Mid-Year Statistics on Kentucky Auto Accidents
The Kentucky State Police are reporting that 342 people have been killed on Kentucky roadways so far in 2009. This represents a seven percent increase over the same time period in 2008.
More than half (160) of the 287 injury victims killed in what KSP defines as motor vehicle accidents (car accidents, motorcycle accidents, and truck accidents) were believed to not be wearing seat belts at the time of the accident. Sixteen pedestrians have been killed. Thirty-three fatalities involved motorcycle accidents and there were five ATV deaths. A total of eighty-one fatalities have resulted from crashes involving the suspected use of alcohol.
"What many people refer to as an 'auto accident' is a misnomer," said Shawn Cantley, an experienced auto accident attorney who handles major motorcycle, truck and car accident cases in Kentucky and Southern Indiana. "When cars crash it's because somebody wasn't following the rules of the road or paying attention. If that person hurts somebody else, they (or their insurance company) are legally responsible for the harm caused as a result."
Citizens can contribute to highway safety by reporting erratic drivers to the Kentucky State Police toll-free at 1-800-222-5555. You should give a description of the vehicle, location, direction of travel and license number if possible.
