JONES COUNTY, MS. (April 14, 2025) — A car is presently burning at the intersection of Warren Mott Parkway and Church Street, as of Monday, April 14.
A car began burning in the right lane. The driver crawled out of the vehicle by herself. She reportedly could only remember turning the curve and the car flipping. The driver was the only party involved in the accident. She was transported to a local hospital for treatment.
Jones County Sheriff’s Office and the Forrest County Fire Department are both currently on site.
Authorities ask that drivers find an alternate route.
When Single-Car Accidents Lead to Fire: Legal Options in Mississippi
Vehicle fires following single-car accidents can be devastating events that compound the trauma of the crash itself. While multi-vehicle collisions often have clearer liability paths, single-car accidents present unique legal challenges—especially in Mississippi, where specific state laws come into play.
Understanding Vehicle Fires in Single-Car Accidents
Vehicle fires can result from several factors following a crash:
- Fuel system ruptures
- Electrical system malfunctions
- Battery damage, particularly in electric vehicles
- Engine compartment damage
Even at relatively low speeds, these mechanical failures can lead to fires that cause severe injuries beyond those sustained in the initial impact.
Legal Options in Mississippi
If you’ve experienced a vehicle fire after a single-car accident in Mississippi, several potential legal avenues exist:
Product Liability Claims
When vehicle defects contribute to or cause a fire, manufacturers may be held responsible. These claims typically involve:
- Design defects in the fuel or electrical systems
- Manufacturing defects that create fire hazards
- Failure to warn about known fire risks
Mississippi follows a “strict liability” approach in product cases, meaning you don’t necessarily need to prove negligence—only that the defect existed and caused harm.
Insurance Claims
Mississippi is a “fault” state for auto insurance. Your options include:
- Filing a claim with your own insurance if you have comprehensive coverage
- Pursuing coverage under your policy’s medical payments provision
- Accessing uninsured motorist coverage if applicable
Time Considerations
Mississippi has a three-year statute of limitations for personal injury and product liability claims. This period begins from the date of the accident, making prompt legal consultation essential.
Next Steps After a Vehicle Fire
If you’ve experienced a vehicle fire after a single-car accident:
- Seek immediate medical attention for injuries
- Document everything related to the accident and fire
- Preserve the vehicle for potential investigation
- Consult with an attorney experienced in both auto accidents and product liability
Each case is unique, and outcomes depend on specific circumstances and evidence. A qualified Mississippi attorney can evaluate your situation and advise on the most appropriate legal path forward.
If you were involved in a traumatic accident in Jones, the Jackson, Mississippi accident attorneys at Giddens Law can help. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
Note: Our team of writers uses secondary sources to produce this post, including local and state media and news sources, regional and state police incident reports, social media platforms, and eyewitness accounts about serious accidents in Mississippi. For that reason, if you find any information that is not correct, be sure to contact Giddens Law as soon as possible so that we can update the post with the most exact information available. A post will be removed upon request. All information in this post is informational and not intended to be considered legal or medical advice. This post is not a solicitation for business.
Disclaimer: All information in this post is informational and is not intended to be considered legal or medical advice. This post is not a solicitation for business.