It’s true that you’re always at risk of an injury when you’re a passenger in a vehicle–just like you would if you’re driving. And while the majority of passenger injuries we see happen in car accidents, there’s other–like ATVs–where you could be injured as a passenger with even graver results. This is what happened recently in Powell County, according to a story from WKYT.
Kentucky State Police (KSP) investigators charged a man with reckless homicide, driving without a license, and other violations after he lost control of his ATV, overturning several times. The crash ejected the woman passenger from the ATV, who was pronounced dead at the scene by investigators. The man that overturned the ATV was taken to a local hospital for treatment, but left before his blood could be taken.
KSP troopers later found him at his home, where he admitted to taking methamphetamine and heroin. He claimed he was not under the influence at the time of the ATV crash, but he was arrested and booked at the Powell County Jail.
What Options Do I Have If I’m Injured or Killed as a Passenger?
It’s pretty easy to see how being a passenger on an ATV can lead to serious, even fatal injuries. This is only increased when the person driving the ATV is possibly impaired. And as the above story shows, the road to recovery isn’t easy. You might be facing hospital stays, ongoing doctor visits, or months of physical therapy. On top of that, being out of work can make it hard to keep up with bills, and it’s frustrating when you can’t do the things you used to enjoy. It’s not just about the physical pain—it takes an emotional and mental toll too.
The good news is that Kentucky law gives you a way to hold on to some stability by filing an injury claim. Depending on your situation, this can mean going through insurance or filing a lawsuit. A claim can help cover things like:
- Wages you’ve lost while you can’t work
- The income you may lose down the road if your injuries affect your job
- Medical bills and treatment costs
- Physical therapy and rehab
- Pain and suffering
- The impact on your quality of life
- Permanent injuries or scarring
Dealing with a claim after an ATV accident isn’t always simple—insurance policies can be tricky, and every case has its own challenges. Sadly, accidents like the one above can be so serious that your surviving family members can file a wrongful death claim, which can provide financial support and a measure of accountability. But no matter what option you decide to go with, it’s a long road ahead.
That’s where our Kentucky ATV accident lawyers at Kaufman & Stigger, PLLC can step in and help.
Contact Kaufman & Stigger After an ATV Accident in Kentucky
ATV riding is a big part of life in Kentucky, whether it’s on trails, farms, or backroads. But when an accident happens, it can leave you and your family facing serious injuries, steep medical bills, and a long recovery. The stress of figuring out what to do next can feel overwhelming.
At Kaufman & Stigger, PLLC, our Kentucky ATV accident lawyers are here to help you through every step. We offer free consultations and provide the guidance and support you need to move forward by:
- Explaining your options
- Investigating the accident
- Handling the insurance company
- Calculating your losses
- Going after fair compensation
- Supporting your family after a fatal injury
If you or someone you love has been hurt in an ATV accident, you don’t have to go through the process alone. Reach out to us for a free consultation, and we’ll help you understand your next steps.
