Resources for Victims and Families of Accidents in Kentucky

An accident can change your life in seconds. Whether it’s a car crash on I-64, a workplace incident in Louisville, or a fall at a local business in Lexington, serious injuries or fatal outcomes can leave families reeling. Recovery isn’t just about physical healing—it often involves emotional support, legal help, and financial assistance.

This guide provides essential Kentucky accident victim resources for people navigating the aftermath of an injury or the loss of a loved one. Learn how to access medical care, get police reports, explore state services, and protect your legal rights.

Support for Injury Victims After Accidents in Kentucky

After an accident, injury victims often face hospital visits, missed work, and a mountain of paperwork. It’s important to take action quickly to care for your health and protect your ability to recover damages.

Medical and Rehabilitation Services

Kentucky offers several trauma centers and specialized recovery programs:

• University of Kentucky Albert B. Chandler Hospital (Lexington) – Level I trauma care and critical injury treatment
• University of Louisville Hospital – Full-service emergency and trauma center
• Norton Healthcare (Louisville) – Advanced rehabilitation and orthopedic care
• Frazier Rehab Institute (Multiple Locations) – Focused on spinal cord, brain injury, and stroke recovery

If you’re uninsured or need help with long-term care, contact the Kentucky Department for Public Health (KDPH) or explore local health departments.

Legal Rights After an Injury Accident

Kentucky is a no-fault state for car accidents. Your own insurance company typically pays your medical bills and lost wages, regardless of who caused the crash. This is known as Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage.

However, you may step outside the no-fault system and sue the at-fault driver if:

• Your medical expenses exceed $1,000
• You suffered a broken bone, permanent injury, or death

Kentucky also uses a pure comparative fault rule, meaning your compensation will be reduced based on your percentage of fault—even if you’re more than 50% at fault.

The statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Kentucky is one year from the date of the accident in most cases. For car accidents, it is two years from the date of the crash or the last PIP payment.

Support for Families After Fatal Accidents in Kentucky

If your loved one died due to another person’s negligence, you may have the right to file a wrongful death claim. The loss of a family member brings grief, financial pressure, and uncertainty—but you don’t have to face it alone.

Grief Counseling and Emotional Support

These organizations offer support for families after a fatal accident:

• Hosparus Health Grief Counseling Center (Louisville & Southern Indiana) – Individual and group grief counseling
• Kentucky Center for Grieving Children and Families (Lexington) – Support for youth and families experiencing loss
• The Compassionate Friends – Kentucky Chapters – Peer groups for families who’ve lost a child
• Call 988 – The national Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7 across Kentucky

Filing a Wrongful Death Claim in Kentucky

According to KRS § 411.130, a wrongful death claim in Kentucky must be filed by the personal representative of the deceased’s estate. The compensation may go to the surviving spouse, children, parents, or next of kin.

Damages may include:

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Loss of financial support
• Pain and suffering of the deceased
• Emotional loss and companionship

Wrongful death lawsuits in Kentucky must be filed within one year from the appointment of the personal representative—or within two years of the death if no appointment was made.

Accessing Police and Accident Reports in Kentucky

Accident reports are essential for filing insurance claims or pursuing legal action. They contain details about the crash, including officer findings and witness accounts.

How to Get a Kentucky Crash Report

You can request a crash report through:

• Kentucky State Police (KSP): Visit https://kentuckystatepolice.org/civilian-collision-reports/
• BuyCrash.com: Most local and state agencies in Kentucky upload crash reports here
• Local Law Enforcement Agencies: Contact the department that responded to your crash

You’ll need:

• Date and location of the accident
• Names of the drivers
• Report number (if available)
• A small fee (usually $10 to $15)

Reports are generally available within 7 to 10 business days after the accident.

Financial Help and Social Services for Accident Victims in Kentucky

Accidents often result in lost income, increased bills, and medical expenses. Fortunately, Kentucky has state programs to assist families during recovery.

Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS)

CHFS provides financial, medical, and nutritional assistance, including:

• Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) – Monthly cash payments
• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – Grocery assistance
• Medicaid and KCHIP – Healthcare coverage for adults and children
• Behavioral Health Services – Mental health and substance use programs

Apply at https://chfs.ky.gov

Kentucky Crime Victim Compensation Fund

If the accident involved a crime, such as DUI, assault, or hit-and-run, victims or their families may be eligible for assistance through the Kentucky Crime Victims Compensation Board.

Covered expenses include:

• Funeral and burial costs
• Medical care
• Mental health counseling
• Lost income

Visit https://cvcb.ky.gov or call (502) 782-8255 to learn more.

Frequently Asked Questions About Accidents in Kentucky

Here are answers to common questions from Kentucky accident victims and families.

How long do I have to file a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit?

You typically have one year to file a personal injury claim and one year from the appointment of an estate representative to file a wrongful death claim. Don’t wait—deadlines can be strict.

Can I sue someone even if Kentucky is a no-fault state?

Yes. You can sue the at-fault driver if your injuries exceed $1,000 in medical bills or involve serious harm like disfigurement or permanent disability.

What if I was partly at fault for the accident?

Under Kentucky’s pure comparative fault rule, you can still recover damages—but your award will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

How do I get a copy of my crash report?

Visit BuyCrash.com or contact the responding law enforcement agency. You’ll need basic information about the crash and a small payment.

Should I speak to a lawyer after a serious or fatal accident?

Yes. An attorney can explain your rights, handle insurance companies, and file legal claims on time. They can also help maximize your compensation.

Call a Kentucky Accident Attorney Today

Whether you’re recovering from serious injuries or coping with the sudden loss of a loved one, having the right help can make a huge difference. A skilled Kentucky accident lawyer can guide you through every step—from requesting records to filing claims and pursuing justice.

Don’t delay. Call a Kentucky accident attorney today and take control of your next steps with confidence and support.