Many people in Kentucky enjoy running as a recreational activity, sometimes for exercise and sometimes as a way to get from one place to another quickly by foot. Kentucky is also home to many areas where runners can get away and enjoy the sights and trails. However, many runners have to enter a roadway at some point as they run to their destination. While doing so, a runner could become involved in a serious accident involving a motor vehicle driver. If the driver flees the scene, it could lead to devastating results.
Our attorneys at Kaufman & Stigger, PLLC believe that you should always have experienced and compassionate legal help on your side after a pedestrian accident. If you or someone you love has been hurt in a hit-and-run accident as a runner, you should not have to navigate the legal system alone. Contact us today to discuss your options.
Kentucky Pedestrian Hit-and-Run Accident Dangers
When a motor vehicle collides with any type of pedestrian, including runners, the results can be devastating. Many victims of these accidents will spend weeks or months in the hospital, on top of missing out on crucial time in the workplace. What makes these situations even more traumatic and complex is when a driver flees the scene of an accident without stopping for the runner, leaving them without immediate medical help.
A Kentucky state police report in 2021 showed that hit-and-run accidents are a growing problem throughout the state. In just that year, more than 11,000 hit-and-run accidents took place, with 38 people losing their lives. When a hit-and-run driver makes the decision to flee the scene of an accident, they are endangering the life of a runner who could be struck by other vehicles or could lose their life due to their injuries.
Unfortunately, some hit-and-run drivers are never found. In these situations, runners are left with many hardships that they will have to face alone. Luckily, there are legal options for runners who have been hit by a negligent driver who fled the scene.
How to Receive Financial Support After a Kentucky Hit-and-Run Crash
After a Kentucky hit-and-run accident involving a runner, police will attempt to locate a suspect so that they can charge them with their crimes. However, you as an injured victim can file a personal injury claim without waiting for the outcome of a trial. Criminal and civil charges are handled separately so you may be able to obtain financial support as quickly as possible.
However, there are many times where the suspect in a hit-and-run accident is never located. In these situations, an injured runner would file a claim under their uninsured (UM) motorist coverage. In many cases, this type of coverage is available through individual’s car insurance policies. The payments that come from this coverage can sometimes help an injured runner who has been injured by a hit-and-run driver and needs support when they are unable to work and pay the bills on their own.
Financial Support for Kentucky Runners
If you have sustained injuries in a running accident caused by a hit-and-run driver, you may be eligible for various types of damages under Kentucky law. These include the following:
- Current and future medical expenses associated with your injuries
- Physical pain and suffering
- Emotional distress damages caused by the accident
- Lost wages and future loss of earnings
- Damaged personal property damages
- Travel costs to and from doctor’s appointments
If a loved one lost their life in an accident, family members may be able to obtain wrongful death damages as well. However, it is important to act quickly no matter the circumstances of your claim, as deadlines can be strict as it pertains to accident laws in Kentucky.
Contact a Kentucky Runner Injury Lawyer
It can be devastating and alarming to face a hit-and-run pedestrian accident. When a driver does not look out for your well-being and flees the scene of an accident, you may be feeling alone. Luckily, our Kentucky runner injury lawyers at Kaufman & Stigger, PLLC are here to help you protect your rights after a running accident. We will provide you with resources and the legal guidance necessary to help you during one of the most challenging times in your life. Please contact us today for a free consultation so that you can get started on your case.
