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Motorcycle Accidents

7/25/2011
Mike Schafer
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Motorcyclist Killed on Watterson Expressway

63-year-old David Woosley was killed when his motorcycle was struck on the Watterson Expressway near Cane Run Road.

6/1/2011
Mike Schafer
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Serious Motorcycle Accident Injures University of Kentucky Football Player

T.C. Drake was thrown from his motorcycle and sustained serious injuries when hit by another vehicle Sunday morning in Bloomfield, KY.

5/4/2011
Mike Schafer
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Fatal Motorcycle Crash May Be Due to Wet Roads

A fatal motorcycle crash killed Ivan Holston May 1, 2011 in Louisville, KY.

10/11/2010
Mike Schafer
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Versailles Couple Killed in Motorcycle Accident

Jason and Shirley Walton were fatally injured when the motorcycle they were riding collided with another vehicle in Woodford County Kentucky.

6/23/2010
Mike Schafer
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Collision with a TARC Buss Kills Motorcycle Passenger

Early in the evening on Tuesday a man was killed when the motorcycle he was riding collided with a TARC bus.

5/6/2010
Mike Schafer
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Kentucky Accident Attorney Offers Basic Motorcycle Safety Tips

Kentucky Motorcycle Accident outlines basic safety tips for riders to help prevent tragic accidents on Kentucky roads.

3/31/2010
Mike Schafer
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Kentucky Motorcyclist Brian Smith Dies in Early Morning Accident

31-year-old motorcyclist dies in an early morning crash by losing control of his motorcycle and leaving the roadway.

3/29/2010
Mike Schafer
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Pendleton, Kentucky Woman Killed in a Motorcycle Accident

Fatal accident in Oldham County Kentucky reminds everyone on the road to be extra attentive, be aware that with the good weather upon us there will be more activity on the roads.

3/1/2010
Mike Schafer
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Is Winter The Time To Think About Motorcycle Accident Prevention?

It is winter and I am writing about motorcycle accidents. Is this just a personal injury attorney with too much time on his hands? What does snow and bicycles have to do with preventing motorcycle accidents and the serious injuries these accidnets can cause? Do loud pipes realy save lifes? Does wearing a helmet prevent deaths and injuries? Do cars need to be reminded of motorcycles? What can a motorcycle rider do to increase their chances of avoiding a serious accident with a car? Check out "Bicycles, Snow and Motorcycle Accident Prevention" at TheKentuckyAccidentAttorney.com to find out how you can make Kentucky roads safer.

10/26/2009
Mike Schafer
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Motorcyclist in Northern Kentucky Suffer Serious Injuries after Crashing into Three Trees

Man Seriously Injured in Northern Kentucky Motorcycle Accident-Kentucky Motorcycle Accident Attorney
DATE:     October 25, 2009
LOCATION:     Kenton County Kentucky
TYPE:     George Bradford IV suffered serious injuries from a motorcycle accident.

Kenton County Police Serious Traffic Accident Reconstruction Unit is in the process of investigating a motorcycle accident that occurred on Sunday afternoon.  They report that George Bradford IV was in the process of test driving a motorcycle at about 3:30 on Sunday afternoon.  The accident occurred in the 12300 block of Bowman Road when Bradford reportedly lost control of the motorcycle.  He then went off the road hitting three trees before coming to a stop.  As a result of the accident Bradford was thrown from the motorcycle.  He was then transported to University Hospital in Cincinnati by medical helicopter.  Reports indicate he is suffering serious injuries.  Police also report that he was not wearing a helmet at the time of the accident.

There is no law that says that in Kentucky you have to wear a helmet when riding a motorcycle but inarguably they offer protection for one of the most vital organs in your body.  Any protection to the head is a good thing.  We hope Mr. Bradford has a complete and speedy recovery from his injuries.


10/3/2009
Mike Schafer
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Mental Strategies to Improve Your Safety as a Motorcyclist

Not So Common Sense about Motorcycle Safety-Kentucky Motorcycle Accident Attorney

DATE:      October 3, 2009

TYPE:      Some less obvious safety tips for motorcyclists.

You can stop anyone on the street and ask them what their ideas are on motorcycle safety and just about all of them will come up with wearing the proper safety equipment.  That could be a helmet and eye protection.  They might even be able to express the need for long pants and sleeves made of a thick material.  Also over the ankle boots and gloves are an important choice in safety attire.

The same person will more than likely describe ways for the motorcyclist to increase their visibility.  This can be done by using reflective strips or decal on both your clothing and motorcycle, wearing bright, light colored clothes and making sure your headlight works.  These are all great ideas to improve safety on the motorcycle.

Another strategy to increase safety is probably not so obvious.  The motorcyclist can apply mental strategies that will help them to see and be seen.  A mental strategy is to constantly search the road for changing conditions and know that you have allowed yourself ample time to react to the change.  Consciously use lane positioning to allow yourself to be seen.   This means putting yourself in the part of the driving lane where you are most visible. The common mental strategies are to avoid weaving in and out of traffic, signal your move way in advance and never ride when you are under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Of equal importance is to learn about your bike and how to ride it before going into heavy traffic.  Be familiar on how to handle it on wet roads, high wind conditions and uneven surfaces.  These tips could save your life.



10/1/2009
Mike Schafer
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Fatal Motorcycle Accident in Northern Kentucky Claims Life of Harvey Gauthier

Motorcycle Accident in Covington, Kentucky Takes Life of Harvey Gauthier-Kentucky Motorcycle Accident Attorney
DATE:     September 22, 2009
LOCATION:     I-71/I-75
TYPE:     Fatal motorcycle accident also involved two tractor-trailers, another car and a wrecker.

Anyone who has traveled the stretch of I-71/I-75 in northern Kentucky knows that it is busy almost all the time.  Several lanes of traffic coming from two different interstates heading into and out of a large city means a lot of traffic.  I am on that road frequently and am amazed at the amount of traffic.

The afternoon of September 22, 2009 a motorcyclist lost his life on this stretch of highway.  60-year-old Harvey Gauthier was traveling southbound when he changed lanes and lost control of his motorcycle.  He hit a wrecker that was on the side of the road which sent him back into traffic where he was hit by another vehicle.  Two semis behind him were not able to avoid the accident and crashed into each other.  The drivers of the semis were taken to an area hospital where they were treated for minor injuries.

It has not been reported as to whether Gauthier was wearing a helmet or not.  As an attorney who has handled accident cases for almost 20 years I can tell you that on big busy roads like I-71/I-75 as a driver you need to exercise extreme caution.


9/16/2009
Mike Schafer
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Crash in Wolfe County Kentucky Kills Three

Accident Involving a Motorcycle and Truck Claims Three Lives-Kentucky accident attorney
DATE:     September 14, 2009
LOCATION:    Wolfe County Kentucky
TYPE:    Kentucy State Police are investigating an accident that killed three  Wolfe County

Shortly after midnight, early Monday morning the Kentcky State Police were notified of an accident on Ky. 15 at Myrtle Little Hollow Road.  According to reports the accident involve a collision between a motorcycle and a pickup truck.

Kenneth R. Pierson, 29, of Stanton was traveling north on Ky. 15 with 20-year-old Rhonda Ann Bush of Compton as a passenger n the back of his motocycle. As they were approaching the intersection of Ky. 15 and Mrytle Little Hollow Road a truck driven by 36-year-old Jason C. Patrick pulled onto Ky. 15 from Myrtle Little Hollow Road.  Pierson was unable to stop and crashed into the driver's side of Patrick's truck.  Both Mr. Pierson and Ms, Bush were thrown from the motorcycle as a result of the collision. 

Mr. Pierson as well as Mr. Patrick suffered severe head injuries and were both pronounced dead at the scene.  Ms. Bush was transported to University of Kentucky Hospital where she later died due to injuries from the crash. 

Our thoughts and sympathies go to the families of the victims in this horrific crash.



9/3/2009
Mike Schafer
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Motorcyclist Carl Niccum Jr. Killed in Accident in Harlan County Kentucky

Motorcyclist Carl Niccum, Jr. Killed in Accident in Harlan County, Kentucky-Kentucky motorcycle accident attorney

DATE:     September 1, 2009

LOCATION:     Harlan County, Kentucky

TYPE:     Carl Niccum, Jr. was killed in an accident involving a collision with a CASE backhoe.

Late Tuesday morning Carl Niccum, Jr., age 23,  was on his motorcycle traveling north on KY 225.  At the intersection of KY 225 and Bartin Lane a CASE backhoe being driven by Earnest Sowders was also in the northbound lane preparing to turn left onto Bartin Lane.  According to reports Niccum attempted to pass the backhoe as Sowders was making the left-hand turn. 

Niccum struck the backhoe and was thrown from his motorcycle and suffered multiple injuries.  He was flown to the University of Tennessee Medical Center where he died hours later.

Our sympathies go out to the Niccum family during this time.

8/9/2009
Mike Schafer
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Kentucky Motorcyclist Bruce Miller and William Killed in Accident in Rowan County Kentucky

Bruce Miller of Grayson, Kentucky and William Walker Both Killed in a Motorcycle Wreck in Rowan County-Kentucky Motorcycle Accident Attorney
DATE:     August, 2009
LOCATION:     Highway 1274 near Menifee County
TYPE:     Multi-vehicle accident kills one and injures others.

The scenic area of Rowan County Kentucky along Highway 1274 is a popular stretch of road for motorcyclists.  With its winding road it also became a deadly stretch for 64-year-old Bruce Miller of Grayson, Kentucky.   A car driving down the highway fell off the shoulder; in its attempt to regain control it crossed the middle line into oncoming traffic.  Unfortunately, two motorcycles were in that oncoming traffic and were unable to get out of the way of the car, both motorcycles crashing into the car.

Both motorcyclists were airlifted to the hospital where Mr. Miller was pronounced dead.  Days later the other motorcyclist died due to injuries from the accident.  The driver and the passenger in the car were taken to the hospital for possible treatment.  Sadly the story does not end here. 
On the same highway another group of bikers were making their way around a tight curve when one lost control of his motorcycle and crashed into a rock wall.  The rider was also airlifted to the hospital for treatment of his non-life threatening injuries.

Many people believe it is solely up to the riders to make their ride safe.  Both incidents mentioned above the riders were doing the right thing.  There were travelling in a group which enhances their visibility.  It is up to all motorists to be aware of their surroundings, not just the motorcyclists.  As the popular bumper-sticker says “Be safe-check twice”.  Our sympathies go out to the Miller and Walker families and hope for a quick and complete recovery for the injured.



7/24/2009
Mike Schafer
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Motorist Facing Criminal Charges in Death of Motorcyclist William Keeth in Louisville, Kentucky

Motorcyclist Killed in Accident on Cane Run Road in Louisville-Kentucky motorcycle accident attorney
DATE:     July 24, 2009
LOCATION:      Jefferson County, Kentucky
TYPE:     Motorcyclist was killed when alleged intoxicated driver drove into his path

In the early morning hours Dwwayne D. Smith, age 21, was driving south on Cane Run Road and attempted to turn left on to Melody Acres Lane.  Traveling north at a high rate of speed was the motorcyclist.  When Mr. Smith tried turning onto Melody Acres Lane he drove into the path of the motorcyclist.

The motorcyclist has been identifies as 37-year-old William Keeth and was transported to University Hospital where he was pronounced dead.  Mr. Smith is being held at Metro Corrections and facing charges of murder and driving under the influence of alcohol. 

It needs to be noted that the motorcyclist was wearing a helmet at the time of the accident.

5/6/2009
Mike Schafer
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May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month

May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month-Kentucky Motorcycle Attorney
Date:  May 2009
Location:  United States

Type:  The House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee passed a resolution supporting the goals outlined in Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month.

 

May has for many years been designated as Motorcycle Safety Awareness month The messages for all road users are especially timely as motorcyclists nationwide gear up for the upcoming riding season. In approximately two thirds of fatal car/motorcycle crashes, the driver of the car is at fault. Some of the messages promoted are encouraging riders to get trained and licensed, always wear protective gear, never drink and ride, and ride within their limits. Another key message of the month is aimed at motorists, who need to be aware of two-wheel traffic and look out for riders.  

The Motorcycle Industry Council applauds the resolution and is encouraging riders to contact their representatives and to urge them to cosponsor the resolution.  The Motorcycle Industry Council exists to preserve, protect and promote motorcycling through government relations, communications and media relations, statistics and research, aftermarket programs, development of data communications standards, and activities surrounding technical and regulatory issues. The position of the MIC is that motorcycles are fuel-efficient. They decrease congestion while having little impact on our nation’s transportation infrastructure which makes  them a valuable component of the transportation mix.  There are more than 7 million motorcyclists benefiting from the advantages of riding, it is important to remember their safety and to encourage safe and responsible behavior. 

Anyone Taking to the road whether it be on a motorcycle, in a car, on a bike or even just jogging you need to be aware of your surroundings.  Remember your responsibility.

 

 

 

 



 



4/28/2009
Mike Schafer
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Ernest G. Sebree of Taylor Mill, Kentucky Killed in One of Four Motorcycle Accidents in Kentucky

Ernest G. Sebree of Taylor Mill, Kentucky Killed in One of Four Motorcycle Accidents in Kentucky-Kentucky Motorcycle Accident Attorney
Date:     April 25, 2009
Location:     Owen County, Kentucky
Information:     Four motorcycle accidents on Saturday have Kentucky State Police issuing warnings. 

Saturday was a beautiful day and as a result there were more than the usual number of motorcycles on Kentucky roads.  Kentucky State Police reported four accidents involving motorcycles on Saturday.  Three of the accidents resulted in injuries but the fourth one was fatal for the driver. 

Around 11:45 a.m. 60-year-old Ernest G. Sebree was killed in a motorcycle accident in Owen County.  While he was coming down a fairly steep hill he had trouble negotiating a hill and hit two parked cars.  He was transported to New Horizons Medical Center in Owenton.  It was at the center where he later died.  He was not wearing a helmet at the time of the accident. 

The Kentucky State Police are warning drivers to be aware that since the weather is getting warmer there will be more motorcyclists on the road.  They are not as visible as automobiles or trucks so check twice.  I want to add to that warning and include bicyclists, runners and walkers.  It is that time of the year and  as drivers we need to be aware they will be on the roads.

 



3/10/2009
Mike Schafer
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Motorcyclist Killed Near Pleasure Ridge Park-Kentucky Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Motorcyclist Killed Near Pleasure Ridge Park-Kentucky Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Date: March 9, 2009
Location: Terry Road and Venango Drive
Type: Fatal motorcycle accident

In an accident late Monday night near the intersection of Terry Road and Venango Drive a motorcyclist was killed in an accident.  The motorcylist along with another motorcyclist were traveling south on Terry Road when one lost control of his bike.  He then hit a pole which resulted in fatal injuries.  He was pronounced dead at the scene.  Police have reported that the victim was wearing a helmet at the time of the accident.

With spring coming and the weather warming up there will be more and more motorcycles, bicycles and pedestrians on the road.  It is always important to be aware of the activity around you when you are driving.  Please have the awareness that when the weather gets warmer there will be more vulnerable traffic on the roads.  Be safe and always check a second time.

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More information on Louisville, Kentucky Attorney Mike Schafer

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11/17/2008
Mike Schafer
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Motorcyclist Killed in Eastern Jefferson County Accident

It was reported that David Mears, age 39 , of Louisville, KY died early Saturday evening, July 5, 2008, as a result of a motorcycling accident.  The crash occurred on the stretch of Shelbyville Road near Valhalla Golf Course.  Mr. Mears was riding a "cruising" type motorcycle when he crossed into the opposite lanes of traffic and hit a pickup truck head on.  He reportedly died at the scene as a result of several blunt-force trauma injuries.  It has not been indicated whether or not he was wearing a helmet at the time of the accident.  Apparently, witnesses had observed Mr. Mears traveling at a high rate of speed as well as having difficulty maneuvering a turn in the road.  The driver of the pickup truck suffered non-life threatening injuries and was taken to University Hospital.

A "cruising" motorcycle is a type of motorcycle where the riders' feet are forward and the hands are up.  The back of the rider/driver is either erect of leaning back slightly.  This makes for a more comfortable long distance ride but limits the performance and turning capability therefore compromising the control of the motorcycle.
 
Mike Schafer is a personal injury attorney who handles motorcycle accident and other motor vehicle accident cases in the Louisville, Kentucky area. For additional information go to mikeschaferlaw.com.

 

11/17/2008
Mike Schafer
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Two Killed in Motorcycle Accident in Eastern Jefferson County, Kentucky

It has been reported that at approximately 2:30 a.m. August, 25th two motorcyclists were killed on River Road in the eastern part of Jefferson County Kentucky.  There were no witnesses to the accident but it seems that the two motorcyclists were traveling at a high rate of speed, possibly racing when they came upon a curve .The curve at River Road and Rockledge Drive is where the lost control of their motorcycles and left the road.  They were both  thrown from their motorcycles, one hit a tree as he was thrown.  They were both pronounced dead at the scene.

Not many details have been released yet but there are reports that the two were at Captain’s Quarters, a popular dinner/bar on River Road, earlier in the evening.  It has also been reported that neither of the cyclists were wearing helmets.  The identities of the cyclists have not yet been released. 

 For more information on me, an attorney in Louisville, Ky, go to www.mikeschaferlaw.com.


11/17/2008
Mike Schafer
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River Road Motorcycle Fatalities Identities Released

The identities of the two motorcycle crash victims were released earlier today. The accident occurred on River Road in eastern Jefferson County, Kentucky. They are 42-year-old Dewon Thompson and 43-year-old Bobby Burton. They were pronounced dead at the scene and had apparently died from multiple blunt force injuries.

River Road is a beautiful road to travel in the day time but once it gets dark is can become treacherous. It is not well lit, has many curves and is fairly narrow. There are no emergency lanes to give added space to regain control of your vehicle if needed. For more information on me, an attorney from Louisville, Ky please go to www.mikeschaferlaw.com.


11/17/2008
Mike Schafer
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Several Motorcycle Fatalities in Kentucky Counties in Past Week

The week of August 18, 2008 to August 25, 2008 was a deadly one for motorcyclists on Kentucky roads.  The accidents occurred in several different counties throughout the state.  Included in these counties are in Fleming, Garrard, Laurel, McLean and Menifee counties. The last of the counties is Woodford County where 44-year old Clinton Brown died while traveling on Old Frankfort Pike.  Apparently he lost control of his motorcycle while navigating a curve, left the road and hit several trees.  He died at the scene from head injuries.  It has not been reported as to whether he was wearing a helmet or not.

So far this year in Kentucky there have been 63 motorcycle fatalities.  That seems like an extraordinary high number but statistically it is not.  In 2007 there were according to Kentucky State Police 1,965 different motorcycle collisions which resulted in 105 deaths.  On the national level there were 4,810 motorcycle fatalities.

There are several reasons for this high number of fatalities.  Two of the main ones are that motorcycles are much less visible than automobiles and the riders are less protected making them more vulnerable to serious injury.  I have handled several serious injury cases and the recovery is long and painful.  For more information on Louisville, Ky attorney Mike Schafer go to www.mikeschaferlaw.com.



11/17/2008
Mike Schafer
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Two Motorcycle Accidents in Kentucky Over the Weekend Claim the lives of Two Men and One Horse

In two separate motorcycle accidents over the weekend in Kentucky two men have lost their lives.

Edward Garner died on Saturday night in Madison County when apparently his motorcycle left the road and hit an embankment.  He was transported to Pattie A. Clay Medical Center where he later died as a result of the injuries from the accident.  Mr. Garner was 50-years-old and  from Richmond, Kentucky.

In a separate accident in Carlisle county 44 year-old Garrett Warfield was also killed while riding a motorcycle.  Mr. Warfield was carrying an 11 year old passenger at the time of the accident who suffered injuries to her lower extremities.  She was transported to a hospital in Missouri. The accident occurred when the motorcycle hit a horse on Kentucky Route 8-49 West.  The horse also died in the crash.  It has not been reported as to whether any of the victims were wearing helmets.

With the price of gasoline rising I have seen more and more motorcycles and scooters on the road lately.  It is the responsibility of all on the road to be aware of others. Look twice whether you are a motorcyclist or driving an automobile. For more information on Louisville, Kentucky lawyer Mike Schafer go to www.mikeschaferlaw.com.

11/17/2008
Mike Schafer
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Young Woman Killed in Motorcycle Crash

In a motorcycle crash that occurred Tuesday evening 19-year-old Heather Jaggers was killed.

Ms. Jaggers was thrown from a motorcycle which she was a passenger at the time of the accident. She was taken to University Hospital where she later died as the result of multiple blunt force injuries. She was not wearing a helmet at the time but motorcycle accidents can be fatal even if a helmet is worn. The accident happened around 8:30 near the intersection of Outer Loop and Nash Road in Louisville, Jefferson County Kentucky and involved another car. The driver of the motorcycle also sustained injuries when he was thrown from the motorcycle but they reportedly are not life-threatening. The driver of the car was injured as well and his injuries are also reportedly non-life-threatening.

Witnesses reported to the police the motorcycle riding westbound on Outer Loop when it collided with a car trying to turn left onto eastbound Outer Loop. According to the police charges against the motorcycle driver are pending. Results from the toxicology reports need to be reviewed.

There have been several motorcycle accidents so far this year due largely to the increase in motorcycle use.  With the price of gasoline grising more and more people are opting for the motorcycle route as a more economic means of transportation.  Motorcycles are less visible than cars and trucks so it is, as always, vital to be very aware of the other vehicles on the road when you are driving.  

For more information on Louisville, Kentucky attorney Mike Schafer go to www.mikeschaferlaw.com




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