Motorcycles are both a convenient mode of transportation and an enjoyable hobby for Kentucky residents. However, despite the joys they can bring, motorcycles are also inherently dangerous—more than other kinds of vehicles. For this reason, motorcycle riders must take extra precautions to keep themselves and their passengers safe to avoid motorcycle crashes in Kentucky.
Motorcyclists are not only more likely to be involved in an accident, but they also tend to suffer from more severe and fatal injuries. This is because riders do not have as much protecting their body from impact as those who are riding in a passenger vehicle. So it is crucial for motorcyclists to pay extra attention when out on the roads to avoid potential dangers and known causes of motorcycle accidents.
If you or a loved one are involved in a motorcycle accident, contact the attorneys at McCoy & Sparks. We understand how devastating the aftermath of a motorcycle accident can be and are dedicated to providing compassionate support to our clients to ensure they get the compensation they deserve.
Kentucky Motorcycle Helmet Laws
Most states have laws in place to protect motorcyclists and other drivers on the road. While Kentucky does not require all motorcyclists to wear a helmet, it is still advised to avoid severe and fatal injuries. By law, however, there are some cases where a helmet is required.
This includes:
- Motorcyclists under the age of 21
- Those who only have their instruction permit
- Those who have had their motorcycle license for less than a year
Again, though not everyone is required to wear a helmet in Kentucky, it is best to do so if you want to avoid potentially life-threatening injuries. Statistics show that wearing a motorcycle helmet reduces fatality rates by 22% to 37%. Additionally, 37 out of 100 motorcycle accident fatalities occurred when the rider wasn’t wearing a helmet.
Leading Causes of Motorcycle Crashes in Kentucky
While a motorcycle collision can happen for any number of reasons, there are a few factors and situations that are considered the leading causes of these types of accidents.
Some of the most common causes of motorcycle crashes in Kentucky include:
- Motorcyclists riding in another vehicle’s blind spot
- Drivers making left-hand turns in front of motorcyclists
- Aggressive drivers not wanting to share the road or lane with a motorcyclist
- Drivers cutting motorcyclists off with quick lane changes
- Inexperience with a motorcycle and improper handling
Other common factors that make any kind of accident more likely, especially motorcycle accidents, include:
- Speeding
- Bad weather
- Traffic congestion
- Drowsy driving
- Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Distracted driving
- Reckless driving
- Road rage
- Mechanical failures
Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries
The injuries one sustains after a motorcycle accident can vary greatly depending on the individual circumstances. For example, someone who wears protective gear, such as a helmet and protective clothing, will be less likely to sustain fatal injuries compared to someone who is riding without a helmet or proper clothing.
However, even with the proper gear, motorcyclists are still at greater risk of suffering from severe injuries. This is why it’s so important for motorcyclists and other drivers to pay attention and take precautions when there are motorcycles on the road. Not only can the potential injuries lead to permanent impairment, but they will also require expensive medical treatments that can be a financial burden for the victim and their loved ones.
Some of the most common motorcycle accident injuries include the following:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Severe head trauma
- Road rash
- Internal organ damage
- Loss of limbs
- Back injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Paralysis
- Scarring and disfigurement
Trust McCoy & Sparks—Premier Personal Injury Attorneys in Central Kentucky
To avoid being involved in an accident, motorcyclists are advised to always wear a helmet and other protective clothing, avoid aggressive drivers, and drive defensively. Still, even if you follow these safety tips, there is no guarantee that an accident won’t occur. Despite traffic laws and safety precautions, motorcycle accidents continue to be a leading cause of traffic fatalities every year.
If you or a loved one are injured in a motorcycle accident, our team of experienced accident attorneys can assist you. Recognized as one of Central Kentucky’s best law firms for over a decade and counting, McCoy & Sparks represents thousands of clients with a focus on providing premium service and delivering superior results. Our goal is to help you reach the best possible result. You owe us nothing unless we recover compensation for you.
Make the right call to (844) 4KY-WINS for a risk-free consultation with one of our attorneys today.