If you were hurt in a car wreck in Kentucky, you might be able to recover compensation for your associated losses. Before you put together a third-party claim for the liable motorist’s insurer, though, it’s wise to consult an auto accident lawyer. Because Kentucky has a no-fault system, injured parties may only take action against those responsible for the wreck in certain scenarios. Otherwise, they must file a claim under their personal injury protection (PIP) policy. 

What Does Personal Injury Protection Cover?

In addition to liability coverage, motorists in Kentucky are obligated to purchase at least $10,000 per accident in personal injury protection. This coverage applies if the policyholder is involved in a wreck that’s not work-related, regardless of the role they played. The coverage will reimburse them for healthcare expenses, 85% of their lost wages up to $200 per week, and reasonably necessary replacement services up to the policy’s limit. 

When Can Victims Bypass the No-Fault System?

If your PIP coverage doesn’t even come close to compensating you for the losses you incur following a wreck, an auto accident lawyer may be able to help you file a third-party claim with the liable motorist’s carrier. As long as you meet the state’s serious injury threshold, you can bypass the state’s no-fault system. 

Car accident victims in Kentucky may have grounds for legal action against those who were responsible for their injuries if they incur:

• More than $1,000 in medical bills;
• A broken bone;
• Permanent disfigurement;
• Permanent injury; or
• The death of a loved one.

Since a successful personal injury claim will yield considerably more compensation than a PIP claim—PIP doesn’t cover non-monetary losses like pain and suffering, after all—it’s advisable to bypass the no-fault system if you meet any of the above criteria.

If you were hurt in a motor vehicle collision, turn to Danny E. Darnall, Attorney at Law, to see if you should proceed with a third-party claim. Practicing out of Elizabethtown, KY, this seasoned auto accident lawyer has been in the field for more than 40 years and is well-versed in many accident scenarios, including car, truck, motorcycle, bicycle, and pedestrian. To learn more about his approach to personal injury law, visit his website. To request a consultation with this auto accident lawyer, call (270) 769-9179.