Bardstown Rear-End Accident Lawyer

If you’ve been rear ended, you’re probably wondering if the driver that hit you is automatically at fault or who pays for accident expenses in a rear-end collision. These questions are valid and can be answered in a free consultation with a Bardstown car accident lawyer from McCoy and Hiestand.

The aftermath of any auto collision can be stressful to manage or difficult to evaluate without the help of a Bardstown personal injury lawyer who knows the ins and outs of personal injury law. Instead of facing the insurance company alone, allow our legal team to manage the details of your case while you focus on healing from your injuries.

Who Is at Fault for a Rear-End Collision in Kentucky?

Determining fault in a rear-end collision can be straightforward, but there are instances in which additional parties may be to blame. Generally, the car behind you is responsible for maintaining a safe distance while driving. However, there may be situations like poor road conditions, multiple parties involved, or the front driver slamming on their brakes that change that.

Each state has different regulations around assigning fault. Kentucky is a no-fault state, which means that each party – regardless of fault – is eligible to receive up to $10,000 in compensation from their own insurance company.  In addition, the at fault party’s insurance company will still be liable for damages caused.

While this system protects all parties from drawn-out legal battles, if your injuries and damages rise above the no-fault amount of insurance coverage – or if you sustained a significant injury like a broken bone – you can file a lawsuit against the at-fault party.

Steps to Get the Highest Compensation If You File a Lawsuit

Every car accident has particulars that set it apart from other collisions. The details of your case may require certain aspects that others don’t and can best be assessed with a car accident lawyer.

If you are still deciding if hiring a lawyer is the best approach for you, implementing some important Dos and Don’ts will help secure a higher personal injury settlement:

1. Prioritize your health: Seek immediate medical attention to address your injuries and establish a record of your condition.
2. Document, document, document: Keep meticulous records of accident-related information, including medical bills, expenses, and evidence like photos or witness statements.
3. Preserve crucial evidence: If possible, gather evidence from the accident scene that supports your claim, such as photos or videos.
4. Avoid Early Settlements: Don’t accept quick settlement offers without consulting your attorney first, as they may undervalue your damages.

Consulting with a Bardstown rear-end accident attorney will provide you with the legal knowledge needed to know the true worth of your case, what to avoid saying to the insurance company, and your legal rights.

How to Collect Compensation After a Rear-End Collision in Bardstown

Since Kentucky operates under a no-fault system, collecting compensation may be more complex than it would be in an at-fault state. However, hope is not lost. There are instances in which you may be able to step outside of the no-fault rule and seek a settlement from a lawsuit. Your losses just have to meet Kentucky’s threshold of severity.

A knowledgeable Bardstown personal injury lawyer can assess if you meet the criteria under which you may recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. Don’t leave economic losses and non-economic damages on the table by bypassing the opportunity to work with a qualified legal professional.

Kentucky’s Legal Deadline to File a Rear-End Accident Claim

In Kentucky, there are specific time limits, known as statutes of limitations, within which you must file a lawsuit for personal injury following your rear-end accident. These time limits vary depending on the type of claim involved. For instance, the statute of limitations for personal injury is typically one year in non-auto collision cases such as slip and fall accidents.

However, the statute of limitations for car accident injury cases is generally two years from the date of the injury. This means you have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit seeking compensation.

The statutes of limitations can be subject to change and may have exceptions or different rules in specific cases. It’s always best to consult with a Bardstown rear-end collision attorney who can provide accurate and up-to-date information based on the specific details of your auto wreck.

Contact a Bardstown Accident Attorney Regarding Your Rear-End Accident Today

The most vital thing you can do to win a settlement check – outside of Kentucky’s no-fault regulations – is to contact a skilled rear-end accident lawyer.

The complexities of the legal process can be simplified with the guided assistance of McCoy & Hiestand. Contact us today to schedule a complimentary case evaluation, and we will handle the rest.