Owning a motorcycle opens up a wide range of road trip possibilities in Kentucky. Seasoned riders know that some of the best weekend rides are along the Red River Gorge, the Cave Run Lake Loop, or around Route 32. Experienced riders are also the least likely to be involved in accidents because they know how to maneuver around other drivers who may not be paying attention to the road.
Sadly, even the most experienced riders can suffer catastrophic motorcycle accidents on the road.
What Should You Do After a Motorcycle Accident?
According to the most recent data collected by the Kentucky State Police, there were 101,182 registered motorcyclists compared to the 3,608,463 registered cars. Of that group, there were 1,089 injury collisions and 98 fatal collisions. While that represents less than 1% of all vehicles in collisions, every crash is a life-altering event.
Every motorcycle rider should be prepared for the worst. There are crucial steps to take after getting involved in a motorcycle accident. Here’s what you need to do:
Step 1: Call 911
Call 911 and wait for emergency services to arrive. Even if you or the others involved in the accident have no visible injuries, it is vital to be looked over by an EMT. That is especially true of motorcycle riders who will fall on the hard road in every accident.
Calling 911 will also bring the police to the scene. Once they arrive, they will receive statements from all parties involved in the accident, including any witnesses.
Step 2: Get to Safety
If possible, you should remove your bike from the road to avoid oncoming traffic. It is probably easier to move a motorcycle off the road than a car, but all vehicles need to be clear as long as it is safe to do so.
Step 3: Gather Evidence
While you wait for the police to arrive, you should take photos and videos of the accident scene from multiple angles. You also want to get photos of the surrounding environment, road conditions, and any traffic signs.
Additionally, you want to collect all the information from the other motorist and any witnesses.
Step 4: Seek Medical Attention
If you’re able to walk away from an accident, you should still seek medical attention. There are many injuries from a motorcycle accident that could have a delayed reaction. It is essential for a future claim to document all your medical history related to the accident.
Step 5: Report to Your Insurance Company
After being involved in an accident, you might be obligated to report the incident to your insurance company. That doesn’t mean you’re filing a claim, but that you’re just reporting the accident. This can also serve as important evidence.
If the police did not show up at the scene, you need to report that accident to the Kentucky State Police if there were any injuries and at least $500 in damages.
Step 6: Contact a Lawyer
After you’ve contacted a doctor for your injuries and a mechanic for your motorcycle, you will be generating bills. If another driver’s negligence caused the accident, you’re entitled to seek compensation for those bills.
An experienced Lexington motorcycle accident attorney from Peterson Law Office can provide the guidance and support you need to make an informed decision about the best way to seek your compensation.
What Is the Kentucky Statute of Limitations?
When you get involved in a motorcycle accident, the clock starts ticking on the state’s statute of limitations. In Kentucky, you have one to two years (depending on personal injury protection (PIP) insurance coverage) to file a civil complaint or lawsuit.
Before that can happen, however, you’ll have to go through the insurance claim process. That is why you should initiate this process as soon as possible.
Not every motorcycle accident claim will end up in a courtroom. When liability can be clearly established, the insurance company will be willing to provide a reasonable settlement. However, if a dispute arises regarding liability, it could result in delays or a denial outright. In those instances, your attorney might recommend moving forward with a civil complaint.
The good news is that once you file, the reluctant insurance company is more apt to move towards a quicker resolution, so they can avoid the expense of a trial.
Protect Your Rights After a Motorcycle Crash
Recovering from a motorcycle accident can be an uphill battle. The process can be physically, emotionally, and financially draining. When those medical bills start to pile up and you miss work, it can make it a challenge to get your life back on track.
Fortunately, you don’t have to handle those challenges alone. Working with an experienced Kentucky motorcycle accident attorney ensures that your rights will be protected.
At Peterson Law Office, we understand what’s at stake after a serious motorcycle accident. Our team fights for riders and their families to recover full and fair compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering. If you or someone you love has been injured in a motorcycle crash anywhere in Kentucky, reach out to Peterson Law Office to schedule a free case evaluation.
We’re here to help you get the justice and recovery you deserve.