Fighting For You After A Car Accident

Last updated on June 10, 2025

If you have been in a car accident, you are facing a difficult time. The physical and emotional recovery, as well as the possibility of a lawsuit in the near future, can be overwhelming challenges. You should not try to go it alone. You need the help of an effective legal team that will care about your situation and help you get the compensation you deserve.

At Gatlin Voelker, our lawyers have decades of combined experience helping personal injury victims throughout Northern Kentucky and Ohio. When you work with our firm, we truly care about you and give you the best service possible. You are not a case number to us; you are a person, and we are here to help you. Our lawyers will walk by your side throughout the process to make sure you feel comfortable with how we are handling your case and make sure you get the best compensation award possible.

Maximizing Your Settlement

One of the most important pieces of advice we can give you after an auto accident is: do not accept the insurance company’s offer.

• First, accepting a settlement offer also includes signing a release against further liability. This means that you cannot obtain further damage awards from the insurance company.
• Second, there are almost always further injuries and long-term medical issues that do not arise immediately after an accident. Many internal injuries are not apparent right away. Further, the long-term medical expenses, medical fees and adaptive technologies you might need will almost certainly be more expensive than you think at first.
• Third, the primary goal of insurance companies in accident situations is to pay accident victims the least amount possible. While the initial offer might seem generous, bear in mind that insurance agents are experts trying to underpay you. The offer will not be the best offer you could get.

Our attorneys know how to handle insurance company agents in car accident claims. We can help you assess the true value of your case and make sure you get the full compensation award to which you are entitled. Before you talk to the insurance company, talk to us.

Frequently Asked Questions About Car Accidents

Here are answers to some of the most common questions our clients ask during our consultations.

What should I do immediately after an accident?

First, check yourself and others for injuries and call 911 if anyone is hurt. Even if injuries seem minor, it is important to have medical professionals evaluate you at the scene. Move vehicles out of traffic if possible and safe to do so. Exchange information with the other driver, including names, contact information, insurance details and license plate numbers.

Take photos of all vehicles involved, the accident scene and any visible injuries. Collect contact information from any witnesses. Report the accident to the police and obtain a copy of the accident report. Finally, notify your insurance company about the accident and speak with an attorney.

How long do I have to file a personal injury claim in Kentucky?

In Kentucky, the statute of limitations for most personal injury claims, including car accidents, is two years from the date of the accident or from the last personal injury protection (PIP) payment, whichever is later. However, there are exceptions to this rule depending on the specific circumstances of your case.

What types of compensation can I seek in a personal injury/car accident case?

You may be entitled to several types of damages, including medical expenses (current and future), lost wages, lost earning capacity, property damage, pain and suffering, emotional distress and loss of enjoyment of life. In cases involving particularly egregious conduct by the at-fault party, punitive damages may also be available.

How is fault determined in a car accident case in Kentucky?

Kentucky follows a pure comparative negligence system, meaning fault can be allocated between multiple parties. Your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault, but you can still recover damages even if you were partially responsible for the accident. Fault is determined through evidence like police reports, witness statements, accident reconstruction, traffic laws, vehicle damage and, in some cases, expert testimony.

Do I need a lawyer for my personal injury case?

While not legally required, having an experienced attorney significantly increases your chances of receiving fair compensation. Insurance companies have teams of adjusters and lawyers working to minimize payouts. Our attorneys understand insurance company tactics and can handle all communications, properly value your claim and, if necessary, represent you in court.