Best Car Accident Lawyers in Florence

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Florence, Kentucky?

  The Florence Police Department receives routine calls at (859) 647-5420.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Florence, Kentucky?

  The Boone County Public Safety Communications Center has accident reports at 8100 Ewing Blvd. Suite 100, Florence, KY 41042.

• Do you need to prove fault in Florence to obtain money from the insurance company after a car crash?

  Not always, a car crash claimant in Florence does not necessarily have to prove fault before obtaining payouts from insurance companies. Florence follows Kentucky law which lets a citizen choose a choice no-fault plan, and this paradigm holds one's personal insurer liable for damage sustained regardless of blame. This is optional, and a motorist may choose a traditional at-fault policy, in which case culpability must be shown.

• If a car accident victim in Florence is under stress and just wants to get some money quickly, is it advisable to accept the defendant's insurance company's first offer?

  No, a car accident claimant in Florence should refrain from accepting the initial offer of the defendant driver's insurer even if one needs the money immediately. The company will offer a sum that's beneath the actual value of the harm sustained. It is also possible that the victim will accumulate future costs based on medical complications and these would be unrecoverable if an early payout is accepted without negotiation.

• If the victim of a car crash in Florence dies during the accident, what could the surviving loved ones obtained from the court?

  If the car accident victim dies in Florence, the surviving relatives could file a wrongful death suit and obtain various economic damages covering the lost wages, medical treatments, and the costs of burial and memorial services. Intangible losses like the deprivation of companionship and emotional or mental suffering are also recoverable.

• How long does a car accident claimant in Florence have to sue the negligent driver?

  Florence follows Kentucky law and imposes a two-year time limit within which to sue a negligent driver. The period is counted from the date when the collision happened, but if there have been basic payments made by personal insurers under a no-fault plan, the time frame begins on the last day payments were made. For wrongful death claims the deadline is one year after probate proceedings open and a representative for the departed is named.

• Can a party who was hurt in a car accident in Florence sue for damages if there was partial fault?

  A party in Florence who is partially at fault for a car accident is not prevented from seeking damages before the court. The metro follows Kentucky law which uses the pure comparative fault principle for torts. The consequence of partial fault is a proportional reduction in the damages asked, and the jurisdiction allows recovery even if the plaintiff shares most of the blame.

• How do I choose a car accident lawyer?

  To select a car accident lawyer, consider the lawyer's experience, focus, and reputation. While nearly any attorney can negotiate with insurers for a settlement, not all attorneys have amassed experience litigating a claim in a court of law. Choose an attorney with a background that includes car accident claimants; it's helpful if the attorney is focused on personal injury law. Lastly, read reviews from previous clients to get a feel for the attorney's helpfulness and responsiveness to clients. The best lawyer for your case is one that you feel comfortable and confident working with.

• What steps should I take after a car accident?

  Immediately following a car accident, get out of traffic as soon as possible and dial 9-1-1. Exchange car insurance information with any other involved drivers and get a police report as soon as possible. Be truthful about what happened, even if you are at fault, but stick to reporting the facts of the accident without offering an opinion on who is to blame. If possible, take photos of your car, other cars at the scene, and the scene itself.

• (When) Do I need a lawyer after a car accident?

  Start working with a car accident lawyer as soon as possible following your car accident (some attorneys even make hospital visits). By reaching out for legal help early on, you avoid some of the pitfalls of trying to handle your claim on your own. Your attorney can also get the ball rolling on reimbursement for your medical bills and lost wages while awaiting the outcome of your claim.

• How long after a car accident can you claim an injury?

  The length of time you can file a claim for an injury following a car accident is governed by the statute of limitations in your state. Although it varies, most states set the statute of limitations for injured parties to seek compensatory damages at three years following the accident or three years after you discover your injuries. In cases where children are injured, the statute of limitations may be longer.

• What do I do after a car accident that I'm not responsible for?

  After an accident that's not your fault, seek immediate medical help if you are injured. Once it's safe to do so, obtain the other driver's contact and insurance information, any statements from witnesses, and photos of the scene. Obtain a police report and contact your insurer and the at-fault party's insurer. If you are injured, schedule a consultation with a car accident attorney to discuss your legal options.

• What happens if someone sues you after a car accident?

  If you have car insurance in force at the time of the accident, your insurance is contractually bound to represent you on any claims that arise, indemnifying you against loss up to the limits of your policy. You can help your insurance company by cooperating fully. If the plaintiff in any lawsuit obtains a judgment above your policy limits, then you can be held personally responsible for any damages awarded.

• What/how much can I expect from a car accident settlement?

  According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average bodily injury claim in 2018 was $15,785. The amount of any particular car accident settlement hinges primarily on the severity of the injuries sustained as a result and whether or not any partial or total permanent disability was caused by the accident. Claims that involve broken bones or nerve damage likely settle for more than claims where soft tissue injuries are present.

• How do I arrange a rental car after an accident?

  To arrange a rental car after an accident, first consider whether your insurance or the other party's insurance will be paying for the rental. If another driver is found to be at-fault for the accident, that driver's insurance may pay the costs. If you are responsible, your insurance may pay if your policy covers such expenses. Speak with your insurance adjuster to determine if you have benefits available.

• How long does it take for car insurance to go back down after an accident?

  Post-accident rate spikes can last anywhere from three to five years, depending on your insurer. However, if damages incurred during the accident are less than $2,000, your rate may not go up at all. Three years is typical for collision and property damage claims. Five years is not uncommon in accidents involving bodily injury claims, DUI or DWI, reckless driving, or serious violations at the time of the accident.

• How to settle a car accident claim without a lawyer?

  To negotiate a car accident settlement without a lawyer, you'll have to prove that the other party was to blame for your damages. Gather evidence at the scene to support your claim, including witness statements and photos. Seek medical treatment for your injuries immediately. Notify the other driver's insurer of your intent to file a claim. If you reside in a no-fault state, you will need to use your personal injury protection (PIP) benefits first before filing a claim against the other party for medical expenses and bodily injury. Be prepared with medical records, police reports, receipts for out-of-pocket accident-related costs, and proof of lost income due to the accident before beginning negotiations.