Head-on collisions happen a lot in Louisville, but are usually more common in certain places and roads. One of the “hotspots” is Dixie Highway, because it has four lanes of traffic and several different intersections with people moving on and off. Then, when you think about drivers not paying attention or being reckless, it’s a recipe for serious collisions. That’s exactly what happened on Saturday, August 9, 2025, according to a story from WHAS11.
One person was killed and another was injured in a head-on collision on the 13100 block of Dixie Highway around 12:30 p.m. Louisville Metro Police Department deputies responded to the scene, where they found three vehicles involved. Their initial investigation found that a woman was driving south along Dixie Highway when she crossed the center line and collided head-on with another vehicle, as well as hitting a pickup truck also heading north. Ambulance crews took both the woman and the man who was struck head-on to a local hospital with injuries. The man later died after his arrival to the hospital, while the man driving the pickup truck refused medical attention.
LMPD’s Traffic Unit is investigating the accident, which shut down both lanes of Dixie Highway for several hours. It has since been reopened. The name of the man that passed away has yet to be released.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Kentucky After a Fatal Head-on Collision?
Unfortunately, stories like the one above are fairly common in Louisville. But no matter how common they are, a fatal head-on collision is always tragic–especially if you or someone you care about is involved. It’s hard to think about, but there is a legal process there to help you and your family in this situation.
It’s called a “wrongful death” claim, but only certain people are allowed to file it under Kentucky law. Right now, the only person that can actually file a wrongful death claim is:
- The personal representative of the deceased person’s estate. This is usually the “executor” named in a will, but if there’s no will, the probate court appoints someone to take on that role.
Once that’s taken care of, they file the claim on behalf of the family. From there, the process is similar to other car accidents, whether it’s an insurance claim or a lawsuit. The difference is in what’s being claimed. Instead of focusing on injuries, a wrongful death case centers on the losses the family is left with after their loved one’s passing. That usually involves things like:
- Medical bills and funeral or burial costs.
- The value of the relationship, companionship, and guidance the person provided.
- Emotional harm and the toll the loss has taken.
- The income and benefits the person would have continued to earn.
- The future opportunities and support their children will no longer have.
In Kentucky, there’s a short window to act—generally just one year from the date of death. That means you have to strike a balance between grieving and moving forward legally. Fortunately, our team at Kaufman & Stigger, PLLC can help.
Get Help From Kaufman & Stigger After a Fatal Collision in Louisville
If you’ve lost a loved one or been injured in a head-on collision in Louisville or anywhere in Kentucky, the team at Kaufman & Stigger, PLLC is here to help you through this difficult time. We can take on the legal steps—investigating the crash, protecting your rights, and handling the insurance companies—so you can focus on your family. Reach out for a free consultation to learn how we can stand up for you and help you find a path forward.
