Reviewed by Larry Forman, Attorney.
Sometimes the police never come, and you are left with no police report. The dispatcher says no one is hurt so no officer is available, or everyone seems fine and agrees to just swap phone numbers. A day later your neck hurts, and the other driver’s insurer says it has “no record” of what happened. You can still bring a claim without a police report. You just need to build the record yourself, and fast.
When Kentucky requires you to call police
Under KRS 189.580(6), a driver involved in a crash on a highway must immediately notify 911 or police if anyone is killed, if anyone has a known or visible injury, or if a vehicle can’t be driven. Even if those conditions don’t apply, calling is usually smart. An officer’s report records who was involved, the insurance information, witnesses and the scene.
The 10-day civilian report
If no officer investigated, Kentucky law requires a driver to file a written report with Kentucky State Police within 10 days when the crash caused an injury, a death, or $500 or more in total property damage (KRS 189.580(7)). That report also creates an official record of your version of events. Read about Kentucky State Police accident reports.
How to prove what happened with no police report
- Photos and video of both vehicles, the plates, the other driver’s license and insurance card, the scene, and the damage.
- Witnesses. Get names and phone numbers. Even a passenger in your car counts.
- Dashcams and nearby cameras. Businesses and doorbell cameras record over themselves within days. See dashcam footage after a crash.
- Texts and messages with the other driver, especially any admission like “sorry, I didn’t see you.”
- Vehicle damage and repair estimates, which show where and how hard the impact was. See accident reconstruction.
- Medical records made soon after the crash that describe how you were hurt.
Do I need a witness?
No. Many claims succeed without an independent witness. The physical evidence, the damage pattern and your own testimony can prove fault. A witness helps most when the other driver changes their story. See what to do if the other driver lies.
Report it to insurance right away
Tell your own insurer promptly and open your PIP claim. Kentucky PIP pays up to $10,000 for medical bills and lost wages regardless of fault, and a police report isn’t required to claim it. See how Kentucky PIP insurance works. Be careful with the other driver’s insurer. You don’t have to give a recorded statement. See recorded statements.
Get medical care
Injuries like whiplash and concussions often show up hours or days later. Waiting weeks to see a doctor lets the insurer argue the crash didn’t cause your injury. See delayed symptoms and gaps in treatment.
Deadlines still apply
Most Kentucky car accident lawsuits must be filed within two years after the injury or the last PIP payment, whichever is later (KRS 304.39-230(6)). If you were hit by a driver who left, see hit-and-run accidents; uninsured motorist policies can have their own notice requirements.
For the basics of getting a report when there is one, see how to get a Kentucky accident report. If you were hurt, our Louisville car accident lawyer page explains how we can help.
FAQ: car accidents with no police report
Can I file an insurance claim with no police report in Kentucky?
Yes. Neither PIP nor a liability claim requires a police report. You’ll need other proof, like photos, witness information, damage and medical records.
Do I have to report a car accident to police in Kentucky?
You must notify 911 or police right away if anyone is killed or has a known or visible injury, or if a vehicle can’t be driven (KRS 189.580(6)). If no officer investigates a crash with injury or $500 or more in damage, you must file a written report with Kentucky State Police within 10 days (KRS 189.580(7)).
What if the police refused to come to my accident?
Get the other driver’s information and insurance, take photos, collect witness names, and file the civilian report with Kentucky State Police within 10 days if the crash involved injury or $500 or more in damage.
Is it too late to report a car accident days later?
Not necessarily. File the civilian report within the 10-day window if it applies, and tell your insurer right away. Waiting longer makes the claim harder to prove.
No police report? We can still build the proof.
Tell us what happened. We’ll explain your options and what to do next. The consultation is free. Get a free case evaluation or call (502) 931-6788. Our office is at 1139 S. 4th St., Louisville.
This post is general information about Kentucky law, not legal advice. Every case is different.
