Many people enjoy biking in Kentucky as a convenient and eco-friendly mode of transportation. Although legislation in the state aims to protect cyclists from negligent drivers, bicycle accidents are still a sadly common occurrence.
If you were injured in a biking crash caused by someone else, discuss your legal options with an experienced attorney at O’Connor, Acciani & Levy. A Covington bicycle accident lawyer at our firm can investigate your case and help assert your rights to compensation.
Bicycle Laws in Covington
Bicyclists in Kentucky are entitled to certain rights on the road. Bikers are allowed on the road alongside vehicles, and two riders are legally permitted to ride beside one another in a lane. Bicyclists also have the right of way if they are going straight while another vehicle is waiting to make a left turn.
Motorists must abide by certain rules when encountering bicyclists on the road, which a knowledgeable local attorney can further explain. According to Kentucky state law, no motorist may cut a cyclist off, force a cyclist off of the road, hit a cyclist with a right hook, or “door” a cyclist.
Dooring Accidents for Bikers
There are roads in Covington that make it difficult for cyclists to remain safe while motorists are exiting their vehicles.
Motorists are expected to watch for cyclists and check before opening their doors into traffic.
The act of “dooring” a cyclist or opening a vehicle’s door into the path of a cyclist, is illegal in Kentucky. Those parties who engage in this kind of behavior may face civil suits, particularly if the cyclist in question was injured during the incident.
Steps to Take after a Biking Collision
After a biking crash, there are several important steps an injured victim should take to preserve their physical well-being and protect their right to pursue compensation.
Call an Ambulance
Parties injured in a bicycle accident need to get in touch with local authorities as soon as possible. An injured victim should seek medical assessment and treatment as soon as possible. Law enforcement representatives can make sure that injured parties receive the care they need. They can also take the details of the accident into account and provide the injured party with a cursory report regarding the encounter.
Do Not Apologize for Riding on the Road
Bicyclists should not apologize to motorists after an accident. Cyclists who do so may have their words turned against them should they wish to take a case to civil court. This means that parties fighting for compensation may lose their legal rights, so it is crucial to secure legal representation from a Covington bike crash attorney before making any statements.
It is important to get contact information from other parties involved in the biking wreck if possible. This includes the names and
insurance information for any other motorists involved in the collision.
Secure Legal Counsel
Once an injured victim has received medical treatment, they should meet with a skilled Covington bike crash lawyer to discuss options for pursuing compensation. A
dedicated attorney can assess the situation, determine fault, and gather evidence to back their claim. All parties who wish to file a claim against a motorist in a bicycle accident must do so within a year of the accident taking place, according to the statute of limitations in the state of Kentucky.
Discuss Your Case with a Covington Bicycle Accident Attorney
The recovery process after a serious cycling crash can be difficult. Let a Covington bicycle accident lawyer handle your legal claim while you focus on healing from your injuries. At O’Connor, Acciani & Levy, we are prepared to fight for your rights and pursue compensation on your behalf.
Call us today to discuss your case.
