Ross F. Mann | March 27, 2025 | Car Accidents
If you’ve been in a car accident in Lexington, KY, you may be wondering how to get compensation for your injuries and vehicle damage. Car accident settlements help victims recover money for medical bills, property damage, and other losses. Understanding how the settlement process works can make it easier to navigate and ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
Is Kentucky a No-Fault State?
Yes, Kentucky is a no-fault state, which means that after most car accidents, your own insurance company will cover your medical expenses and other financial losses, regardless of who caused the crash. This is called Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage.
PIP usually covers:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Replacement services
However, if your injuries are serious or your costs exceed a certain amount, you may be able to step outside the no-fault system and file a claim against the at-fault driver.
When Can You File a Claim Against the Other Driver?
In Kentucky, you can file a claim against the at-fault driver if your injuries or damages meet certain conditions. These include:
- Medical expenses exceeding $1,000
- Broken bones
- Permanent disfigurement or disability
- Death
When these conditions are met, you may pursue compensation beyond your PIP coverage by filing a claim or lawsuit against the driver who caused the accident.
How Does the Settlement Process Work?
The car accident settlement process in Kentucky usually follows these steps:
- File a claim – Notify your insurance company and provide details about the accident.
- Investigation – The insurance company investigates the accident, reviews medical records, and assesses the damage.
- Negotiate a settlement – The insurance company offers a settlement amount. You can accept it or negotiate for a higher amount.
- Accept or reject the offer – If you accept the offer, the case is settled. If not, you can proceed to file a lawsuit.
If a fair settlement isn’t reached, a car accident lawyer in Lexington can help you file a lawsuit and fight for the compensation you deserve.
What Damages Can You Recover?
When you file a claim after a car accident, you may be able to recover compensation for different types of damages, including:
- Medical expenses – Doctor visits, hospital stays, surgery, and rehabilitation.
- Property damage – Repairs or replacement of your vehicle.
- Lost wages – Money you missed out on while recovering.
- Pain and suffering – Compensation for emotional and physical distress.
A Lexington car accident attorney can help calculate the value of your damages and make sure you’re not accepting less than what you’re owed.
How Long Do You Have to File a Claim in Kentucky?
In Kentucky, the statute of limitations for filing a car accident claim is two years from the date of the accident or the last PIP payment. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your chance to recover compensation. It’s best to act quickly and talk to a lawyer as soon as possible to protect your rights.
Why You Should Consider Hiring a Lawyer
While it’s possible to handle a car accident claim on your own, working with a car accident lawyer in Lexington can make the process easier and increase your chances of getting a fair settlement. A lawyer can:
- Gather evidence and build a strong case
- Negotiate with the insurance company
- Fight for maximum compensation
- Handle legal paperwork and deadlines
If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, your lawyer can take the case to court to get the compensation you deserve.
Understanding how a car accident settlement works in Kentucky can help you make informed decisions after a crash. Whether you’re dealing with PIP coverage or pursuing a claim against an at-fault driver, knowing your rights is key. If you’re unsure how to proceed or want to make sure you receive fair compensation, a Lexington car accident lawyer can guide you through the process and protect your interests.
Contact the Lexington Personal Injury Lawyers of Ross Mann Personal Injury Lawyers for Help Today
If you were injured in an accident in Lexington, and need legal help, contact our personal injury attorneys at Ross Mann Personal Injury Lawyers, to schedule a free case review today.
We proudly serve Fayette County and the surrounding areas.
Ross Mann Personal Injury Lawyers – Lexington
501 Darby Creek Rd UNIT 48
Lexington, KY 40509
(859) 413-3900