According to WYMT, traffic fatalities have increased more than 20% since 2019. Additionally, an accident occurs every four minutes in Kentucky, and every ten minutes, an accident with injury happens. Researchers initially believed the rise in severe accidents was a side effect of the nationwide pandemic. More people were distancing themselves from others, so a great activity to pass the time was to go for a drive. However, as the nation began to reopen after the shutdown, traffic-related deaths rose.
One question arises with the threat of an accident resulting in severe injury or death increasing every time we leave the house. Why is it happening?
Why Are Catastrophic Accidents More Frequent Now?
It turns out that nothing in particular is the real cause of increased injury and death on Kentucky’s roadways. The uptick in catastrophic accidents is the result of various factors working together, including:
- More people driving at excessive speeds
- An increase in aggressive driving
- A failure to indicate lane changes and turns
- More drivers participating in distracted driving, including phone usage
- Poorly maintained semi-trucks
- An increased number of drivers following too closely
Other factors outside of driving behavior could also be part of the cause surrounding increased accidents. A growing population may also be responsible for the increased danger on Kentucky roadways. Both larger metro areas and rural communities have recently seen a steady influx of people.
How Can You Prevent Severe Accidents?
Following traffic laws and practicing defensive driving are the best ways to avoid being involved in an accident. You cannot control how someone else on the road is driving, but you can do your best by following these common traffic rules:
- Follow the speed limit
- Use your turn signals when changing lanes
- Maintain a safe distance between vehicles
- Keep your eyes on the road
- Put your phone in your pocket or out of your line of sight
- Maintain your vehicle properly
Practicing more defensive and cautious driving habits will help keep you and other drivers safe. By remaining diligent in your good driving habits, you have a better chance to stay out of an accident.
Who Is Responsible for an Accident Resulting in Injury in Kentucky?
Kentucky is a no-fault insurance state in the case of accidents. No-fault means that if an accident happens, neither driver is liable for the accident if both drivers operate their vehicles responsibly. After an accident happens, each driver files a claim through insurance, and their personal injury protection policy covers medical bills and lost wages — generally up to $10,000.
However, that does not mean negligent drivers can get away with causing accidents without penalty. If you are the victim of an accident involving a negligent driver with medical bills exceeding $1,000, you may be entitled to sue for your damages. Car accident cases in Kentucky are incredibly complex, and you should partner with a trusted car accident attorney before filing your claim to ensure the best result possible.
Trust McCoy & Sparks — Kentucky’s Premier Car Accident Attorneys
Recognized as one of Central Kentucky’s premier car accident attorneys, McCoy & Sparks works hard to get you the best outcome possible for your case. We understand that fighting insurance companies and gathering evidence surrounding automobile accidents is challenging. For over a decade, we have protected the people of Central Kentucky and have represented thousands of clients.
Our team of personal injury attorneys has the experience and know-how to take on the insurance companies and earn you proper compensation for your case. Contact us today for a free consultation at 1-844-4KY-WINS or fill out our online form. If you prefer an in-person consultation, stop by our offices at 212 W. Stephen Foster Ave. in Bardstown, Kentucky.