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Motorcycle Accident Lawyers in Minnesota

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Who’s to Blame in a Motorcycle Accident in Minnesota?

Let’s face it: There remains a stigma attached to people riding a motorcycle. This is true even though crashes involving a motorcycle are rarely the fault of the operator of the motorcycle. The most common cause of a motorcycle accident is that another driver failed to see the motorcyclist before causing the crash. Yet in the courtroom, many of these outmoded and outdated views of who rides a motorcycle remain. There is little doubt that, often, cyclists get treated differently than do victims of other accidents. Having attorneys fighting for you is crucial in receiving the compensation you deserve.

There are situations where a motorcyclist is partially at fault, even if it is rare. Here at Sieben Edmunds Miller, we can approach motorcycle personal injury cases using the legal concept of “comparative fault” if necessary. The amount of responsibility of each party involved in the accident can be determined and the damages divided by the percentage of fault that is applied. Again, it is much more likely that someone else was negligent and caused the motorcycle collision, usually because they failed to see the motorcyclist before the crash, however when two or more parties are negligent, you need someone to fight for your rights.

Manufacturer Recalls and Defects can Play a Part in a Motorcycle Accident

When an automobile is recalled, it can be irritating and even frightening. But a motorcycle recall is even scarier because there is a higher risk of somebody being hurt or killed as a result of the defect. In our experience as motorcycle accident personal injury lawyers, we see that many accidents might be caused by a defect in the design or manufacture of a critical part. The potential danger could have been foreseen by the company. There are even manufacturing defects that occur when, during assembly, something is done differently than how the engineers intended and this creates a risk for the eventual driver and the passenger.

The manufacturer has an obligation to inform the public of a recall and repair it free of charge. Yet it can be difficult to reach every owner because the motorcycle may have been purchased used or from a third party not connected to a dealer. It’s important for every motorcycle owner to provide the manufacturer with their contact information so they can be notified in the event of a recall.

When You’re Hurt in a Motorcycle Accident with Another Vehicle, Call Our Accident Injury Lawyers

If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident with a motor vehicle, don’t wait to call the motorcycle accident attorneys at Sieben Edmunds Miller.

We will discuss the specifics of your case on a non-obligation basis and help determine the extent to which the other driver may be responsible. We’ll review police reports and interviews with any witnesses, as well as check weather and road condition reports at the time of the accident. Then we can help you decide whether you have the right and opportunity to recover damages for things such as out-of-pocket medical expenses, lost income, and other damages. Here in Minnesota, we are the Minneapolis Personal Injury Lawyers and St.Paul Personal Injury Lawyers to contact when you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident.

FAQs About Motorcycle Accidents in Minnesota

Sieben Edmunds Miller
What Are Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Minnesota?

Motorcycle accidents are often caused by distracted drivers, drivers who don’t follow traffic laws, and drivers who don’t properly check their surroundings. Any motorcycle accident caused by a negligent driver can be cause for a personal injury lawsuit.

What Should You Do After a Motorcycle Accident?

First, you should call emergency services so you can be treated for your injuries and have the police write up an accident report. Don’t ever delay medical treatment because you’re concerned about the cost; your bills will be covered by insurance. Next, you should contact a personal injury attorney to discuss your accident, injuries, and whether a personal injury case is a good option.

How Long Will My Motorcycle Accident Case Take to Be Resolved?

Your motorcycle accident personal injury case could be settled in only a few months, or it could take several years to move through the court process. Clients who are able to settle with the insurance company out of court may see a quicker resolution, but that doesn’t mean that’s the path you should take. We are always prepared to see a case through to its natural conclusion and never pressure our clients to take a settlement.

How Much Money Should I Expect from the Minnesota Motorcycle Accident I Was In?

This will vary greatly and depends on your injuries, lost wages, pain and suffering, and all the other financial burdens brought about by your accident.

How Do I Prove I Am Not Responsible for My Motorcycle Accident in Minnesota?

Don’t worry about proving you are not responsible for your accident right away. Some people may assume they should provide extra details to the police to prove they weren’t at fault, or they will discuss it with the other driver. This is not helpful most of the time, and it can cause issues if you decide to pursue a personal injury suit. Our attorneys can help you prove the cause of the accident once we’ve started on your case.

How Long Do I Have to File a Claim After My Motorcycle Accident in Minnesota?

Generally the statute of limitations for a motorcycle accident is six years, but there are some exceptions. You must also meet certain criteria before you can file your personal injury claim.

Why Do I Need to Call a Lawyer?

Insurance companies want to spend as little of their money as possible paying out claims. They will try to encourage you to settle for a relatively small amount because they know you may have never been in this position before. Our personal injury lawyers have the experience needed to know what’s fair, and we’ll fight for you to make sure you get the compensation you deserve.

Do I Need a Motorcycle Accident Attorney Even If I Have Motorcycle Insurance?

Yes, you should always hire an attorney when you’re injured in a motorcycle accident. Even if you have insurance, you won’t necessarily be compensated fairly for all your injuries, lost wages, pain and suffering, and all the other issues brought about by your accident. Hiring an attorney is the best thing you can do to make sure you receive this compensation.

What If a Motorcyclist Is Hit by an Uninsured or Underinsured Motorist?

You still deserve to be compensated for your injuries. Our personal injury attorneys will discuss how we can make this happen for you. One option is to take the driver to court and making them personally responsible for compensating you.

What Should I Expect If a Speeding Violation Was Involved During the Crash?

The speeding violation will be considered when determining who is at fault for the accident. If the other driver is determined to be at least 51% at fault, you can still pursue a personal injury claim.

How Can Sieben Edmunds Miller PLLC Help Me?

We will discuss the specifics of your case on a non-obligation basis and help determine the extent to which the other driver may be responsible. We’ll review police reports and interviews with any witnesses, as well as check weather and road condition reports at the time of the accident. Then we can help you decide whether you have the right and opportunity to recover damages for things such as out of pocket medical expenses, lost income, and other damages.

Can I Still File a Motorcycle Accident Claim If I Wasn't Wearing a Helmet?
Yes, you can still file a motorcycle accident claim in Minnesota even if you weren’t wearing a helmet at the time of the accident. Minnesota law does not require motorcyclists over the age of 18 to wear helmets. However, not wearing a helmet may affect your claim’s outcome, as insurance adjusters and jurors may consider it when determining fault and damages.
What Compensation Can I Receive for a Motorcycle Accident Injury?
In Minnesota, compensation for a motorcycle accident injury may include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, rehabilitation costs, permanent disability, loss of earning capacity, and other economic and non-economic damages. The specific amount depends on the severity of your injuries and the circumstances of the accident.
What Should I Do If the Insurance Company Offers Me a Settlement?

If the insurance company offers you a settlement after a motorcycle accident, it’s essential to consult with an experienced attorney before accepting or signing anything. Insurance companies often offer low settlements initially to minimize their costs. An attorney can evaluate the offer and negotiate on your behalf to seek fair compensation for your injuries and losses. 

Can I File a Wrongful Death Claim If a Loved One Died in a Motorcycle Accident?

Yes, if a loved one died in a motorcycle accident in Minnesota due to another party’s negligence, you may be eligible to file a wrongful death claim. Immediate family members, such as spouses, children, and parents, can pursue compensation for their losses, including funeral expenses, medical bills, lost income, and loss of companionship. 

How Can I Afford Legal Representation for My Motorcycle Accident Case?

Many motorcycle accident attorneys, including those at Sieben Edmunds Miller PLLC, offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis. This means you don’t pay any upfront fees, and your attorney only collects a fee if they secure compensation for you through a settlement or verdict. It allows individuals to afford quality legal representation without financial strain. 

What Steps Should I Take to Protect My Rights After a Motorcycle Accident?

After a motorcycle accident, it’s essential to seek medical attention, document the accident scene, gather witness information, report the accident to the authorities, notify your insurance company, avoid admitting fault, and consult with an experienced motorcycle accident attorney as soon as possible. These steps help protect your rights and preserve crucial evidence for your claim. 

Can I File a Lawsuit If the Other Driver Fled the Scene of the Motorcycle Accident?
Yes, if the other driver fled the scene of the motorcycle accident, you may still be able to pursue legal action. Your attorney can help investigate the accident, identify the responsible party, and explore all available options for seeking compensation, including filing a lawsuit against the hit-and-run driver if they are found.
How Does Comparative Negligence Affect Motorcycle Accident Cases in Minnesota?
Minnesota follows a comparative negligence rule, which means your compensation may be reduced if you are partially at fault for the motorcycle accident. However, as long as you are less than 50% responsible for the accident, you can still recover damages proportionate to your level of fault.
What If the Other Driver Blames Road Conditions for the Motorcycle Accident?
If the other driver blames road conditions for the motorcycle accident, it’s essential to conduct a thorough investigation to determine the true cause of the crash. Road conditions may contribute to accidents, but drivers still have a duty to operate their vehicles safely. Your attorney can evaluate the evidence and hold negligent parties accountable for their actions.
Can I Pursue Compensation If My Motorcycle Was Damaged in a Hit-and-Run Accident?
Yes, if your motorcycle was damaged in a hit-and-run accident in Minnesota, you may be able to pursue compensation through your uninsured motorist coverage. This coverage can help cover the cost of repairing or replacing your motorcycle and other related expenses resulting from the hit-and-run incident.

If you have any further questions or need assistance with your personal injury case, please don’t hesitate to contact us for a free case evaluation. We’re here to help you navigate the legal process and seek justice for your injuries. 

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