Personal injury refers to an injury to a person’s body—also known as bodily injury—or to their mind or emotional well-being—also referred to as emotional distress or pain and suffering. The term personal injury is also used to refer to a broad category of legal claims involving personal injuries or death.

Claims for personal injuries are generally known as torts—wrongful acts that are done intentionally or negligently, or for which there is liability without proving negligence (strict liability).

Personal injury claims are primarily a matter of state law and may be compensated by the court system if the injured person—also known as the claimant, or the plaintiff if a lawsuit is filed—can prove liability (another person or entity caused the personal injury) and damages (medical expenses, permanent disability, death).

In Mississippi, personal injury law covers harm to an individual's body, mind, or emotional well-being. These claims fall under the category of tort law, which addresses wrongful acts that can be intentional, negligent, or subject to strict liability (where fault is assumed without proving negligence). To succeed in a personal injury claim in Mississippi, the injured party (claimant or plaintiff) must demonstrate that another party is liable for their injuries and that they have suffered damages as a result. Damages can include medical expenses, permanent disability, or even death. Mississippi law sets specific statutes of limitations for filing personal injury claims, which is generally three years from the date of the injury. However, this time frame can vary depending on the specific circumstances of the case. It's important for claimants to be aware of these time limits to ensure their right to seek compensation is not lost.