There are many areas in Kentucky where runners can enjoy the sights around them as they receive daily exercise. Though some individuals prefer to run on trails and in forests, others enter traffic as they run from one destination to the next. Little do runners suspect, their daily routine could become suddenly interrupted by a negligent driver who is not looking out for their well-being.
At Kaufman & Stigger, PLLC, we understand how much a running accident can affect you when you have sustained injuries due to the negligence of another party. Our runner injury lawyers in Kentucky will immediately get to work to hold all responsible drivers liable for their careless actions that contributed to your accident. We want you to receive recovery so that you can get back on your feet as soon as possible. Contact us to schedule a no-obligation case review in Kentucky.
Common Reasons for Car Accidents Involving Runners in Kentucky
Runners may travel on or alongside roads in many areas throughout Kentucky. They can be found crossing intersections or running along major roads or highways. In the blink of an eye, a driver’s negligence could lead to an accident that severely injures a runner or even takes a life.
Some of the common reasons for car accidents involving runners include:
- Left-Hand Turns: More runners are hurt in left-hand turn accidents than many other accidents on our roads. These accidents are most likely to occur at intersections when drivers are focused on other cars around them as they make a left turn. They may not notice a runner until it is too late.
- Driver Distractions: Distractions can include aspects like texting while driving, eating, or using a GPS. A distracted driver could run into a runner in the blink of an eye when they do not see them in time.
- Lack of Crosswalks: If there are no designated crosswalks on a street or at an intersection, a driver may not be looking out for runners – which can put them at risk of serious harm.
- Intoxication: If a driver is traveling under the influence of drugs or alcohol, they might not be able to respond in time as a runner is crossing the street. This means that serious injuries or death can occur.
- Speeding: When a driver is speeding, they may not have time to stop and could strike a runner who is crossing the street. Speeding also increases the likelihood that injuries will be worse in an accident.
- Failure to Abide by Traffic Laws: An accident involving a vehicle and a runner is more likely to occur if a driver is making illegal U-turns, failing to abide by posted signs, and other disregard of traffic laws.
Injuries to Runners in Motor Vehicle Accidents
Runners are some of the most vulnerable parties on our roads because, as pedestrians, they have virtually no protection from harm in an accident. There are many serious injuries that stem from these horrific accidents every year, including the following:
- Neck and back injuries
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Sprains, strains, and tears
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Broken bones
- Death in the most severe cases
No matter what injuries a runner sustains after being struck by a car, they are likely to have a long road to recovery before them. As such, you may not be able to return to work or enjoy your favorite activities for some time. This is why it is crucial that you understand your legal options after a pedestrian accident.
Damages Available in a Running Accident
The amount of financial support that you can receive after a running accident involving a motor vehicle is not easy to predict. This is because every claim is different and may involve various types of damages depending on your injuries. Your lawyer will take many aspects into consideration when helping you, from the evidence you have obtained to your medical records since the accident.
You may find that you are eligible for some of the following types of compensation after an accident:
- Past, present, and future medical bills related to your injuries
- Lost income and future loss of income
- Pain and suffering
- Permanent disfigurement and scarring
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Punitive damages in certain cases
- Wrongful death damages if a life has been lost due to a running accident
How Runners Can Protect Themselves on Kentucky Roads
If you are a runner who frequently travels alongside or on Kentucky roads, it is crucial that you know how to protect yourself from harm. A passenger vehicle driver may not be looking out for your best interests, which could put you at risk. Here are some steps that you can keep in mind:
- Make sure to turn off any music when you are on or around a roadway so that you can clearly listen to traffic.
- Avoid running directly on the street for long periods of time.
- Make sure that you are always visible when running day or night.
- Pay close attention to what is happening around you from all directions.
- Bring a phone with you in case of emergency.
- Obey traffic laws just as drivers would be expected to.
Get Support from Kentucky Runner Injury Lawyers
It can be difficult to face the aftermath of a pedestrian accident if you were running and you were struck by a vehicle. The road to recovery could be weeks, months, or even years before you. This can affect your time at work and the daily activities that you participate in.
Our Kentucky runner injury lawyers at Kaufman & Stigger, PLLC, are here to assist you after your life has been upended by a runner accident in Kentucky. We believe that you are entitled to damages that you have suffered in an accident due to the negligence of another party. With us on your side, you can move forward knowing that your claim is being handled fairly and with care. Please contact us today for a free case review.
