Everything You Need to Know About Kentucky’s Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury Cases

When someone suffers harm in an accident, the clock immediately starts ticking on how long they have to file a lawsuit. This legal timeframe is known as the statute of limitations. In Kentucky, the rules governing personal injury cases are strict, and missing a deadline can prevent you from recovering the compensation you deserve. At Todd & Todd, we believe in keeping our clients informed so they understand how these laws affect their rights. Knowing when and how to act is essential if you or a loved one has been hurt.

What Is the Statute of Limitations in Kentucky?

The statute of limitations sets the maximum period you have to file a claim in court after an injury occurs. In Kentucky, most personal injury claims must be filed within one year from the date of the accident (Ky. Rev. Stat. § 413.140). This deadline applies to cases involving car accidents, slip and falls, or other incidents caused by negligence. If the lawsuit is not filed on time, courts will typically dismiss the case regardless of how strong the evidence may be.

For some instances, such as motor vehicle accidents, Kentucky law provides a two-year window from the date of the crash or the last no-fault payment (Ky. Rev. Stat. § 304.39-230). This distinction makes it essential to understand which statute applies to your situation. A knowledgeable personal injury attorney in Kentucky can help you determine the correct deadline and ensure your claim is filed promptly.

Why the Deadline Matters

Statutes of limitations are more than procedural rules. They exist to preserve evidence and ensure fairness to all parties. Over time, witnesses’ memories fade, documents can be lost, and physical evidence may deteriorate. By requiring claims to be filed within a set timeframe, Kentucky courts encourage prompt action and prevent stale claims from clogging the system.

Missing a deadline often eliminates the opportunity to pursue damages for medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering. Because these consequences are so severe, individuals who have been injured should not wait until the last minute to seek help. Early consultation with a personal injury lawyer in Kentucky helps protect your rights and ensures your case is prepared correctly.
Because these deadlines are unforgiving, it is essential to act quickly. The sooner you involve a legal professional, the stronger your case can be built. If you or a loved one has been injured, contact us to discuss your situation and take the proper steps before time runs out.

Exceptions to the Rule

While Kentucky’s statute of limitations is strict, certain exceptions can extend the time to file a claim. For example:

• Minors: If the injured party is under 18 at the time of the accident, the statute generally does not begin until they reach adulthood.
• Mental incapacity: The clock may be paused if the victim is legally incapacitated.
• Discovery rule: In some cases, the statute does not begin until the injury is discovered or reasonably should have been discovered.

These exceptions are narrow and carefully applied by the courts. Relying on them without legal guidance can be risky. Our attorneys at Todd & Todd are prepared to evaluate whether an exception applies to your claim.

Case Results That Illustrate the Impact

On our results page, we share outcomes that highlight how timing influences personal injury claims. Clients who seek help soon after their accidents often achieve stronger results because the evidence is fresh and deadlines are met without issue. In contrast, waiting until the deadline is near can make it harder to pursue even strong claims. This highlights the importance of taking timely action and the value of having a personal injury attorney who is familiar with local procedures.

Why Acting Quickly Matters

Kentucky law provides a limited time to bring a personal injury lawsuit, and once the statute of limitations expires, the opportunity to seek justice also expires. With decades of experience and a hands-on approach to client communication, we understand the importance of acting decisively and effectively. Having a personal injury lawyer on your side ensures you have the knowledge and resources necessary to pursue fair compensation.

At Todd & Todd, we are dedicated to guiding individuals and families through every stage of their legal journey. If you have been injured, do not wait until it is too late. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward protecting your future.