Detailed Answer: What to do next after you receive the crash report in Mississippi

This guide explains practical, step-by-step actions you can take to move a Mississippi personal injury claim forward after you obtain the police crash report. It assumes you have little or no legal knowledge and focuses on tasks that protect your rights and strengthen your case.

1. Read the crash report carefully

Confirm basic facts: date, time, and location of the crash; the parties and vehicle descriptions; the officer’s narrative; listed witnesses; and whether the officer assigned fault or cited any violations. The report may contain helpful observations and witness names, but it is not the final word on liability.

2. Get and keep medical care records

Seek medical attention immediately if you have not already. Even injuries that seem minor can develop into major problems. Keep every medical record, diagnostic image, prescription, referral, and bill. These items create the medical proof you need to link your injuries to the crash and calculate damages.

3. Preserve physical evidence and document your losses

• Photograph vehicle damage, injuries, the crash scene, skid marks, traffic signs, and weather conditions as soon as you can.
• Keep repair estimates, towing receipts, rental car invoices, and wage-loss documentation (pay stubs, employer notes).
• Save correspondence with insurance companies and other parties. Do not throw anything related to the crash away.

4. Identify and preserve witness information

If the crash report lists witnesses, try to contact them while the facts are fresh. Ask them to write a short note about what they observed or provide contact info so an investigator or attorney can follow up. Witness statements can be valuable when fault is disputed.

5. Notify your insurance company (and understand what to say)

Mississippi policies typically require prompt notice. Provide basic facts and the crash report, but avoid giving recorded statements about fault or admitting anything about your injuries. Stick to verified facts: who you are, when and where the crash occurred, and what vehicle was involved.

6. Order a complete copy of the crash report if you only have a summary

Police departments and the Mississippi Department of Public Safety often keep full reports and supplementals. You can request records from the law enforcement agency that prepared the report or learn about copies and fees through the Mississippi Department of Public Safety: https://www.dps.ms.gov.

7. Calculate damages and liability evidence

Start to assemble proof of your economic damages (medical bills, lost wages, property damage) and non-economic damages (pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment). Compare the facts in the crash report with your photos, medical records, and witness statements to form a narrative of what happened and who is responsible.

8. Consider making a demand or requesting negotiation

Many claims settle before a lawsuit. After you have medical records, a damage total, and the crash report, you or your attorney can send a demand packet to the at-fault party’s insurer. The packet typically includes the crash report, medical records, bills, photographs, and a written demand stating the amount you seek and why.

9. Know Mississippi time limits (statute of limitations)

Mississippi limits how long you have to file a personal injury lawsuit. Generally, you must file within the time the state law allows for tort claims. Missing this deadline can bar your right to sue. For the relevant statutory provisions, see Mississippi Code Title 15 (Statutes of Limitation and Repose): https://www.legislature.ms.gov/Pages/Code/Title-15.aspx. If your case involves a government defendant, special notice and shorter deadlines may apply.

10. Decide whether to consult an attorney

If your injuries are significant, liability is disputed, or the insurance company offers a low settlement, consult a personal injury attorney. An attorney can evaluate the crash report and evidence, preserve key proof (through subpoenas or investigation), calculate long-term damages, negotiate with insurers, and, if necessary, file a lawsuit before the statute of limitations expires.

11. If you hire an attorney, bring the crash report and all documentation

During your initial consultation bring the crash report, photos, medical records, bills, pay stubs, vehicle repair estimates, and any correspondence with insurers. These items let an attorney quickly assess liability and damages and recommend next steps.

12. Prepare for settlement or litigation

Settlements often require patience and documentation. If you cannot reach an acceptable settlement, your attorney can file suit and begin the litigation process. Litigation will involve formal discovery, depositions, and possibly expert witnesses to establish fault and damages.

Quick checklist (summary)

1. Read and copy the crash report.
2. Seek/continue medical care and keep records.
3. Photograph scene, injuries, and vehicles.
4. Preserve receipts, bills, and wage-loss proof.
5. Notify your insurer; avoid admitting fault.
6. Collect witness contact info and statements.
7. Consider a demand letter or contact an attorney.
8. Watch statute-of-limitations deadlines (see Mississippi Code Title 15).

Helpful Hints

• Get medical care quickly. Delay can be used against you by insurers.
• Do not sign medical authorizations for insurers without advice—have your attorney review them.
• Keep a crash file (paper or digital) with all documents organized by date.
• If an insurer requests a recorded statement, consult an attorney first.
• Be cautious with social media—insurers may use posts against you.
• If the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured, check your policy for uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage options.
• If a government vehicle or employee may be at fault, contact an attorney right away—special notice rules and shorter time limits may apply.
• Ask potential attorneys about fees and how they handle costs (most personal injury attorneys work on contingency).

Disclaimer: This information is educational only and does not create an attorney-client relationship. It is not legal advice. Laws change and every case is unique—consult a licensed Mississippi attorney to get legal advice tailored to your situation.