The national guide covers negligence, torts, damages, defenses and liability policy structure. This guide covers the Mississippi statutes that apply those concepts. They are comparative negligence, the 45-day notice law for liability policies, and the limits on certificates of insurance.

Comparative negligence (Miss. Code 11-7-15)

• Contributory negligence does not bar recovery.
• Damages are diminished in proportion to the injured person's negligence. Mississippi applies this however large the claimant's share. For example, a claimant 40% at fault on a $50,000 loss recovers $30,000.

Cancellation and nonrenewal notice (83-5-28)

• The notice rules are written into every liability, fire and multiperil policy (83-5-28(2)).
• For coverage issued or renewed on or after July 1, 2026, cancellation, nonrenewal, reduction or less favorable renewal terms need at least 45 days' notice. It was 30 before HB 1611 of 2025. The notice goes to the insured and any named creditor loss payee.
• Nonpayment is excluded. With a named creditor loss payee, at least 10 days' notice applies.
• If the insurer doesn't comply, the insured may keep the policy for the rest of the notice period plus 45 days at the existing terms (83-5-28(6)).
• A transfer to an affiliate requires notice to the Department 45 days before policyholders are told (83-5-28(4)).

Certificates of insurance (19 Miss. Admin. Code Pt. 5, Ch. 5)

• A certificate, binder or similar document may not amend, extend or alter the policy's coverage (Rule 5.04(A)).
• No insurer or producer may issue an agent's opinion letter saying a policy covers something it doesn't (Rule 5.04(E)).
• A producer's violation can lead to suspension, revocation or a fine under 83-17-71(1)(b) (Rule 5.06).

Workers' compensation notice

WC policies have their own 45-day notice rule, which requires notice to the Workers' Compensation Commission (71-3-77). See the Mississippi WC guide.

Common exam traps

• Mississippi: a claimant's negligence reduces damages and never bars them.
• Liability policies: 45 days' notice for coverage on or after July 1, 2026. Nonpayment with a loss payee: 10 days.
• Late notice extends coverage by the rest of the notice period plus 45 days.
• Certificates can't expand coverage, and opinion letters claiming coverage are banned.