Filing a Car Accident Claim in Kentucky? Don’t Miss These 7 Crucial Steps

A car accident can be a stressful experience, but a car insurance claim doesn't have to be. If you're injured or the car is damaged, then knowledge of how it's conducted may give you more control over the situation and be more confident in its future developments. If you're dealing with insurance adjusters, or stressing with medical costs, then Kentucky car accident attorneys will be there to walk you through each process of making a car accident claim.

Step 1: Seek Medical Attention

Make your health the prime concern. A doctor's checkup is vital even if your injuries don't appear severe. Write down an account of the accident not only because you want to protect yourself and your health, but also to establish a medical record that connects your injuries with the accident which is a major component of your claim.

Step 2: Report the Accident

The law in Kentucky requires one to report the accident to the police when an accident causes bodily injuries, death, or property damage that exceeds $500. A police report is a report written using facts - not a subjective opinion - and can serve as useful evidence in filling out your claim.

Step 3: Learn the Kentucky No-Fault Insurance Rule

In Kentucky, if you get into a car accident, your auto insurance will cover your medical bills and other costs, no matter who was at fault. But in the case of severe injuries, or when injuries are above a particular limit of severity, you can leave the no-fault system and pursue a claim against the responsible driver. As this is the most stressful step, Kentucky car accident attorneys can make the undertaking a lot more painless.

Step 4: Collect and Preserve Evidence

Documentation is key. The more evident your evidence are; the better your claim will be. Gather everything you can:

● Pictures of accident scenes, injuries, damages, etc.

● The police report

● Medical records and bills

● Contact information for witnesses

● Insurance and driver info from all parties involved

Step 5: Inform the Insurance Companies

You'll be required to inform your insurer of the accident at the earliest possible time. If your accident is eligible for a third-party claim, you have options with the other party's insurance company. Be wary of what you say, don't accept a quick settlement offer without talking it over with a lawyer - they are usually much lower than what your claim is worth.

Step 6: Be Familiar with the Time Limits

The statute of limitation act is designed with the aim of offering the other driver a notification on the personal injury claim he/she may have on him. In Kentucky, the limit is usually two years after the accident or the date of your last PIP payment. Regarding property damages, the fixed period is also two years. You'll risk your claim when you fail to meet the deadlines.

Step 7: Consult a Car Crash Lawyer

Going through the claims process yourself can be intimidating, particularly after you get hurt. It's the reason why people prefer to hire competent Kentucky car accident attorneys who can:

● Handle communication with insurance companies

● Investigate the accident and gather evidence

● Calculate your claim's total amount appropriately

● Negotiate a fair settlement

● Bring a case, should it be necessary

The proper legal representation would enable you to carry on with healing as your attorney does the legal heavy lifting.

Final Thoughts

Claiming a car accident in Kentucky is complicated, that's why taking these essential steps, timely filing, and making crucial decisions are all vital. Being familiar with the process may allow you to prevent making errors that can damage your case.