State traffic statutes help regulate the conduct of motorists. Drivers have to follow all signage and traffic lights and maintain a speed at or below the posted limit. Drivers have to have a state-issued license and must also carry liability insurance in case they cause a crash.
Insurance can compensate the people harmed in a collision caused by a driver who does something unsafe or illegal in traffic. Unfortunately, drivers do not always comply with regulations. They cruise through stop signs and turn without using their indicators. They may also let their insurance policies lapse or cancel them on purpose just to save a little money. They may fail to consider their financial exposure if they cause a wreck without an active insurance policy. If a driver without insurance causes a crash, the people affected by the collision may have a difficult time securing compensation.
What is the likelihood of a driver without insurance causing a collision in Kentucky?
Kentucky has an above-average level of risk
Despite the clear requirements to purchase insurance coverage, many drivers knowingly violate the law. Others may fall behind on their payments and may have their policies canceled as a result. According to claims data from 2022, Kentucky has one the highest rates of uninsured drivers in the country.
The state saw the sixth-highest number of uninsured driver claims that year. That data indicates that as many as 18.7% of drivers may lack liability coverage. In other words, there is roughly a one in six chance of the driver at fault for the crash lacking appropriate insurance coverage. When that happens, the other party may need to use supplemental coverage that they added to their own policy to cover their property damage losses and injury expenses.
Uninsured motorist coverage plays an important role in protecting the finances of those who are not at fault for a crash. Without adequate uninsured motorist coverage, the only form of recourse available after a crash might be a lawsuit.
Understanding what factors might complicate the pursuit of compensation after a motor vehicle collision can help drivers better protect themselves. Those who recognize inappropriate behavior, such as driving without insurance, may also feel more comfortable holding others accountable for their bad decisions.