What happens if a car hits you while you are walking through a parking lot, on a sidewalk, in a crosswalk or anywhere you can legally be, public or private property?
The most common type of pedestrian injury occurs when a distracted driver strikes a person on foot.
What are Kentucky’s pedestrian laws?
When drivers, walkers and bicyclists respect each other’s space, everyone stays safe. Kentucky pedestrian laws include the following key points:
- Vehicles must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians where traffic signals are not present
- Drivers may not pass other vehicles stopped for pedestrians
- Drivers must exercise caution and care, avoiding collisions with pedestrians and incapacitated persons
- Pedestrians severely impaired by drugs or alcohol must not occupy the road, except on a sidewalk
Who is responsible for injuries after an accident?
After a car hits you, you may suffer from extensive injuries, costly medical bills and lost wages due to missed work. If the accident is not your fault, then you deserve to recover damages from the liable party. All drivers in Kentucky must carry auto insurance to legally operate a vehicle. However, if an uninsured driver hits you, then your Personal Injury Protection insurance may cover some or all your costs.
If you seek recompense via the legal system, you will be subject to Kentucky’s pure comparative negligence standard, which reduces your award based on your percentage of fault in the event.
When traveling on foot, it is important to follow all traffic and safety laws. If an accident occurs, be sure to seek medical attention immediately and notify law enforcement.