Minnesota Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Bicycle Accident Lawyers

Every bicyclist knows the story of someone who has been hit by a car, whether the person was ok or became one of the 500,000 bicyclists to check into the hospital every year. While there are some things that riders can do to protect themselves, including wearing a helmet, using bike lights, obeying traffic laws, and always riding defensively, the Minneapolis bicycle accident lawyers at Schmidt-Salita Law Team understand there is no way a cyclist can protect themselves 100%.

Common injuries that occur when bicycles collide with vehicles include broken bones, spinal cord injuries, nerve damage, head trauma, road rash, bone fractures, and even, death. Around 700 cyclists per year die from crashes with cars. Whether you are the victim or a loved one of the victims, you should immediately contact skilled Minneapolis car accident attorneys after a car crash with a bicycle. The sooner you hire representation, the stronger your case will be when it goes to trial.

Bicycle Accident Statistics in MN

Bicycle accidents in Minnesota are a serious concern, with hundreds of injuries and fatalities reported annually. Over 1,000 bicyclists lose their lives in crashes nationwide each year, and many more suffer severe harm, according to data from the National Safety Council. In the state, urban areas like Minneapolis account for a significant share of these incidents due to higher traffic density and an increasing number of cyclists.

Key trends in Minnesota’s bicycle accidents:

• Urban hotspots: Cities like Minneapolis see more bike incidents, particularly near high-traffic areas such as downtown streets, the Midtown Greenway, and commuter routes.
• Crash timing: Most accidents occur during daylight hours when more cyclists are commuting or exercising.
• Fatalities: The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety reports that adult cyclists aged 20 and older represent 88% of bicycle crash fatalities across the U.S., a trend that is also reflected in the state.

These statistics underscore the importance of understanding Minnesota’s local bicycle laws and taking safety precautions to avoid accidents.

What Are the Bicycle Laws in Minnesota?

Minnesota bicycle laws are designed to protect cyclists and promote road safety. Under Minnesota law, bicycles are classified as vehicles, which means cyclists must follow the same traffic rules as motor vehicle drivers. Understanding these laws is crucial for both preventing incidents and building a strong case if a misfortune event occurs.

• Road Use: Individuals are required to ride as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway, except when passing, preparing for a left turn, or avoiding unsafe conditions such as potholes or debris.
• Passing Rules: Motorists in the state must leave at least three feet of clearance when passing a cyclist, as mandated by Minnesota Statutes Section 169.18, Subd. 3. Failure to do so can result in liability for accidents caused by unsafe passing.
• Bike Lanes: While cyclists are encouraged to use designated bike lanes where available, they are not legally required to do so unless a local ordinance specifies otherwise. Cities like Minneapolis have invested in extensive bike infrastructure, including protected lanes, to enhance safety.
• Sidewalks: Cyclists may ride on sidewalks in residential areas unless explicitly prohibited, but riding on sidewalks in business districts is typically restricted. For example, in downtown Minneapolis, cyclists are required to stay off sidewalks and use bike lanes or shared streets instead.
• Lighting and Reflectors: Individuals riding at night must have a front light visible from at least 500 feet and a red rear reflector visible from 600 feet. These safety measures reduce nighttime incidents and are required under state law.

The League of American Bicyclists emphasizes that adherence to bicycle laws significantly reduces the risk of accidents and improves safety for everyone on the road.

Additionally, cyclists must adhere to general traffic rules, such as stopping at stop signs and yielding to pedestrians at crosswalks. Minneapolis-specific ordinances also encourage motorists to exercise caution around cyclists in heavily trafficked areas like the Midtown Greenway or Hennepin Avenue, which are frequently used by commuters.

Common Bicycle Accident Injuries in Minnesota

Bicycle accidents often result in serious and life-changing injuries due to the lack of physical protection for cyclists. Frequent injuries sustained by bike crash victims in Minnesota include:

1. Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs): Even with helmets, head injuries are common and can range from concussions to severe brain trauma.
2. Spinal cord injuries: Damage to the neck or spine may lead to partial or total paralysis.
3. Bone fractures: Broken arms, legs, and ribs are frequent due to the impact of vehicles or the ground.
4. Internal injuries: Punctured lungs or internal bleeding can occur in high-impact collisions.
5. Lacerations and road rash: Cuts, scrapes, and bruises from being thrown from a bicycle are typically accompanied by infections.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) highlights that head lesions are a leading cause of death in bicycle crashes, highlighting the importance of helmets and other safety measures. Victims who suffer these types of injuries generally face long-term medical treatment, rehabilitation, and lost wages. A Minnesota bicycle accident lawyer can help recover compensation to cover these expenses.

What Type of Damages Can I Recover From Bike Injuries?

Bicycle incident victims in the state may be entitled to various types of compensation, depending on the circumstances of the crash and the severity of the injuries. Damages can include both economic and non-economic losses.

Economic Damages

These are tangible losses that can be quantified, such as:

• Medical expenses: Includes hospital stays, surgeries, physical therapy, and future medical care.
• Lost wages: Covers income lost during recovery and potential future earning capacity if injuries prevent returning to work.
• Property damage: Compensation for damaged bicycles, helmets, and other gear.

Non-Economic Damages

These are intangible losses that address the emotional and psychological toll of the incident, including:

• Pain and suffering: Physical discomfort and emotional distress resulting from the injury.
• Loss of enjoyment of life: For example, if the injury prevents you from cycling, playing sports, or enjoying hobbies.

The National Safety Council notes that serious bicycle crashes usually result in significant financial and emotional burdens. Determining the value of your claim requires expert evaluation, and an experienced Minnesota bicycle accident lawyer can help ensure you receive full compensation for both economic and noneconomic losses.

Contact The Experienced Minnesota Bicycle Accident Attorneys

If you or a loved one was injured or killed in a bike crash, contact The Schmidt-Salita Law Team and speak with an expert Minneapolis bicycle accident lawyer. We provide the utmost sympathy to your family while offering the aggressive case you deserve.