Car Accidents
What Should I Do Immediately After a Car Accident in Kentucky?
Move to a safe location, check for injuries, call 911, exchange information, take photos, and seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Do I Need to Report a Car Accident to the Police in Kentucky?
Yes, if there is injury, death, or property damage over $500. You must also file a written report with the Kentucky State Police.
How Is Fault Determined in a Kentucky Car Accident?
Fault is based on evidence like police reports, witness statements, traffic laws, and physical damage. Kentucky uses a comparative fault system.
What Is Kentucky’s Statute of Limitations for Car Accident Claims?
Generally, you have two years from the date of the accident or the last no-fault insurance payment to file a personal injury claim.
Truck Accidents
Are Truck Accidents Handled Differently Than Car Accidents?
Yes. Truck accidents often involve federal regulations, multiple liable parties, and more complex investigations and damages.
Who Can Be Held Liable in a Truck Accident?
Potentially the driver, trucking company, vehicle manufacturer, cargo loaders, or maintenance providers, depending on the circumstances.
What Federal Regulations Apply to Truck Drivers?
Truck drivers must follow Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) rules covering hours of service, licensing, and vehicle maintenance.
Motorcycle Accidents
Do Motorcycle Riders Need Insurance in Kentucky?
Yes. Motorcyclists must carry liability insurance, but they are not covered under Kentucky’s no-fault PIP system unless they opt in.
Can Not Wearing a Helmet Affect a Motorcycle Injury Claim?
Yes. Not wearing a helmet may reduce compensation if it contributed to the severity of the injuries, especially for riders under 21.
What Are Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents?
Driver inattention, failure to yield, left-turn accidents, speeding, lane splitting, and hazardous road conditions are common causes.
Pedestrian Accidents
Can a Pedestrian Be at Fault for a Car Accident?
Yes. Pedestrians can share or carry full liability if they violated traffic laws or acted negligently, such as jaywalking.
What Compensation Can a Pedestrian Claim After Being Hit?
Pedestrians can claim compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related damages.
Rideshare Accidents
Who Is Liable in an Uber or Lyft Accident?
Liability depends on the driver’s status at the time of the crash. It could be the driver’s insurance or the rideshare company’s policy.
Does Uber Insurance Cover Passengers?
Uber provides up to $1 million in liability coverage for passengers during trips, but coverage varies based on trip status.
Can You Sue Both Uber and the Driver After a Crash?
Possibly. You may sue the driver for negligence and pursue coverage under Uber’s insurance policy, but suing Uber directly is complex.
DUI Accidents
Can I Sue a Drunk Driver in Kentucky?
Yes. Victims of DUI crashes can file civil lawsuits for damages in addition to any criminal charges the driver faces.
Are DUI Accident Cases Treated Differently Than Other MVAs?
Yes. DUI cases often involve punitive damages and can lead to enhanced liability due to the driver’s reckless conduct.
Neck Injuries After an Accident
What Are the Most Common Neck Injuries From a Car Accident?
Whiplash, herniated discs, cervical sprains, fractures, and nerve compression are among the most common neck injuries sustained in vehicle collisions.
How Long Do Neck Injuries Last After a Car Crash?
Minor neck injuries like whiplash may resolve in days or weeks, while more serious conditions, such as herniated discs, can persist for months or longer.
Should I See a Doctor if I Have Neck Pain After an Accident?
Yes. Neck pain can indicate soft tissue damage or spinal injury. Prompt medical evaluation is important for diagnosis, treatment, and documentation.
Can I File a Claim for Whiplash After a Car Accident?
Yes. Whiplash is a valid injury claim if supported by medical evidence. Compensation may include medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
What Types of Evidence Support a Neck Injury Claim?
Medical records, imaging (MRI or X-rays), doctor testimony, pain journals, and proof of missed work or daily limitations can help support your claim.
General MVA
What Is PIP Insurance and Does It Apply to All MVA Cases?
Personal Injury Protection (PIP) pays medical expenses regardless of fault but does not apply to motorcycles unless added separately.
Can I File a Claim if I Was Partially at Fault?
Yes. Under Kentucky’s comparative fault law, you can recover damages reduced by your percentage of fault.
What Documentation Should I Gather After a Motor Vehicle Accident?
Collect the police report, photos of the scene, medical records, witness contact info, and insurance details for all parties involved.