When you’re hurt in an accident in Kentucky that happened because of someone else’s negligence, it gives you certain options. You can either file an insurance claim out of court or go to court by filing a lawsuit—also known as “litigation.” Both routes can lead to a recovery, but they work very differently. Our Kentucky personal injury team at Kaufman & Stigger, PLLC helps you weigh the pros and cons so you’re making the choice that feels right for you.
What Does Litigation Mean in a Kentucky Personal Injury Case?
Litigation is just the official word for “filing a lawsuit.” It doesn’t mean anything different. But in real-world terms, litigation is very different from an insurance claim. Basically, you turn to litigation when:
- You want a neutral decision-maker—a Kentucky judge or jury—to decide what your losses are actually worth.
For many people, this is the only way to push past low offers and get a full accounting of medical bills, missed work, and other impacts. But once you decide to actually go ahead with litigation, it follows the same basic steps:
- Filing the Complaint. Everything starts with this. We prepare a document explaining what happened, who’s responsible, and what damages you’re asking for. Filing this officially opens your case.
- Serving the Defendant. The defendant must be given a copy of the lawsuit. A process server or another approved method makes sure they receive it and have a fair chance to respond.
- Notice of Appearance. Once the defendant has the paperwork, their attorney usually steps in and notifies the court that they’re representing them.
- Defendant’s Answer. The defendant files a written response. They may admit or deny parts of your story, or raise defenses. If they ignore the lawsuit altogether—rare, but possible—you can request a default judgment.
After that, cases move into discovery, negotiation, motions, and sometimes trial. Litigation almost never plays out the same way, which is why having experienced guidance matters. Our team keeps you updated, explains your options clearly, and makes sure you’re never guessing about the next steps.
Why Work With Kaufman & Stigger After a Kentucky Accident?
A serious injury can upend every part of your life—your health, your schedule, your finances. You shouldn’t have to go through claims, deadlines, or court rules on your own. Kaufman & Stigger, PLLC helps with the litigation process, gathers the evidence you’ll need, and prepares your case for trial if that’s the route that best protects you.
If you’ve been hurt in Kentucky and need clarity on your options, reach out for a free consultation. We’re here to listen, explain your choices, and help you chart the next steps.
