Kentucky Car Accident Reporting Basics

By Christie Nicholson, J.D. | Legally reviewed by Katrina Wilson, Esq. | Last reviewed June 14, 2024

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One of the first things you should do after a car accident is call 911. Not only will the police dispatcher arrange for an ambulance, but a police officer will also investigate the crash.

Many motorists in Kentucky don't know that Kentucky law requires them to report car accidents. Of course, there are exceptions to the rule. For the most part, however, you must report the car crash to the authorities and the insurance company.

 In Kentucky, you must file a report with the Kentucky State Police if your car accident results in injury, death, or more than $500 in property damage. You must file this report within ten days of the accident. The state may fine you or suspend your driver's license if you don't.

Here, we’ll discuss the car accident reporting requirements in Kentucky. We’ll also explain how to file your report and why it’s crucial that you call law enforcement after any motor vehicle accident.

Kentucky Car Accident Report Overview

To learn more about how to file a car crash report in Kentucky, see the chart below.

State Statutes

Kentucky Revised Statutes, Title XVI Motor Vehicles § 189.635

When To Report

You must file an accident report to the local police station if the accident results in any of the following:

  • Death

  • Injury

  • More than $500 in property damage 

How To File a Car Crash Report in Kentucky

You must file your accident report using the Civilian Collision Report Form with the Kentucky State Police within 10 days of the accident. You can also file your report online. 

The collision report must contain the following information:

  • Name and contact information for all individuals involved in the auto accident, including passengers

  • Birth date and license number of the drivers involved

  • Make, year, and model of all vehicles involved

  • License plate numbers and registration information for all vehicles involved

  • Estimated repair costs for any vehicle damage

  • Relevant insurance information

  • Any non-vehicle property damage

  • Location of the accident

  • Description of the accident scene, including weather and road conditions

Note: State laws are subject to change through new legislation, higher court rulings, ballot initiatives, and other means. While we strive to provide the most current information, consult a personal injury attorney or conduct legal research to verify your state laws.

Mailing in a Civilian Collision Report Form

In addition to filing a car accident report with the nearest Kentucky police station, you can mail your Civilian Collision Report Form to the following address:

Kentucky State Police

Records Branch

1250 Louisville Road

Frankfort, KY 40601

Keep a copy of the report for your records. Your personal injury lawyer may need the report to help prove your car accident claim.

Consequences of Not Reporting

If you don’t report your car accident, you will face fines of anywhere between $20 to $100. You may also face jail time and a driver’s license suspension.

Get Legal Help to Better Understand Kentucky Car Accident Reporting Requirements

As you can see, knowing when and how to file a car accident report in Kentucky is essential. Call a skilled car accident lawyer near you if you have any questions or need help with your car accident case.

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