February 5, 2026 | Personal Injury
What Is a Personal Injury Claim?
A personal injury claim is a request for compensation after you are harmed in an accident caused by another party. These claims often involve car crashes, slip-and-falls, workplace injuries, or other incidents where negligence played a role.The goal is to recover money for losses such as medical bills, missed work, and pain caused by the injury.When Should I File a Personal Injury Claim?
In Kentucky, there are time limits, called statutes of limitations, that control how long you have to take legal action.In most cases, you typically have one year from the date of the injury to file a claim. Some situations may allow more or less time, depending on the facts. Waiting too long can put your case at risk, so it is often best to act as soon as possible after a personal injury accident.Step 1: Get Medical Care Right Away
Your health comes first. Even if you think your injuries are minor, see a doctor as soon as you can. Medical records play a key role in the personal injury process. They connect your injuries to the accident and show the care you needed.Delaying treatment can hurt both your health and your claim.Step 2: Document the Accident and Your Injuries
Strong documentation can make a big difference when filing a personal injury claim.If possible, gather:- Photos of the accident scene and your injuries
- Names and contact information for witnesses
- A copy of any police or incident report
- Bills, receipts, and records related to your injury
Step 3: Notify the Insurance Company
In many cases, filing a personal injury claim starts with notifying the at-fault party’s insurance company. This step usually involves reporting the accident and providing basic details.Be careful about what you say. Insurance adjusters may ask for recorded statements or offer quick settlements. These early offers are often lower than what a claim may be worth.Step 4: Understand the Role of a Lawyer in an Injury Claim
Handling a claim on your own can be stressful. A lawyer can explain your rights, deal with insurance companies, and help you avoid costly mistakes.An attorney can also calculate damages, including future medical care and lost earning ability, which are often overlooked.Step 5: Negotiate a Settlement
Many personal injury claims are resolved through settlement talks rather than court. Your lawyer can negotiate with the insurance company to seek fair compensation.If negotiations succeed, the case ends with a signed agreement and payment. If not, the next step may involve the court.Step 6: File a Personal Injury Lawsuit
If a fair settlement is not reached, you may need to know how to file a personal injury lawsuit. This involves formally filing papers with the court and presenting evidence before a judge or jury.Filing a lawsuit does not always mean the case will go to trial. Many cases still settle after a lawsuit is filed, once both sides see the strength of the evidence.Common Mistakes to Avoid
During the personal injury process, certain mistakes can weaken a claim, such as:- Missing deadlines
- Posting about the accident on social media
- Accepting a settlement too quickly
- Skipping medical appointments
Contact Minner Vines Injury Lawyers, PLLC, for a Free Consultation with a Lexington Personal Injury Lawyer
If you were injured in an accident in Lexington, KY, you do not have to handle the process alone. The steps for filing a personal injury claim can be overwhelming, especially while you are trying to recover.For more information, contact an experienced Lexington personal injury attorney at Minner Vines Injury Lawyers, PLLC, today. We offer a free consultation.If you’ve been injured in an accident in Lexington or Bowling Green, please contact our car accident lawyers at Minner Vines Injury Lawyers, PLLC for a free case evaluation.Minner Vines Injury Lawyers, PLLC – Lexington, KY Office 325 W Main St #210, Lexington, KY 40507 (859) 550-2900
Minner Vines Injury Lawyers, PLLC – Nashville Office 49 Music Square W #504, Nashville, TN 37203 (615) 676-7060