Your Trusted Team of Lakeville Bicycle Accident Lawyers

Cyclists Can Face Severe Injuries

Due to the lack of protection cyclists have, they are more vulnerable to severe injuries when involved in a collision with a motor vehicle.

• Head injuries: Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) are among the most severe outcomes of bicycle accidents. Even with a helmet, cyclists can suffer from concussions, skull fractures, and other head injuries.
• Spinal cord injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can lead to partial or complete paralysis, often requiring long-term medical treatment and rehabilitation.
• Fractures and broken bones: Cyclists often sustain fractures in collisions, with broken arms, legs, or collarbones being common. These injuries can require surgery and months of recovery.
• Internal injuries: The impact of a crash can cause internal bleeding or damage to organs. Internal injuries may not be immediately apparent, making it essential to seek medical attention after a bicycle accident, even if you feel fine.
• Road rash: Severe road rash can result from a cyclist being thrown onto the pavement. These injuries can lead to infections or permanent scarring if not treated properly.
• Psychological trauma: Beyond physical injuries, many bicycle accident victims in Lakeville suffer from psychological trauma, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Minnesota law recognizes this as a valid form of pain and suffering, allowing victims to seek compensation through a personal injury claim.

Lakeville Bicycle Laws

Like the rest of Minnesota, Lakeville enforces strict laws to protect cyclists. Understanding these laws can help ensure your safety and protect your rights on the road.

Right-of-Way

Bicyclists in Lakeville are entitled to the same right-of-way as motor vehicles. Motorists must yield to cyclists at intersections and when making turns, just as they would for another vehicle. This is especially crucial near Lakeville’s schools and parks, where both cyclists and pedestrians often share space with motor vehicles.

Riding Position

Cyclists must ride as close to the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway as they deem safe. However, you can ride farther into the lane when:

• Overtaking another vehicle
• Preparing for a left turn
• Avoiding hazards such as debris or potholes
• Riding on the shoulder or designated bike lanes

Bike Lane Usage

Lakeville is working to expand its bike infrastructure, and cyclists are encouraged to use these lanes for safety. However, it is not required. You may use regular traffic lanes when necessary.

Passing Law

Motorists in Lakeville must maintain a minimum distance of three feet when overtaking a cyclist. This law aims to reduce the risk of side-swipe accidents, particularly in areas where bike lanes run parallel to traffic lanes.

Idaho Stop Law

Minnesota's "Idaho Stop" law, adopted in 2023, allows cyclists to treat stop signs as yield signs if the way is clear. This law has been shown to reduce accidents and allow traffic to flow more naturally.

Night Riding Requirements

Cyclists riding at night must have a white front light visible from at least 500 feet and a rear red reflector visible from 100-600 feet. These requirements ensure cyclists are visible during Lakeville’s darker winter months.

Sidewalk Riding

Cyclists are allowed to ride on sidewalks in Lakeville unless otherwise prohibited by local ordinance. When riding on sidewalks, they must yield to pedestrians and provide an audible signal when passing.

Lane Splitting

Lane splitting (riding between lanes or vehicles) is not legal in Lakeville. Cyclists must remain in one lane unless they are passing another vehicle or avoiding an obstacle.

What Damages Are You Entitled to After a Bicycle Accident?

If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your damages. This compensation can cover:

• Medical expenses: This covers all costs related to your treatment, including hospital bills, surgeries, medications, and future medical needs.
• Lost wages: You can recover compensation for wages lost during your recovery and future earning capacity if your ability to work has been affected.
• Pain and suffering: You can seek compensation for physical pain and emotional distress, such as anxiety, depression, or chronic pain resulting from the accident.
• Property damage: If your bicycle or personal property was damaged, you could be compensated for repair or replacement costs.
• Disability: For long-term or permanent disabilities, you may receive compensation that reflects your reduced quality of life and need for ongoing care.
• Punitive damages: In cases of gross negligence, such as drunk driving, the court may award punitive damages to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior.

An experienced Lakeville bicycle accident lawyer can help you determine how much compensation you are entitled to under Minnesota law.

Here’s How SiebenCarey Can Help…

With a legacy of over 70 years, SiebenCarey has a proven track record in advocating for the rights of injured individuals and securing significant compensation for our clients.

Seven Decades of Experience

Founded in 1952, SiebenCarey has spent 70 years fighting for the rights of thousands of Minnesotans. That makes us the oldest personal injury firm in the state! Our years of service give us the experience you need to build your case and win maximum compensation.

Record of Success

We have recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for our clients, including both settlements and verdicts. Our attorneys have proven their abilities in negotiating with insurance companies or taking a case to trial – whichever will ensure you get the full amount of compensation available.

Award-Winning Legal Team

Our firm boasts a highly skilled legal team, with many attorneys recognized as Super Lawyers™ and Best Lawyers in America. This recognition is a testament to our commitment to excellence and advocacy for our clients, ensuring that your claim will be handled by top-notch professionals​.

Comprehensive Resources

We have a robust team of support staff, including certified investigators who are critical in building strong cases. Our extensive resources ensure thorough case preparation, which is often key to receiving fair compensation.

Client-Centered Approach

At SiebenCarey, our clients are at the forefront of everything we do. We prioritize open communication and provide a supportive environment, ensuring that you feel valued and understood throughout the legal process. Our "Know Your Rights" tradition reflects our commitment to educating clients about their legal options and rights.

Accessibility and Convenience

With offices located throughout Minnesota, including Lakeville, we are committed to making legal support easily accessible. We offer consultations 24/7 and can meet you at home or in the hospital if needed while you recover from your accidents​.

No Win, No Fee Guarantee

We believe that everyone should have access to quality legal representation. That’s why we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you only pay if we win your case – and when we do win, our fee will come from your compensation package. This means you can get the help you need without any out-of-pocket expenses.

Get the Compensation You Need with Help from SiebenCarey

Don't let the aftermath of a bicycle accident control your life any longer. Our experienced team at SiebenCarey is ready to manage the legal complexities, allowing you to concentrate on your recovery and moving forward. Our committed attorneys are here to guide you at every turn, ensuring you receive the compensation you rightfully deserve.

Take control of your life by scheduling a free consultation with one of our skilled bicycle accident attorneys in Lakeville.