Motorcycle Accident Attorneys in Bloomington, MN

Overview of Motorcycle Accidents in Minnesota

Motorcycle injuries can vary widely but can often be severe, given the relatively unprotected state of riders. 

Common injuries can include:

• Head injuries: These can range from minor concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries, particularly in cases where the rider was not wearing a helmet.
• Spinal cord injuries: These can result in partial or complete paralysis, permanently impacting a rider's life.
• Broken bones and fractures: Arms, legs, ribs, and wrists are particularly susceptible.
• Road rash: This occurs when a rider slides across the road surface, leading to severe skin abrasions.
• Biker's arm: This term refers to the severe nerve damage that occurs when a biker instinctively uses his arm to break a fall.

Various factors can cause accidents, leading to injuries such as those above. These include negligent driving behavior by other motorists, such as distracted driving, driving while texting or using a cell phone, running stop signs and traffic lights, speeding, tailgating, and other violations, defective motorcycle parts, and poor road conditions. 

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

Common causes may include:

• Distracted Driving: One of the leading causes of motorcycle accidents is distracted driving. Drivers who are texting, talking on the phone, eating, or engaging in other activities are less likely to notice motorcyclists on the road, leading to collisions.
• Speeding: Excessive speed diminishes a driver's reaction time and increases the severity of an accident. Both motorcyclists and other drivers who speed pose a significant danger on the road.
• Lane Splitting: While lane splitting (riding between two lanes of traffic) can save time, it is also highly dangerous. This practice is often misunderstood by car drivers, leading to accidents when they change lanes unexpectedly.
• Left-Turn Accidents: Many motorcycle accidents happen when a car makes a left turn in front of an oncoming motorcycle. The car driver often fails to see the motorcycle or misjudges its speed, resulting in a collision.
• Alcohol and Drug Impairment: Operating any vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs seriously impairs judgment and response times, leading to a higher likelihood of accidents.
• Road Hazards: Motorcycles are particularly susceptible to road hazards such as potholes, gravel, wet or slippery surfaces, and debris. These hazards can cause a rider to suddenly lose control and crash.
• Weather Conditions: Adverse weather conditions such as rain, fog, or ice can make roads more dangerous for motorcyclists, increasing the risk of accidents.

What Damages Could Be Recovered in a Motorcycle Accident Claim?

Potential damages may include:

• Medical Expenses: Motorcycle accidents often lead to serious injuries that require extensive medical treatment. Compensation can cover hospital stays, surgeries, doctor visits, physical therapy, medications, and any forthcoming medical expenses related to your injuries.
• Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be qualified to recover lost wages. This includes not only the income you have already lost but also any future wages you may be unable to earn because of your injuries.
• Pain and Suffering: This type of compensation is intended to address the physical pain and emotional despair caused by the accident and your injuries. The amount granted for pain and suffering can differ widely based on the severity of your injuries and their impact on your life.
• Property Damage: If your motorcycle or any other personal property was damaged in the accident, you could recover the cost of repairs or replacement.
• Loss of Consortium: If your injuries have adversely impacted your relationship with your spouse or family, they may be qualified to compensation for loss of consortium. This often includes the loss of companionship, affection, and support.
• Punitive Damages: In instances where the at-fault party’s actions were specifically egregious or reckless, punitive damages could be granted. These are intended to penalize the wrongdoer and prevent similar behavior in the future.

Helmet Usage Effects on Motorcycle Accidents

Per Minnesota’s helmet laws, only riders under 18 or those with instructional permits are legally required to wear helmets. 

However, studies have shown that helmets can reduce the risk of head injuries by nearly 70% and the risk of death by almost 40%. Helmet usage, therefore, plays a significant role in minimizing the severity of injuries in the event of an accident.

What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident

After a motorcycle accident, the first step is to seek immediate medical attention, even if no injuries are apparent. Next, if possible, document the accident scene, collect witness information, and report the accident to law enforcement. Lastly, contact a trusted personal injury lawyer to guide you through the legal steps.