Fighting For Motorcycle Accident Victims in Kentucky
Motorcycle accidents are among the most dangerous and deadly of all roadway crashes. Motorcyclists are at considerable risk for serious and catastrophic injuries as well as death in accidents due to their bodily exposure when struck. Without the protective encasement of a car’s steel frame and safety equipment such as airbags and seatbelts, riders are commonly thrown from their bikes, slamming into the pavement, other vehicles, or nearby objects.
No matter how skilled a rider you may be, when others act negligently or carry a negative attitude toward you as a motorcyclist, you can be hurt. You shouldn’t have to pay for the consequences. At Schuler Law Office, we are here to hold those accountable who cause injury and death to others due to their careless, reckless, or unlawful driving behaviors.
Call Schuler Law Office today to discuss your case and learn your next steps.
What To Do After a Motorcycle Accident in Louisville
Get medical care right away after a motorcycle accident, including evaluation for brain injuries such as a concussion. Some symptoms can be delayed. Follow up with treatment and keep records that link your injuries to the wreck. If you can, collect the police report number, witness contact information, photos of the scene and motorcycle damage, and copies of bills and receipts.
Insurance adjusters may contact you quickly and request a recorded statement or broad medical release. Talk with a motorcycle accident attorney in Louisville before agreeing. An attorney can handle insurer communications, preserve evidence, and protect your claim.
How Are Motorcycle Accident Cases Handled by a Motorcycle Accident Attorney Louisville?
Injury claims involving motorcyclists often require different handling than those related to other accident victims. Because they can result in catastrophic injuries, such as brain or spinal cord damage, accidents involving motorcyclists require extensive hospitalization and rehabilitation.
Motorcycle crashes can cause permanent disabilities, which makes future medical care, rehabilitation, assistive devices, and home modifications part of the damages calculation. Insurers often try to minimize these costs, so the claim must be documented and presented with complete records.
When we handle a case, we collect police reports, photos, witness statements, and medical documentation, then build a claim package based on evidence. If the insurer will not make a fair offer, we file suit in the appropriate Kentucky court and manage discovery, depositions, and pretrial motions while keeping you updated through each stage.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Louisevill
Motorcycle accidents have many causes. Most of them are caused by human error, particularly inattentiveness on the part of other drivers. Motorcycles are smaller, less visible, and are often difficult to see when behind or alongside other vehicles. Motorcyclists must be especially alert and drive defensively when sharing the road with those in cars and trucks.
Common causes of motorcycle accidents can include:
Distracted Driving: On the part of other drivers, which can involve cell phone usage, texting, adjusting devices, grooming, eating, drinking, and dealing with passengers.
Failure to Yield: On the part of motorists.
Blind Spot Neglect: Motorists' failure to pay attention to blind spots, which can lead to accidents when merging or changing lanes.
Speeding: This can prevent drivers from being able to stop in time when traffic slows or halts.
Unsafe Turns: Drivers turning left at intersections in front of oncoming motorcyclists.
Vehicle Door Hazard: Drivers of parked vehicles opening their doors to oncoming motorcyclists.
Drunk Driving: Drunk drivers whose unpredictable movements cannot be avoided.
Road Defects: These can include debris, obscured signage, potholes, and other hazards.
Why Choose Schuler Law Office as Your Motorcycle Accident Attorney Louisville
After a motorcycle accident, you may be facing serious injuries, including brain injuries, and pressure from insurance companies. Schuler Law Office represents riders in Louisville and pursues compensation through a clear legal strategy built around the facts of your crash and the full impact of your injuries.
When you choose us to represent you, you can expect:
Knowledge of Motorcycle Accident Laws: Our attorneys have extensive knowledge and experience in handling motorcycle accident cases in Kentucky. We understand the unique challenges and complexities involved in these types of accidents and can provide you with the guidance you need.
Thorough Investigation: We will conduct a thorough investigation into the accident, gathering evidence, speaking to witnesses if necessary.
Negotiation & Litigation Skills: Our team is skilled in negotiation and litigation tactics. We will aggressively negotiate with insurance companies to ensure you receive a fair settlement, and if necessary, we will not hesitate to take your case to court to fight for your rights.
Compassionate Support: We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll that a motorcycle accident can have on your life. Our team will provide you with compassionate support throughout the legal process, answering your questions, addressing your concerns, and advocating for your best interests.
Understanding Motorcycle Laws in Louisville
Kentucky motorcycle laws can affect both your safety and your injury claim. Riders and passengers under 21 must wear a helmet, and motorcycles must have headlights on at all times to improve visibility. Kentucky also prohibits lane splitting, meaning riders cannot legally travel between lanes of stopped or slow traffic.
Common Injuries in Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle crashes often cause severe injuries because riders have far less protection than occupants in a car. Common injuries include traumatic brain injuries (TBI), spinal cord injuries, serious fractures, road rash, and deep lacerations, many of which require surgery, physical therapy, and long-term rehabilitation.
High-speed collisions around Louisville can also lead to internal organ damage and complex joint injuries to the knees, shoulders, and hips, and some conditions aren’t fully diagnosed until follow-up testing. A motorcycle accident lawyer in Louisville can help make sure your medical needs, lost income, and pain and suffering are fully documented and included in your claim.
What Immediate Steps Should I Take After a Motorcycle Accident?
Immediately after a motorcycle accident, it is vital to ensure your safety and seek medical attention, even if injuries are not immediately apparent. Contact law enforcement to document the accident and obtain a police report. Gather contact information from witnesses and take photographs of the scene if it is safe to do so. Once you've handled these urgent matters, contact a legal professional to discuss the incident and explore your options for pursuing compensation.
How Is Liability Determined in Motorcycle Accidents?
Determining liability in motorcycle accidents involves analyzing evidence, including police reports, witness statements, and accident reconstruction if needed. Factors such as road conditions, weather, driver behavior, and compliance with traffic laws are critical in identifying who is at fault. The legal team at Schuler Law Office conducts thorough investigations to ensure all liable parties are held accountable, thereby strengthening your claim for rightful compensation.
What Types of Compensation Can Be Sought After an Accident?
Victims of motorcycle accidents can seek multiple types of compensation. Economic damages account for tangible losses such as medical bills, rehabilitation costs, and lost wages. Non-economic damages address the less tangible effects of an accident, such as pain and suffering, mental anguish, and loss of quality of life. A comprehensive claim should encompass all aspects of your injuries to ensure you are adequately compensated for your full range of losses.
How Long Do I Have to File a Claim Following a Motorcycle Accident in Kentucky?
In Kentucky, you generally have one year from the date of the motorcycle accident to file a personal injury claim. This timeframe is critical to observe, as waiting too long might forfeit your right to seek compensation. Consulting with a legal professional soon after the accident ensures that all necessary documents and evidence are gathered in a timely manner and that your claim is filed within the applicable legal deadline.
Why Is It Important to Have a Motorcycle Accident Attorney in Louisville?
Having legal representation after a motorcycle accident is crucial due to the complexity of such cases. Insurance companies often aim to minimize payouts, and navigating their bargaining tactics can be challenging without a skilled lawyer. Legal professionals understand the intricacies of the law and can present your case compellingly, ensuring your rights are protected and that you receive a fair settlement.
“Dave and Justin are both great attorneys who did an outstanding job on my case.”
“Both Dave and Justins' experience in the courtroom and ability to work with clients helped me understand my individual case, make informed decisions, and ultimately resulted in the most advantageous outcome for my case.”
