Best Car Accident Lawyers in Owensboro, KY

FAQs

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

  The Owensboro Police Department can be contacted for non-emergency situations by calling (270) 687 8888. This phone number is used for cases like burglaries that are not in progress, car accidents with no injuries involved, vandalism, noise from parties, cold shoplifts, and abandoned vehicles.

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

  Requesting a copy of a car accident police report in Owensboro may be done by mail or walk-ins. For car accident report requests, details such as the case number, name of the driver or car owner, and the date and location of the accident are required for processing. Private or sensitive information might not be accessible to all parties due to confidentiality issues.

• How much time do car accident victims have to file their claim in Owensboro?

  Car accident victims in the area of Owensboro have one year from the date of the incident to file for their claim or lawsuit. One year can be considered a short time compared with other states, and if more than a year has passed, the victim may not be allowed to file their lawsuit unless they have a valid reason for an exception.

• Can a partially at-fault person in a car accident in Owensboro file for a personal injury claim?

  The answer is yes. The state of Kentucky adheres to a "pure comparative negligence rule," which means that a car accident victim in Owensboro can still submit a claim and request compensation for injuries even if they share some of the fault. However, the settlement or verdict won't be as large as it would be if the claimant did not in any way contribute to the accident.

• What kinds of damages are recoverable for car accidents occurring in Owensboro?

  Victims of car accidents in Owensboro are entitled to recover two types of damages. The first one is economic damages. These are simple to value-calculate, such as medical expenses, property damage, and lost wages. The second type is non-economic damages, which are harder to calculate, like pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of quality of life.

• What are the common reasons for car accidents in Owensboro?

  Car accidents in Owensboro happen for common reasons like driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, speeding, distracted driving, exhaustion, and extreme weather conditions. Although the number of car collisions has declined in the state of Kentucky, these factors contribute to more than 600 automotive accidents each year that cause serious injuries and sometimes fatalities.

• How can a car accident victim in Owensboro prove the liability of the other party?

  Car accident attorneys in Owensboro must establish the other party's liability by demonstrating that the four criteria of negligence have been satisfied to establish liability based on a preponderance of the evidence. The four elements are the duty of care, breach of duty, causation, and damages. Plaintiffs must demonstrate that they suffered harm as a result of the other party's negligence.

• 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.