Michael Querns injured in Lincoln County vehicle crash
The northbound Isuzu NPR left the roadway and struck a tree on Wednesday afternoon
Michael Querns, 28, was injured when the vehicle he was riding in veered off Highway 51 and struck a tree in Lincoln County, Mississippi, on Wednesday, according to the Highway Patrol.
The northbound 2009 Isuzu NPR drifted off the west side of the highway before slamming into a tree, authorities said.
Querns and a second passenger were taken to a local hospital for treatment. The driver of the vehicle died from their injuries.
The crash remains under investigation.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Mississippi recorded 732 motor vehicle crash deaths in 2023, giving the state the highest death rate per 100 million vehicle miles traveled in the nation.
Investigators will review whether driver distraction, impairment, or mechanical failure played a role in the crash.
"When I hear about fatal collisions, I think about the profound grief those families carry," said Candice Bond, Managing Partner at Bond Legal. "In these crashes, the margin for error disappears, turning ordinary mistakes into deadly consequences."
Highway 51 serves as a vital corridor for local traffic in Lincoln County. When a severe collision occurs, it raises concerns about the risks posed to passengers and other drivers sharing the route.
Investigators will likely examine the vehicle's event data recorder to determine why it left the highway. Passengers injured in serious crashes often face complex recovery paths while liability is established.
"Victims should seek legal guidance when pursuing a personal injury case, which allows them to handle insurance communications and protect a victim's rights," said Stefano Formica, of Bond Legal"Insurance companies often try to pressure victims to settle for a quick payout for far less than the case is worth. However, an attorney will vigorously advocate for their client to ensure that they are treated with respect and compensated fairly."
Mississippi personal injury claims In Mississippi, injured victims have the right to pursue a personal injury claim to seek compensation for damages. The state applies pure comparative fault, meaning compensation can be reduced by a victim's percentage of fault. The statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally three years from the date of the crash.
Victims may be entitled to damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.