St. Cloud Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Riding a motorcycle means taking on a certain risk level each time you venture out due to its nature and lack of safety features. As a responsible rider, you likely take precautions to protect yourself in an accident.

Unfortunately, not everyone on the road is as cautious or aware of others as you. Risky driving behaviors by others can often result in serious and even fatal accidents for motorcycle riders.

If you were involved in a St. Cloud motorcycle accident, our experienced attorneys at Nelson Personal Injury, LLC, are here to help. We can investigate your accident, build your case, and help you recover the compensation you are entitled to. Contact our office to schedule a free initial consultation to start the process.

We work around your schedule to accommodate your initial free consultation. Our St. Cloud motorcycle accident lawyers are available for weekend or evening consultations by appointment. We can also meet you at home, in our office, or via video conference.

Why Choose Nelson Personal Injury for Your Motorcycle Accident Claim

Choosing the right attorney for your motorcycle accident claim can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Here’s why you should choose Nelson Personal Injury:

• Local Experience: We are deeply rooted in the St. Cloud community and know the local legal landscape, the community, and the potential juror pools. This local knowledge can be a significant advantage in your case.
• Personalized Attention: At Nelson Personal Injury, you are not just another case number to us. We provide personalized attention and tailor our services to meet the specifics of your situation. We understand that no two cases are alike, and our goal is to find out what makes your case unique so that you can build as strong of a case as possible.
• Experience and Results: With years of experience and a track record of successful outcomes, our firm has earned a reputation for excellence in personal injury law.
• Integrity: Our firm stands apart from the competition due to our commitment to integrity in how we work. We will always provide an honest assessment of your case and your options.
• No Fees Unless We Win: We operate on a contingency fee basis, which means you owe us nothing unless we recover compensation for you.
• Comprehensive Support: We walk you through every step of the process to ensure you understand your options and how the process works.

Understanding Minnesota Motorcycle Laws

As experienced St. Cloud motorcycle accident attorneys, we are well-versed in Minnesota’s motorcycle laws, which are crucial in protecting your rights on the road. Some of the laws and requirements you must follow are explained here.

Helmets and Safety Gear

In Minnesota, motorcyclists are encouraged to prioritize safety by wearing helmets and protective gear. State law mandates helmet use for riders under 18 and for those with a learner’s permit, regardless of age. Additionally, eye protection is required for all riders. At Nelson Personal Injury, we advocate for wearing helmets at all times, as they significantly decrease the risk of serious head injuries in the event of an accident.

Licensing and Endorsements

Minnesota law requires all motorcycle operators to have a valid motorcycle endorsement on their driver’s license. Obtaining this endorsement involves passing written and road skills tests, which underscore the importance of understanding motorcycle handling and traffic laws. Licensed riders are more likely to have a comprehensive understanding of road safety, which can be pivotal in accident claims.

Insurance and No-Fault Coverage

Minnesota’s no-fault insurance law does not typically apply to motorcyclists unless they have specifically elected to purchase such coverage for their motorcycles. If you did buy no-fault coverage for your motorcycle and are in an accident, your insurance policy will cover the first $20,000 in medical expenses and $20,000 in wage loss. This is true regardless of who is at fault for the accident. Most motorcyclists do not purchase no-fault coverage for their motorcycles due to the costs associated with such coverage.

Lane Splitting

Minnesota is one of six states providing limited lane splitting by motorcycles. Minnesota law allows motorcyclists to filter through traffic “at not more than 25 miles per hour and no more than 15 miles per hour over the speed of traffic in relevant traffic lanes.”

Such maneuvers may still increase the risk of accidents and complicate liability issues. We educate our clients on the importance of following traffic regulations to ensure their safety and explain how such actions can affect their accident claims.

Common Causes of St. Cloud Motorcycle Accidents

While many factors can cause or contribute to motorcycle accidents in the St. Cloud area, some of the most common include the following:

Inattentive Drivers

One of the leading causes of motorcycle accidents in St. Cloud is other motorists’ inattention. Due to their smaller size, cars and trucks sharing the road often fail to notice motorcycles. At Nelson Personal Injury, we frequently handle cases where a driver’s failure to check blind spots or distraction by mobile devices resulted in a collision with a motorcyclist.

Dangerous Road Conditions

Motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable to accidents caused by hazardous road conditions, such as potholes, gravel, or slippery surfaces caused by weather. These conditions can cause a rider to lose control of their motorcycle.

Speeding and Reckless Driving

Excessive speed reduces a driver’s ability to react to motorcycles and increases the severity of injuries in an accident. Reckless behaviors, such as aggressive lane changes, following too closely, or racing, are common culprits behind serious motorcycle crashes. At our firm, we advocate for victims who have suffered due to such negligent actions.

Driving Under the Influence

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a significant factor in motorcycle accidents, leading to impaired judgment and reduced motor skills. Nelson Personal Injury actively seeks to hold such irresponsible drivers accountable for the risks they pose to motorcyclists and the community.

Left-Turn Accidents

Intersections are hotspots for motorcycle accidents, especially when vehicles make left-hand turns without noticing an oncoming motorcycle. Our legal team is experienced in handling cases where motorcyclists have been injured by vehicles making these turns, often resulting in serious injury or fatality.

Common Injuries Seen in Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle riders often sustain more serious and potentially deadly injuries during an accident than those in traditional cars because they do not have as much protection. Some of the most common injuries seen in motorcycle accidents include the following:

Head and Brain Injuries

Despite helmet use, head injuries are prevalent in motorcycle accidents. We have represented many clients who have suffered from concussions and more severe traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). These injuries can range from mild concussions to severe cognitive impairments that may require long-term care and rehabilitation.

Road Rash and Burns

When motorcyclists are thrown from their bikes, the friction between their body and the road can cause severe abrasions known as road rash. In some cases, these injuries can lead to serious infections or even require skin grafting. Additionally, contact with hot motorcycle parts or leaking fluids can cause burns, which carry their own risks of complications and long-term scarring.

Spinal Cord Injuries

The impact of a motorcycle accident can cause damage to the spinal cord, potentially resulting in partial or complete paralysis. These injuries can be life-altering, often necessitating extensive medical treatment, adaptive technologies, and personal care assistance. Our firm is committed to securing compensation that covers the full scope of these consequences.

Fractures and Broken Bones

The force of a collision often results in broken bones and fractures for motorcyclists. The most common are fractures in the arms and legs as riders instinctively try to break their fall. However, we also see cases of rib and hip fractures, which can be particularly dangerous due to the risk of damaging internal organs.

Psychological Trauma

Not all injuries are visible. Psychological trauma, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression, are common after motorcycle accidents. We recognize the importance of addressing these invisible wounds and fight for compensation that acknowledges the full spectrum of our client’s injuries.

Statistics About Motorcycle Accidents in the St. Cloud Area

Understanding the scope and impact of motorcycle accidents in St. Cloud can highlight the importance of having knowledgeable legal representation. Here are some notable statistics:

• Frequency of Accidents: St. Cloud sees many motorcycle accidents annually, especially during the warmer months when more riders are on the road.
• Location of Accidents: The most common areas where motorcycle accidents occur in the St. Cloud area include I94, Highway 10, Highway 23, Highway 15, and Division Street.
• Common Causes: The primary causes of motorcycle accidents in St. Cloud include inattentive driving, speeding, and failure to yield at intersections.
• Injury Rates: A substantial percentage of motorcycle accidents in St. Cloud result in serious injuries, ranging from broken bones to traumatic brain injuries.
• Fatalities: While less common, fatal motorcycle accidents occur, underscoring the importance of road safety and responsible driving practices.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What should I do immediately after a motorcycle accident?

Ensure your safety and the safety of others, call 911 for medical assistance, collect contact and insurance information from involved parties, take photographs of the scene, gather witness information, file a police report, and notify your insurance company.

2. How does Minnesota’s no-fault insurance work for motorcycles?

Minnesota’s no-fault insurance typically does not apply to motorcyclists unless they have specifically elected to purchase such coverage for their motorcycles. If you have no-fault coverage, your insurance will cover the first $20,000 in medical expenses and $20,000 in wage loss, regardless of who is at fault.

3. Can I sue the responsible party if they caused my motorcycle accident?

Yes, you can pursue a lawsuit against the responsible party if their negligence caused your injuries. This can include compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

4. What is the statute of limitations for motorcycle accident claims in Minnesota?

The statute of limitations for personal injury claims based on negligence in Minnesota is typically six years from the accident date. It is crucial to act promptly to protect your right to seek compensation.

5. How are damages calculated in a motorcycle accident claim?

Damages are calculated based on economic losses (medical expenses, lost wages) and non-economic losses (pain and suffering, emotional distress). We work with medical professionals, economists, vocational rehab counselors, and life care planners to ensure all potential costs and damages are accounted for in your motorcycle crash case.

6. Should I speak to the insurance company before consulting an attorney?

It is advisable to consult with us before speaking to the insurance company to avoid jeopardizing your claim. Insurance companies aim to minimize payouts, and our legal team can guide you through this process to protect your interests.

7. What if the responsible party is uninsured or underinsured?

If the responsible party is uninsured or underinsured, you may still have options for compensation through your own insurance policy’s uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. We can help you navigate this process to ensure you receive the compensation you need.

What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident

The moments following a motorcycle accident are critical. We recommend taking the following steps if you are involved in a collision:

• Ensure Safety: Move to a safe area to prevent further harm.
• Call for Help: Dial 911 immediately to report the accident and request medical assistance.
• Gather Evidence: Take photos of the scene, the vehicles involved, and your injuries if you can without risking your health.
• Exchange Information: Obtain the other parties’ names, contact information, and insurance details.
• Speak Carefully: Be mindful of your statements to others at the scene and avoid admitting fault or liability.
• Seek Medical Attention: Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, even if you feel fine.
• Contact Nelson Personal Injury: Contact us for legal advice before contacting insurance companies.

Motorcycle Accident Claims Process

We guide our clients through every step of the claims process:

• Initial Consultation: Our Motorcycle Accident Attorneys offer a free, no-obligation consultation to understand your case’s specifics and discuss your options.
• Investigation: Our team will gather all necessary evidence, including accident reports, medical records, and witness statements.
• Claim Filing: We handle all paperwork for filing claims with the appropriate insurance companies.
• Negotiation: Our experienced attorneys negotiate with insurers to reach a fair settlement with the involved insurance companies.
• Litigation: If a settlement cannot be reached, we are prepared to take your case to court and, if necessary, trial.

Maximizing Your Compensation

We employ a comprehensive approach at Nelson Personal Injury, LLC to ensure you receive the maximum compensation possible. This includes:

• Evaluating the full extent of your injuries and their impact on your life.
• Consult with medical professionals to ascertain the long-term implications of your injuries.
• Assessing lost wages and potential loss of future earnings.
• Negotiating with insurance companies using our understanding of Minnesota’s motorcycle laws.

Why Choose Nelson Personal Injury, LLC?

• Experienced Attorneys: Our lawyers specialize in motorcycle accident cases and understand the intricacies involved.
• Client-Centered Approach: We tailor our strategies to meet each client’s individual needs.
• Proven Track Record: We have a history of securing favorable client settlements and verdicts.
• No Upfront Costs: We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case.

Contact Us Today

If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle accident in St. Cloud, Minnesota, contact our Motorcycle Accident Attorneys at Nelson Personal Injury, LLC today. We are dedicated to advocating for your rights and helping you navigate the complexities of the legal system with compassion and expertise.

Our goal is to ensure that you can focus on your recovery while we handle the legal aspects of your accident. Call us or visit our website to schedule your free consultation and take the first step towards justice and recovery.

Our Commitment to You

At Nelson Personal Injury, we work to ensure that you are informed and empowered at every step. We also work tirelessly to secure the compensation you deserve. Trust us to handle the legal burdens so you can focus on healing and rebuilding. Call us today for a free, no-obligation consultation.