Minor Car Accident in Kentucky: What to Do When No One Seems Hurt

Kentucky law requires drivers in a crash to stop, give reasonable help to anyone injured and exchange names, addresses, vehicle registration and insurance information. If a crash on an interstate or parkway involves no injury and the vehicles can be moved, the drivers should move them off the roadway (KRS 189.580).

Drivers must also notify police right away if anyone is injured or killed, or if a vehicle can’t be driven normally (KRS 189.635). Even when a report isn’t required, a police report can help resolve disputes about what happened. See what to do after a car accident in Louisville.

1. Check yourself and passengers for injuries.
2. Turn on hazard lights and move to safety if you can.
3. Photograph both cars, plates, the scene and any skid marks or debris.
4. Exchange information and get names and phone numbers of witnesses.
5. Don’t apologize or guess about fault; just describe the facts.
6. Notify your own insurance company promptly.
7. Keep receipts for towing, rental cars and repairs.

Neck and back injuries and concussions can take hours or days to show symptoms. If pain starts later, get checked and tell the provider about the crash. Our guides on head injury symptoms and soft tissue injuries explain what to watch for.

• Medical bills and lost wages: Kentucky’s no-fault PIP coverage generally pays these first, regardless of fault. See how Kentucky PIP works.
• Car damage: paid by the at-fault driver’s property damage liability coverage, or by your collision coverage minus your deductible.
• Your rates: see insurance rates after a not-at-fault accident.

To recover pain and suffering from an at-fault driver, Kentucky’s no-fault law generally requires more than $1,000 in medical expenses, or an injury such as a fracture, permanent injury, permanent disfigurement or permanent loss of bodily function (KRS 304.39-060).

Often, no. If no one was hurt and the property damage is being paid fairly, you can usually handle it yourself. Talk with a lawyer if injuries show up, the other insurer disputes fault or delays, or you’re asked for a recorded statement about an injury. Our do I need a lawyer guide and “Do I have a case?” checker can help you decide.

Most Kentucky personal injury claims must be filed within one year (KRS 413.140). Most motor vehicle injury claims have two years from the injury or the last PIP payment, whichever is later (KRS 304.39-230).