Whether you’re enjoying a ride around one of Maple Grove’s many parks or commuting to work, accidents can happen unexpectedly, leaving you with injuries and a lot of questions about what will happen next. In many cases, crashes between bicycles and vehicles can be severe since cyclists do not have the same protection that car drivers do.
When an accident happens, it’s important to seek help from an experienced Maple Grove accident lawyer who can handle these cases and guide you through the process.
At Nelson Personal Injury, LLC, we understand how difficult it can be to move forward after being harmed in a bicycle accident. For this reason, our dedicated legal team is committed to helping injured victims get justice.
We can meet for a free consultation to discuss your case and determine the best course of action.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Maple Grove
Bicycle accidents often occur in Maple Grove due to a variety of factors and not all are within the cyclist’s control. Let’s explore some common causes that can lead to these accidents:
Improper Lookout
Sometimes, drivers simply do not see cyclists on the road, especially when they’re making turns or switching lanes. When drivers aren’t paying attention, it can easily lead to accidents because they don’t notice the cyclist until it’s too late. Being overlooked is one of the biggest dangers cyclists face on busy roads.
Following Too Close to Cyclists
When cars drive too close behind or right next to cyclists, there’s barely any room for error. Even a small mistake can cause a crash, leaving the cyclist with no time or space to react safely. Cyclists need their own space to ride, but crowded roads can make this tough and risky.
Obstructions in the Bike Lane
Bike lanes are supposed to be safe spots for cyclists, but things like potholes, debris, delivery vehicles, or parked cars can block the way. When cyclists have to swerve into traffic to avoid these obstacles, it puts them in danger of getting hit by passing cars. A clear bike lane isn’t just a nice idea—it’s essential for cyclist safety.
Dooring Accidents
A common accident happens when someone in a parked car opens their door right into the path of a cyclist. The cyclist usually doesn’t have enough time to stop, and the impact can knock them down or even push them into oncoming traffic. It’s one of those unexpected dangers that can cause serious injuries to cyclists. These often occur in large urban areas with abundant street parking.
When you find yourself in a crash caused by these or other factors, reaching out to a bicycle accident attorney in Maple Grove, MN, can help you understand your rights and what steps to take next.
Common Bicycle Accident Injuries
Bicycle accidents can result in a variety of types of injuries, from minor cuts and bruises to more severe conditions. Some common injuries include:
- Head injuries
- Broken bones
- Concussions
- Road rash
- Spinal cord injuries
- Soft tissue injuries
- Facial fractures
- Internal injuries
- Dislocated joints
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
If you are hurt in a bike accident, it’s crucial to seek medical attention right away. This will allow you to get the necessary treatment, as well as document your injuries for any future claims. An experienced Maple Grove bike accident lawyer can help you understand the full extent of your injuries and assist you in seeking compensation for your damages.
Minnesota Statute of Limitations on Civil Injury Claims
In Minnesota, the statute of limitations for filing injury claims based on negligence involving bicycle accidents is generally six years from the date of the incident. However, It’s important to take action as soon as possible, as waiting too long can mean losing your right to seek compensation. Consulting a bicycle injury attorney near me can help you determine the best course of action based on your situation.
Millions Recovered for Minnesota Accident Injury Victims.
Get a case evaluation today for FREE.
No Recovery, No Fee.
Common Evidence in a Bicycle Accident Case
To build a strong case after your bike accident, your lawyer will need specific evidence to show what happened and prove fault, as well as prove your damages. Here are some common pieces of evidence used in bicycle accident cases:
- Medical Records: Medical records are important because they show how badly you were hurt and link those injuries directly to the accident. Doctors’ notes, X-rays, and treatment details help prove that your injuries weren’t from something else. This way, the lawyer can make sure the person responsible is held accountable for what happened.
- Photographs: Pictures from the accident scene, damage to the vehicles, and your injuries are valuable because they give a clear view of what went down. A photo can show where the accident happened, any hazards that were there, and how bad the damage was. It’s like telling a story without needing words, so having good pictures can really help your case.
- Witness Testimony: If someone saw the accident, their statement can back up what you’re saying. Witnesses who can describe what they saw make your story stronger, especially if the other person tries to deny fault. The more details witnesses can give, the clearer the picture becomes.
Your lawyer will also work with experts who can help recreate the accident and demonstrate how the other party was at fault. Hiring the best bicycle accident lawyer in Maple Grove can make all the difference in gathering the right evidence.
Proving Negligence
In a bicycle accident case, proving negligence means showing that the other person wasn’t being careful like they should have been. For example, if a driver was speeding or looking at their phone instead of paying attention, it’s likely their careless behavior caused the accident.
Negligence can also include running a red light, not stopping at a stop sign, or failing to yield to a cyclist. Basically, it’s about proving that the driver didn’t follow the rules of the road or wasn’t acting safely, and because of that, you got hurt.
The top-rated bicycle accident lawyers at Nelson Personal Injury in Maple Grove know how to collect evidence to prove these types of behaviors and build a compelling case on your behalf.
Minnesota Comparative Negligence Laws
Minnesota has comparative negligence laws, which means that if you are partially responsible for the accident, your compensation might be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to you. If your fault exceeds the other driver’s, however, you will be unable to collect any portion of your damages.
For this reason, it is crucial to have a no-win, no-fee bicycle accident lawyer in Maple Grove who understands these laws and can effectively argue for fair compensation based on the facts of your case.
Compensation for Maple Grove Bicycle Accident Damages
If you’re hurt in a bicycle accident, you could be entitled to compensation for some of the losses and expenses you face. Recoverable compensation can include both economic and non-economic damages.
Economic Damages
These are the financial losses you have because of the accident, like medical bills, lost wages, and even future earnings you might miss out on if you can’t do your job the same way. Things like bills for doctor visits, hospital stays, and therapy costs all fall under this category of damages.
Non-Economic Damages
These types of damages cover things that are not easily calculated, like the pain you went through or how the accident changed your life. For example, if you cannot enjoy sports or hobbies you used to love, this could count as a decrease in your quality of life. Even though it’s hard to put a price on things like pain, these damages help you get something back for what you’ve lost.
It’s important to work with a bicycle accident attorney in Maple Grove, MN, who can help you understand what damages you’re eligible for and assist you in pursuing the maximum compensation.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’ve been involved in a bicycle accident, you likely have many questions about what to do next and how to protect your rights. Understanding the steps to take and your legal options can make a significant difference in your recovery and compensation. Here are some common questions bicycle crash victims often ask after an accident.
What Should I Do Immediately After a Bicycle Accident?
After a bicycle accident, prioritize your safety and health by seeking medical attention, even if injuries seem minor. Document the scene by taking photos, gathering witness information, and getting the contact details of the involved parties. Report the accident to the police to have an official record.
Who Is Responsible for My Bicycle Accident Injuries?
Fault for a motor vehicle accident with a bicycle depends on the circumstances of the accident. If a motorist was involved and at fault, such as through negligent driving, they may be liable for your injuries. However, liability could also fall on other parties, such as pedestrians, property owners, or even bicycle manufacturers, in cases of faulty equipment.
You may also have access to no-fault benefits through either your own auto insurance policy, or through the policy of the driver who struck you. Through your no-fault claim, you will be entitled to up to $20,000 in medical expenses and mileage, and up to $20,000 in wage loss and replacement services.
Do I Need a Lawyer for My Bicycle Accident Case?
While not legally required, having an experienced personal injury lawyer can be highly beneficial, especially if you suffered severe injuries or if liability is disputed. A lawyer can help you handle the legal process, negotiate with insurance companies, and advocate for fair compensation.
Contact Our Bicycle Accident Lawyer in Maple Grove
Dealing with the aftermath of a bicycle accident can be overwhelming. Not only are you facing physical injuries, but there’s also the emotional stress and financial burden that can come with it.
That’s why it’s so important to have the support of a knowledgeable and dedicated team by your side. At Nelson Personal Injury, LLC, we’re here to help if you or someone you care about has been injured in a bicycle accident. Our experienced team is ready to guide you through every step of the process and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Contact us today to speak with a Maple Grove bicycle accident lawyer and take the first step toward moving forward.
