Imagine driving home on a typical evening in Kentucky, the roads familiar and the traffic light. Suddenly, a vehicle swerves unexpectedly into your lane, causing a severe collision. In the immediate aftermath, as you assess the damage and deal with the shock, and recognize that the cost of medical treatment, damage to your vehicle, and potential need to miss work will have a serious impact on your finances.
This scenario, unfortunately common, brings to light the importance of knowing how to navigate the legal landscape after a serious car accident where you believe the other driver was at fault. In Kentucky, lawmakers designed laws to protect and empower accident victims, helping to better ensure they can seek rightful compensation and aid in their recovery. Two important things for any victim in this situation to know while they are navigating the aftermath of the crash include the following.
#1: You need to take action to protect your rights
After a serious car accident, taking certain steps can help protect your rights and improve your chances of receiving adequate compensation. This can include the following:
- Keep records: Keep copies and notes of all medical treatments, repairs or estimates of repairs for your vehicle, and any correspondence with insurance companies.
- Report the accident: Kentucky law requires you to file a report with the police if the accident involves injury, death, or property damage over a certain amount.
These first few steps can make a big difference if you choose to hold the other driver accountable for the cost of the accident.
#2: There is a time limit
Kentucky, like most states, puts a deadline on when victims can file these types of legal claims. Unfortunately, Kentucky’s is relatively short. The state generally provides two years from the date of the accident to move forward with the claim. Although there are some exceptions, it is in the victim’s best interest to move forward with the claim as soon as they are able to mitigate the risk that they lose this option.