Minnesota Bicycle Accident Collisions
Bicyclists sometimes ride in high-traffic areas and that can make them prone to accidents with trucks, cars, buses, and motorcycles. The Twin Cities is an area where a lot of bikers commute. Recreational biking is also a very popular activity in the area because there are many trails and urban routes available. In fact, Minneapolis was declared the “#1 Bike City” by Bicycling, a national magazine. The magazine stated that the area is a “bicycle-friendly” city and the Best Bike City in America.
While it is a bicycle friendly area, Minneapolis alone has been the site of some high-profile bike accidents. One case in 2009 involved a collision between a cyclist in a bike lane at an intersection where a tractor trailer was making a wide turn to the left. The truck crossed in front of the bicycle, hitting and killing the cyclist.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident or a loved one was killed, you may have a personal injury or wrongful death case. It is best to speak to an experienced personal injury lawyer as soon as possible to see if you have a case and so work can immediately begin on your case.
Ten Things Minnesota Residents Should Know If Injured In A Bicycle vs. Motor Vehicle Accident
1. Bicyclists that are injured in a motor vehicle accident are entitled no-fault benefits (medical and wage loss) by Minnesota law.
2. You are entitled to no-fault benefits no matter who is at fault.
3. No-fault provides up to $20,000 in medical benefits and up to $20,000 in wage loss benefits.
4. No-fault medical benefits are “primary” and must be exhausted or denied before billing your health insurer.
5. There is no co-pay or deductible when medical services are billed to the no-fault insurer.
6. An insurance company cannot raise rates if you collect no-fault benefits.
7. No-fault benefits are provided by your auto insurance company.
8. If you don’t have auto insurance, you can receive no-fault benefits under the policy of any household family member’s auto insurance.
9. If you don’t have auto insurance, and do not have a family member with insurance, you can receive no-fault benefits from any motor vehicle involved.
10. If you don’t have auto insurance, do not have a family member with auto insurance and the involved motor vehicle was uninsured, you can receive no-fault benefits through the State of Minnesota Assigned Claims Plan.
There could be some exceptions to no-fault coverage. Feel free to contact us to discuss your specific situation and policy.
Expert Legal Advice
At Hunegs, LeNeave & Kvas, we have a 75-year history of providing individuals with sound advice so they can make informed decisions about their cases. We can also advise you of your rights in the matter, as we conduct a prompt investigation into the accident. We have many resources and are highly skilled in bringing about the evidence that is necessary to show the insurance company why you deserve compensation and how much you need for current and future medical expenses, lost wages, and other expenses related to the accident.
When you work with us, you have one of the most experienced and well-known law firms on your side. We are well-respected, recognized nationally, and we have a long track record of success, including settlements in excess of $1 million.
Experienced Representing Victims Of All Bicycle Accident Types
While bicycle accidents may be common in the urban centers, they do happen in rural areas as well. Individuals who go bicycling in rural, recreational, or residential areas can still come into contact with motor vehicles, bicycle defects, roadway defects, poor visibility, poor signage, and much more. Even inattentive pedestrians can cause bicycle accidents that result in very serious injury. Regardless of how the accident happened, your personal injury lawyer will ensure you receive the medical care that you need and will fight on your behalf for the compensation that you deserve so that you are taken care of financially while justice is served.
Contact A Skilled Personal Injury Attorney
Bicyclists go on the road expecting to be safe, but motorist negligence can lead to a serious or fatal accident. If you or a loved one has been injured or a loved one was killed in a bicycle accident caused by the negligence of someone else, you may have a personal injury or wrongful death claim. To learn more about your rights and options, call Hunegs, LeNeave & Kvas at the Wayzata, MN office at 612-339-4511 or 1-800-328-4340 for a free consultation.
