Any bone fracture that comes from a Kentucky motorcycle accident is unfortunate, but especially when it involves an area as important as your shoulder. Shoulder fractures and other injuries can have a significant impact on a rider’s ability to work, engage in physical activities, and perform daily tasks. Additionally, they can also result in chronic pain, nerve damage, and limited range of motion, which can make it difficult for you to maintain your independence and quality of life.
In addition to the physical and emotional toll, shoulder injuries in motorcycle accidents can also result in significant medical expenses, lost income, and other financial hardships. Therefore, it is important for you to take steps to protect yourself from injury and understand what your legal options are.
Kentucky Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Will Fight For You
At Kaufman & Stigger, PLLC, we have an experienced and dedicated team of Kentucky motorcycle accident lawyers that will fight for your rights and compensation after you’ve been injured. We understand that a motorcycle accident can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone.
Our lawyers put our experienced and resources to work for you by investigating your accident, gathering evidence, and building a strong case on your behalf. Don’t wait to get the assistance you need. Reach out to our team today to set up a free consultation to get started.
What is a Shoulder Fracture and How Do They Happen in Kentucky Motorcycle Accidents?
A shoulder fracture is a break in one or more of the bones in the shoulder, which can be a result of trauma or injury. In Kentucky motorcycle accidents, shoulder fractures are a common injury due to various circumstances that are present throughout most accidents.
Normally, motorcycle accidents cause riders to be thrown from their bikes, resulting in an impact on the ground or with other hard objects and surfaces. When this occurs, the rider may attempt to brace themselves with their arms, leading to a significant force being applied to the shoulder. Additionally, the weight of the motorcycle can also contribute to the injury. Moreover, there are multiple different types of shoulder fractures that can occur:
- Clavicle fracture – Also known as a collarbone fracture, this is the most common shoulder fracture in most motorcycle accidents. It occurs when there is a direct impact on the shoulder or a fall onto an outstretched arm.
- Scapular fracture – A scapular fracture is a break in the shoulder blade bone, which is located in the upper back area. In a motorcycle accident, a scapular fracture can occur due to a direct impact or compression on the shoulder area, such as when the rider is thrown off the bike and lands on their back.
- Humerus fracture – A humerus fracture is a break in the upper arm bone, which extends from the shoulder to the elbow. In a motorcycle accident, a humerus fracture can occur when there is a direct impact on the upper arm, such as when the rider hits an object or the ground.
With any shoulder fracture, it’s vital that you seek medical attention right away. It’s important to note that these types of fractures can occur individually or in combination, depending on the specific circumstances of your motorcycle accident. Additionally, there may be variations in the severity and location of the fracture, which can affect the treatment and recovery process.
Types of Kentucky Motorcycle Accidents That Can Lead To Shoulder Fractures
Unfortunately, while riding a motorcycle is certainly an exhilarating experience in Kentucky, it’s also very dangerous. Because of the high speeds and relative lack of protection, even a minor motorcycle collision can result in certain injuries–including shoulder fractures. Intersection accidents: These occur when a motorcycle collides with a vehicle at an intersection. Shoulder fractures can occur when the rider is thrown off the bike and lands on their shoulder or arm.
- Rear-end collisions – These occur when a motorcycle is hit from behind by a car or truck. The force of the impact can cause the rider to be thrown from the bike, resulting in shoulder fractures.
- Single-vehicle accidents – These occur when a motorcycle crashes due to factors such as road hazards, weather conditions, or rider error. In these accidents, the rider may be thrown from the bike and sustain shoulder fractures.
- Head-on collisions – These occur when a motorcycle collides with a vehicle head-on. The force of the impact can cause the rider to be thrown from the bike, resulting in shoulder fractures.
- Lane-splitting accidents – These occur when a motorcycle travels between two lanes of traffic. In these accidents, the rider may be hit by a car or truck and sustain shoulder fractures.
It’s worth noting that shoulder fractures can happen in any type of motorcycle accident, depending on the circumstances of the incident. To reduce the risk of serious injury, it’s essential for riders to wear proper protective gear like helmets and padded jackets at all times while on their motorcycle. Still, even with precautions, injuries like shoulder fractures can still happen. When they do, it’s important to know what your next steps are.
What Legal Options Are There After Kentucky Motorcycle Accidents?
When you’ve been injured in any type of accident in Kentucky, the law allows you to pursue a claim for damages against the person or entity that was at fault. Usually, this is another driver on the road who acted negligently and caused the accident, but it can be extended to include the state or locality that’s responsible for keeping the road safe and free of hazards. No matter who is responsible for causing your injuries, there are legal options you have to recover compensation for your injuries:
- Filing an insurance claim – Kentucky is a no-fault state, which means that you can file a claim with your own insurance company regardless of who was at fault for the accident. If the injuries are severe, like a shoulder fracture, you may be able to file a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance as well.
- Filing a personal injury lawsuit – If the injuries sustained in the accident are severe, you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault driver. In Kentucky, you must prove that the driver was negligent and that this negligence caused the injuries sustained in the accident. From there, filing a Complaint will officially initiate the lawsuit, where you could potentially recover:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Punitive damages, in the event the driver acted with reckless negligence
- Pursuing a product liability claim – If your motorcycle or any of its parts were defective and contributed to the accident, you may be able to file a product liability claim against the manufacturer or distributor. Usually, this type of claim arises out of something like brake failure or something similar.
It’s important to note that the specific legal options available will depend on the circumstances of the accident and the extent of the injuries sustained. It’s always advisable to seek the advice of our team of experienced Kentucky motorcycle accident lawyers to discuss your legal rights and options.
Free Consultations For Kentucky Motorcycle Accident Victims
When you or a loved one has suffered a shoulder fracture or other injury in a Kentucky motorcycle accident, it’s essential that you take steps to protect your legal rights. Likely, you’re facing serious medical bills and other costs as a result of the accident, so you’ll need compensation to get back on your feet.
At Kaufman & Stigger, PLLC, our team of experienced Kentucky motorcycle accident lawyers can help you navigate this challenging time. Contact us today to set up a free consultation to learn more.
