A devastating crash in the early morning hours of July 30, 2025, claimed the life of a 25-year-old truck driver in Pike County, Mississippi. The incident occurred just before 3:30 am on Interstate 55 South near Exit 15. According to Pike County Coroner Rashad Taylor, the driver, identified as Damond K. Julien of New Orleans, died at the scene. Another individual was airlifted to a hospital with injuries. The McComb Police Department is actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Officials reported that the 18-wheeler struck the Park Drive bridge while traveling along I-55. In response, the Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) closed both directions of the bridge until further notice, citing the need to assess the structural safety of the overpass. Drivers in the area have been advised to use alternate routes and remain alert for construction crews working nearby.
If you or someone you love was affected by this crash, contact Singleton Schreiber today to learn more about your options.
The Dangers of 18-Wheeler Crashes and Bridge Collisions
Accidents involving large commercial trucks are often far more dangerous than standard car collisions. Due to their size and weight, 18-wheelers are more likely to cause catastrophic damage when something goes wrong. When these vehicles strike overpasses or other infrastructure, the risk of fatal injuries rises dramatically, not just for the truck driver, but also for nearby motorists and construction workers.
Crashes like this may be caused by several factors, including:
- Driver fatigue – Long hours on the road without adequate rest can slow reaction times, impair judgment, and make it harder to respond to hazards.
- Poor visibility – Fog, heavy rain, or darkness can make it difficult for drivers to see road signs, height clearances, or approaching obstacles
- Faulty GPS directions – Navigation errors can send drivers onto unsuitable routes, such as roads with low bridges that large trucks cannot safely pass under.
- Unfamiliar routes – Driving in an area the driver doesn’t know well can increase the likelihood of missing important warnings or making unsafe maneuvers.
- Hazardous road design – Sharp curves, narrow lanes, or poorly maintained infrastructure can pose serious risks to large commercial vehicles.
- Lack of proper signage – Missing or unclear signs about bridge height or lane restrictions can leave drivers without the information they need to avoid collisions.
- Inadequate driver training – Trucking companies are responsible for ensuring drivers are trained to handle route planning, height clearance awareness, and safe driving in challenging conditions. Without this training, preventable crashes are more likely to occur.
Legal Options for the Victim’s Family and the Injured Driver
When someone loses their life in a commercial trucking accident, surviving family members may have grounds to file a wrongful death claim against any party whose negligence contributed to the crash. Potentially liable parties could include the trucking company, a vehicle maintenance provider, or a public agency responsible for road and bridge maintenance, especially if the signage, design, or upkeep of the overpass was inadequate.
“Our hearts go out to the family of Damond Julien, whose life was tragically cut short in this crash, and to the family of the driver who was seriously injured,” said Shani Butler-Anderson, a Jackson personal injury lawyer at Singleton Schreiber. “In the aftermath of a fatal trucking accident, it’s critical for families to seek answers and understand their legal rights. A thorough investigation can help determine whether negligence, on the part of the trucking company, vehicle manufacturer, or even public infrastructure authorities, played a role. Legal action can also help hold those responsible accountable and provide financial support during an incredibly difficult time.”
In addition to the deceased driver’s family, the surviving individual who was airlifted from the scene may also have legal options. If the crash was caused by another party’s negligence, the injured party may be able to file a personal injury claim to recover damages. This could include compensation for medical bills, lost wages, long-term care needs, pain and suffering, and more.
Truck accident cases often involve multiple layers of responsibility, and a comprehensive investigation is key to identifying who should be held accountable. Whether pursuing a wrongful death or personal injury claim, contact Singleton Schreiber today and work with our experienced truck accident attorneys. We can help victims and their families secure the justice and financial recovery they deserve. Call us today to schedule your free consultation.
