Motorcycle Laws in Kentucky
The motorcycle laws in Kentucky touch on all aspects of riding motorcycles, including who can legally operate them and how they should be ridden. As with other traffic laws that all motorists must obey, failing to follow these motorcycling rules can lead to fines and other criminal and civil penalties. Disregarding the laws can also increase a rider’s risk of being involved in a crash.
Regardless of whether you are following Kentucky’s motorcycle laws perfectly, you should not bear the cost of another motorist’s carelessness on the road. A Louisville motorcycle accident lawyer with HJV Car Accident Personal Injury Lawyers can hold negligent drivers accountable for the wrecks they cause in Louisville, KY. Contact us today for a free consultation at (859) 578-4444.
How HJV Car Accident Personal Injury Lawyers Can Help After a Motorcycle Accident in Louisville, KY
Whether you crash your motorcycle in Louisville, Kentucky, or another driver collides with you, having an experienced Louisville motorcycle accident attorney at your side is essential to your claim’s success.
Our lawyers will work with you to:
- Quantify your expenses so you know how much compensation you can expect
- Identify those responsible for causing your injuries so they can be sued
- Gather evidence needed to prove the extent of your injuries and the other party’s fault
- Represent your interests during settlement talks and try to reach an appropriate settlement swiftly
- Take your claim to court if doing so is necessary to your legal recovery
At HJV Car Accident Personal Injury Lawyers, our attorneys have over 90 years of combined experience representing injured Kentuckians. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with a Louisville motorcycle accident lawyer.
The Kentucky Motorcycle Laws All Riders Must Know
Every person riding a motorcycle in Kentucky is subject to the state’s motorcycle laws, even if they are licensed in another state. The following are some of the most important laws to keep in mind when riding in Kentucky.
Mandatory Helmet Law
Kentucky no longer has a universal helmet law.
However, the following motorcycle riders must wear a helmet at all times:
- Those who are under 21
- Those who are riding a motorcycle with an instructional permit
- Those who have had their motorcycle license for less than a year
These riders must wear a helmet that meets federal requirements. Additionally, all passengers are required to wear a helmet when riding a motorcycle.
Regardless of what the law says, all riders should consider wearing a helmet. Helmets are an effective way to reduce the risk of a serious head or neck injury in the event of a crash.
Mandatory Eye Protection Law
All motorcycle operators in Kentucky must wear approved eyewear regardless of their age, experience, or type of license. Eye protection is required of the operator and any passenger they have with them. Note that riders must use eye protection even if the motorcycle has a windscreen.
Lane Splitting May Be Illegal
Some states, like California, permit motorcyclists to use the white dashed line that separates traffic lanes traveling in the same direction as a separate “lane” of travel. This practice, known as lane splitting, permits motorcyclists to pass between motorized traffic like cars and trucks that may be slowed or stopped on the road.
Kentucky law does not permit or prohibit lane splitting. Regardless of the practice’s legal status, you will be cited if an officer believes you are operating your bike in a reckless manner. Therefore, it might be wise to refrain from lane splitting when there is heavy congestion or at a high speed that gives you little time to avoid a sudden hazard.
Obey All Other Laws
Motorcyclists are not exempt from following other traffic laws. A biker must adhere to the state’s right-of-way rules, prohibitions against intoxicated or impaired driving, and red-light laws. Motorcyclists who do not comply are subject to the same penalties that a car or truck driver could face for violations.
Bikers who adhere to these and other Kentucky motorcycle laws stand a greater chance of avoiding a severe or fatal motorcycle crash.
Contact Our Louisville Motorcycle Accident Lawyers for a Free Consultation
You have many things to consider following a Louisville motorcycle crash, including how to pay for your losses and the services you need to recover. Let us help you understand your rights after a wreck. During your free consultation with us, we will explain how Kentucky’s laws work in your case and how we can assist you in getting the help you need.
Contact us today to schedule your case review with a Louisville motorcycle accident attorney.