Driver Negligence
Motorist behavior is a leading cause of bicycle accidents, including:
- Distracted driving (such as texting while driving)
- Failing to yield the right-of-way
- Speeding
- Not checking blind spots before making turns
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Minnesota’s Trusted Bicycle Accident Lawyers
Cycling on Minnesota roads is good for your health and the environment. Unfortunately, it also puts you at greater risk for injury in an accident. Worse still, many drivers fail to take the proper precautions when sharing the road with cyclists.
If you are injured in a bicycle accident involving a negligent driver, the SiebenCarey team is ready to fight for your rights and ensure you receive the total amount of compensation you deserve.
Don't navigate the aftermath of your Minnesota bicycle accident alone. Contact our experienced attorneys now for a free consultation.
Free Case EvaluationMinnesota Bicycle Laws
In most cases, Minnesota cyclists are subject to the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicle drivers. However, because cyclists are more vulnerable than most drivers, drivers must take special care to avoid cyclists.
Here are some key Minnesota bicycle laws worth knowing:
Right-of-Way
Bicyclists are entitled to the same right-of-way as vehicles. Motorists must yield to bicyclists just as they would to another car.
Riding Position
Cyclists must ride as close to the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway as possible as long as they feel safe. You do not have to ride close to the right-hand curb if you are:
- Overtaking another vehicle
- Preparing for a left turn
- Avoiding obstacles
- Riding on the shoulder of the roadway or in a bicycle lane
- Riding in a right-hand turn lane
Equipment Requirements
Bicycles used at night must be equipped with a front white light visible from at least 500 feet and a rear red reflector visible from 100 to 600 feet. These requirements ensure visibility and safety during low-light conditions.
Passing Law
When overtaking a bicycle, vehicles must maintain a minimum passing distance of three feet or half the vehicle's width, whichever is greater. This law helps prevent close calls that could lead to accidents.
"Idaho Stop" Law
In August of 2023, Minnesota adopted a law that allows bicyclists to treat stop signs as yield signs. Cyclists can slow down and proceed through an intersection without coming to a complete stop if the way is clear. This law, known as the "Idaho Stop," has been shown to reduce cycling accidents by making traffic flow smoother and more predictable.
Sidewalk Riding
Bicycles are generally allowed on sidewalks unless prohibited by a local ordinance. When riding on a sidewalk, cyclists must yield to pedestrians and provide an audible signal when overtaking them.
Bicycle Accident Injuries
Bicycle accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor scrapes to life-threatening conditions. Due to the lack of protection that a bicycle provides compared to a motor vehicle, cyclists are at a higher risk of serious injuries.
Head Injuries
Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) are among the most severe outcomes of bicycle accidents. Head injuries are the leading cause of death in bicycle accidents, which makes wearing a helmet essential. However, even with a helmet, cyclists can suffer from concussions, skull fractures, and other brain injuries if drivers do not take proper care.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Damage to the spinal cord can lead to partial or complete paralysis. These injuries often require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation and can result in long-term or permanent disability.
Fractures and Broken Bones
Cyclists frequently sustain fractures when they are thrown from their bikes or hit by a vehicle. Breaking an arm, leg, or collarbone is a common risk. These fractures often require surgery and can take months to heal.
Internal Injuries
The force of a collision can cause internal bleeding and damage to organs. These injuries are especially dangerous because there may be delayed symptoms that aren't immediately obvious. This fact makes it essential always to seek medical attention after a Minnesota bicycle accident, even if you feel fine.
Lacerations and Abrasions
Also known as "road rash," these injuries occur when the skin is badly scraped during a fall. Severe cases can lead to infections and permanent scarring.
Psychological Trauma
Beyond physical injuries, bicycle accidents can also result in significant emotional and psychological distress, often leading to:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Insomnia
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Get Fair Compensation with Help from SiebenCarey
At SiebenCarey, we understand the full impact of bicycle accident injuries on your life. Our team is dedicated to helping you recover the compensation you need for medical expenses, lost wages, and the pain and suffering caused by these injuries.
Common Causes of Minnesota Bicycle Accidents
Bicycle accidents in Minnesota can occur for a variety of reasons. Often, they are caused by a negligent driver who fails to take proper care or disregards a cyclist's rights.
Impaired Driving
Drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs pose a significant threat to cyclists. Impaired drivers have reduced reaction times and impaired judgment, making colliding with cyclists more likely. Even drivers who are under the influence of prescription medications or over-the-counter medicine can be a hazard to cyclists.
"Dooring" Accidents
“Dooring” happens when the door on a parked car is suddenly opened into the path of an oncoming cyclist. The impact can be severe, often resulting in serious injuries. Under Minnesota law, dooring is illegal if it impedes or endangers the traffic around them — including cyclists.
Road Hazards
Poorly maintained roads can cause cyclists to lose control and crash. Common hazards include:
- Potholes
- Debris
- Uneven surfaces
Municipalities or other entities may sometimes be held liable for accidents caused by poor road maintenance.
Dangerous Weather
Minnesota’s harsh winter weather can lead to an increase in accidents, with rain, snow, and ice making roads slippery and reducing visibility. However, even when weather is a factor, a negligent driver can still be held accountable for an accident. For example, if a driver speeds on an icy road or is distracted while driving in the snow, they could still be held responsible for an accident.
Defective Bicycle Parts
Sometimes, the cause of an accident can be traced back to the bicycle itself. Defective brakes, tires, or other components can lead to accidents. Or the bike might not have been correctly fitted when purchased. In such cases, manufacturers or retailers may be liable under product liability laws.
Compensation for a Bicycle Accident
If you are injured in a bicycle accident in Minnesota, you may be entitled to compensation for any damages it has caused.
Medical Expenses
These damages include all costs related to your treatment, such as:
- Hospital bills
- Surgeries
- Medication
- Physical therapy
- Future medical expenses
Lost Wages
If your injury has caused you to miss work, you can claim compensation for the wages you’ve lost during your recovery period. You can also include future lost earning capacity if your ability to work has been permanently affected.
Pain and Suffering
You can also seek compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress you’ve endured as a result of the accident, including:
- Chronic pain
- Depression
- Anxiety
- PTSD
Property Damage
If your bicycle or other personal property was damaged in the accident, you could be compensated for repair or replacement costs.
Disability
If your injuries result in a long-term or permanent disability, you may be entitled to compensation that accounts for your reduced quality of life and the need for ongoing care.
Punitive Damages
In rare cases where the responsible party’s actions were particularly reckless or malicious, the court may award punitive damages to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior in the future.
Why Choose SiebenCarey for Your Minnesota Bicycle Accident Case?
When pursuing compensation for your bicycle accident, you want top-shelf legal representation in your corner. At SiebenCarey, we can give you the personal support you need.
Experienced Legal Team
Our attorneys specialize in personal injury cases and have extensive experience handling bicycle accidents. We understand the complexities of these cases and have a long history of securing favorable outcomes for our clients.
Comprehensive Case Management
From the moment you contact us, we take full responsibility for your case. We will:
- Conduct thorough investigations
- Manage health care bills and negotiate with insurance companies
- If necessary, represent you in court
Our goal is to secure the maximum compensation for your injuries.
Client-Centered Service
At SiebenCarey, we prioritize your needs. We offer free consultations and are available 24/7 to assist you. We can meet you wherever is most convenient – whether at your home, the hospital, or one of our offices across Minnesota.
Proven Track Record of Success
Our firm has a long history of achieving significant settlements and verdicts for our clients. We have recovered hundreds of millions of dollars on behalf of accident victims, including those injured in bicycle accidents. This track record is a testament to our commitment to fighting for justice and ensuring our clients receive the compensation they deserve.
No Win, No Fee Guarantee
We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you won’t pay any legal fees unless we win your case. This arrangement ensures that everyone can access top-tier legal representation, regardless of their financial situation. We focus entirely on securing the compensation you need to recover and move forward with your life.
Get Help from the Award-Winning Minnesota Bicycle Accident Lawyers at SiebenCarey
Accidents can lead to severe injuries and significant financial burdens. At SiebenCarey, we are dedicated to helping you navigate the aftermath of a bicycle accident with confidence and relief. Our experienced legal team is committed to securing the compensation you deserve while allowing you to focus on your recovery and well-being.
You can contact SiebenCarey 24 hours a day at:
- 800-474-4487 (toll-free in MN)
- 612-333-4500 (for a free consultation!)
Let us come to you if you're in the hospital or at home recovering from a bicycle accident injury! Our Minnesota bicycle accident attorneys have offices conveniently located in:
Reach out today, and let us know how we can help!
Minnesota Bicycle Accident FAQs
Take the Next Step Towards Fair Compensation
Don’t let a bicycle accident disrupt your life any longer. Let the experienced team at SiebenCarey handle the legal complexities while you focus on healing and moving forward. Our dedicated attorneys are here to support you every step of the way, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.
Take the first step toward rebuilding your life by scheduling a free consultation with one of our Minnesota bicycle accident attorneys.
Minneapolis Office
901 S Marquette Avenue, Suite 500Minneapolis, Minnesota 55402
Phone: 612-333-4500Fax: 612-333-5970
