Throughout Louisville, you’ll find many different paths and roads with bike lanes. This includes the area around the University of Louisville’s campus. The Jefferson County Coroner’s Office has identified the 61-year-old bicyclist that was killed in a hit-and-run accident on Thursday, December 21, 2023.
According to the story from WLKY, the man was riding southbound on the 2300 block of South 3rd Street when he was struck by the car, which then fled the scene. The Louisville Metro Police Department (LMPD) responded to the crash, where they found the man near the Speed Art Museum beside the U of L campus. Investigators say the car was headed in the same direction as the man on the bike, and did not stop to provide medical aid. The man was transported to U of L hospital, where he later died of his injuries.
LMPD are still investigating the accident, but currently do not have a description of the vehicle. Anyone with information is being asked to contact the LMPD’s tip line.
Hit and Run Bicycle Accidents in Louisville
Not surprisingly, hit and run accidents with bicycles are quite common in Louisville. Unfortunately, like other accidents between vehicles and bicycles, it’s the person on the bike that usually comes out on the wrong end of these incidents.
However, when the accident in question is a hit-and-run, it’s even more frustrating because you likely won’t have all the information you need to fully pursue your legal rights. While the driver of the car can be criminally charged in a hit-and-run–even carrying felony punishments in fatal accidents–it’s the civil court system that will allow you to recover damages from the driver.
So, when you can’t find the driver, your own insurance coverage is going to be responsible for your damages. Usually, this involves your:
- Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage – In Kentucky, every driver must have insurance. Many policies also have uninsured motorist (UM) coverage, which helps if you’re in an accident with an uninsured driver or can’t find the at-fault driver for their insurance information. This is especially useful in hit-and-run accidents.
- Homeowner’s insurance – You can rely on your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance, mainly for property damage like your bike and equipment. However, medical costs, which can add up in a hit-and-run bicycle accident, are usually not covered in these policies.
- Health insurance – If you’re injured in a hit-and-run bicycle accident, your health insurance can help with medical expenses. It typically covers common treatments such as doctor’s visits, medication, and physical therapy.
Leaving the accident scene is against the law in Louisville and throughout Kentucky, no matter the reason. This not only leads to legal consequences but also makes the responsible party accountable for any injuries or damages you suffer.
While finding the driver is the usual way to start a claim, it’s not always possible in a hit-and-run. If you can’t locate the driver, the skilled team at Kaufman and Stigger, PLLC is ready to help. With extensive experience in handling bicycle accidents, we can assist you in obtaining the necessary legal and financial support for your recovery.
To learn more about how we can help you, contact us today for a free consultation.
