Key Points of This Article:
- Different types of insurance may cover your expenses after a hit and run accident.
- Kentucky law dictates who is eligible for compensation after a hit and run accident as well as how a victim can file a claim.
- Hiring an experienced hit and run attorney is beneficial if you need to file a claim after a hit and run accident.
Car accidents can happen anytime, anywhere, so it’s impossible to prepare yourself for them. It’s important to know the laws in your state should you be faced with a hit-and-run accident, which can be particularly difficult to deal with. Here are the hit and run accident laws in Kentucky and how these laws affect your ability to file a claim if you were the victim of a hit-and-run accident.
Types of Insurance Coverage for Hit and Run Victims
In the unfortunate event of a hit-and-run, recovering damages can be a challenging task. However, there are insurance options available to provide financial protection and peace of mind.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Uninsured motorist coverage is an optional insurance type that assists in recovering damages in hit-and-run accidents. It helps pay for damages when the other driver is uninsured or cannot be identified. While most states have minimum required coverage, it is possible to choose higher levels for increased protection.
Collision Coverage
Collision coverage is another insurance option that aids in recovering damages in hit-and-run accidents. It covers repairs to your vehicle regardless of fault. If your vehicle sustains damage in a hit-and-run incident, collision coverage can help cover the repair costs.
Comprehensive Coverage
Comprehensive coverage is designed to cover damages to your vehicle that result from non-collision incidents. For example, if your vehicle is damaged in a hit-and-run where someone throws a rock through your window, comprehensive coverage can help with the repair expenses.
Kentucky Laws and Their Impact on Hit and Run Claims
Navigating the aftermath of a hit-and-run can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to understanding the legal requirements and options for seeking compensation. In Kentucky, drivers must adhere to reporting requirements and statutes of limitations to recover damages.
Reporting Requirements
In Kentucky, drivers involved in an accident must stop at the scene, exchange information, and report the incident to the police within 24 hours if the other driver cannot be found. Failing to do so can lead to criminal charges and affect your ability to recover damages.
Statute of Limitations
Kentucky has a statute of limitations for filing personal injury claims. This means there is a limited timeframe to file hit and run accident reports. Missing the deadline can result in being unable to seek compensation.
Comparative Fault
Kentucky follows a comparative fault system, which means the amount of damages you can receive may be reduced based on your degree of fault. If you were partially at fault for the hit-and-run accident, your damages may be proportionally reduced.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
While uninsured motorist coverage is optional in Kentucky, it can be valuable for hit-and-run victims. This coverage helps recover damages when the responsible party cannot be identified or is uninsured.
Evidence
Evidence plays a crucial role in determining fault and liability in hit-and-run cases. In Kentucky, the burden of proof rests on the plaintiff to demonstrate the other driver’s fault. Seeking assistance from an attorney can aid in gathering and presenting the necessary evidence.
How Rhoads & Rhoads Attorneys Can Help
The experienced car accident lawyers at Rhoads & Rhoads can provide legal advice on your rights and options, explaining the laws concerning hit-and-runs and guiding you through the process of seeking compensation. We can also be an invaluable resource in assisting with insurance claims. We will help you navigate the complex claims process, negotiate with insurance companies, and ensure you receive a fair settlement. The average settlement for a hit and run car accident depends on multiple factors, but we will work hard to get you the best possible settlement available. If a settlement cannot be reached, we will represent you in court, building a strong case and advocating on your behalf to help you recover the compensation you deserve.
Contact a Hit and Run Accident Lawyer
Recovering damages after a hit and run can be challenging, but understanding the available insurance coverage and the legal considerations. If you’ve been the victim of a hit and run accident, contact us at Rhoads & Rhoads Attorneys at Law. We will help you navigate your claim and get the compensation you deserve. Give us a call at 888-709-9329 or fill out our online form for your free case evaluation.