Merkel & Cocke, P.A.

04/21/2026

Being injured in a hit-and-run accident can leave you feeling uncertain, but you still have legal options. Even if the driver isn’t found, you may be able to recover compensation through your own uninsured motorist coverage, which can help pay for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. In some cases, you may also have the option to pursue a lawsuit if the at-fault driver is identified. Learn more:

Injured in a hit-and-run accident in Mississippi? Learn your legal options, compensation possibilities, and what steps to take after the crash.

04/14/2026

Punitive damages are not meant to compensate victims, but to punish especially reckless or intentional misconduct and deter similar behavior in the future. In truck accident cases, they may apply when a driver or company shows gross negligence or willful disregard for safety—though they are awarded only in more extreme situations, not ordinary negligence. Learn more:

Learn what punitive damages are, when they may apply in Mississippi truck crash cases, and what evidence may support a punitive damages claim.

04/06/2026

Charles M. Merkel, Jr. has been inducted into the University of Mississippi School of Law Alumni Hall of Fame—an honor recognizing a lifetime of excellence in the legal profession.

With more than 40 years of trial experience and over 400 jury presentations, Mr. Merkel has built a career defined by complex litigation, strong advocacy, and meaningful results for clients.

We’re proud to see his contributions recognized at this level.

Read more: https://www.merkel-cocke.com/blog/charles-m-merkel-jr-inducted-into-ole-miss-law-school-hall-of-fame/

03/31/2026

Proving negligence in a slip and fall case means showing the property owner failed to keep their space safe—like ignoring hazards, poor lighting, or not warning of dangers—and that failure directly caused your injury. Learn how to build a strong claim:

Curious about how you prove negligence in a slip and fall accident? We’ve outlined what to look for to build a strong case.

03/27/2026

A jury just awarded $6 million in a landmark social media addiction case, if social media platforms contributed to your or your child’s depression, anxiety, or other harm, you may have a claim. Contact Merkel & Cocke today for a free consultation and find out your options. Read more here: https://www.merkel-cocke.com/blog/landmark-social-media-addiction-trial-results-in-6-million-verdict-how-to-take-action-if-youve-been-impacted/

Since 1982, that law firm has been Merkel & Cocke, P.A. We are one of the largest plaintiffs’ personal injury law firms in Mississippi.

03/27/2026

Workers’ compensation timelines can vary widely depending on the injury, treatment, and any disputes involved. Some claims resolve quickly, while others take months. Knowing what to expect can help you protect your rights. Learn more:

Injured at work? Read this blog about how long it usually takes to get workers’ compensation to learn more about the timeline.

12/08/2025

When you settle a personal injury case, your medical bills don’t just disappear — they must be paid from the settlement, often through negotiations with healthcare providers or insurers. Understanding how this process works can help you know what to expect when your case resolves. Learn more:

Discover what happens to your medical bills at settlement and learn how a lawyer can help you protect your compensation.

12/01/2025

Shredded truck tires along the highway are usually the result of failed or poorly maintained retreaded tires, overloaded trucks, or underinflation — all of which can create serious hazards for drivers. Learn why these blowouts happen and who may be responsible:

Learn why there are so many shredded truck tires on Mississippi highways and how to obtain compensation for accidents sustained due to these shredded truck tires.

11/24/2025

Simple mistakes — like missing deadlines, failing to report your injury, or not following medical instructions — can lead to denied workers’ compensation claims in Mississippi. Learn what to avoid to protect your right to benefits:

Discover the mistakes that can lead to denied workers’ comp claims and learn how to avoid a workers’ comp claim denial.

11/20/2025

Learn what you should do if your surgery is denied by workers’ comp and how a lawyer can help you navigate the process.

10/13/2025

When a medical professional fails to correctly identify your condition, the consequences can be serious — but there’s a difference between a misdiagnosis and a missed diagnosis. Understanding that distinction can determine how you pursue compensation. Learn more here:

If you’ve been injured by a healthcare professional, it’s important to understand what you’re facing and what steps to take. Misdiagnosis vs. missed diagnosis are often used interchangeably, but they’re different kinds of injuries that require slightly different preparation and evidence.