Bicycle accidents have become a growing concern in Sartell, Minnesota. Over five years, an average of eight bicyclists lost their lives each year due to auto accidents. Hundreds of other riders are left with serious injuries every year.
Riding a bike should be a safe and enjoyable way to get around, but accidents can change everything instantly. You may be left with thousands of dollars in medical bills and unpaid wages, and unsure where to start. This is why it is so important to have an experienced lawyer on your side.
At Nelson Personal Injury, LLC, our Sartell accident lawyers have extensive experience helping bicycle crash victims protect their rights and seek justice. When you’ve been involved in an accident, our team is here to help you fight for fair compensation and hold the responsible parties accountable.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents
Bicycle accidents can happen for many reasons, and understanding these causes can help you know what to look out for and what steps to take. Here are some common causes of bicycle accidents:
Distracted Drivers
Drivers who are distracted by other activities can easily miss seeing a bicyclist, which often leads to accidents.
Failure to Yield
Many drivers don’t realize that bicyclists have the right-of-way in certain situations, especially at intersections. Failing to yield can result in serious collisions.
Speeding Vehicles
Drivers going over the speed limit have less time to react to cyclists on the road. Speeding is a leading cause of accidents and increases the severity of injuries.
Unsafe Lane Changes
Sometimes, drivers don’t check their blind spots before changing lanes. When they don’t see a bicyclist, an accident is almost unavoidable.
Opening Car Doors
A driver or passenger opening a car door without checking for oncoming cyclists can cause a crash. This is known as “dooring,” and it’s a frequent cause of bicycle accidents.
Poor Road Conditions
Potholes, uneven pavement, and debris on the road pose a significant danger to bicyclists. Losing control due to road hazards can lead to serious injuries.
Driving Under the Influence
Drunk or drug-impaired drivers are a huge risk to cyclists. Their impaired judgment and slower reaction times can result in accidents.
Low Visibility at Night
Riding at night without proper lights or reflective gear makes it harder for drivers to see cyclists. Low visibility can contribute to accidents.
Bicycle accidents often lead to serious injuries, which can have long-term impacts on a person’s health and well-being. Let’s explore some common types of injuries.
Types of Injuries in Bicycle Accidents
Bicyclists are more vulnerable on the road, which is why injuries from these accidents can be quite severe. Here are some common injuries seen in bicycle accidents:
Head Injuries
Even with helmets, bicyclists can experience concussions or more severe traumatic brain injuries. These injuries can affect memory, concentration, and daily life.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Damage to the spinal cord can cause partial or complete paralysis. This type of injury often requires long-term medical care and physical therapy.
Broken Bones
Collisions can lead to multiple fractures in the arms, legs, or ribs. Recovery from broken bones may require surgery and rehabilitation.
Road Rash
Sliding on the pavement can cause severe scrapes, known as road rash. Deep road rash may require medical attention to prevent infections.
Internal Injuries
The impact from a crash can cause internal bleeding or organ damage. These injuries might not be immediately visible but can be life-threatening.
Facial Injuries
When a cyclist is thrown from their bike, they can sustain broken facial bones or cuts. These injuries often require reconstructive surgery.
Limb Amputations
In severe crashes, the damage to an arm or leg may be so extensive that amputation becomes necessary.
It’s crucial to get medical help immediately after an accident, even if you feel fine at first. Symptoms of internal injuries and head trauma can take hours or even days to appear.
Understanding Minnesota Bicycle Laws
Bicyclists in Minnesota have specific legal rights and responsibilities on the road. Understanding these rights is important for staying safe and knowing when you’re not at fault. Minnesota law allows bicyclists to use the roads, and drivers must respect their right to do so.
Bicyclists are also required to follow safety regulations, such as using lights at night, signaling turns, and obeying traffic signs. If you’re involved in an accident, knowing these laws can help prove that you were riding responsibly.
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The Importance of Seeking Medical Attention Immediately
Seeking medical attention immediately after a bicycle accident is essential for both your health and your legal claim. Some injuries, like internal bleeding or concussions, don’t always show symptoms right away. A thorough medical evaluation can identify hidden injuries and provide the documentation you need for your claim.
Proving Liability in Bicycle Accident Claims
Determining fault in a bicycle accident often involves proving that another driver was negligent. Driver negligence can include distracted driving, speeding, or failing to yield. Establishing liability is key to getting compensation for your injuries. Our bicycle accident attorney in Sartell, MN can help gather evidence and demonstrate how the driver’s actions caused the accident.
How Our Sartell Bicycle Accident Lawyer Can Help
At Nelson Personal Injury, LLC, our Sartell bicycle accident lawyer offers experienced representation for accident victims. We know how difficult it can be to handle medical bills, lost wages, and insurance companies all at once. Our team is dedicated to helping you get fair compensation while you focus on your recovery. We do this by pursuing no-fault benefits, including up to $20,000 in medical expenses and mileage, and $20,000 in wage loss and replacement services, as well as by seeking damages from any at fault party and their insurance company.
Gathering Evidence to Strengthen Your Case
Building a strong case requires gathering all relevant evidence. This may include:
- Police Reports
- Statements from Witnesses
- Photos of the Crash
- Medical Records
- Expert Testimony
Preserving evidence, such as a damaged bike or helmet, is also crucial. Our top-rated bicycle accident lawyer in Sartell can help you collect and organize this evidence.
Dealing with Insurance Companies After a Bicycle Accident
Insurance companies may try to minimize your claim or offer a settlement that doesn’t cover all your expenses. Having a no-win, no-fee bicycle accident lawyer in Sartell ensures that you have someone fighting for fair compensation on your behalf. We handle negotiations with the insurance companies, so you don’t have to.
Understanding Comparative Negligence in Minnesota
Minnesota follows a comparative negligence law. This means that if you share some responsibility for the accident, your compensation may be reduced based on your level of fault. For example, if you’ve found 40% at fault, your compensation will be reduced by 40%. However, if your fault exceeds the other party’s fault, you will be unable to recover any of your damages. Our bike accident attorneys will help you understand how these laws impact your case.
Filing a Bicycle Accident Claim
Filing a claim involves notifying the insurance companies, gathering evidence, and submitting the necessary paperwork. It’s essential to file within Minnesota’s statute of limitations, which is typically six years from the accident date for claims based on negligence. Having a Sartell auto accident lawyer who understands these deadlines is critical.
Negotiating Compensation for Your Injuries
Our bicycle accident attorney in Sartell, MN, negotiates with insurers to secure fair compensation for all your damages. This includes medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. We aim to ensure that you receive the full amount you deserve.
Calculating Damages in Bicycle Accident Cases
Damages can include economic losses like medical bills and non-economic losses like pain and suffering. At Nelson Personal Injury, LLC, we help you calculate an accurate amount for your claim and fight for every penny.
Filing a Lawsuit for Bicycle Accident Injuries
If negotiations fail, filing a lawsuit might be necessary. Our best bicycle accident lawyer in Sartell will guide you through the process, from filing the initial paperwork to representing you in court.
The Role of Expert Witnesses in Bicycle Accident Claims
Expert witnesses can help strengthen your case by providing detailed explanations. For example, accident reconstruction specialists can recreate the crash to show what happened, and medical experts can explain your injuries. These experts can play a significant role in proving your case.
Wrongful Death Claims for Fatal Bicycle Accidents
Bicycle accidents can be fatal, leaving families with a devastating loss. If you’ve lost a loved one due to a bicycle accident, you may have the right to file a wrongful death claim. In Minnesota, wrongful death claims can be filed by the family members of the victim to seek compensation for medical expenses, funeral costs, and loss of companionship. At Nelson Personal Injury, LLC, we are here to help grieving families seek justice and compensation during this difficult time.
What to Expect During Your Consultation
When you schedule a consultation with our Sartell bicycle accident lawyer, we will review the details of your accident, answer your questions, and explain the next steps. Bring any relevant documents, such as medical records or accident reports. This first meeting is an opportunity to get to know your lawyer and understand your legal options.
Contact Our Sartell Bicycle Accident Lawyer
If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident, don’t wait to get help. Contact our Sartell bicycle accident lawyer at Nelson Personal Injury, LLC for a free consultation today. We’re ready to help you protect your rights and get the compensation you need for your losses.
