A semi-truck collision on Interstate 22 in Benton County, Mississippi, left one person injured and shut down part of the highway on the afternoon of Tuesday, June 17, 2025. According to the Mississippi Highway Patrol (MHP), the crash occurred in the eastbound lanes near Hickory Flat and was reported just after 4:30 pm.
At least two semi-trucks were involved in the accident. One trailer sustained major damage, tearing open and spilling cargo, including cardboard boxes and pool toys, across the roadway. Emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene to assess the damage and clear debris.
MHP Senior Staff Sargent Bryan McGee confirmed that one person sustained minor injuries. Authorities have not released further details on what caused the collision, and the incident remains under investigation.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a semi-truck accident, contact a personal injury lawyer at Singleton Schreiber today for a free consultation.
How Violating Trucking Regulations Can Lead to Catastrophic Crashes
Commercial trucking is a heavily regulated industry, and when safety standards are not followed, the result can be disastrous. Accidents involving large trucks often stem from violations of federal or state trucking regulations, which are in place to protect drivers, passengers, and everyone sharing the road.
Some of the most common regulatory issues that may contribute to crashes, like the one in Benton County, include:
- Driver fatigue due to hours-of-service violations – Federal law limits the number of hours a commercial truck driver can operate without rest. Under Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations, most drivers are limited to 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty. When companies pressure drivers to meet tight delivery schedules, these limits are often ignored, leading to impaired judgment, slower reaction times, and drowsy driving.
- Improper maintenance or mechanical failure – Commercial trucks require regular inspections and maintenance to ensure they are safe to operate. Brake systems, tires, and lights must be in good working order. Failure to maintain equipment properly can cause loss of control or increase the severity of an accident.
- Improperly loaded or secured cargo – Cargo must be properly distributed and secured to avoid shifting loads, tipping, or jackknifing. Overloading or poor weight distribution can also impair a truck’s handling and increase the risk of a crash. In this case, the scattered debris suggests possible issues with cargo securement.
- Negligent hiring or training – Trucking companies are required to properly vet and train their drivers, ensuring they are qualified, licensed, and capable of operating commercial vehicles safely. Inexperienced or undertrained drivers may not know how to handle emergencies or follow traffic safety protocols.
When a trucking company or driver fails to follow these regulations, they may be held legally responsible for the harm that results.
“Trucking accidents are rarely simple. They often involve multiple layers of liability and devastating consequences for those affected,” says Letitia Johnson, managing partner of the Southeastern Region Singleton Schreiber offices. “We’ve worked with families and individuals who’ve suffered because safety regulations were ignored, and we know how critical it is to have experienced legal support when navigating the complexities of these types of cases.”
Legal Options for Those Injured in Semi-Truck Collisions
Even a “minor” injury from a truck accident can result in lasting physical, emotional, and financial consequences. If negligence played a role in this crash, the injured party may be entitled to file a personal injury claim to recover compensation for:
- Medical expenses (including ongoing care or rehabilitation)
- Lost wages or reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Property damage
Oftentimes in truck accidents, multiple parties may share liability, including the truck driver, their employer, maintenance providers, or even the cargo loading company. A thorough investigation is often required to determine fault and identify all responsible parties.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a semi-truck crash, don’t wait to seek legal help. Contact Singleton Schreiber today to schedule your free initial consultation.
