong evidence of negligence in personal injury or wrongful death lawsuits.

Speeding and Unsafe Lane Changes

Speeding significantly increases the severity of impact during a crash. Large commercial trucks require much longer stopping distances than smaller vehicles, especially when fully loaded. When a truck driver exceeds the speed limit—or drives too fast for road or weather conditions—they risk losing control entirely.

Unsafe lane changes are another common issue, especially near highway interchanges and merge zones. Trucks have large blind spots, and if the driver fails to check mirrors or signal properly, they can sideswipe smaller vehicles or force them off the road. These behaviors are especially dangerous during rush hour on congested routes like I-20.

Equipment Failure and Lack of Maintenance

Mechanical failure is a silent but deadly contributor to many commercial truck crashes. Faulty brakes, worn tires, defective lights, or failed steering systems can all cause a driver to lose control at highway speeds. In many cases, these failures are the result of missed inspections or postponed repairs.

Motor carriers are required to maintain their fleet to federal safety standards. According to the NTSB, poor maintenance plays a role in thousands of crashes every year. If a failed component contributed to the Rankin County crash, the company responsible for upkeep could be held liable.

Improperly Loaded or Overloaded Cargo

Commercial truck cargo must be properly secured and balanced. If the load shifts during transit, especially during turns or sudden braking, it can cause the trailer to sway, roll, or jackknife. Overloaded trucks are also harder to control and require longer stopping distances.

Federal cargo securement rules set by the FMCSA dictate how loads must be strapped, distributed, and verified before departure. If these protocols are ignored, the trucking company or freight handler may be directly responsible for any resulting injuries or deaths.

Inexperienced or Unqualified Drivers

Driving an 18-wheeler is not like driving a passenger car. It requires specialized training, licensing, and familiarity with both federal and state safety regulations. Unfortunately, some companies hire underqualified drivers due to labor shortages or poor vetting procedures.

In Mississippi, all truck drivers must carry a valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), obtained through testing and behind-the-wheel evaluation. If the driver involved in a crash lacked proper credentials—or had a history of safety violations—their employer may be held responsible for negligent hiring, training, or supervision. For more on licensing requirements, visit the Mississippi Department of Public Safety CDL portal.

Determining Fault in Multi-Vehicle Truck Crashes

When a crash involves multiple vehicles, especially when one of them is a commercial truck, determining fault isn’t simple. Each party’s actions before, during, and after the crash must be carefully analyzed to identify the primary and contributing causes. In the case of the deadly I-20 accident in Rankin County, liability could extend beyond the truck driver to include the trucking company, maintenance contractors, other drivers, and even the manufacturer of the vehicle or trailer.

Below, we explore how fault is determined in serious truck crashes and what evidence is typically used to support a legal claim.

How Mississippi Assigns Fault in Personal Injury Cases

Mississippi follows a pure comparative negligence model, meaning that more than one party can be held legally responsible for a crash. Each party is assigned a percentage of fault, and the amount of compensation a victim receives is reduced by their own degree of responsibility.

For example, if a victim is awarded $100,000 but found to be 20% at fault, they would still receive $80,000 in damages. This system makes detailed crash analysis especially important, as even partial fault can impact the outcome of a lawsuit.

To understand the state’s liability laws, visit the Mississippi Bar’s Legal Resources.

Evidence Used to Prove Negligence in Truck Accident Claims

Proving who is at fault in a commercial truck crash requires more than just pointing fingers—it demands solid, well-documented evidence. Because trucking companies are often backed by aggressive insurers and legal teams, injured victims and grieving families need to present a compelling case built on facts, not assumptions. The more detailed and credible the evidence, the stronger your chances of recovering full compensation for your losses. Below are some of the most critical forms of evidence used in Mississippi truck accident claims and how they can influence the outcome of your case.

Crash Reports from Law Enforcement

One of the most important documents in any motor vehicle accident case is the official crash report prepared by investigating officers. These reports typically include the time and location of the crash, weather and road conditions, statements from drivers and witnesses, and a preliminary determination of fault.

In the Rankin County case, the Mississippi Highway Patrol is likely compiling a report that may identify if speeding, distraction, or fatigue played a role. These reports are admissible in court and are heavily relied upon by insurance companies during settlement negotiations.

Eyewitness Statements and Third-Party Testimony

Witnesses can offer key insights about vehicle behavior, traffic conditions, or the moments leading up to the crash. Their testimony can confirm whether a truck was weaving between lanes, following too closely, or failing to yield.

It’s critical to gather contact information at the scene or have legal counsel identify and interview potential witnesses as soon as possible, before memories fade or perspectives become biased.

Video Footage from Traffic Cameras or Dashcams

In many commercial truck crashes, nearby businesses or traffic cams may have recorded the collision. In some cases, private dashcam footage from other drivers can capture the incident in real time.

This footage is often retrieved through subpoenas, open record requests, or voluntary submissions and can definitively show who was at fault. According to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), visual evidence is increasingly vital in crash reconstruction and courtroom proceedings.

Black Box Data and Vehicle Telemetry

Most modern commercial trucks are equipped with electronic control modules (ECMs), often referred to as “black boxes.” These devices capture critical vehicle data.

Speed at the Time of the Crash

One of the most critical data points recorded by a truck’s black box is the vehicle’s speed just before the crash. This helps determine whether the driver was exceeding the posted speed limit or traveling too fast for the current road and weather conditions. Speeding is a major factor in high-impact collisions, especially on highways like I-20 where even a few extra miles per hour can significantly increase stopping distance and crash severity.

Braking Behavior

The black box also tracks when and how the brakes were applied. If there was a delay in braking or if the driver failed to brake altogether, this information can demonstrate inattentiveness, distraction, or even mechanical failure. Sudden or erratic braking patterns may also suggest that the driver was tailgating or reacting too late to traffic conditions, both of which strengthen a negligence claim.

Seatbelt Use

Whether or not the driver and occupants were wearing seatbelts at the time of the crash can influence both liability and damages. While failure to wear a seatbelt doesn’t excuse the at-fault party’s actions, it may be considered a factor in injury severity. Seatbelt status is one of the first things investigators look at when assessing injuries and crash survivability.

Steering Input

Steering data shows whether the driver attempted to avoid the crash or made any last-minute maneuvers. A lack of steering input might indicate distraction, drowsiness, or impairment. On the other hand, overcorrection or erratic steering can suggest panic or loss of control, common in cases where the driver was speeding, distracted, or caught off guard by shifting cargo or unsafe road conditions.

Engine Diagnostics

Finally, the truck’s onboard diagnostics can reveal if there were any warning lights, engine faults, or maintenance issues active at the time of the crash. This data can be used to show that the vehicle should not have been on the road or that the company failed to correct a known issue. Patterns of ignored engine faults can open the door to claims of negligent maintenance or regulatory violations.

Black box data can confirm or refute the driver’s version of events and is often retrieved by attorneys or crash reconstruction experts before the vehicle is moved or altered.

Cell Phone and GPS Records

If distracted driving is suspected, phone records may reveal whether the truck driver was texting, calling, or using apps at the time of the crash. GPS records can also verify the driver’s route, time on the road, and any stops made prior to the incident.

In Mississippi, the texting while driving ban supports negligence claims when drivers are found to have been using mobile devices while behind the wheel.

Role of Accident Reconstruction Experts

When liability is disputed or the crash sequence is complex, attorneys often bring in forensic crash reconstructionists. These experts use a combination of scene analysis, vehicle data, physics, and engineering models to recreate the collision. Their reports can establish who had the right of way, how fast each vehicle was traveling, and whether evasive action was taken—or should have been taken.

Expert testimony strengthens the case and helps juries or insurance adjusters understand the technical side of the crash in clear, visual terms.

Why Early Legal Involvement Matters

The sooner an experienced truck accident lawyer is involved, the faster critical evidence can be preserved. Skid marks fade, vehicles are repaired or scrapped, and witness memories grow less reliable over time. At Germany Law Firm, PLLC, we begin building a case immediately by doing the following

• Sending data preservation letters to trucking companies
  
• Recovering black box and dashcam data
  
• Securing surveillance footage
  
• Interviewing witnesses before insurance adjusters do
  
• Coordinating with independent experts

Early action gives families and victims the strongest foundation for a successful claim.

Legal Options After a Fatal Truck Accident in Mississippi

After a deadly crash like the one on I-20 in Rankin County, families are often left to navigate more than just grief—they’re suddenly faced with complex legal decisions and financial burdens. Mississippi law offers several legal avenues for justice and recovery, including wrongful death claims, survival actions, and personal injury lawsuits. Below is a detailed breakdown of these legal options, who qualifies to file, and what damages may be available.

Filing a Wrongful Death Claim in Mississippi

When a life is lost due to another party’s negligence, such as a reckless truck driver or negligent freight carrier, Mississippi law allows surviving loved ones to seek financial justice through a wrongful death lawsuit. These claims compensate the family for both economic and non-economic losses and may hold the responsible party accountable under Miss. Code § 11-7-13.

The Surviving Spouse

In Mississippi, the surviving spouse has first legal priority in filing a wrongful death claim. This person is often the most financially impacted by the loss, especially if the deceased was the primary breadwinner. Spouses can recover compensation for lost household income, medical expenses, funeral costs, and loss of companionship.

The Surviving Children or Parents

If there is no surviving spouse, the deceased’s children or parents may be next in line to file a claim. Children are entitled to recover not only financial support but also damages for emotional trauma and the long-term loss of parental guidance. Parents who lose a child, regardless of the child’s age, can also pursue compensation for grief and loss.

The Personal Representative of the Deceased’s Estate

If the victim had a will or estate plan, the designated executor or personal representative can bring a wrongful death suit on behalf of the estate. Any compensation recovered is distributed according to the estate’s terms or Mississippi’s intestacy laws. This route is often used when multiple parties are impacted, or when the deceased had no immediate family.

Statutory Beneficiaries, Such as Siblings

In the absence of a spouse, children, or parents, other legal beneficiaries such as siblings or close relatives may be able to file the claim. However, this typically requires that no closer heirs exist or that they waive their right to pursue the case. These claims can still lead to substantial recovery, especially when the deceased provided financial or emotional support to their extended family.

Damages Available in a Mississippi Wrongful Death Claim

Damages in a wrongful death lawsuit aim to offset both tangible and intangible losses. They are meant to ease the financial burden and provide justice for the emotional and psychological toll the family endures.

Funeral and Burial Costs

Funeral and burial services often cost between $10,000 and $25,000 in Mississippi. These immediate expenses can be devastating to grieving families. Wrongful death damages can include full reimbursement for these services, including cemetery fees, headstones, and cremation if applicable.

Medical Expenses Prior to Death

If the deceased received emergency care, hospitalization, or surgical treatment before passing, the family may recover all related medical expenses. These costs are often extremely high, especially in cases involving air ambulance transport or ICU treatment.

Lost Income and Benefits

When the deceased was a working adult, surviving family members may be entitled to compensation for lost wages, future income, and retirement benefits. This includes salary, health insurance, pensions, bonuses, and other job-related earnings that would have supported the family.

Pain and Suffering of the Survivors

Family members are often emotionally devastated by a sudden and preventable death. The law allows compensation for this emotional pain and loss, commonly referred to as “loss of consortium.” Courts may also consider the closeness of the relationship and the extent of trauma endured by the survivors.

Loss of Companionship and Support

Beyond financial dependency, families lose love, guidance, and emotional support when a relative dies. Children lose a parent’s mentorship spouses lose affection and daily partnership. These losses are difficult to quantify but can significantly increase the value of a claim.

Punitive Damages in Cases of Gross Negligence

If the truck driver or company acted with extreme recklessness, such as driving under the influence, knowingly violating safety laws, or falsifying maintenance logs, the court may award punitive damages. These are intended to punish wrongful conduct and deter future violations in the trucking industry.

Survival Actions Under Mississippi Law

Survival actions are another type of lawsuit permitted under Miss. Code § 91-7-233. Unlike wrongful death claims, which focus on the family’s losses, survival actions allow the deceased’s estate to recover for harms the victim personally experienced between the time of injury and death.

Medical Bills Between Crash and Death

If the victim lived for minutes, hours, or days after the crash, the estate may claim compensation for any treatment, transport, or hospital care administered during that time. This can include trauma care, surgeries, medication, or ICU expenses.

Pain and Suffering Experienced by the Deceased

Courts may award damages for the physical pain and emotional fear experienced by the deceased before they passed away. These are particularly relevant in cases where the victim was conscious after the crash, underwent surgery, or experienced a slow medical decline before death.

Lost Wages Between Injury and Death

If the victim was temporarily unable to work due to the crash and later died from their injuries, the estate may recover wages for that interim period. These damages apply even if the individual passed away just days later.

Personal Injury Lawsuits for Surviving Victims

When someone survives a truck accident but sustains serious injuries, they may file a personal injury claim to seek compensation. These cases run parallel to wrongful death actions and focus entirely on the surviving individual’s physical, emotional, and financial recovery.

Emergency Medical Treatment and Hospitalization

Personal injury claims often begin with recovery for emergency services such as ambulance transport, surgeries, hospital stays, and follow-up care. These immediate medical costs can easily exceed tens of thousands of dollars.

Long-Term Rehabilitation and Care

Many truck crash victims require extended physical therapy, mobility assistance, or in-home care after hospitalization. These long-term needs are fully compensable and should be calculated into any legal settlement.

Lost Income and Future Earning Capacity

Injured victims are often forced to miss work or leave their careers altogether. A strong personal injury claim includes current wage losses and projected future earnings, including bonuses, retirement, and career advancement.

Permanent Disability or Disfigurement

Truck crashes often leave survivors with life-altering injuries. Amputations, spinal cord injuries, or severe burns may permanently change a victim’s ability to function or earn income. These impacts are considered when calculating damages.

Emotional Trauma and PTSD

Survivors often suffer from anxiety, nightmares, depression, or PTSD. Mississippi law allows compensation for these psychological injuries, especially when trauma interferes with daily life, work, or relationships.

The Importance of Acting Quickly

Legal deadlines apply to all of the above actions. In most cases, the statute of limitations is three years from the date of death or injury. However, claims involving public agencies or defective road conditions may require notice within just one year.

Preserving evidence, obtaining crash reports, and initiating legal action early gives victims and families the best chance at success. Once the deadline passes, no amount of evidence or emotional hardship can revive the case.

When the At-Fault Driver Is a Friend or Family Member

One of the most emotionally complicated legal situations occurs when the person responsible for a fatal crash is someone the victim knew and trusted. In the May 22, 2025, I-20 truck crash, the identities of those involved have not yet been released. But in many Mississippi accidents, the at-fault driver is a relative, coworker, or longtime family friend. For survivors, this makes the decision to pursue legal action even more difficult.

However, it’s important to understand that wrongful death and personal injury claims are not about punishment—they are about protecting your future. Below, we’ll walk through what happens when the at-fault party is close to the victim and how Mississippi law handles these unique cases.

You Are Suing the Insurance Company, Not the Driver Personally

After a fatal truck accident, many families hesitate to take legal action because they don’t want to “ruin” someone they care about. But in most cases, the lawsuit isn’t against the driver’s personal finances—it’s against their automobile liability insurance.

Why Liability Insurance Exists

Mississippi law requires every driver to carry a minimum level of liability insurance to cover injuries and damages they cause to others. According to the Mississippi Insurance Department, this includes

• $25,000 for injury or death of one person
  
• $50,000 for total injury or death per crash
  
• $25,000 for property damage

If a wrongful death claim is filed, the driver’s insurance policy pays the settlement or judgment up to those limits. In some cases, additional compensation may be available through umbrella or excess policies, but personal assets are rarely touched unless insurance is completely insufficient.

Balancing Legal Needs with Emotional Realities

It’s natural to feel torn about pursuing a claim when the person responsible is a loved one. Many victims worry that suing a family member will lead to permanent rifts or emotional strain within their community. But filing a claim is not about revenge—it’s about survival.

Funeral and Medical Bills Are Immediate and Overwhelming

Even a modest funeral can cost over $10,000. Emergency medical care, airlift services, and trauma treatment often add tens of thousands more. These expenses don’t go away with grief—they become bills. Legal action is often the only way families can recover those costs and avoid financial ruin.

Compensation Covers More Than Just Bills

Wrongful death settlements also help families rebuild their lives beyond covering the initial costs of a funeral or medical treatment. The compensation can provide for childcare and educational expenses for surviving children, cover the costs of mental health support such as grief counseling or PTSD treatment, and replace the lost income of a stay-at-home spouse or caregiver. Additionally, it can be used to keep up with essential household expenses like rent, mortgage payments, and utilities while the family adjusts to life after the tragedy. Even if the at-fault driver is someone close to you, ensuring your family’s long-term financial security must remain a top priority.

When the At-Fault Driver Is Also Injured or Deceased

Trucking accidents often leave multiple victims, including the at-fault driver. If that driver was also seriously injured or killed in the crash, the legal process changes, but compensation may still be available.

Suing the Driver’s Estate

If the at-fault driver passed away, a wrongful death or injury claim can still be filed against their estate. This means any available insurance policy or assets, like a vehicle, home, or life insurance, may be used to cover the victim’s losses. This process is handled through probate and does not require direct contact with grieving family members.

Liability Still Applies When Injuries Are Shared

Even if both the at-fault driver and the victim were injured, fault is still determined based on the evidence. Shared injuries do not cancel out the legal obligation to pay damages. In some cases, both parties may share liability, and compensation is reduced based on each person’s percentage of fault under Mississippi’s comparative negligence law.

How Germany Law Firm Handles Sensitive Family Cases

At Germany Law Firm, PLLC, we understand that not every case is just about “fault”—some are about family. We take a discreet, professional, and empathetic approach when the at-fault party is close to the victim.

Our Process in Emotionally Complex Claims

At Germany Law Firm, PLLC, we handle all communications with the insurance company directly, allowing you to focus on healing while we manage the legal complexities. We prioritize your privacy, shielding you from unnecessary personal conflict, especially when the at-fault driver is someone you know. Our team works to resolve cases through fair, confidential settlements rather than public court battles whenever possible. Throughout the process, we guide you with honesty, compassion, and full transparency. Our job is not to destroy relationships—it’s to preserve your family’s financial stability and help you move forward with peace of mind.

The Role of Insurance in Fatal Truck Accidents

In the aftermath of a fatal truck crash, insurance coverage becomes one of the most important factors in determining whether surviving families will be financially protected or left with crushing debt. Victims and loved ones may face medical expenses, funeral costs, income loss, and emotional trauma, all while navigating complex insurance systems. This section breaks down the types of insurance commonly involved in Mississippi fatal truck accidents, what each policy covers, and how Germany Law Firm helps families get the full compensation they’re owed.

Liability Insurance The Primary Source of Compensation

Liability insurance is the first line of financial recovery in any personal injury or wrongful death claim. In Mississippi, all drivers are required to carry a minimum level of coverage, but commercial trucking companies typically carry higher limits due to the catastrophic nature of big rig crashes.

What Liability Insurance Covers

Liability insurance is meant to cover the losses suffered by others when the policyholder is found at fault. This includes

• Medical expenses
  
• Funeral and burial costs
  
• Lost wages and earning capacity
  
• Pain and suffering
  
• Vehicle damage

According to the Mississippi Insurance Department, the minimum required limits for personal drivers are $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage. Commercial truckers, however, often carry policies ranging from $750,000 to $5 million, depending on the cargo and size of the vehicle.

The Truck Driver’s Policy

If the crash was caused by a truck driver’s negligence, such as speeding, distracted driving, or violating federal rest regulations, their liability policy is typically the first policy accessed. In many cases, this is a commercial policy provided by their employer, but independent owner-operators may carry their own coverage as well.

The Trucking Company’s Coverage

When a truck driver is working “within the scope of employment,” the trucking company can be held vicariously liable. In such cases, the company’s commercial general liability (CGL) or fleet insurance policy will apply. If the company knowingly hired an unqualified driver, failed to maintain its fleet, or pressured drivers to violate federal safety standards, it may also be held directly liable under theories of negligent hiring or supervision.

Third-Party Logistics or Maintenance Firms

Some truck crashes involve multiple contractors, such as third-party logistics firms or maintenance providers. If a subcontractor was responsible for loading the truck improperly or skipping an essential repair, their policy may also be triggered. Determining who is truly liable requires a thorough legal investigation, which is why victims should never rely solely on the trucking company’s version of events.

Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) Coverage

Even in commercial crashes, there are times when the responsible party’s insurance isn’t enough, or doesn’t exist at all. That’s where UM/UIM coverage comes in.

When the At-Fault Driver Has No Insurance

UM coverage protects victims when the driver who caused the crash has no active policy. Despite being illegal, many drivers in Mississippi operate uninsured. In such cases, your own auto insurance—or that of a deceased household member—may provide benefits under the uninsured motorist clause.

Learn more about how UM policies work on the Insurance Information Institute’s page on UM/UIM coverage.

When the At-Fault Policy Doesn’t Cover All Damages

If the damages from a fatal truck crash exceed the at-fault party’s policy limits, underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage can help fill the gap. This is especially important in wrongful death claims, where the value of the claim may exceed hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars, particularly when children or primary wage earners are involved.

Hit-and-Run or Phantom Vehicle Crashes

UM coverage may also apply if the crash was caused by a hit-and-run driver or a phantom vehicle that fled the scene. These cases can be difficult to prove without a police report or witnesses, but coverage may still be available with the help of an experienced attorney.

MedPay Immediate Help With Medical Costs

Medical payments coverage, or MedPay, is a no-fault insurance benefit that pays for medical expenses after a crash, regardless of who caused it. It’s often included in full coverage auto policies and can be a lifeline in the days or weeks after an accident, while liability claims are still being investigated.

What MedPay Covers

MedPay can be used to reimburse or pay directly for

• Ambulance rides
  
• Emergency room visits
  
• Diagnostic scans (CT, X-ray, MRI)
  
• Surgery and anesthesia
  
• Hospital stays
  
• Funeral costs (in some policies)

Although typically capped between $1,000 and $10,000, MedPay is fast and efficient, making it ideal for covering immediate out-of-pocket costs before a liability or UM/UIM claim is resolved.

To learn more about medical payments coverage and how it works, visit AutoInsurance.org’s MedPay breakdown.

Life Insurance and Accidental Death Policies

In addition to auto-related coverage, many victims have life insurance or accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D) policies that pay out when a fatal crash occurs. These funds can help cover long-term expenses or replace income lost due to a family member’s death.

Challenges in Accessing Life Insurance Benefits

Insurers may try to deny claims based on fine print in the policy. Common denial reasons include

• Claiming the policy lapsed due to unpaid premiums
  
• Arguing that the death wasn’t “accidental” under AD&D terms
  
• Alleging that the deceased made a misstatement or omission on the application

At Germany Law Firm, we review these policies line by line, challenge improper denials, and fight to ensure that families get the full benefits owed to them.

You can learn more about life insurance disputes from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC).

When Insurance Acts in Bad Faith

Mississippi law requires insurers to act in good faith when processing claims. When an insurance company unreasonably delays, underpays, or denies a valid claim without cause, it may be liable for bad faith damages—a separate legal action that can result in punitive compensation.

Denying a Valid Claim

An insurer cannot simply reject a claim without providing a legitimate reason backed by policy language. If your loved one had a valid wrongful death, UM/UIM, or life insurance claim that was denied unfairly, the company may be acting in bad faith.

Delaying Payment Without Justification

Insurance companies often drag their feet, especially in large claims involving commercial vehicles. If your case is being delayed for months with no explanation, it may be time to speak with an attorney.

Offering Unreasonably Low Settlements

Making a “lowball” offer that doesn’t come close to covering actual damages, especially without a full investigation, is another common bad faith tactic. These offers are designed to pressure grieving families into accepting less than they deserve.

Failing to Investigate the Claim

Insurance companies are required to conduct a reasonable, timely investigation into any claim. If they fail to request medical records, review crash reports, or speak to witnesses, their investigation may be legally inadequate.

To read more about insurance bad faith claims, visit Justia’s Mississippi bad faith law page.

Talk to a Mississippi Truck Accident Lawyer Today

If you’ve lost a loved one in a fatal truck accident, like the tragic I-20 crash in Rankin County, you do not have to face this alone. The aftermath of a deadly collision is emotionally overwhelming and legally complex. Between insurance adjusters, medical bills, funeral planning, and unanswered questions, families are often left paralyzed by grief and confusion.

At Germany Law Firm, PLLC, we understand what you’re going through—and we’re here to help.

We’ve represented countless Mississippi families in the wake of fatal commercial vehicle crashes. Our team will launch a full investigation, secure critical evidence, and fight for every dollar your family is entitled to. Whether you need help filing a wrongful death claim, negotiating with insurers, or navigating a bad faith denial, we’ll be by your side from day one.

We don’t just handle legal cases—we help people rebuild their lives.

Call us today at (601) 488-1367 

Or contact us online.