Mississippi Accident Lawyer Blog

The cruise ship Costa Concordia with passengers and crew of over 4,000 crashed into a rocky reef because the vessel was 2.5 miles off course on friday the 13th, 2012. The island coast of Giglio is known for its rocky sea floor. Six people were killed, twenty were seriously injured and numerous others were unaccounted for. Because the size of the gash of over 160', the ship must have been moving pretty fast in the water at the time of the disaster.
Carnival Corp., a U.S.-based cruise giant,is the parent company who owns the company that caused the accident, Costa Cruises. This is not the first time that this company was involved in a deadly maritime accident. In 2010, the Costa Europa crashed into a pier in Egypt killing three crew members.
Some important questions need to be answered: why was the ship so close to the shore? why was the ship 2.5 miles off course? was the captain eating in the dining room or was he on the bridge? if he was on the bridge, what was he thinking? how fast was the ship moving? why didnt the captain, Francesco Schettino, call in a "mayday" at the time of the incident? why did the crew members tell passengers that everything was fine and there was no danger until the ship started turning over on its side? did the delay make use of some of the lifeboats impossible? why wasn't the evacuation organized? why were the instructions from the crew contradictory?

There were about 1,000 Italians,500 Germans, 100 French, 126 Americans and other passengers on board at the time plus 1,000 crew members. Some of the passengers told of their account. Mike van Dijk said that he had to scream at the controllers in order to release the lifeboats. Valerie Ananias from Los Angeles told of a couple handing them their baby during all of the frantic confusion. She said that she thought they were going to die at four different times.

WHO CAN MAKE A CLAIM FOR WHAT AND WHY?
Anyone on the ship can make a claim under maritime law for any damages that they received as a result of the accident,either as a passenger or a crew member. The owner of the ship in addition to the owner of the cruise line will be responsible for those damages. Damages may include wrongful death for the families who lost loved ones;or for personal injuries for those who survived the disaster. These damages may include pain and suffering, medical bills , emotional distress, loss of income, loss of the cost of the cruise, any permanent injuries. Because Carnival Corp. is a U.S. corporation, suit may be filed in the United States, if required.

Don't be fooled into hiring an attorney who claims to be an expert in personal injury and death cases. Research their track record and compare it to ours. We have been handling these type of cases for over 36 years and this is all we do. The law offices of Paul Snow has handled numerous maritime cases and has a license from the U.S.Coast Guard. We know these type of cases backwards and forwards. You can call us at 601-969-1977 or contact us online to ask any questions that you may have FREE of charge. WE do not charge any attorney fee unless and until we recover for you. If you were involved in this disaster or know someone who was and want to discuss the case, call now before it is too late. The insurance company for the cruise line hopes you don't call us, we hope you do. We are here to help you and protect your rights.

Two people have died and numerous people injured when the RV they were riding in had a front tire blow-out causing the RV to go out of control run off of I-59 and hit a tree; two people were ejected from the RV. Mr. Alfred Holt Jr. of Ga. was driving the RV at the time of the accident and was killed in the accident along with Darryl Parker. Ten other passengers were injured in the crash and taken to Forrest general hospital in Hattiesburg,MS. Solomon Brannan owns the motorhome.

WHO CAN MAKE A CLAIM AGAINST WHOM AND WHY?
Lets look at the tire first. The tire blew out for a reason: was it defectively made? was it put on improperly by a local mechanic? was it worn down so much that it should have been replaced before the trip started? These are questions that need to be answered. IF the tire were defectively made, then a claim could be made by everyone in the vehicle against the maker of the tire for a defective product. This is called product liability.

IF the tire was not defective, then we need to look at who serviced the tire last. If the local mechanic's shop failed to put the nuts back on the tire properly or put too much air or not enough air in the tire, then they may be liable for the accident.

IF the tire was not defective,nor any improper handling by the tire shop, then we need to look to see if the tire was worn down so much that it should not have been used on the trip. The owner should have known whether the tire was in good or bad shape. If in bad shape, the owner should have either told the driver to replace the tire or had the tire replaced before the trip was made. If the owner told the driver about the bad tire and the driver decided not to have the tire replaced, then the driver may bear some responsibility. Also, the driver should have been properly instructed in how to properly operate the RV by the owner before leaving on the trip. These on complicated machines that need experience and know-how to operate safely.

So, a claim may be made against the owner and/or the driver. Since the driver was driving the RV with permission of the owner, then the owner's insurance company should apply to the accident; but, because there are some many victims, it may be on a first come, first served basis.

Because this accident happened in MS, a Mississippi Accident Injury Attorney should be consulted to go over all of your rights. Our law firm has been handling accident cases for over 36 years. This is all we do. Our track record speaks for itself. Check it out for yourself.

If you would like a free consultation to discuss your accident case, call 601-969-1977 now or contact us online. Paul Snow handles all types of cases involving serious injury and death including RV accidents, car accidents, truck accidents, motorcycle accidents and accidents from defective products. We do not charge any attorney fees unless we recover for you.

An 18 wheeler turned over on top of a car on the highway 49 ramp in pearl, rankin county, ms last week crushing a car in which cynthia trest was in resulting in her death;she was from bay springs, ms;three other people who were in the car were injured and taken to the university medical center in jackson, ms.

MDOT stated that the interstate 20 may be closed for hours. Accident reconstructionists are trying to figure out exactly why the big truck turned over on top of the car.

WHO CAN MAKE A CLAIM AGAINST WHOM AND WHY?
first, the family of cynthia trest may be able to make a claim for wrongful death damages which include: pain and suffering,medical and funeral bills, lost income, and loss of society and companionship of the family. These claims can be made against the 18 wheeler's insurance company who probably have at least $1,000,000 of insurance coverage (most big truck companies carry at least this much insurance). Also, a claim may be made for punitive damages against the 18 wheeler company if the proof shows that they made their truckdriver work more than the maximum hours for truckdrivers without taking the required rest breaks, or if he were an incompetent driver, or some other reason that the facts show.

Also, the three injured people in the car may also be able to make a claim against the tractor trailer truck's insurance company for personal injury damages which include: past and future medical bills, past and future lost income, past and future pain and suffering, reduced earning capacity, and permanent injuries. They also may make a claim for punitive damages.

So, who gets what if there is only $1,000,000 of insurance coverage? The short answer is first come first served;thats right;it is possible for the three injured people to exhaust all of the $1,000,000 of insurance coverage leaving nothing to the family of cynthia trest, or vice versa, its possible for the family of cynthia trest to collect all of the $1,000,000 leaving nothing for the three injured passengers in the car.

So what all this means is that it is extremely important to hire an MS accident lawyer as soon as possible to protect your rights before it is too late. We have handled a number of 18 wheeler accident cases to successful conclusion for our clients and their families; just look at our track record and compare it to anyone else's and you will see that we have the knowledge, know how and experience to handle this type of case for you.

Call now for a FREE consultation at 601-969-1977 or contact us online. We represent clients all over MS including: jackson, gulfport, biloxi, hattiesburg, greenville, meridian, tupelo, southaven, vicksburg, pascagoula, columbus,clinton, pearl, starkville, olive branch, clarksdale, ridgeland, natchez, greenwood and laurel, MS. The law offices of Paul Snow handles all types of cases involving serious injury and death including car accidents, tractor-trailer accidents, motorcycle accidents, drunk driving accidents, and accidents from defective products.

Just recently, a young man was killed by a hit and run driver when the boy was walking to get into his school bus. The driver left the scene of the accident after running over the boy, to add insult to injury. The negligent driver turned himself in and is presently being charged with numerous criminal charges.

WHO CAN MAKE A CLAIM AGAINST WHOM AND WHY? First, the insurance company for the driver who caused the accident will probably have to pay their policy limits to the family of the young man who was killed in the accident. These are called wrongful death damages. BUT, the family may also make a claim against their own insurance company for Underinsured motorist benefits. There are certain criteria to follow but a claim can be made against the families insurance policy or policies for these benefits. Also, a claim may be able to be made against the bus' insurance policy for the same type of benefits, since the boy would be considered a passenger of the school bus at the time of the accident. A Mississippi Accident Attorney can figure out all of the ins and outs of the insurance coverage and explain what is recoverable and why.

Our law firm represents families who have lost loved ones in accidents all over MS including covington county, simpson county, hinds, rankin, madison, warren, and all counties in MS.

If you have any questions about your accident case, call Paul Snow at 601-969-1977 or toll free 1-800-640-4478 for a free consultation about your case or contact us online.

The accident occurred at the intersection of Highway 8 and 9 in Calhoun County, Mississippi. Seniors from Ackerman High School were on two buses returning from a field trip to Ole Miss. The driver of the tractor-trailer truck side-swiped the first bus and then hit the second bus head-on, killing three people and severely injuring numerous others. Gary Bailey of Mantachie, MS was driving the truck, Shane Burton, was driving one of the buses, and Steven Moss was driving the other bus. The injured were taken to hospitals in Tupelo and surrounding areas.

Who may be liable and why?
First, lets discuss the truck driver's liability: if the truck driver crossed-over the center line and sideswiped the first bus, then the truck driver was negligent for hitting the second bus head-on because it was his actions that started the entire sequence of events. But what if the first bus is the one that crossed the center line? The truck driver still may have some fault by failing to keep his big rig under reasonable control after the first sideswipe. All the Plaintiff has to prove is that the truck driver was 1% at fault for contributing to the head-on crash in order to recover damages.

Second, if the first bus is the one who crossed the center line and hit the tractor-trailer, then the driver of the first bus was negligent and his negligence contributed to the second head-on accident. These claims will probably be covered under what is called the Mississippi Tort Claims Act . There are certain procedures that have to be followed in order to make a claim under the MTCA. If they are not followed properly, then the claim may be dismissed forever.

So, who caused this accident? It appears to me that only a jury will be able to figure out who all is liable and what % of fault to assess against each driver after listening to all of the evidence.

The 18 wheeler company probably has at least one million in insurance coverage. The bus driver who is covered by the MTCA has limits on the amount a damages that can be recovered by statute. A Mississippi Accident Lawyer should be consulted to handle this complicated injury/death case. Someone from Mississippi who specializes in 18 wheeler injury and accident cases would be the best.

If you have any questions about anything discussed above, call Paul Snow, 601-969-1977 for a free consultation.

Do I need to hire a Lawyer?

You probably never thought about hiring a Mississippi accident lawyer until an accident or injury completely interrupted your normal life. If you are now experiencing stress and anxiety because you are uncertain about your future, we can help you. We listen to your concerns and quickly identify how the legal system can solve your problems. We then start working on your case immediately.

Discover The Key To Winning Your Case

Many people do not understand the importance of choosing the right lawyer for their case. Simply put, the Mississippi accident lawyer that you choose to represent you can be the difference between you receiving a fair settlement or no settlement at all.

The key to winning your case is really no secret. It is common knowledge that the person with the best attorney most often gets the best result. Just ask athletes, celebrities and the wealthy who always have a top lawyer at their side. The key for you is finding the best attorney for your case.

Avoid The Biggest Mistake By Asking These Questions

Choosing the wrong lawyer is a huge mistake and can be devastating to your case. Many people simply hire the first lawyer they see on television or the lawyer with the biggest phone book advertisement without knowing anything about the ability of the lawyer. Will you make this crucial mistake simply because you do not know the right questions to ask before you choose your attorney?

With such an important decision, you must be equipped with the knowledge and information necessary to make the smartest choice. This means knowing the specific Questions You Must Ask before hiring a lawyer for your case. You should only hire an attorney after getting honest and direct answers to these questions.

Our Vast Experience Gives You the Advantage

We are the smart choice for your case. Our law firm has represented injury victims and their families since 1974. We have successfully obtained jury verdicts in the courtroom and have obtained millions of dollars in settlements for our clients.

When you become our client, your case will be handled with complete integrity and dignity.

It is essential that you choose a lawyer that has handled Mississippi accident cases just like yours and understands exactly what is needed to win your case, especially when the stakes are so high. We have. We utilize the latest technology, the best legal research tools, and work with world renowned experts on our cases. As a result, we have achieved extraordinary results for our clients. Let us do the same for you. Our record of successful settlements and verdicts is well-documented.

Warning: Secret Deadlines Can Destroy Your Case

The legal system can be very confusing and unforgiving. There are strict time limitations for filing your lawsuit and making your claims. If you miss these deadlines, your claims may be lost forever. A delay in hiring a lawyer will affect the outcome of your case. We will start working on your case immediately.

Our Guarantees To You:

When you choose our lawyers to represent you, we GUARANTEE the following:

An experienced trial lawyer is assigned to your case
A complete analysis of your case
Honest and direct answers to all of your questions
Immediate investigation of your case
Immediate preparation and filing of your insurance forms
Immediate action getting your medical bills and lost wages paid
Phone calls returned within one business day

Read why these are important to you

We Answer Your Questions

At the Law Offices of Paul Snow, we give you honest and direct answers to your questions.

What does it cost to speak with Paul Snow?
How can I afford to have the Law Offices of Paul Snow to represent me?
How soon after my accident do I need to hire a lawyer?
Do I really need to hire a lawyer to settle my case?
What type of settlement should I expect?
Will I have to go through a trial in a courtroom?
Who will pay my medical bills?
How can I get paid my lost wages?
How long does it take from start to finish on a case?

To see how we can help make the legal system work for you, simply complete our Free Confidential Consultation Form or call us now so that we can start working on your Mississippi case immediately.

LAW OFFICES OF PAUL SNOW, Mississippi Accident Lawyer

1-800-640-4478 or 601-969-1977

Trucking Accidents

If you know of someone who was seriously injured or killed in an 18-wheeler accident, you may want to investigate several 18-wheeler accident attorneys before you make a final decision. Don't be fooled by the TV attorneys. Compare Paul Snow's track record to theirs. A Mississippi accident lawyer who has several years experience in winning multi-million dollar settlements for his/her clients will best represent your interests instead of someone who does divorce work or is a general practitioner. Mississippi accident lawyers should know the rules and regulations unique to trucking accidents pertaining to such subjects as drug and alcohol testing, heavy-duty truck systems, and the transportation of hazardous materials. He/she should also be familiar with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations:

Speeding
Failure to yield
Tire blow outs
Overloaded trucks
Drunk driving
Fatigued drivers

Before speaking with a Mississippi accident lawyer concerning your 18-wheeler accident case, you should familiarize yourself with the background and experience of that attorney. You should ask the law firm how many cases they have tried to successful conclusion and received multi-million dollar verdicts for their clients in trucking accidents.

WARNING! Don't hire an accident lawyer until you know the "8 Costly Mistakes to Avoid When Selecting an Accident Lawyer." If you hire the wrong lawyer, you could lose a lot of money and your case could drag out for months longer than necessary. Do what smart accident victims do. Ask for your FREE copy of my "8 Costly Mistakes to Avoid When Selecting an Accident Lawyer." If you or someone you know has been injured or has been killed as the result of an accident, or if you are having trouble getting the insurance company to pay your claim, you are entitled to know your legal rights. That's why we invite you to call Paul Snow. Paul Snow's track record speaks for itself. Some examples are:

$16,500,000 structured settlement - truck crash
$8,000,000 verdict - wrongful death
$2,450,000 settlement - 18-wheeler accident

Residents of Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama and Tennessee, who have been injured in truck accidents should contact our law firm. It is important that you realize trucking companies act immediately after accidents to assess and limit their liability to the victims involved. Your case may be stronger if you hire a qualified tractor-trailer accident attorney soon after the accident. A Mississippi accident lawyer in the Law Offices of Paul Snow has the experience and resources necessary to handle your case to maximize your recovery and help you fight for your legal rights.

If you do intend to hire Paul Snow to advise you concerning your injuries or death case sustained as a result of a truck accident, you should do so as soon as possible. In Mississippi, the law imposes a statute of limitations which sets the maximum amount of time that legal proceedings can occur after the accident. Once the proceedings are initiated, there is no time limit on settling your claim. Each year at the Law Offices of Paul Snow, people call me to ask me for help that have legitimate cases only to find out that their statute of limitations has run out. It is one of the most difficult things for me to tell them that I cannot help them because they waited too long to call me.

One of the worst decisions individuals can make is to negotiate directly with trucking companies, insurance adjusters, or the trucking company lawyers. Most trucking companies are highly skilled at truck accident investigation and claims. Anything you say or sign may be held against you further down the road. When truck accidents occur, trucking companies often send their own representatives to accident scenes to pressure accident victims when they are most vulnerable. You need someone on your side. Do you know your rights? Large trucking companies have their own investigators and attorneys fighting for them. You need someone on your side, fighting for you.

We have been handling complex trucking injury litigation since 1974. We have obtained many settlements and verdicts worth millions of dollars. Paul Snow is board certified by the National Board of Trial Advocacy,

We get results. If you have any questions about accidents, injuries or your legal rights, let us go to work for you.

If you are a victim of an accident with a commercial truck or tractor-trailer, NOW is the time to contact the Law Offices of Paul Snow to protect your rights. Your choice of a lawyer is important, so choose carefully. Call 1-800-640-4478 now.

Oil spills are probably some of the most devastating disasters to occur. The Exxon Valdez oil spill happened more than twenty-one years ago, but its effects are still being felt today. This oil spill occurred on March 24, 1989 and the leak was mostly confined to the surface of the ocean. The BP oil spill began on April 20,2010 caused when a damaged well pipe burst resulting in an explosion on the oil platform owned by Deepwater Horizon releasing oil 5,000 feet below the surface.

The Exxon spill was limited to a single tanker and spilled about 11 million gallons of oil in one day covering 1,300 square miles. The BP spill has spilled more than the Exxon spill so far and it is still going strong. Both spills have and will kill brown pelicans, egrets, terns, sperm whales, tuna, sea turtles and more. But, fish can't sue. Only people can.

The lawsuits in the Exxon spill were tied up in the courts for over 20 years. More than 32,000 fishermen, food processors, and Native Americans banded together to recover damages from Exxon. The case was drug out by Exxon lawyers for 19 years until it finally reached the Supreme Court. By this time, more than 7,000 plaintiffs have died. The lawyers won $500,000 million in actual damages and $5 billion in punitive damages. It took five years to get to trial;then it took another fourteen years in the appeals court where the case finally arrived in the Supreme Court before Justice John Roberts in 2008. By that time, the punitive damages were reduced to $2.5 billion.

The first question from Roberts was: "Isn't the question here how a company can protect itself from unlimited damages?" If Bush v. Gore had been decided differently, you might have had a chief justice who asked: "How can a fisherman protect himself from an oil spill?" But, by a 5-3 vote, the Roberts court cut the punitive damage award to one-fifth from $2.5 billion to $500 million. Another justice, David Souter,ruled with the majority and stated that Exxon's actions were not malicious. So if you drive a boat while drunk and cause millions and billions of dollars of damages, it is not malicious;but, if you drive a car drunk,it is not only malicious, but you go to jail. The Exxon case is a perfect example of judicial activism.

So, what is going to happen in the gulf of mexico? BP will pay for cleanup costs,various government agencies will assess huge fines for BP's conduct, but the real money will come during the tort claims process and trial. If we can prove punitive damages, i.e., that BP's conduct was grossly, wantonly, or maliciously done, then the door is open to punitive damages. The testimony of a rig worker claims that BP officials overrode rig operations and forced a speedy opening as opposed to considering the consequences of failing to repair several broken parts before opening. This proof, in and of itself, should make a jury issue on punitive damages.

TYPES OF DAMAGES AND LOSSES: People can make a claim for damages for loss of business, loss of job or reduced income, damage to property, vacation losses,etc. Some examples are: fishing, shrimping, oyster companies and employees, hospitality and tourism businesses and employees,property and boat owners, shipping and trade business and employees, vacationers (lost vacation deposits and expenses), cruise ship employees, charter services, restaurant owners and employees.

COMPANIES THAT MAY BE RESPONSIBLE: BP, Transocean, Halliburton,Anadarko, Cameron,Mitsui & co. and more.

We are working on investigations and damage claims to get compensation for those of you whose income, business, health, property, or other assets have been affected by the BP oil disaster. Investigated claims are settled faster. Your case could be settled quickly out of court to avoid long processes.

We will supply you with BP claim forms and information for maximum recovery. Call our toll free number if you have any questions, 1-800-640-4478. We cannot send out any claim forms until you complete our form under "contact us" on our website at www.accidentattys.com.

Your BP claim forms and information are free as a service to you and we will help determine if you are eligible for any recovery of damages.

Why I became a Lawyer?

I was in the eighth grade and approximately 13 years old when I decided that I either wanted to become a golf pro or a lawyer. After graduating from high school, I was one of the best golfers in the State of Mississippi and received a golf scholarship to the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss). My freshman year, I became a pledge in one of the fraternities on the Ole Miss Campus among 50 other pledges. After the first semester, only 10 of the 50 pledges made passing grades. 40 of the pledges flunked out of college. Of the 10 pledges that made their grades the first semester, three of us became lawyers, two of us became doctors, and one of us became a flight instructor in the Navy. I knew then that I must have some common sense and hard-working ability to succeed in school. I married my high school sweetheart and went to a local community college for my sophomore year. My junior year, I returned to Ole Miss and graduated with a business degree in May of 1972. Two weeks later, I entered the University of Mississippi School of Law. Because I was paying my own way through law school, my goal was to finish the three year curriculum course in two years and three months. I worked extra jobs during college and knew that I would have to work extra jobs during law school, in addition to obtaining student loans. I took extra courses during the summertime in order to complete law school early. At that time, my income was below the average poverty level for the country. I was married and at that time, had one child, and just did the best I could.

Midway through my law school career, my father became paralyzed and I had to miss one summer of law school to help take care of my father. While I was taking care of my father, I worked for a local law firm as a law clerk and learned valuable experience in how a law firm operated. When I returned to law school, I had a new-found knowledge that assisted me in my classes. Also, while I was in law school, I was the President of the legal fraternity, President of the Lamar Society of International Law, and I drafted legislation which was passed by the Mississippi lawmakers. I graduated law school in December of 1974, which took two years and six months instead of two years and three months. Of the 360 students who started law school when I did, only 80 graduated.

After graduating from law school, I started working for the law firm of Barnett, Montgomery, McClintock & Cunningham. Ross Barnett was an ex-governor of Mississippi. These lawyers were trial lawyers and I received valuable experience learning how to try cases while working for this firm. I tried 10 jury trials by myself my first year out of law school. After a year and a half of working at the law firm, I went out on my own and have been on my own ever since, for the past 34 years. I was the youngest President of the Hinds County Trial Lawyers Association and joined numerous organizations during my career.

I have devoted my career to representing individuals who have been injured or killed in accidents or wronged by big corporations and insurance companies. I represent the little guy against the large businesses and corporations who try to take advantage of the less fortunate. There is nothing more satisfying than taking on one of the biggest corporations in the world and making them answer for the problems they have caused numerous victims. I am proud to be a trial lawyer who represents individuals against corporate America.

When those who have been injured or killed have nowhere else to turn, they turn to me. I believe one of my goals and duties as a human being is to help others. I am always in favor of the underdog. When we walk into the courtroom, there is no other place on this planet where an individual can stand on equal footing with a huge corporate defendant. This is the war that I fight. It is waged at a battlefield on which I gladly stand. My strength is derived from the belief that my God-given talents are given to me for a reason. My goal is to make myself available to those who have been wronged by others' misconduct. It is not a glamorous calling and there is no guaranteed income. My goal is to achieve justice for my clients, working to right wrongs, not hide them, working against the wrongdoers, not for them. At the end of the day, I know that I have given someone without hope a fighting chance.

I have litigated and settled just about any type of accident or injury case that you can think of. I have spoken at seminars and taught other lawyers how to handle accident and injury cases across the country. I have written numerous articles, also teaching other lawyers how to handle these type of cases. A lot of lawyers hire my law firm in order to represent their clients in working-up serious injury and death cases.

If someone asked me what kind of lawyer I am, I say I am a trial lawyer. I believe in America, our form of government, individual freedom, and our American legal system. I represent and help people to protect, enforce and preserve those precious rights and individual freedoms which were so wisely granted by the founding fathers of our great nation. The spark that was ignited in me in 1964 has kept me satisfied for over 34 years of trial practice. I am proud to be an American and I am especially proud to be a trial lawyer.

One day, we will all be judged for our actions. As far as my actions go as a plaintiff attorney, I look forward to placing them before the ultimate judge. I represent plaintiffs and I would not change that for all the money in the world.

He who shuts his ear to the cry of the poor will also cry himself and not be answered. Proverbs 21:13.

Mississippi Accident Lawyer Paul Snow 601-969-1977.

You probably never thought about hiring a Mississippi accident lawyer until an accident or injury completely interrupted your normal life. If you are now experiencing stress and anxiety because you are uncertain about your future, we can help you. We listen to your concerns and quickly identify how the legal system can solve your problems. We then start working on your case immediately.

Discover The Key To Winning Your Case

Many people do not understand the importance of choosing the right lawyer for their case. Simply put, the Mississippi accident lawyer that you choose to represent you can be the difference between you receiving a fair settlement or no settlement at all.

The key to winning your case is really no secret. It is common knowledge that the person with the best attorney most often gets the best result. Just ask athletes, celebrities and the wealthy who always have a top lawyer at their side. The key for you is finding the best attorney for your case.

Avoid The Biggest Mistake By Asking These Questions

Choosing the wrong lawyer is huge mistake and can be devastating to your case. Many people simply hire the first lawyer they see on television or the lawyer with the biggest phone book advertisement without knowing anything about the ability of the lawyer. Will you make this crucial mistake simply because you do not know the right questions to ask before you choose your attorney?

With such an important decision, you must be equipped with the knowledge and information necessary to make the smartest choice. This means knowing the specific Questions You Must Ask before hiring a lawyer for your case. You should only hire an attorney after getting honest and direct answers to these questions.

Our Vast Experience Gives You the Advantage

We are the smart choice for your case. Our law firm has represented injury victims and their families since 1974. We have successfully obtained jury verdicts in the courtroom and have obtained millions of dollars in settlements for our clients.

When you become our client, your case will be handled with complete integrity and dignity.

It is essential that you choose a lawyer that has handled Mississippi accident cases just like yours and understands exactly what is needed to win your case, especially when the stakes are so high. We have. We utilize the latest technology, the best legal research tools, and work with world renowned experts on our cases. As a result, we have achieved extraordinary results for our clients. Let us do the same for you. Our record of successful settlements and verdicts is well-documented.

Warning: Secret Deadlines Can Destroy Your Case

The legal system can be very confusing and unforgiving. There are strict time limitations for filing your lawsuit and making your claims. If you miss these deadlines, your claims may be lost forever. A delay in hiring a lawyer will affect the outcome of your case. We will start working on your case immediately.

Our Guarantees To You:

When you choose our lawyers to represent you, we GUARANTEE the following:

An experienced trial lawyer is assigned to your case
A complete analysis of your case
Honest and direct answers to all of your questions
Immediate investigation of your case
Immediate preparation and filing of your insurance forms
Immediate action getting your medical bills and lost wages paid
Phone calls returned within one business day

We Answer Your Questions

At the Law Offices of Paul Snow, we give you honest and direct answers to your questions:

What does it cost to speak with Paul Snow?

How can I afford to have the Law Offices of Paul Snow to represent me?

How soon after my accident do I need to hire a lawyer?

Do I really need to hire a lawyer to settle my case?

What type of settlement should I expect?

Will I have to go through a trial in a courtroom?

Who will pay my medical bills?

How can I get paid my lost wages?

How long does it take from start to finish on a case?

To see how we can help make the legal system work for you, simply complete our Free Confidential Consultation Form or call us now so that we can start working on your case immediately.

In some instances, you may be able to settle your claim with the insurance company by yourself, without an attorney's help. It's important that you realize you are going up against trained adjusters who probably get praised and promoted for keeping their side's cost down.

Still, you may be able to settle your claim by yourself:

1. When you don't mind gathering all of the information necessary to determine the value of your claim;

2. When you don't mind going to the time and trouble of interviewing necessary witnesses;

3. When you think you have all of the bases covered;

4. When you know the insurance company is not trying to take advantage of you.

If your case is complex, you should consider hiring an attorney. Your accident lawyer can advise you on the proper course of action, tell you your legal rights, tell you what to expect regarding the progress of your case, evaluate your case, negotiate a replacement auto and repairs, negotiate a full and fair settlement of your claim, put an estimated value on your case, and represent your interests aggressively to get you fully compensated for the accident.

Injured victims often share this concern: Will I get more money handling my case myself? Or should I hire an attorney?

As you may know, your attorney usually charges a portion of the amount he recovers for you as his attorney's fee. Fortunately, the amount of money your lawyer recovers is usually much more than you could have recovered on your own. In nearly all cases, your lawyer gets enough money to pay his fee and add money you receive.

If you have any questions, call Paul Snow at 601-969-1977 or contact us online for a FREE consultation to discuss your case. DO NOT wait until it is too late to do anything on your case. There are time deadlines that must be met. Call now.

Seven Misconceptions About Injury Cases

MISCONCEPTION #1: I can settle my case without hiring a lawyer.

If you're happy with the amount of money the insurance company offers for your car - and if you're happy to have your medical bills paid - then you're right. You don't need to hire a lawyer.

Still, it's important that you understand what you're entitled to. In most cases, you are entitled to more than merely payment to cover your medical bills and repairs to your car. That's why I urge you to talk with a lawyer over the telephone before you accept an insurance company's offer.

When you speak with a lawyer, you'll learn that a lawyer can help you in a number of ways. First, he can help you get your car repaired. Second, he can help you get the fair value for your car. Third, he can help you get a fast settlement on your car.

Your lawyer takes the hassle out of dealing with the insurance company. And, in our office, we provide all these services for our clients at NO CHARGE. In other' words, we don't take one penny of the money we collect for damage to your car. Our fee is limited to a percentage of what we recover for your injuries and damages - nothing more.

MISCONCEPTION #2: An attorney requires a down payment to accept your injury claim.

No. In our office, we accept most accident cases for a contingency fee. This means we get paid out of the money we recover for you. If you collect nothing, you pay nothing for our services. To start, you can talk with us for free. And if you hire our services, you pay nothing until your case settles and we recover money for you.

MISCONCEPTION #3: I'll have to go to court to get what my case is worth.

Usually not. Most injury cases are settled before your case goes to court. When the insurance company realizes you and your lawyer are ready and willing to go to court, usually the insurance company starts making reasonable offers for your injury claim. If we don't like the first offer, we make a counteroffer. Then we go back and forth until both sides agree on a certain amount. In most cases, injury claims don't require a court trial.

MISCONCEPTION #4: You have to accept what your lawyer tells you.

Certainly not. Anytime you feel confused - anytime you don't understand what's going on anytime you don't feel right about something - you're entitled to get a second opinion. In the field of medicine, if your doctor suggests major surgery, you know it's wise to get a second opinion. Likewise, anytime you speak with one lawyer, you're perfectly free to confirm his advice by seeking a second opinion from another lawyer. In our office, we offer second opinions without cost or obligation of any kind.

MISCONCEPTION #5: Once you settle your claim, you can get more money in the future if you have additional medical bills.

Not true. Usually, once your claim is settled, it is over forever!

MISCONCEPTION #6: You have only one year to file a lawsuit.

No. You have three years from the date of the accident and, maybe, even longer if you were under 21 years of age at the time. Even so, the evidence you need to prove your case may disappear over time, so the sooner you contact an attorney, the better.

MISCONCEPTION #7: If you are partly at fault for causing the accident, you are not entitled to any money.

No. Both sides may contribute to an accident and you are still entitled to recover money.

If you have any questions, call Paul Snow at 601-969-1977 or contact us online for a FREE consultation. DO NOT wait until it is too late to pursue your case. There are time deadlines that will prevent you from pursuing your case if they are not met, so call now.

16 Tough Questions to Ask Before You Hire a Lawyer

1. How long have you been practicing in the specific field of accident and injury law?

2. Are you board certified by the National Board of Trial Advocacy?

3. How many cases have you handled that involve injuries like mine?

4. How many jury trials have you tried that involve injuries like mine?

5. How much money have you gotten for persons who have injuries like mine?

6. How many of your articles have been published in the area of accident and injury law?

7. How many seminars have you presented concerning this area of the law?

8. Do you have expert witnesses available who will help in cases with my type of injury?

9. Are you admitted to practice law in more than one state?

10. Are you admitted to practice law before the United States Supreme Court?

11. Do you offer a 24-hour telephone answer-line for injured victims?

12. Will you give an estimated opinion of my case for me without cost or obligation?

13. If I can't come to your office, will you come to my home or office?

14. Will you send me a free Consumer's Guide for Injured Victims?

15. Do you conduct free educational seminars so I can learn more about injury cases?

16. How many multi-million dollar verdicts and/or settlements have you achieved for your clients?

If you have any questions, call Paul Snow at 601-969-1977 or contact us online for a FREE consultation. DO NOT wait until it is too late to discuss your case. There are time deadlines that must be met. Once the deadline has passed, your case will be over forever.

8 Costly Mistakes to Avoid When Selecting An Accident Lawyer

MISTAKE #1: Choosing a lawyer who doesn't have enough trial experience.

The most important factor in choosing an accident lawyer is his knowledge, skill and experience handling injury claims. This includes (1) experience handling injury cases, and (2) experience taking injury cases to trial. In most cases, the money you hope to recover for your injuries will come from an insurance company - either the other person's insurance company - or your own. And one of the reasons insurance companies have so much money is because they pay accident victims like you as little as possible - often less than you deserve. Make sure the lawyer you select has extensive experience handling personal injury cases at trial. Your best choice is to select a lawyer who is a board certified trial lawyer.

MISTAKE #2: Choosing a lawyer only because you like his advertising.

A flashy TV commercial or Yellow Page ad doesn't mean anything except that the lawyer agreed to pay for the ad. Advertising can make almost any lawyer look like an expert. Don't choose a lawyer solely because you like his ad. Make sure you ask questions about the attorney's experience and his track record in handling injury claims.

MISTAKE #3: Choosing the lawyer who promises you the most money.

The amount of money you're entitled to recover, called "damages," is based on many components: (1) the length of your recovery, (2) the dollar amount of your medical bills, and (3) the dollar amount of lost wages, (4) pain and suffering, and (5) the severity of your injuries and damages. No one can tell you exactly what your case is worth until they gather all the facts. Anyone who promises you a certain amount of money before he gets this information is making a promise he probably can't keep.

MISTAKE #4: Choosing a lawyer because he expects to settle your case.

Most injury cases are settled without going to trial. Even so, if you hope to get a fair settlement for your injuries, your lawyer must be willing to take the insurance company to court. Otherwise, the insurance company has no incentive to offer you a fair amount of money for your injuries. If you hire a "settling attorney" - one who usually settles his cases and seldom goes to court - you can expect to receive less money for your injuries than if you hire a skilled trial attorney. Remember: The most powerful weapon you can use against the insurance company is your willingness and ability to take your case to trial.

MISTAKE #5:Choosing a lawyer because of a referral from a friend.

When a friend refers you to a lawyer, be careful. Yes, your friend probably means well. But your friend may not be the best source for a referral. You see, people often select a lawyer because they like him. But you need a lawyer who is much more than just a nice person. You need an attorney who has the trial experience to go up against billion-dollar insurance companies. Insurance companies hire experienced investigators, adjusters and lawyers to work against you. You need a highly experienced lawyer and his investigators working for you. Your best choice is to select a board-certified trial lawyer who will discuss his track record with you, case by case.

MISTAKE #6:Choosing a lawyer because he appears successful.

A handsome office and an expensive car don't tell you anything about the lawyer's experience. Don't judge a lawyer by appearances. Judge a lawyer by whether he has the knowledge, skill, experience and willingness to (1) sue the other party, and to (2) take your case to trial, if necessary. That's the BEST way you can be sure you recover the amount of money you deserve.

MISTAKE #7:Choosing a lawyer because of the location of his office.

You may be inclined to select a lawyer who has an office down the street from your home. But this could be a big mistake because what you gain in convenience you may lose in experience and knowhow. Most of the work between an injury lawyer and his client is done by mail and over the telephone. I encourage you to hire a board-certified trial attorney, even if you must drive a little farther to his office. You may find that the extra minutes on the road will be well worth your effort in the end. And if travel is difficult for you, we will be glad to come to your home or office. Just ask. We serve clients all over Mississippi and Louisiana.

MISTAKE #8: Not reviewing the lawyer's track record.

You can get a good idea of a lawyer's experience by reviewing his track record of cases that he has settled or taken to trial. Ask the attorney how many cases he has settled for over $1,000,000, between $500,000 and $1,000,000, and so forth. This will give you a way of determining the level of the attorney's experience.

If you have any questions, call Paul Snow at 601-969-1977 or contact us online for a FREE consultation. Do NOT wait until it is too late to pursue your case. There are time deadlines that will end your case forever if the deadline is not met.

15 Secrets to Getting a Fair Settlement for Your Injuries

SECRET #1: Conduct a complete investigation. Make sure you collect witness statements, police reports, medical reports and anything else related to the accident. You may need to hire private investigators and accident reconstruction experts. They can gather added physical evidence, such as pieces of the -automobile. The other party's insurance company will collect all sorts of information which may be used against you. You'll be at a serious disadvantage if you don't conduct a thorough investigation to help support your claim.

SECRET #2: Get photographs of all important elements in your case: Your car and the car that hit you. The accident scene. Your injuries. And so forth. Photos are vivid evidence of what you experienced. As they say, a picture is worth a thousand words. Juries find photos to be powerful proof of your injuries. So make sure either you or your attorney gets plenty of photographs.

SECRET #3: Don't release your medical records to the other party's insurance company. Many accident victims make the mistake of signing a release for the other party's insurance company. This gives your opponent access to your medical records. YOUR insurance company is entitled to your medical information. But the other party's insurance company should NOT have this information because it may use the information against you. Don't release your medical records to the other party's insurance company.

SECRET #4: Get the insurance company to set up a high reserve account. After an accident, the insurance company establishes a reserve account to cover all the costs they expect to pay for your claim. The amount of money put on reserve is based on whatever facts the insurance company has soon after the accident occurs. If the reserve set aside for your injuries is greater than your damages, you shouldn't have much trouble collecting for your injuries. But if the reserve is too small, you'll need to get the reserve increased. Rather than increase the reserve, the insurance company will first put pressure on the adjuster to settle your claim. And, naturally, he'll put more pressure on you.

SECRET #5: Keep the adjuster informed about the seriousness of your injuries. If the adjuster sets up a small reserve account, he will be surprised if you ask for much higher damages in the weeks or months ahead. If your injuries have grown worse - or if other problems have arisen - make sure you keep the adjuster informed so he can increase the reserve account as your case progresses. Then, when the time comes to settle your claim, the adjuster will have the amount of money he needs to pay you for your injuries. If his account is too small and he needs to increase it, he'll look bad to his supervisor. This will only work against you. Keep the adjuster informed as your case progresses.

SECRET #6: Don't let the insurance adjuster pressure you into settling your case. Adjusters use all kinds of methods to get you to settle for a smaller amount than the fair value of your case: The insurance adjuster may try to get you to admit that the accident was your fault, or at least partly your fault. The adjuster may try to get you to give a recorded statement or sign a statement, either of which may be used against you later at trial. What's more, don't be surprised if the insurance adjuster is polite. His kindness may be a tactic to get you to settle for less than your case is worth - and to get you to settle soon, often BEFORE you hire an attorney. The longer your file remains open, the more heat the insurance company puts on the adjuster to resolve your claim. Don't give in to the adjuster's pressure or kindness. Instead, hold out for every penny you rightfully deserve. If the insurance company does not offer a reasonable amount to settle your case, your lawyer can file suit and tell you whether the insurance company offers are reasonable or unreasonable.

SECRET #7: Keep a day-by-day diary of your injuries. If your case goes to trial, you need to be able to tell the jury how many days, weeks or months you were in pain, how long you suffered from headaches, how long you experienced muscle spasms - and so forth. Unless you keep a daily log, your answers may be vague and inaccurate. Don't risk hurting your credibility. Keep a detailed diary so you can back up your claims for damages.

SECRET #8: Know all your damages. They include (1) cost of medical treatment, (2) pain and suffering for your injuries, (3) loss of income for time off work, (4) loss of consortium, (5) loss of business, (6) cost of a rental car, (7) cost of fixing your car, (8) cost of hiring a housekeeper, (9) cost of hiring an in-home nurse, (10) cost for psychological counseling caused by stress or some other aspect of the accident, (II) cost of hiring a taxi service to and from your doctor's office - and ANY OTHER money you paid out or lost as a result of your injury.

SECRET #9: Keep all bills and receipts related to your accident. If you don't save your bills and receipts, you may not be able to prove the amount of your damages. Be sure to save everything: doctor bills, hospital bills, pharmacy bills and all other bills you incurred because of your accident.

SECRET #10: Know all your injuries. Many victims feel that if it doesn't hurt, it isn't injured. Yet injuries caused by accidents may not develop for days - even weeks. Don't be too quick to rule out injuries just because they haven't yet appeared. Also, accidents can cause the injured victim to suffer from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). This means the victim becomes less able to cope with stresses in his or her life. Depending on how well you cope with stress, you may want to be evaluated for this problem in addition to your physical injuries.

SECRET #11: Know your sources for insurance coverage. In many cases an injured victim can legally collect from two or three different insurance policies at the same time. Yet many accident victims don't know where to look for various insurance coverages. If you're interested, call me and I'll tell you how to determine whether you can collect from more than one policy.

SECRET #12: Stay under your doctor's care until your doctor releases you. Many people stop going to their doctor when they feel better, before the doctor releases them from treatment. Make sure you continue going to the doctor until your doctor releases you! He knows the complications that could result from your injury. And the cost of going to the doctor will, in the end, be paid by the other party's insurance company if your case is settled. If you can't afford the continuing cost of treatment, I invite you to call me to discuss your options.

SECRET #13: File your lawsuit right away. After your doctor releases you from treatment, prepare your case quickly and file your lawsuit. Insurance companies are not in a hurry to settle cases (1) unless they can settle the suit for far less than it's worth,or (2) unless they feel the pressure of the approaching court date. Insurance companies usually get serious about settling if they see they'll have to start paying lawyers to defend your case. So file your lawsuit right away and put pressure on the insurance company.

SECRET #14: Ask a qualified trial lawyer to evaluate your case. You probably had a doctor evaluate your injuries. So doesn't it make sense to have a lawyer evaluate your legal claim? The insurance company wants you to settle quickly in hopes that you'll settle for far less than your case is really worth. An experienced personal injury trial attorney can help you by reviewing your file. He will look at the police report, doctors' statements, medical bills, time lost from work and other information. Then he can give you an informed opinion about the estimated value of your case. If you'd like me to evaluate your case - without any cost or obligation - please don't hesitate to call.

SECRET #15: If you decide to hire a lawyer, choose a trial attorney who isn't afraid to go to court. Insurance companies keep tabs on lawyers. They know which lawyers will take them to court - the fighters. And they know which lawyers will not go to court - the settlers. The fighters usually get more money for their clients than the settlers. An experienced trial attorney can usually get you enough additional money to cover his fee and increase the amount of money you receive. While I can't say for sure that you need a lawyer, I urge you to at least talk with an accident lawyer to make sure you're not settling for less than you deserve.

If you have any questions, you may call Paul Snow at 601-969-1977 for a FREE consultation or contact us online. Do NOT wait until it is too late to do something on your case because there are time deadlines that must be met or else your case will be over forever.

Dorothy Gwin of Southaven, MS was killed in a car crash when a man ran a stop sign while fleeing police officers from Southaven and Horn Lake police departments. A toxicology test was done on the at fault driver to see whether he was under the influence of alcohol or drugs at the time of the accident. The police were chasing the driver for at least five miles before the accident happened. The driver was charged with manslaughter for causing the death of Ms. Gwin who was pronounced dead at the scene of the accident.

The family of Ms. Gwin can make a claim against the driver and owner of the vehicle's insurance company for causing the accident. If there is no insurance coverage on the at fault driver, then the family can make a claim against Ms. Gwin's own insurance company for uninsured motorist and med pay benefits.

If you know of someone who has been injured or killed in a car accident and have some questions, call Paul Snow in Jackson, MS at 601-969-1977 or contact us online for a FREE consultation. We represent clients all over Mississippi including Southaven, Jackson, Gulfport, Biloxi, Hattiesburg, Greenville, Meridian, Tupelo, Vicksburg, and Pascagoula.

Information provided by Mississippi Accident Lawyer Paul Snow.