Motorcycle riders are fanatics about their bikes and riding. They should be, because there are few things better than a ride on your motorcycle on a warm afternoon on a country road, or maybe in the mountains or at the beach.
However, there are few things more aggravating than getting hit by another motorist who then takes off. At Kaufman and Stigger, LLC, we understand the frustration and anger of being injured by someone who doesn’t even stick around to see if you’re ok. If this happened to you, we will ensure that you are fairly represented.
Dangerous Trend
According to a report by the American Automobile Association, Kentucky has seen a dramatic rise in hit and run accidents. From 2014 to 2016 the number of hit and run accidents more than doubled from 2014 (10) to 2016 (23). In 2018, Kentucky had 31 hit and run accidents.
This is a disturbing trend and one that has motorcyclists a bit on edge. This is because of the dangers specific to motorcycle riders who are in an especially vulnerable position. The occupants of a car have more protection than those on a bike. An accident with a motorcycle has a significantly higher chance of being a serious or fatal accident.
In fact, once a person gets on their motorcycle and rides, their chance of a fatal accident rose 28 times according to a report from the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration.
What Happens After a Hit-and-Run in Kentucky?
Once the driver flees, the injured are left to fend for themselves, and if the victim is on a motorcycle, then their chance of serious injury goes up. This alone could put them at risk of a much more serious injury or even death because in many cases, the at-fault driver in a crash is the one who calls for help—especially when the other person is incapacitated.
They might require immediate first aid or help in getting clear of a vehicle that might catch fire. The scenarios are endless. Kentucky is mostly rural which means that in many cases, there might not be anyone coming by soon. The longer the wait for aid, the higher the risk of death or further injury.
There are many types of injuries that fit this scenario. In Kentucky, some of the most common are:
- Pregnancy/Delivery: An accident can put a pregnant woman into labor, and the quicker the response, the more likely there will be a good outcome.
- Neck Injuries: Neck injuries need to be stabilized quickly and delays might cause more problems.
- Deep lacerations: Any loss-of-blood injuries can put the victim in danger if first aid is delayed.
- Heart Attack: The stress of an accident can cause a heart attack, and a quick response from EMS can make a difference.
- Punctured Lungs: Broken ribs can lead to a punctured lung which can deprive a person of their ability to breath and get oxygen.
Who Pays for Damages in a Hit-and-Run?
The at-fault driver is required under Kentucky law to pay compensation to the victim of an accident, but not when he or she takes off and is never found, then it’s impossible to make a claim against someone unknown. So this leaves the injured victim to look elsewhere for compensation. One place could be the victim’s own insurance policy if he was smart enough to get uninsured/underinsured (UM/UIM) coverage.
In Kentucky, auto insurance is mandatory, but UM/UIM is not. If the victim has it, then their own insurance will cover their damages. However, it’s not automatic and there are some requirements that have to be met before the insurance company will payout.
What Do I Do if I’m Injured in a Hit-and-Run in Kentucky?
While it’s not always possible, try to get as much information as you can. If not too injured, take pictures of the car. Sometimes the driver will stick around for a few moments before taking off. Get a license plate and any description you can.
Get any witnesses’ names and contact information. These can be valuable resources later. If the person is never found, you should talk to an attorney before you assume that you won’t be able to collect compensation for your injuries. A good attorney will find any source available to help the victim with their financial losses after an accident.
Contact a Louisville Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Accident victims often wonder if they need an attorney, and the answer is almost always yes. The insurance company agents have years of experience and are good at their job which is to pay you as little as possible or nothing at all. You need someone just as experienced to help you level the field.
Talk to a Louisville Motorcycle Accident Attorney you can trust to be on your side and get you what is yours under the law. The attorneys at Kaufman & Stigger, PLLC, have that knowledge and a combined 100 years’ experience in helping clients get the results they deserve. To discuss your case, contact Kaufman & Stigger, PLLC today, by clicking here to contact them online.