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Motorcycle riders face significant risks every time they venture onto Minnesota roads. While Lakeville may seem safer than busy cities like Minneapolis, motorcyclists are still at risk from negligent drivers and hazardous road conditions. And because motorcyclists have fewer protections than cars, even a minor accident can lead to serious injuries.
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, Minnesota law entitles you to seek compensation. Our experienced Lakeville motorcycle accident attorneys are here to build your case and fight for your rights.
Minnesota has a number of laws in place to protect motorcyclists from accidents and injuries.
To legally ride a motorcycle in Minnesota, you must have a valid motorcycle endorsement on your driver’s license. This involves passing both a written knowledge test and a skills test. Riders with a learner’s permit are restricted to daylight hours and are prohibited from carrying passengers.
Minnesota law mandates that motorcyclists under 18 years old and riders operating with a learner’s permit wear a helmet at all times. Riders who are over 18 and have an endorsement are not required to wear a helmet. However, wearing a helmet is always wise. Research shows that helmets reduce the risk of head injury by 69% and the risk of death by 42%.
All motorcyclists in Minnesota are required to wear eye protection. This can include goggles, glasses, or a face shield. Keeping your eyes shielded from debris, bugs, and wind is essential for maintaining clear vision and focus on the road.
Minnesota law requires motorcyclists to carry liability insurance that covers at least:
Proof of insurance must be carried at all times while riding.
Motorcyclists are entitled to the full use of a traffic lane and cannot be forced to share a lane with another vehicle. Motorcyclists can ride side-by-side with another motorcycle in the same lane, provided both riders agree. Lane splitting – riding between lanes of traffic – is currently prohibited, but will be allowed starting next summer.
If a motorcycle is carrying a passenger, it must be equipped with footrests, and the passenger must use them while the motorcycle is in motion. Additionally, the motorcycle must have a seat designed to carry more than one person. Piling multiple people onto a single-seat motorcycle is illegal.
Minnesota’s laws regarding driving under the influence (DUI) apply equally to motorcyclists. It is illegal to operate a motorcycle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. DUI penalties for motorcyclists include fines, license suspension, and even jail time, depending on the severity of the offense.
Minnesota law also requires all motorcycles to be equipped with specific safety features, including:
Motorcycle accidents are particularly dangerous for several reasons:
Because of these factors, drivers of other vehicles must exercise extreme caution when sharing the road with motorcyclists. Unfortunately, many drivers fail to do so, putting motorcyclists at significant risk.
Lakeville’s growing traffic and proximity to major highways like Interstate 35 pose unique dangers for motorcyclists. Here are the most common causes of motorcycle accidents in the Lakeville area.
Speeding is a major contributor to motorcycle accidents in Lakeville. According to the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, speeding is a factor in a third of all motorcyclist fatalities. This makes it imperative that drivers follow the speed limit when sharing the road with motorcycles.
Distracted driving poses a serious risk to motorcyclists in Lakeville. Drivers who are not fully focused on the road are more likely to overlook motorcycles, leading to preventable accidents. Even a momentary distraction, such as reading a text or adjusting the radio, could have devastating consequences for others on the road – especially motorcyclists.
DUIs remain a common cause of motorcycle accidents in Minnesota, especially in suburban areas like Lakeville where long stretches of road can encourage speeding after drinking. Alcohol impairs a driver’s ability to see and react to motorcycles, often leading to fatal accidents. Other substances can impair drivers too, including:
Lakeville's highways, particularly I-35, see frequent lane changes. When drivers fail to check their blind spots, they can easily cause a collision. Because motorcycles are smaller and harder to see than other vehicles, they are even more likely to be hit by a driver changing lanes without looking.
Left-turn accidents are one of the top causes of motorcycle crashes in Lakeville, especially near high-traffic intersections like County Road 50 and Kenwood Trail. These collisions occur when a car turns into the path of an oncoming motorcycle, often because the driver fails to see the motorcycle. alternatively, they may see the motorcycle but misjudge its speed.
Lakeville’s weather can present serious challenges for motorcyclists, particularly during seasonal transitions. Rain, ice, snow, and wet leaves can all create slippery road surfaces that reduce traction and make it difficult for motorcyclists to maintain control of their bikes. Fog and heavy rain can also make it harder for drivers to see motorcyclists. However, even in poor weather, drivers are expected to take the proper precautions to ensure the safety of others on the road.
Even suburban roads in Lakeville can be dangerous due to potholes, loose gravel, or debris, particularly after winter. These hazards are minor for cars but can easily cause a motorcycle to lose control. In some cases, a city department or property owner may be liable for accidents caused by their failure to maintain safe conditions for driving.
Motorcycle accidents in Lakeville can also be caused by defects in the bike itself. Faulty brakes, tire blowouts, or malfunctioning steering systems can lead to catastrophic accidents that are beyond the rider’s control. If a defective part contributes to your crash, the manufacturer or distributor of the defective part may be liable under product liability laws.
“Dooring” means a driver or passenger opens a car door into the path of an approaching motorcycle, causing an accident. In areas with dense on-street parking, such as downtown Lakeville, dooring is a common problem. In Minnesota, drivers are required to exercise caution when opening doors to prevent dooring accidents.
We’re here to fight for your rights and ensure you receive justice.
Riding a motorcycle in Lakeville comes with plenty of risks. Here are some key safety tips for motorcyclists.
The most crucial piece of equipment is a DOT-approved helmet, which can significantly reduce the risk of head injuries. Additionally, wearing gloves, a durable jacket, long pants, and sturdy boots can help protect against road rash, burns, and other injuries.
Motorcycles are smaller and harder to see, so it’s important to make yourself as visible as possible. Wearing bright or reflective clothing and keeping your headlights on during both day and night rides can help other drivers spot you more easily.
Always assume that other drivers may not see you. Keep a safe distance from other vehicles, avoid riding in blind spots, and be extra cautious at intersections, where many motorcycle accidents occur.
Be aware of the condition of the roads in Lakeville, particularly after rain or during construction. Watch out for potholes, loose gravel, wet leaves, or slick spots that could cause you to lose control of your bike.
Rain, snow, and ice can make roads treacherous for motorcycles. If possible, avoid riding in adverse weather conditions. If you must ride, reduce your speed and give yourself extra time to react to hazards.
Keep your motorcycle in top condition by regularly checking your tires, brakes, lights, and fluids. A well-maintained bike is less likely to malfunction and cause an accident.
Whether you’re a new rider or have years of experience, taking a motorcycle safety course can improve your riding skills and help you stay updated on the latest safety practices. The Minnesota Motorcycle Safety Center offers valuable courses for riders of all experience levels.
Let us help you recover your damages after a motorcycle accident in Lakeville.
Motorcycle accidents can result in catastrophic damages. Here are some of the most common types of injuries.
Even with a helmet, motorcyclists can suffer life-altering brain injuries. TBIs range from concussions to long-term cognitive damage, often resulting in expensive medical care and rehabilitation.
The impact of a crash can result in partial or complete paralysis. These injuries are especially common when a motorcyclist is thrown from their bike during a collision.
Fractures of the wrists, arms, and legs are common in Lakeville motorcycle accidents, often occurring when a rider attempts to break their fall.
When a motorcyclist is thrown from their bike, sliding across the pavement can cause severe abrasions known as road rash. This may require skin grafts to heal.
Without the protection of a full-face helmet, motorcyclists are at high risk for facial injuries during an accident. This can include fractures, lacerations, and dental damage, often leading to permanent scarring or disfigurement. Reconstructive surgery may be necessary to repair the damage, and the emotional toll of these injuries can be significant.
Accidents can lead to internal injuries that are not immediately visible. These can be life-threatening if left untreated, highlighting the importance of seeking medical care immediately after a crash.
The psychological impact of a motorcycle accident can be just as significant as physical injuries. Victims often suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and other forms of mental trauma. These conditions can affect a person’s quality of life and may require professional treatment. Minnesota law recognizes this as a valid form of pain and suffering.
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, Minnesota law allows you to recover compensation for the full extent of your damages, including:
Your Lakeville motorcycle accident attorney will help you calculate the amount of compensation you are entitled to under Minnesota law.
Navigating the aftermath of a motorcycle accident can be overwhelming. Fortunately, you don’t have to ride alone. At SiebenCarey, our attorneys will:
With over 70 years of experience, SiebenCarey has the knowledge and dedication to fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.
Since 1952, SiebenCarey has built a reputation as one of Minnesota’s most trusted personal injury law firms. When you work with SiebenCarey, you’ll get the full benefit of:
From start to finish, our team is committed to fighting for your rights and securing the maximum compensation available to you under Minnesota law.
If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident in Lakeville, the experienced attorneys at SiebenCarey are here to help. Contact us 24/7 to schedule a free consultation at:
SiebenCarey has a conveniently located office right here in Lakeville:
20730 Holyoke Ave
Lakeville, MN 55044
And if you’re recovering at home or still in the hospital, we can come to you! No matter what you need, we are prepared to help.
Contact our Lakeville motorcycle accident attorneys at SiebenCarey today for a free consultation and learn how we can help you recover the compensation you deserve. We’re here to fight for you!
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5 of our attorneys have been recognized as Attorneys of the Year
Also awarded in:
2024, 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016, 2015, 2014, 2013, 2012, 2011, 2010
Also awarded in:
2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016, 2015, 2014, 2013, 2012, 2011, 2010, 2009, 2008
7 Certified Civil Trial Law Specialists, Minnesota Bar Association
3 Board Certified Trial Advocates, National Board of Trial Advocacy.
