Crashes, insurance and registration in Kentucky

By the end of this topic you can

• You can follow the correct steps after a crash.
• You can decide when you must file a civilian collision report.
• You can list the information to swap with other drivers.
• You can state Kentucky's minimum liability insurance.
• You can explain when and where a vehicle must be registered.

What you need to know and understand

• Drivers involved in a crash must stop, find out whether anyone is hurt or anything is damaged, and give reasonable assistance.
• After a crash with no injuries, Kentucky law (KRS 189.580) says to move the vehicles to the shoulder.
• If damage is over $500 and no officer investigates, you must file a written report with KSP within 10 days.
• Minimum liability cover is $25,000 per person and $50,000 per crash for bodily injury, plus $25,000 for property damage, or a $60,000 single limit.
• Driving without insurance can bring a $500 to $1,000 fine, up to 90 days in jail, or both, and loss of the vehicle's registration.
• You must apply for registration with your county clerk within 15 days of buying a vehicle or bringing one into Kentucky.

At the scene

1. Stop at or near the scene. Leaving the scene is a serious offense.
2. Check for injuries and call 911 if anyone is hurt, giving a clear location.
3. If no one is injured, move the vehicles to the shoulder.
4. Give reasonable help. Only move an injured person if their life is in immediate danger; keep them warm and wait for medical help.
5. Stay until police arrive, if they are coming, and answer their questions.
6. Swap names, addresses, license numbers, plate numbers, vehicle details and insurance companies with the other drivers, and get witness details.
7. Photograph the damage and write down what happened while it is fresh.

Hitting a parked car

Try to find the owner. If you cannot, leave a note where it will be seen with your name, address, license number, plate number and the date and time.

Insurance and registration basics

Every Kentucky vehicle with an active registration must be insured. Policies must also include basic reparation benefits, unless the vehicle is a motorcycle. Keep proof of insurance in the vehicle; a paper card or one on your phone is accepted.

Register with the county clerk in your county of residence. There is no grace period for renewal. You should get a reminder by mail at least 45 days before expiry, but not receiving it is no excuse.

Common mistakes

• Driving off after a minor bump because the damage looks small. You must stop and exchange details.
• Leaving undamaged-looking cars blocking traffic after a no-injury crash. Move them to the shoulder.
• Forgetting the 10-day deadline for a civilian report when no officer investigated.
• Letting registration lapse while waiting for a reminder letter.

Test yourself: Crashes, insurance and registration in Kentucky

Answer each question, then read the explanation. Questions come in a random order each time.

Go deeper

• Kentucky 60 Hour Practice Driving Log
• Kentucky Bioptic Driving Program
• Kentucky Drivers Ed for Teens