There’s many different ways to get around in Kentucky, from cars to ATVs to motorcycles. While it’s not as common, you still might encounter someone on a moped during a drive–or even use a moped yourself. Even with these vehicles being legal, it’s still rather dangerous when you share the road with drivers in cars. And unfortunately, this danger is increased when there’s a driver that’s under the influence.
A story from LEX18 detailed a recent accident that left a man dead in Campbellsville. According to Kentucky State Police (KSP), the 55-year-old man on the moped was killed when a 78-year-old man under the influence of alcohol collided with him near the intersection of Handley Avenue and Meader Street.
An investigation found that the 78-year-old man was driving east on Handley Avenue in his SUV when he attempted to turn onto Meader Street, not seeing the 55-year-old man on the moped who was driving north on Meader Street, resulting in a collision.
The man on the moped was pronounced dead at the scene by the Taylor County Coroner, while the 78-year-old man was unhurt. He was, however, arrested and charged by the KSP with one count of vehicular homicide, one count of DUI, one count of driving with an open container, and other traffic-related charges. He was booked into Taylor County Detention Center.
Can I File a Claim If I’m Injured While Riding a Moped?
While the story above shows how risky it can be to ride a moped in Kentucky, the reality is that they’re street legal. So not only can you ride a moped on the street, you also have the same rights as anyone else does when you’re injured in an accident. Namely, this means being able to file an injury claim against whoever is responsible for your accident. All you have to do is show “negligence,” which means showing:
- Somebody failed in their duty to act in a way that prevents accidents and keeps you safe.
Driving under the influence is one of the clearest examples of negligence you’ll find, but to get damages, you’re going to need to actually file your claim through insurance or by a lawsuit. Once you do, though, you can recover things like:
- Medical expenses
- Lost income
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Reduced quality of life
- Wrongful death expenses in fatal accidents
If you’ve been in a moped accident in Kentucky, you have one year to file a claim. If you wait too long and miss this deadline, you won’t be able to get any financial support–even if you have a strong case. That’s why it’s important to act quickly by reaching out to our Kentucky personal injury lawyers at Kaufman & Stigger.
Why Should You Get a Lawyer After a Kentucky Moped Accident?
You don’t have to get a lawyer after a fatal moped accident in Kentucky, but having one can make a big difference for your family. These cases are complicated and emotionally overwhelming, adding more stress during an already difficult time. Our lawyers can help by:
- Explaining your legal rights so you know what options you have.
- Collecting important evidence to build a strong case.
- Negotiating with insurance companies to fight for the compensation your family deserves.
- Handling wrongful death claims so you don’t have to deal with legal issues alone.
Losing a loved one in one of these accidents is life-changing. With so much at stake, having legal support can help your family get financial stability and begin to move forward. Contact us today for a free consultation.
