Football Season in Mississippi: Excitement, Tradition, and Staying Safe on the Roads

Too Hot to Handle: Heat Safety on the Road Summers in Mississippi are no joke. The extreme heat doesn’t just make it uncomfortable to step outside—it also creates serious risks on the road. Drivers often overlook how high temperatures can impact both their vehicles and their ability to stay safe behind the wheel. At The Stutzman Law Firm, we’ve seen firsthand how preventable accidents can happen when the heat isn’t taken seriously. Here are some key things to keep in mind as temperatures rise. The Hidden Dangers of Extreme Heat Tire Blowouts Hot pavement and low tire pressure are a dangerous mix. Underinflated tires can overheat quickly, leading to sudden blowouts that put everyone on the road at risk. Overheated Engines High temperatures push vehicles to their limits. Without enough coolant or regular maintenance, engines can overheat, leaving drivers stranded in unsafe conditions. Driver Fatigue & Dehydration Heat isn’t just tough on cars—it’s tough on people too. Dehydration and fatigue reduce focus and reaction times, increasing the chance of an accident. •Children and Pets in Cars Temperatures inside a parked car can rise dangerously fast, even with the windows cracked. A few minutes can be life-threatening. Simple Steps to Stay Safe Check tire pressure regularly and keep them at the recommended level. Keep coolant topped off and have your car serviced before long trips. Stay hydrated to avoid fatigue and keep a bottle of water in your vehicle. Never leave kids or pets in the car, even for a quick errand. Carry an emergency kit with water, coolant, and basic supplies. We’re Here if You Need Us Taking these precautions can go a long way in preventing heat-related accidents. But if you or someone you love has been injured due to another driver’s negligence or an avoidable vehicle failure, you don’t have to go through it alone. Call us today at (769) 208-5683 for a free consultation.

As kids across Mississippi return to school, now is the time to refocus on safe driving—especially near school zones, bus stops, and neighborhoods where children walk or ride bikes. At The Stutzman Law Firm, we’ve seen firsthand how quickly a moment of inattention can turn into a tragedy. A few extra seconds of caution can save a life. Key Tips for Back-to-School Driving Safety: 1. Slow Down in School Zones Speed limits around schools aren’t suggestions—they’re there to protect young children who may be harder to see and slower to react. Even going just 5 mph over the limit can drastically increase the risk of serious injury. 2. Watch for Crossing Guards and Children Kids don’t always look both ways. Always stop for crossing guards and be alert around crosswalks, sidewalks, and driveways. 3. Never Pass a Stopped School Bus If a school bus is stopped and its lights are flashing, it’s the law: stop your vehicle. Passing a stopped school bus is illegal in Mississippi and puts children in serious danger. 4. Put the Phone Away Distracted driving is one of the top causes of preventable accidents. Whatever is on your screen can wait. Driving through a school zone while texting or scrolling isn’t just risky—it’s reckless. 5. Be Cautious Around Neighborhoods and Bus Stops Children waiting for or getting off the bus can be unpredictable. Give them plenty of space and be patient during pickup and drop-off times. If the Worst Happens, We’re Here to Help No one plans for an accident, but if you or a loved one is injured in a school zone or in a crash involving a bus or pedestrian, The Stutzman Law Firm is here to help. We offer free consultations and fight to hold negligent drivers accountable. Let’s work together to keep Mississippi’s kids safe this school year. Call us today at (769) 208-5683 for a free consultation.

At The Stutzman Law Firm, one of the most common questions we get from clients is: " Does auto insurance follow the person or the vehicle ?" It’s a fair question — and one that often comes up after a crash involving borrowed cars, family vehicles, or shared driving arrangements. The answer in Mississippi might surprise you: auto insurance generally follows the car , not the driver. What Does That Actually Mean? If you loan your car to a friend or family member and they’re involved in an accident, your insurance is typically the primary coverage , not theirs. That’s because the coverage is tied to your vehicle, not just you. Let’s break it down with a few examples: You let a friend drive your car and they cause a wreck. In most cases, your insurance — not theirs — is what will be used to pay for damages or injuries. You borrow someone else’s car and get into an accident. That person’s auto policy is likely going to be responsible, not your personal policy (unless their coverage isn’t enough to cover the damage, in which case your policy might kick in as secondary). Are There Exceptions? Yes. Insurance law isn’t always cut and dry. Here are a few situations that can complicate things: The driver didn’t have permission to use the vehicle. The vehicle was used for business or commercial purposes. The policy has specific exclusions or restrictions. It’s also worth noting that uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage can change how benefits are applied, and those coverages often follow the person , not the vehicle. That’s why it’s so important to know what kind of coverage you carry — and how it applies — before something happens. When to Call a Lawyer If you’ve been injured in a car accident and there’s confusion over whose insurance should apply, don’t guess — get advice. Sorting out insurance issues early can make a big difference in how your claim is handled and whether your medical bills and losses are properly covered. Call us today at (769) 208-5683 for a free consultation.

One of the most common mistakes people make after a car accident is convincing themselves they’re “fine” and putting off medical treatment. Even if you feel okay in the moment, it’s important to understand that some injuries aren’t immediately obvious. What seems minor today could become a serious issue tomorrow.  At The Stutzman Law Firm, we’ve seen time and again how delaying medical care can hurt both your health and your legal claim. Here’s why: 1. Your Health Comes First Not all injuries show up right away. Soft tissue injuries, concussions, and even some internal injuries can take hours or days before symptoms appear. A doctor can help catch these problems early, which not only protects your health but gives you peace of mind. Getting checked out immediately creates a clear medical record linking your injuries to the accident. Without that documentation, it becomes harder to prove that the wreck caused your injuries later down the road. 2. Your Case Depends on Documentation Insurance companies look for any reason to minimize or deny your claim. If you delay treatment, they’ll argue that you weren’t really hurt or that something else caused your injuries after the fact. This can lead to reduced compensation or a denied claim altogether. The sooner you seek medical care, the stronger your case. Prompt treatment creates a paper trail that ties your injuries directly to the accident, leaving less room for the insurance company to dispute your claim. 3. What You Do After a Wreck Matters In the aftermath of a car accident, you’re dealing with a lot — the stress, the inconvenience, and sometimes the shock. But taking care of your health should be your top priority. The steps you take now will protect your well-being and your ability to recover what you’re owed. At The Stutzman Law Firm, we help people through this process every day. If you’ve been in a wreck, don’t wait. See a doctor, document everything, and call us. We’re here to protect your health, your rights, and your future. Call us today at (769) 208-5683 for a free consultation.

At The Stutzman Law Firm, we believe that a well-informed public is essential to a fair justice system. One aspect of personal injury law that surprises many people is this: in almost every injury case that goes to trial, there’s insurance involved—but the jury is never told that. That’s not a mistake or oversight. It’s the law. In Mississippi (and most other states), the rules of evidence prohibit attorneys from mentioning insurance coverage to the jury. Even if it’s crystal clear that an insurance company is the one paying for the defendant’s lawyer and would ultimately pay the verdict, we are not allowed to say a word about it during trial. Why does that matter? Because jurors often assume that any money awarded in a verdict comes directly out of the defendant’s pocket. And when the defendant is an individual—maybe someone who seems sympathetic or appears to have limited resources—that can influence how jurors think about awarding damages, even when the law says otherwise. The truth is, in the vast majority of personal injury trials, an insurance company is behind the scenes controlling the defense and managing the financial exposure. But the jury never hears that part of the story. It’s a strange rule, and it can have a real impact on justice. But it’s the current state of the law—and it’s one more reason why having a strong, experienced advocate on your side matters.  If you’ve been injured in an accident and have questions about your legal rights, give us a call. We’re here to help you understand the process and fight for the compensation you deserve. Call us today at (769) 208-5683 for a free consultation.

Why You Should Think Twice Before Signing That Insurance Authorization At some point, most people dealing with a health, disability, or accident-related insurance claim are asked to sign a medical records authorization. It’s usually presented as routine—something the insurer needs to evaluate the claim. But if you take the time to actually read what you’re being asked to sign, you may find that it goes well beyond authorizing the release of medical records. Many of these so-called "routine" authorizations give the insurance company permission to access much more than just your medical history. Some include: Your consumer credit report Your financial records Files from government agencies Even records from “any other person” In some cases, they may even attempt to waive attorney-client privilege And let’s not overlook the Medical Information Bureau (MIB)—a little-known clearinghouse of medical and insurance data. These authorizations often give the insurer permission to pull and share your data with MIB and other insurers, which could impact future applications for coverage. Can They Really Do That? Under federal law—specifically, the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA)—an insurance company cannot obtain a credit report for the purpose of evaluating a claim. They can request one for underwriting when issuing a policy, but not after the fact when a claim has been filed. Courts and federal regulators have made that clear. For example, in Padilla v. UNUM Provident, the court referenced guidance from the Federal Trade Commission stating that insurers may not rely on the “underwriting” exception to justify pulling a credit report during claim review. That matches the rulings in cases like LeBlanc v. Allstate and St. Paul Guardian v. Johnson. So how do insurers get around this? Simple. They ask you to sign an authorization. Once you give written consent, your protections under the FCRA are gone. That signature turns an otherwise impermissible act into a “permissible use.” What Happens If You Refuse to Sign? Some people worry that refusing to sign a broad authorization will result in their claim being denied. And sure, an insurance company can try to use that as a reason to delay or push back. But there’s a strong counterargument. If the claimant signs a narrowed authorization—one that excludes irrelevant or invasive categories of information—and shows a willingness to cooperate by offering to discuss what is needed and why, it’s tough for the insurer to justify denial based on non-cooperation. There’s also the matter of credit score. Frequent inquiries on a credit report can lower a person’s score. So not only are insurers overreaching—they may be actively harming your financial reputation in the process. Bottom Line These overbroad authorizations are not about gathering medical records. They’re about mining for reasons to deny the claim, and in the process, invading the claimant’s privacy far beyond what’s necessary or lawful.  If you’re a lawyer, take a few extra minutes to review any authorization your client is being asked to sign. If you’re handling your own claim, don’t assume that the form you’ve been given is fair or routine. Protect your rights. Ask questions. And don’t be afraid to push back. Call us today at (769) 208-5683 for a free consultation.

Motorcycle Safety in Mississippi: Common Myths, Hard Truths, and How to Keep Everyone Safer As the temperature rises across Mississippi, more and more motorcycles are hitting the road. At Stutzman Law Firm, we’ve seen firsthand how devastating motorcycle accidents can be—and often, they’re avoidable. This week, we’re taking a closer look at some of the common myths (and realities) around motorcycle safety to help drivers and riders stay safer. 1. Grass Clippings in the Road: A Real Hazard Yes, it’s true—grass clippings blown into the road create a slick surface that can cause a motorcycle to lose traction and crash. It might seem harmless, but it’s dangerous, especially in turns or on curves. If you mow your yard, please keep the clippings on your lawn, not in the street. A little care can prevent a serious injury. 2. “Loud Pipes Save Lives”: A Popular Myth The idea is that a loud motorcycle is more noticeable and therefore less likely to be hit. But most of the sound projects backward, not forward—where most threats are coming from. There’s no clear evidence that noise alone prevents accidents. While custom exhaust systems are a personal choice, they’re no substitute for visibility, safe riding, and attentive driving. 3. Helmets Don’t Cause Injuries—They Prevent Them Some folks still believe helmets can cause neck injuries. This myth has been thoroughly debunked. In fact, the data shows helmets drastically reduce the risk of death and serious injury. Mississippi law requires all riders to wear a helmet, and it’s for good reason. Helmets save lives. 4. The Left-Turn Danger Zone More motorcycle wrecks happen when a car turns left in front of a motorcycle than in any other scenario. Drivers often misjudge the speed of an oncoming bike or simply fail to see it. If you’re turning left, double-check your blind spots and wait until it’s completely safe. That extra second could save someone’s life. 5. Lane Splitting Isn’t Legal in Mississippi It might be common in California, but in Mississippi, lane splitting—riding between lanes of traffic—is illegal. Even when traffic is stopped, bikers must stay in their lane. At the same time, drivers should avoid drifting across lane lines or opening doors into traffic without looking. Conclusion Whether you're a motorcyclist or a driver, a little awareness goes a long way. Let’s all commit to safer roads this season. Be mindful of grass clippings, stay alert at intersections, and give motorcycles the space and respect they deserve. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a motorcycle accident, Stutzman Law Firm is here to help. Call us today at (769) 208-5683 for a free consultation.

Most people think of uninsured motorist (UM) coverage as something that only applies when they’re behind the wheel. After all, it’s part of your auto insurance policy — so it must only kick in if you're in your car, right? Not exactly. Here in Mississippi, your UM coverage can protect you — not just your vehicle. That means even if you’re walking, jogging, or biking, and you’re hit by a negligent driver who doesn’t have insurance (or doesn’t have enough), your UM policy may step in to help cover your injuries. How It Works Uninsured motorist coverage is designed to help when the at-fault driver either: Has no insurance , or Has liability limits that don’t fully cover your damages (in that case, underinsured motorist coverage — UIM — may apply). But what many don’t realize is that this protection follows the person, not just the car. That means if you’re struck as a pedestrian, you may still be entitled to UM benefits through: Your own auto policy, or A household member’s policy, if you live with them and they carry UM coverage. A Real-World Example Imagine this: You're walking your dog in your neighborhood when a distracted driver runs a stop sign and hits you. The driver has no insurance. You’re rushed to the ER, and the medical bills quickly start piling up. Without UM coverage, you’d be left paying those bills out of pocket. But with UM coverage in place, your policy could cover: Medical bills Lost wages Pain and suffering Long-term disability, if applicable Why This Matters With the number of uninsured drivers on Mississippi roads, carrying UM/UIM coverage isn’t optional — it’s essential. And knowing that this coverage can protect you even outside your vehicle makes it even more valuable. What Should You Do If You’re Hit? If you’re injured in a pedestrian accident and the driver is uninsured or underinsured, don’t assume you’re out of options. Your own policy may be the key to recovering what you need. At The Stutzman Law Firm, we’ve helped clients in situations just like this. We’ll walk you through your coverage, deal with the insurance company, and fight for the full compensation you deserve. Call us today at (769) 208-5683 for a free consultation.

With summer in full swing across Mississippi, school buses are parked, backpacks are on the shelf, and children are back outside—riding bikes, walking dogs, playing tag, and chasing down the ice cream truck. And while summer may bring a sense of freedom and fun, it also brings a very real increase in risk —especially when it comes to neighborhood traffic safety. At The Stutzman Law Firm, we’ve seen firsthand the devastating consequences of distracted or careless driving. As personal injury attorneys based in Jackson, Mississippi, we’re here to protect your rights—but we’d much rather help prevent tragedy in the first place. Why Summer Streets Are More Dangerous Without school in session, more children are home during the day. That means: More kids playing outside, often near driveways and roads. Increased pedestrian and bicycle traffic, especially in residential areas. Unsupervised or unpredictable behavior, especially among younger children Many of these children may not fully understand the dangers of cars or the rules of the road. The responsibility to keep them safe lies with the adults behind the wheel. A Moment of Distraction Can Change Everything Texting. Changing a playlist. Reaching for a dropped item. These everyday distractions may seem harmless—but they can turn deadly in seconds. According to the CDC , distracted driving kills over 3,000 people in the U.S. each year. During summer, that number rises—especially among vulnerable road users like children. Safety Tips for Summer Driving To keep our streets—and our kids—safe this summer, follow these essential safety reminders: Slow down in neighborhoods and school zones—even if school’s out. Stay alert at all times, especially near parks and playgrounds. Put the phone away. Texts and calls can wait. Expect the unexpected. Children may dart into the street without warning. Avoid backing out blindly. Always check your rearview and surroundings before reversing out of a driveway If the Unthinkable Happens, We’re Here to Help No parent should have to face the trauma of a child being injured—or worse—because of someone else’s negligence. And if your family is affected by a careless driver, you don’t have to go through it alone. The Stutzman Law Firm is here to help families seek justice and accountability. Our mission is simple: protect the people of Mississippi, hold wrongdoers accountable, and make our communities safer—one case at a time. Drive safe. Drive smart. And drive like your kids live here. Call us today at (769) 208-5683 for a free consultation.