When there’s a motorcycle accident in Kentucky, there are a number of different consequences. Most urgently is usually the serious injuries that result. As any motorcycle rider will tell you, there’s little to no protection for them in the event of an accident, which adds to the already devastating nature of typical injuries.
Motorcycle accidents happen for many reasons, but they always have serious consequences for riders. If you got hurt in a motorcycle accident, you should know that you can get legal help to recover. Just how much help you can get, though, depends on the circumstances.
Dedicated Kentucky Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
At Kaufman & Stigger, PLLC, our Kentucky motorcycle accident lawyers are experienced and dedicated to helping you through the recovery process after an accident. They can guide you in getting the compensation you need for your injuries. We’re proud to offer free consultations for anyone in Kentucky that has been in a motorcycle accident. Contact us today to schedule yours.
Causes and Injuries in Kentucky Motorcycle Accidents
No matter how skilled you are, a motorcycle accident can catch you off guard. Riding your motorcycle in Kentucky can quickly turn into a permanent injury. It’s important to be aware of the common causes of motorcycle accidents, as they can happen anytime, anywhere. These causes include:
- Not checking blind spots
- Unsafe lane changes or lane splitting
- Driving too fast for the road conditions
- Failing to yield to motorcyclists
- Driving drunk or under the influence of drugs
- Distracted driving
- Running a stop sign or red light
Motorcycle accidents are somewhat unique in that they can just as often occur without any contact from other drivers. These are known as “no-contact” accidents. Even if another driver is not directly involved, these accidents can have their own causes, such as poorly maintained roads or negligence by pedestrians or other drivers. Regardless of the cause, motorcycle accidents often result in overwhelming injuries and damages.
Common injuries in motorcycle accidents in Kentucky include:
- Broken bones
- Internal injuries
- Road rash
- Cuts and bruises
- Traumatic brain injuries or concussions
- Muscle strains
- Neck and back injuries
- Whiplash
Dealing with a motorcycle accident is just the beginning of your challenges. In addition to recovering from your initial injuries, you may face complications, extensive rehabilitation, and physical therapy. The emotional and psychological effects can also be significant, with conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder being common and lasting long after the accident.
Can You Avoid Motorcycle Accidents in Kentucky?
Unfortunately, motorcycle accidents are similar to other vehicle accidents in that it’s impossible to totally prevent them. With that said, there are steps that you can take to either avoid an accident or, at the very least, reduce the overall severity of one. While some motorcycle accidents in Kentucky are unavoidable, taking the following steps can help you reduce the likelihood of experiencing them:
- Protect yourself with the right gear – Always wear a helmet approved by the Department of Transportation (DOT) and wear protective clothing like leather jackets, pants, gloves, and boots.
- Be visible – Wear bright or reflective clothes and use your headlights and turn signals so that other drivers can see you.
- Follow the rules – Obey traffic laws, including speed limits and signaling when you turn. Stay in your lane and pay attention to what’s happening around you.
- Stay alert – Be ready for possible dangers and be prepared to react quickly if needed. Watch out for cars turning in front of you and be careful when passing or being passed by other vehicles.
- Take care of your motorcycle – Regularly check your tires, brakes, lights, and fluids to make sure your motorcycle is in good condition.
- Learn safety skills – Consider taking a motorcycle safety course to improve your riding skills and learn how to ride defensively.
- Don’t ride under the influence – Never ride your motorcycle while you’re drunk or high on drugs.
By following these steps, motorcycle riders can lower the risk of accidents and enjoy a safe and enjoyable ride in Kentucky. However, it’s important to remember that there’s still a chance of getting injured in a motorcycle accident, so it’s always important to be cautious.
Damages Available in Kentucky Motorcycle Accidents
Whenever a motorcycle accident in Kentucky leaves you injured, the law allows you to file a claim for compensation, known as damages. This is typically accomplished in two ways: filing an insurance claim or filing a lawsuit. If you’re involved in a motorcycle accident and file an injury claim, you may be able to get compensation for the following:
- Medical bills
- Physical therapy expenses
- Money lost from not being able to work
- Payment for the pain and suffering experienced
- Emotional distress
- Compensation for the loss of enjoyment of life or companionship
In certain situations, if the responsible party’s actions were extremely reckless or negligent, punitive damages may also be awarded. To understand what damages you can recover in your specific case, it’s important to consult with a lawyer who knows about motorcycle accident claims.
However, simply having the option to file a claim is only one part of the equation. Determining just how much you can recover depends on several factors, and in order to have your best shot at getting what you deserve, you may need to work with our team of experienced Kentucky motorcycle accident lawyers.
How Much Is My Kentucky Motorcycle Accident Worth?
The first thing you need to do after a motorcycle accident is establish who is responsible for the accident. This is called liability, and it is determined by showing that the other driver was negligent and their actions caused the accident that resulted in your injuries. There are four elements of negligence in a Kentucky motorcycle accident:
- The other driver had a responsibility to keep you safe and avoid causing the accident.
- The other driver failed in their duty by driving negligently.
- The breach of duty directly caused the motorcycle accident.
- The accident caused your injuries and other damages.
Once liability is established, it determines who is responsible for compensating you. Usually, this is done through an insurance claim. The driver at fault should have car insurance to cover accidents like this. However, every motorcycle accident is different, and your claim will have its own unique circumstances and factors that affect its value. Some factors typically considered when determining the value of your accident claim are:
- Type and severity of injuries – The extent of your injuries plays a role in determining the value of your claim. Insurance companies assess the nature and severity of your injuries when deciding the compensation amount. It’s important to keep records and continue treatment as injuries can worsen over time, potentially increasing the value of your claim.
- Liability – Even if you can prove the other driver’s fault, the insurance company may still conduct its own investigation. They may try to twist your words or ask confusing questions to minimize their liability. It’s advisable to consult with our team before speaking with an insurance adjuster.
- Your level of fault – Kentucky follows the concept of “comparative negligence,” which reduces your damages based on your percentage of fault in the accident. Insurance companies are aware of this and may try to shift the blame onto you. It’s important to gather evidence that demonstrates the other person’s primary fault and that you acted responsibly.
It’s important to know that the insurance company (or a judge and jury if you go to court) decides how much compensation you receive for your claim. To make sure you get the full amount you deserve, it’s a good idea to talk to our team of experienced motorcycle accident lawyers. We can help you navigate the process and fight for your claim.
Free Consultations For Kentucky Motorcycle Accident Victims
At Kaufman & Stigger, PLLC our commitment lies in fighting for your compensation. Our team of skilled Kentucky motorcycle accident lawyers is ready to assist you every step of the way. From gathering evidence to managing insurance claims and, if necessary, filing a lawsuit, we will provide full support for your case.
Take the necessary step to secure the legal guidance you deserve. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and begin your journey toward recovery.
