The First 24 Hours After a Car Wreck Matter More Than You Think

One of the most common misconceptions after a car wreck is that a crash must look serious for an injury to be real. If the vehicles involved do not show major damage, insurance companies are quick to label the collision a “minor impact” and downplay any injuries that follow. That assumption is wrong. Vehicle Damage and Human Injury Are Not the Same Thing Modern vehicles are designed to absorb force. Crumple zones, bumpers, and frames are engineered to take the hit so occupants do not. The human body does not have that luxury. Your neck, back, shoulders, and brain absorb rapid acceleration and deceleration forces, even in collisions that occur at relatively low speeds. Those forces can stretch ligaments, compress discs, and cause the brain to move inside the skull. None of that requires a mangled vehicle. Injuries Commonly Seen in “Low Impact” Crashes We routinely see serious injuries from crashes that insurance companies describe as minor, including: Herniated or bulging discs in the neck and back Concussions and other traumatic brain injuries Rotator cuff tears and shoulder injuries Nerve damage causing radiating pain or numbness Chronic headaches and neck pain These injuries often do not show up immediately. Many people feel “okay” at the scene, only to experience worsening pain or neurological symptoms hours or days later. Delayed Pain Is Normal and Documented It is entirely normal for symptoms to appear after the adrenaline wears off. Muscle spasms, inflammation, and nerve irritation frequently take time to develop. Delayed treatment does not mean an injury is exaggerated or unrelated. It means the body is responding the way bodies often do after trauma. Unfortunately, insurers often use delayed symptoms as a reason to question legitimacy rather than as a medically recognized reality. Why Insurance Companies Focus on Vehicle Damage Insurance adjusters are trained to look for reasons to minimize claim value. One of the easiest ways to do that is to focus on photos of the vehicles instead of medical evidence. Low repair costs are often used to suggest that injuries could not have occurred. This ignores decades of medical research and real-world experience showing that injury severity does not correlate cleanly with visible vehicle damage. What You Should Do After Any Collision If you are involved in a crash, regardless of how minor it may seem: Pay attention to how your body feels over the next several days Seek medical evaluation if you experience pain, stiffness, headaches, dizziness, or numbness Follow through with recommended treatment Be cautious about giving recorded statements before understanding the full scope of your injuries Protecting your health should always come first. Legal and insurance issues come second. The Bottom Line Low impact does not mean low injury. If you have been hurt in a crash and are being told that the damage “wasn’t bad enough,” that does not make it true. Injuries are determined by medical evidence, not bumper photos. If you have questions about an injury claim or your rights after a collision, getting accurate information early can make a meaningful difference. Call us today at (769) 208-5683 for a free consultation.

Looks Dry. Still Dangerous. Winter Driving Myths That Cause Serious Wrecks in Mississippi When people think about dangerous winter driving, they usually picture snow, ice, and blizzard conditions. In Mississippi, that assumption causes a problem. The truth is this: the most dangerous wrecks in Mississippi don’t happen in bad weather — they happen when people think the roads are fine. Because we don’t deal with snow and ice very often, drivers tend to let their guard down during colder months. Unfortunately, that false sense of security leads to serious crashes every year. Let’s break down a few winter driving myths we see all the time. Myth #1: “It’s Just Rain” Rain might not seem like a big deal, but wet roads dramatically reduce traction and increase stopping distance. Bridges, overpasses, and shaded areas can be especially slick on cold mornings. Many crashes happen when drivers don’t realize how much longer it takes to stop on wet pavement. Myth #2: “I Have All-Wheel Drive, I’m Fine” All-wheel drive can help your vehicle move forward, but it does nothing to help you stop. Braking distance depends on road conditions, tire quality, and speed — not how many wheels are driving the car. This is one of the most common misconceptions we see after winter crashes. Myth #3: “I’m Only Going a Little Over the Speed Limit” Speed becomes far more dangerous when temperatures drop and roads are wet. Even a small increase in speed can make the difference between stopping safely and causing a collision. Most drivers don’t realize how much speed affects reaction time and braking on cold pavement. Myth #4: “Mississippi Doesn’t Get Winter Weather” That may be true, but winter still brings cold mornings, slick roads, limited traction, and longer stopping distances. You don’t need snow or ice for a serious wreck to occur. Many winter crashes in Mississippi happen on days that look completely normal. Why This Matters After a Crash We often hear clients say, “It didn’t seem that bad at first.” Unfortunately, injuries don’t always show up immediately, and insurance companies are quick to downplay claims that involve low-visibility conditions or minor property damage. Delaying medical treatment or assuming a crash wasn’t serious can affect both your health and your legal rights. Stay Safe This Winter If you’re driving during the winter months in Mississippi: Slow down Leave extra space between vehicles Don’t assume the road is safe just because it looks dry And if you or someone you love is injured in a crash — even one that didn’t seem serious at the time — it’s important to understand your rights before dealing with the insurance company. Being informed can make a real difference. Call us today at (769) 208-5683 for a free consultation.

When people think about winter driving hazards, Mississippi usually isn’t the first state that comes to mind. Snow and ice are uncommon here, but when they do happen, they can bring traffic to a standstill almost overnight. Roads close, emergency services are stretched thin, and drivers often find themselves unprepared for conditions they rarely face. That’s exactly why having an emergency kit in your vehicle matters so much in Mississippi. Rare Weather Can Create Real Risks Because winter weather is infrequent, many drivers assume they’ll never need to deal with icy roads or freezing temperatures. Unfortunately, history shows otherwise. When ice storms or sudden cold snaps hit our area, even experienced drivers can end up stranded due to wrecks, road closures, or mechanical issues. Unlike states that regularly deal with winter conditions, Mississippi drivers may wait longer for help to arrive. Towing services, law enforcement, and medical responders can be overwhelmed during widespread weather events. Having basic supplies in your car can help you stay safe and comfortable while you wait. What Should Be in a Mississippi Emergency Car Kit? You don’t need anything elaborate. A simple kit can make a meaningful difference if you’re stuck on the roadside or unable to continue driving. Consider keeping these items in your vehicle: Bottled water Non-perishable snacks A blanket, gloves, or an extra jacket Flashlight with fresh batteries Phone charger or portable battery pack First-aid supplies Jumper cables Ice scraper and basic tools These items don’t take up much space, but they can help keep you warm, hydrated, visible, and connected if conditions deteriorate. Why Preparation Matters After a Wreck Winter weather increases the risk of crashes, even at low speeds. Ice reduces traction, lengthens stopping distances, and makes sudden maneuvers dangerous. In Mississippi, where drivers and infrastructure are not always prepared for icy roads, accidents can happen quickly. If you’re involved in a weather-related accident, your safety comes first. Once you’re out of immediate danger, it’s important to document what happened and understand your legal rights. Insurance companies often scrutinize winter-weather crashes closely, and being prepared can help protect you later. A Small Step That Can Make a Big Difference Keeping an emergency kit in your vehicle is a simple habit, but it’s one that can pay off when conditions turn unexpectedly dangerous. Mississippi weather may be unpredictable, but your level of preparedness doesn’t have to be. At Stutzman Law Firm, we believe safety starts long before a crash happens. Being prepared on the road is one of the easiest ways to protect yourself and your family. If bad weather leads to an accident and you have questions about your rights, we’re here to help. Call us today at (769) 208-5683 for a free consultation.

If you have ever rented a car, you have probably been asked a familiar question at the counter: “Do you want to add our coverage?” Many people decline, assuming the rental company’s insurance automatically protects them in a wreck. Others believe that if a rental car is involved in a crash, the rental company is automatically responsible. In most cases, both assumptions are wrong. Understanding how rental car insurance actually works and how the Graves Amendment affects liability can protect you from unexpected financial exposure after a serious accident. Who Pays After a Rental Car Accident? After a rental car crash, insurance coverage usually applies in a specific order. This often surprises drivers. 1. Your Personal Auto Insurance Is Usually First In most rental car accidents, your own auto insurance is the primary coverage, even though you are driving a rented vehicle. Your policy may cover: Bodily injury liability Property damage to others Damage to the rental vehicle This also means a rental car accident can still impact your premiums just like any other wreck. 2. Credit Card Coverage Is Often Limited If you used a credit card to rent the vehicle, your card may offer secondary coverage, but this is often: Limited to vehicle damage only Excludes bodily injury claims Subject to strict rules and exclusions Many people only discover these limitations after a claim has already been denied. Shape 3. Rental Company Coverage Only Applies If You Purchase It Rental companies typically offer optional coverage at the counter, often called: Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) Loss Damage Waiver (LDW) Supplemental Liability Protection (SLP) If you decline this coverage, the rental company’s policy usually does not protect you. If you purchase it, that coverage may: Limit or eliminate responsibility for vehicle damage Reduce personal liability exposure Still include exclusions and coverage caps Skipping that coverage to save money up front can lead to significant out-of-pocket costs later. The Hidden Costs Many Renters Do Not Expect Even when injuries are minor, rental companies often pursue additional charges such as: Loss of use while the vehicle is being repaired Diminished value of the rental vehicle Towing and storage fees Administrative and processing charges These expenses add up quickly and are not always fully covered by insurance. Why the Rental Company Is Usually Not Automatically Responsible Understanding the Graves Amendment One of the most common myths about rental car accidents is that the rental company is automatically responsible because it owns the vehicle. Federal law changed that. The Graves Amendment, passed in 2005, generally protects rental car companies from liability based solely on ownership of the vehicle. In simple terms: The rental company usually cannot be sued just because it owns the vehicle The driver is typically the legally responsible party The rental company may only be liable if it was independently negligent, such as: Failing to properly maintain the vehicle Renting to a driver it knew was unsafe or unqualified In most routine rental car crashes, the Graves Amendment shields the rental company from responsibility, even when serious injuries occur. What If You Are Injured by Someone Driving a Rental Car? If another driver operating a rental car causes your injuries, your claim usually proceeds against: The driver’s personal auto insurance Any applicable credit card coverage Any optional rental coverage they purchased The rental company itself is often protected under the Graves Amendment unless its own negligence can be proven. If the at-fault driver has no insurance or not enough insurance, uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage may become critical. What to Do After a Rental Car Accident If you are involved in a crash while driving a rental vehicle: Do not assume the rental company will handle everything Avoid giving recorded statements before understanding coverage Gather all rental agreements and insurance paperwork immediately Seek medical attention right away if you are injured Rental car claims become complicated very quickly, and early mistakes can impact both your medical bills and your financial recovery. Final Thoughts on Rental Car Accidents and Insurance Coverage Rental cars create a false sense of protection for many drivers. The reality is: Your personal insurance is usually first in line Optional rental coverage plays a major role Federal law often shields rental companies through the Graves Amendment If you or someone you love has been injured in a rental car accident, getting clear legal guidance early can make a real difference in both your recovery and your financial protection. Call us today at (769) 208-5683 for a free consultation.

The holiday season is a time for family, friends, and celebration. From office gatherings to neighborhood parties, many of us open our homes to guests this time of year. One topic that often gets overlooked is what responsibility a host may have if alcohol is served and someone leaves impaired. Mississippi law does not generally hold a social host liable for the actions of an adult guest who drinks too much. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t risks, and it doesn’t mean hosts should ignore their role in keeping everyone safe. A few thoughtful steps can prevent a holiday celebration from turning into a serious problem. Serving Alcohol: Use Common Sense Overserving isn’t just a bar or restaurant issue. Even in your home, it’s smart to keep an eye on guests who may already be impaired. A simple offer of food, water, or coffee can help slow things down and give people time to regroup. If someone looks unsteady, confused, or overly emotional, they may not need another drink. Absolutely No Alcohol for Minors This is one area where Mississippi law is crystal clear. Allowing minors to drink—even one sip—can create legal trouble for the host. Beyond the legal risk, underage drinking increases the chances of injuries and accidents. The rule is simple: if they’re under 21, no alcohol. Plan for Safe Rides Home Not every impaired guest will recognize that they shouldn’t drive. As a host, you can make this easier by offering: Rideshare options A designated driver A guest room or couch A call to a family member or friend Most people are grateful for the suggestion, especially if approached kindly and without judgment. When a Guest Shouldn’t Be Driving You don’t have to physically prevent anyone from leaving, but stepping in when someone is clearly impaired can make all the difference. A calm conversation is often enough. Offer alternatives and reassure them that you’re simply trying to keep them safe. A Safe Celebration Helps Everyone While Mississippi does not typically impose liability on social hosts for adult guests, being proactive protects the people you care about and helps keep the roads safer for everyone. If someone you know is injured during the holiday season—whether in a car accident, a slip and fall, or another incident—the Stutzman Law Firm is here to help. We can walk you through your options and help you understand your rights. Enjoy the season, celebrate safely, and take care of the people around you. Call us today at (769) 208-5683 for a free consultation

Black Friday marks the unofficial start of the holiday shopping season, and with it comes packed parking lots, early-morning rushes, and a level of chaos that can catch anyone off guard. While most people worry about crowds inside the stores, many of the season’s most preventable injuries actually happen outside—in the parking lot. From low-speed collisions to pedestrian injuries, these incidents spike every year between Thanksgiving and Christmas. A little awareness can go a long way toward keeping you and your family safe. Why Parking Lots Become More Dangerous This Time of Year Holiday shopping brings a perfect storm of risk factors: Drivers competing for limited spaces People backing out quickly without checking their surroundings Shoppers walking between cars with bags in both hands Distracted drivers looking for open spots Early sunsets and poor visibility Higher foot traffic than almost any other time of year Even at low speeds, these situations can lead to serious injuries. Simple Safety Tips for Drivers If you’re behind the wheel, a few practical steps can help you avoid trouble: Slow down. Holiday frustration leads to rushed decisions. Stay off your phone. Parking lot distractions are a major cause of low-speed crashes. Use your headlights. Even during the day, they help others see you. Watch for pedestrians. People often step out from between parked cars without warning. Be patient when reversing. Don’t rely solely on your backup camera—turn and look. Park in well-lit spaces. Visibility matters when shopping early or late. Smart Tips for Pedestrians Shoppers on foot face their own risks. Keep these in mind: Stay alert and avoid walking behind moving vehicles. Don’t step between parked cars. Drivers can’t see you. Hold onto your cart. A rolling cart can damage cars or knock someone down. Walk in main aisles whenever possible. These areas are more visible to drivers. What to Do If You’re Involved in a Parking Lot Accident Parking lot crashes may seem simple, but liability isn’t always straightforward. Multiple parties may share fault, and insurers often treat these claims differently than roadway collisions. If you’re involved in a wreck: Take photos of every vehicle from multiple angles Get the other driver’s information Call law enforcement if anyone is hurt Look for witnesses or store cameras Seek medical care even if you feel okay Contact an attorney before giving statements to insurance adjusters These steps can protect your rights from the start. We’re Here When You Need Us At Stutzman Law Firm, we handle parking lot collisions and pedestrian injury cases throughout Mississippi. If you or someone you love is injured in a holiday shopping incident, we’re here to help you understand your options and guide you through the process. Shop smart, stay alert, and enjoy your holiday season safely. Call us today at (769) 208-5683 for a free consultation.

The holidays bring many good things—family gatherings, time off work, and travel across Mississippi to see the people we care about. Unfortunately, this time of year also brings something far less pleasant: a sharp increase in traffic, distracted driving, and crashes involving uninsured and underinsured drivers. If you’re hitting the road over the next few weeks, understanding your Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage could make a real difference if the unexpected happens. Why Crashes Increase During the Holidays Between Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s, Mississippi roads stay busy. People are rushing, conditions vary, and holiday events often involve alcohol. Add in early sunsets and unpredictable weather, and the risk of a wreck climbs quickly. It’s not just the increased traffic that creates problems—it’s who’s on the road. The holidays traditionally see a rise in drivers who are impaired, distracted, or driving without proper insurance. What UM/UIM Coverage Does for You UM/UIM coverage is one of the most valuable parts of any auto insurance policy, and it protects you in two main situations: Uninsured Motorist (UM) — When the at-fault driver has no insurance. Underinsured Motorist (UIM) — When the at-fault driver has insurance, but not enough to cover your damages. In these cases, your UM/UIM coverage steps in to pay for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses your family shouldn’t have to shoulder because someone else failed to carry adequate coverage. In short, it ensures you aren’t punished because they weren’t responsible. Why It's Especially Important Right Now Mississippi historically has one of the highest rates of uninsured drivers in the country. That problem tends to get worse around the holidays. Even if you drive carefully, you can’t control who’s behind the wheel in the next lane. UM/UIM coverage fills that gap and keeps your family financially protected, no matter what the other driver did—or didn’t do. What To Do If You’re Hit by an Uninsured or Underinsured Driver If you or a loved one are involved in a crash this season, here are a few immediate steps: Get medical attention right away Call law enforcement and document the scene Don’t give recorded statements without legal advice Contact an attorney who understands UM/UIM claims in Mississippi These claims can become complicated quickly, and carriers often push back hard. Having someone in your corner early makes a difference. We’re Here to Help At Stutzman Law Firm, we help Mississippi families every day who find themselves dealing with the fallout of uninsured and underinsured motorists. If you have questions about your coverage or need guidance after a wreck, we’re here to help you navigate the process. Stay safe this holiday season—and protect your family on every mile. Call us today at (769) 208-5683 for a free consultation.

If you’ve lived in Mississippi for any length of time, you know how unpredictable the weather can be. One day you’re scraping frost off your windshield, and the next you’re reaching for the A/C. Those constant temperature swings don’t just play tricks on your wardrobe — they can take a toll on your vehicle too. At The Stutzman Law Firm, we see firsthand how many accidents happen because of simple maintenance issues that could’ve been avoided. A few minutes of preparation can make all the difference between a smooth drive and a breakdown on the side of Highway 49. 1. Check Your Tire Pressure and Tread Cold weather causes tire pressure to drop, sometimes by as much as 1 PSI for every 10 degrees. Low pressure reduces traction, especially on wet roads, and increases the risk of blowouts. Check your tires regularly and make sure the tread depth is at least 2/32 of an inch. 2. Test Your Battery When temperatures dip, your car battery has to work harder to start the engine. If it’s been a few years since you replaced it, have it tested. A weak battery might start fine on a warm day but fail completely when that next cold snap rolls through. 3. Inspect Wipers and Washer Fluid Visibility is everything. Replace worn wiper blades, top off your washer fluid, and make sure your defroster works properly. A streaky windshield in the morning glare is a recipe for danger. 4. Check Your Lights Shorter days mean you’re driving more often in low light. Walk around your car and check that every headlight, taillight, and turn signal is working. It’s a small step that helps everyone on the road see and be seen. 5. Keep an Emergency Kit Even with the best prep, unexpected things happen. Keep jumper cables, a flashlight, blanket, bottled water, and a phone charger in your vehicle. It’s peace of mind you’ll be glad to have if you ever need it. A Little Preparation Goes a Long Way Mississippi weather changes fast, but being prepared doesn’t have to be complicated. Staying on top of routine maintenance helps protect not just your car, but everyone sharing the road with you.  If you or someone you love is injured in an accident, The Stutzman Law Firm is here to help. We’re proud to represent Mississippi drivers and families, standing up for their rights after a crash. Call us today at (769) 208-5683 for a free consultation.

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