When riding a bike in Georgetown or anywhere else in Kentucky, you have to stay alert and watch out for a lot of different things. This is true even with slower-traffic areas, but accidents can still happen–particularly in places where there’s just a two-lane road.
According to a story from WKYT, this is exactly what happened on Sunday, August 25, 2024. The Scott County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO) responded to a call of an accident between a car and a bicycle on Ironworks Road and Grayson Way in Georgetown. When they got to the scene, they found a 39-year-old man on the ground and a woman who collided with his bicycle in her car.
The Scott County Coroner pronounced the man dead at the scene. Investigators closed the area for hours as they investigated, and the woman stayed on the scene and cooperated. SCSO’s Crash Reconstruction Unit is still investigating what ultimately caused the accident. No charges have been filed against the woman as of yet.
How Can You Avoid a Bicycle Accident in Georgetown?
Unfortunately, stories like the one above show just how dangerous most car-bicycle accidents are. But if you spend any amount of time biking in Georgetown, you probably know that you’re always at risk when you share the road with cars and other vehicles.
That said, while you can’t always avoid an accident, there are things you can do to at least reduce the likelihood that you’ll be involved:
- Wear safety gear – Always wear a helmet that fits well and consider additional protective gear to better shield yourself from injuries.
- Stay alert – Keep an eye on your surroundings, watch out for hazards like potholes or debris on the road, and be ready to react.
- Follow the rules – Just like other drivers, stop at traffic lights, use hand signals when turning, and ride in the same direction as the flow of traffic.
- Use bike lanes – Whenever possible, stick to designated bike lanes or paths. These areas are safer and help reduce the chance of an accident.
- Make yourself visible – Be sure drivers can see you, especially in low visibility conditions. Wear bright or reflective clothing, use lights or reflectors on your bike, and avoid riding in spots where drivers might struggle to see you.
Even with these precautions, there are times when drivers—especially those in larger vehicles like trucks—may not see you or react in time, leading to potentially serious injuries or even fatal accidents.
Kaufman & Stigger Can Help You After a Georgetown Bicycle Accident
If you’re involved in a serious or fatal bicycle accident in Georgetown, Kentucky law allows you or your family to file a claim to recover damages like:
- Medical expenses and bills
- Lost wages or future income
- Loss of companionship or enjoyment of life
- Funeral or burial expenses
- Any pain and suffering experienced before death
- Property damage
Our team of experienced Georgetown personal injury lawyers at Kaufman & Stigger, PLLC is here to help you get through the legal process. We’re committed to providing the legal support you need to focus on recovery or getting the financial means that helps bring some normalcy back to your life. Contact us today for a free consultation.
