What Should I Do Immediately After a Car Accident in Kentucky?

The state of Kentucky is no stranger to car accidents. In 2022, 762 people lost their lives in the Bluegrass State. In the aftermath of a crash, you may be in a state of shock, unsure of what to do. If you believe that you caused the crash, you may want to readily admit fault or even flee the scene to avoid the police.

Our car accident lawyers understand what steps you should take immediately after a collision to preserve your rights. If you live in Pikeville or the surrounding areas in Kentucky, we can help you pursue the justice and compensation you deserve.

Move Your Vehicle to a Safe Location

If your car can still be driven, you should move it to the side of the road, out of the way of traffic. Failing to do so could result in a secondary collision.

Call 911

If you or anyone involved in the crash suffered injuries, you will want to call 911 immediately. Seeking medical attention should be your number one priority before anything else. If any other drivers or passengers seem confused or disoriented, this may be a sign of a traumatic brain injury. Anybody who is experiencing physical or mental impairments must receive medical treatment as soon as possible.

Contact the Police

Under Kentucky law, if anyone is injured or killed, or if there is at least $500 in property damage, you need to contact law enforcement. If law enforcement does not arrive on the scene, you are legally required to report the accident to the Kentucky State Police. You only have ten days to report the crash.

Document the Accident Scene

Following your collision, you should take photos of any vehicle wreckage, skid marks, and property damage (knocked down telephone poles, dented mailboxes, etc.). Additionally, you will want to get a picture of the intersection or street where the crash occurred as a point of reference.

If you sustained injuries, take pictures of your wounds or broken bones. If a pedestrian gets video footage of the crash, you will want their name and number. A video will show the accident unfolding in real time, which can erase any uncertainty regarding which driver is responsible for the crash.

Exchange Information with the Other Drivers

If you can speak with the other drivers involved in the crash, get their names, numbers, and insurance information. Even if you believe you partly caused the crash (or entirely caused the crash!), do not admit fault. In admitting fault, you may give up your right to recover damages.

Contact Our Car Accident Lawyers

At Wilt Injury Lawyers, our personal injury attorneys will investigate your crash and collect the necessary evidence to prove another driver’s liability. Moreover, we will negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf. This will increase your chances of recovering maximum compensation. To get started, contact us online or by phone to schedule your free consultation.