Lexington Car Accident Attorney
Fighting For Those Who Have Been Injured in Car Wrecks in Kentucky
A car accident can change your life in an instant. Before you know it, your world revolves around doctors’ appointments and insurance adjusters. Although you may feel overwhelmed, you do have help available. I am Jay Oakley, a Lexington trial attorney with over 15 years of legal experience. I will fight for your best interests throughout your case and handle every aspect personally. Allow me to focus on the legal issues so that you can focus on your recovery.
Call Oakley & Oakley today at (859) 712-7365 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our car accident lawyer in Lexington.
Common Causes of Car Accidents
Car accidents can be distressing, often resulting in physical injuries, property damage, and emotional trauma. Some of the most common causes of car accidents may include the following:
- Distracted Driving: One of the leading causes of car accidents is distracted driving. With the use of smartphones and other electronic devices, drivers often find themselves taking their attention away from the road.
- Speeding: Exceeding speed limits is a significant contributor to accidents. Speeding reduces a driver's reaction time and increases the severity of collisions.
- Impaired Driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs poses a serious risk to road safety. Impaired drivers are more likely to cause accidents due to compromised judgment and coordination.
- Reckless Driving: Aggressive and reckless behavior on the road, such as tailgating and weaving between lanes, can lead to accidents. Such actions disregard the safety of others sharing the road.
- Weather Conditions: Adverse weather conditions, such as rain, snow, or fog, can make roads slippery and decrease visibility, contributing to accidents.
What to Do After a Car Accident
You may not know what you should or should not do after an accident. Here are a few tips to follow:
- Seek medical help right away: Do not put this off. Even if you feel OK immediately following the accident, many injuries are not obvious right away but become evident later. The sooner you seek help, the better your chances of recovery are. It also creates an important record for your case.
- Remember that the insurance company is not your friend: These companies exist to make money and do so by paying as little as possible for your claim or denying it altogether. They have a team of attorneys looking for cracks in your claim. If they offer you money, remember that this is the lowest amount they think they can get away with offering you, and I hope you will accept it before talking to an attorney about what your case is truly worth.
- Be careful about who you talk to regarding your case and your injury: The other side may try to twist your comments into an admission of guilt for causing the accident or may try to prove that you are not as injured as you claim. When in doubt, talk to me first.
- Leave your accident off of social media: Similar to the above tip, you could innocently make a comment that the other side will twist against you. It’s much safer to avoid any mention of your accident or injuries on social media.
Throughout the process, I will be there to guide you and offer my advice and support. I will handle all aspects of your case personally. If you ever have questions about the right course of action, please reach out and discuss them with me.
What Damages Could Be Recovered in a Car Accident Claim?
When a negligent driver injures you in an accident, you have the right to recover certain damages or compensation for those injuries. Damages can include:
- Property damage and rental car fees
- Medical expenses and future medical costs
- Lost wages and lost earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
Kentucky law allows for a variety of insurance coverage choices, which may affect which damages are covered. I will help you review your coverage to make sure you receive all the compensation you need.
The amount you receive will depend on many factors. Every accident is different. For example, if your accident involved a motorcycle or a commercial delivery truck, you may have much more severe injuries than the average car accident. If you lost a loved one in an accident, I can assist you with a wrongful death claim, which requires a slightly different process.
What is the Statute of Limitations for Car Accident Claims in Kentucky?
Understanding the legal timeframe within which a car accident claim must be filed is crucial. In Kentucky, the statute of limitations for car accident claims is a vital factor that individuals need to be aware of when seeking legal recourse.
The statute of limitations in Kentucky for personal injury claims, including those arising from car accidents, is generally two years from the date of the incident. This means that individuals have a limited window of time to initiate legal proceedings after being involved in a car accident.
Failure to file a claim within the specified timeframe can lead to the loss of the right to seek compensation for damages. Therefore, it is imperative for individuals to consult with an experienced Lexington car accident attorney at Oakley & Oakley promptly after an accident to ensure that their legal rights are protected.
Contact Our Car Accident Lawyer in Lexington Today
At Oakley & Oakley, LLC, I am here to help. Additionally, with personal injury cases, I only charge a fee if I collect damages on your behalf. To schedule a free consultation, call my office at 859-712-7365 or send a message online.
Contact Oakley & Oakley today to get started with our Lexington car accident attorney.
Have a Question?
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What if the other driver doesn’t have insurance?
Even if the other driver is breaking Kentucky law by driving without insurance, you may be able to file an uninsured motorist claim with your own insurance company. I will walk you through your policy and explain how this works.
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How long will my case take?
The answer is different for everyone. It may take time to figure out the extent of your damages, especially if you have a severe, life-altering injury. It also depends on whether you wish to settle or take your case to court. I will be able to give you an estimate when we review your case together.
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What kind of damages am I entitled to from my car accident?
When someone else’s negligence causes your car accident, you have the right to recover the following compensation:
- Lost wages if you miss work
- Property damage to your car
- Medical bills for your injuries
- Pain and suffering
- Permanent disabilities
- Reduced earning potential