Kaufman & Stigger, PLLC helps people that have been injured in motorcycle accidents throughout Kentucky. Motorcycles offer excitement, but accidents can be tough for you and your loved ones. In looking at the underlying statistics, it makes it even more clear how one of these accidents can impact you. Our team can help you through the recovery process, though. Contact us today for a free consultation.
How Many Motorcycle Accidents Were There Statewide in 2024?
Even with its smaller population figures, Kentucky still boasts many positives for motorcycle riders. Whether it’s the winding roads along The Rattlesnake on Route 192 or riding along the Ohio River in Louisville, there’s a lot of different options.
But unfortunately, riding a motorcycle also comes with the risk of accidents. The most recent data on motorcycle accidents in Kentucky have been compiled by the Kentucky State Police (KSP). In 2024, KSP found that there were:
- 1,654 motorcycle accidents statewide.
KSP data also found that throughout Kentucky, motorcycle accidents resulted in:
- 1,191 injuries.
- 104 fatalities.
With these numbers, it’s no surprise that motorcycle accidents are so dangerous. Bikes don’t offer the same protection as cars, making injuries more severe. Plus, many accidents happen due to factors beyond your control, making the risks even higher.
Where Did Motorcycle Accidents Happen in Kentucky?
While most motorcycle riders are pretty familiar with the risks, the reality is that a motorcycle accident can happen anywhere, at any time. At the same time, though, KSP data found that the following counties led the way in the number of accidents there were in 2024:
- Jefferson County – 260
- Fayette County – 97
- Hardin County – 64
- Warren County – 58
- Kenton County – 57
From this data, you can see that it’s the counties with major population centers that see more motorcycle accidents. While more people usually means more motorcycle accidents, it’s often the actions of individual drivers that lead to accidents. Most of the time, it’s because of things like:
- Failure to yield – When drivers don’t give motorcyclists the right of way, it can lead to dangerous crashes.
- Reckless driving – Tailgating, weaving through traffic, or running red lights puts motorcyclists in serious danger.
- Driving under the influence – Alcohol or drug use by drivers often results in severe injuries or fatalities.
- Speeding – Driving too fast makes it harder to react and avoid accidents.
- Distracted driving – Using a phone or talking to passengers can cause drivers to overlook motorcycles.
- Unsafe turns – Left turns in front of motorcycles are a common cause of collisions.
- Mechanical failures – Faulty brakes or tires on either a motorcycle or vehicle can cause serious accidents.
Indeed, one of the most difficult things about a motorcycle accident is that it’s usually out of your control as a rider. Yet, it’s often the type of accident that really spells difficulty for you and other motorcycle riders.
What Kinds of Motorcycle Accidents Are More Common in Kentucky?
One of the most frustrating things about a motorcycle accident is that you can follow all the rules and still suffer serious injuries because another driver was careless or reckless. According to KSP data, the most common types of motorcycle accidents in Kentucky in 2024 included:
- T-bone collisions – 335
- Rear-end collisions – 220
- Sideswipes – 173
- Head-on collisions – 74
- Left turn collisions – 67
These numbers show the variety of different kinds of motorcycle accidents there are, but one of the most important things to know about riding a motorcycle in Kentucky is that–most of the time–it’s a “no-contact” accident that’s most common. This is where an accident doesn’t involve another vehicle, and KSP data found that 740 of the total motorcycle accidents throughout the state in 2024 were this kind.
So, while you’re not always able to avoid a motorcycle accident, it’s important to take the rights steps to protect your health if you’re in one:
- Call 911 for an ambulance and police response.
- Exchange insurance and contact information with others involved.
- Take pictures and videos of the scene and your injuries.
- Be careful with statements when talking to police or insurance reps.
You never want to be in a motorcycle accident, but taking these steps will take care of your health and also set the foundation for a potential legal claim.
What Were the Road Conditions With Motorcycle Accidents?
It’s true that there’s a lot of different factors that go into a typical motorcycle accident. No matter how experienced or careful you are, a late reaction or poor road conditions can quickly lead to a crash with serious injuries. But KSP data on this was pretty interesting. Of the 1,654 motorcycle accidents statewide in 2024, most happened with the following road conditions:
- Dry conditions – 1,553
- Wet conditions – 82
- Standing water – 8
- Gravel road – 7
- Oily conditions – 4
Wet or oily roads make motorcycle riding more challenging, but most accidents actually happen on dry roads. This shows that dangerous road conditions–like potholes, debris, or uneven pavement–are often a bigger risk for riders.
It’s frustrating to be in an accident when you did nothing wrong, but motorcycles are smaller and harder for drivers to see, which increases the chances of a crash.
If a driver’s carelessness or poor road maintenance caused your accident, though, it gives you legal options that our team can help you with.
Legal Help After a Motorcycle Accident in Kentucky
Riding a motorcycle in Kentucky can be an incredible experience, but an accident can turn it into something much more difficult. At Kaufman & Stigger, we’re here to help you through every step of the legal process and want to make sure you get the financial support you need to recover from your injuries, like:
- Medical expenses
- Lost income
- Repair/replacement costs for your bike or gear
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Reduced quality of life
- Wrongful death expenses (in fatal accidents)
A motorcycle accident is overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. Contact us today for a free consultation to talk about your case and how we can help.
