Detroit Lakes Motorcycle Accident Attorney

Fighting For Motorcycle Accident Victims in Minnesota

Motorcyclists are highly exposed to injury in a crash. They lack the protection of an enclosed vehicle, making them more vulnerable to harm when involved in a collision. Motorcycle accidents are often severe, resulting in life-altering injuries and fatalities.

At Maring Williams Law Office, we understand the challenges faced by injured motorcyclists. Our team of motorcycle accident attorneys in Detroit Lakes can help you seek compensation for your damages. We can also assist you in working towards a full recovery.

Were you injured in a motorcycle accident in Detroit Lakes? Are you struggling to recover from your injuries? Our motorcycle accident lawyer in Detroit Lakes is ready to help you navigate the legal process. Call (218) 228-6332, or contact us online to schedule your consultation today.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents 

Motorcycle accidents can result from a combination of factors and tend to be more severe than accidents involving other types of vehicles due to the lack of protective barriers for riders.

Here are some common causes of motorcycle accidents:

• Distracted Driving: Distracted driving is a significant problem for all motorists, including motorcyclists. When drivers are distracted by their phones, passengers, navigation systems, or other factors, they may fail to notice motorcycles on the road, leading to collisions.
• Unsafe Lane Changes: Motorcycles are smaller and more challenging to spot in blind spots. When drivers change lanes without checking their mirrors and blind spots, they might inadvertently collide with a motorcycle.
• Left-Turn Accidents: One common scenario involves a motorcycle colliding with a car making a left turn. The driver may not see the oncoming motorcycle or misjudge its speed, leading to a collision.
• Intoxication: Alcohol or drug impairment significantly impairs a driver's judgment, reaction time, and coordination, making them more likely to cause accidents. This applies to both car drivers and bikers.
• Failure to Yield Right-of-Way: Accidents can occur when drivers or riders fail to yield the right-of-way at intersections or while making turns.
• Road Hazards: Hazards like potholes, gravel, oil spills, or uneven road surfaces can be more dangerous for motorcycles due to their smaller contact area and reduced stability.
• Dooring Accidents: These occur when a car driver or passenger opens their door into the path of an oncoming motorcycle, causing a collision.
• Lane Splitting: Lane splitting is when a motorcyclist rides between two lanes of slow-moving or stopped traffic. While legal in some places, it can still be hazardous, especially if drivers are not expecting it.
• Weather Conditions: Adverse weather, such as rain, snow, or strong winds, can reduce visibility and road traction, increasing the risk of accidents for motorcyclists.
• Mechanical Failures: Accidents can happen if a motorcycle experiences a mechanical failure, such as brake failure or tire blowouts.
• Speeding: Excessive speed reduces a driver's ability to react to unexpected situations and increases the severity of any resulting accidents. Motorcyclists who are speeding also have less time to respond to hazards on the road.

Understanding these causes can help preventive measures be taken. For motorcyclists, wearing adequate protective gear, including helmets and padded jackets, and enhancing visibility using reflective clothing can reduce risks. Regular motorcycle maintenance to ensure optimal functioning can also prevent accidents related to mechanical failures.

Who is Liable in a Motorcycle Accident?

Comparative negligence is a legal principle that applies to personal injury cases in Minnesota, including motorcycle accidents. If both parties are found to share some degree of fault for the accident, their recovery of damages will be reduced in proportion to their assigned percentage of fault.

For example, if a motorcyclist is found 30% at fault and the other driver 70% at fault, the motorcyclist's damages will be reduced by 30%. Comparative negligence determines the degree of fault or responsibility each party bears for the accident and subsequent injuries or damages.

In Minnesota, a party can only recover damages if they are found to be 50% or less at fault for the accident. If a court or jury determines that the injured party is 51% or more responsible, they will be barred from recovering any compensation.

What Damages Could Be Recoverable in a Motorcycle Accident Claim?

If you've been in a motorcycle accident, you may be eligible for compensation based on your situation. These may include:

• Medical Costs: Covers expenses for emergency care, hospitalization, surgeries, rehabilitation, and any ongoing medical needs related to the accident.
• Lost Income: Compensates for wages lost if your injuries prevent you from working and future earnings if your work capacity is permanently impacted.
• Pain and Suffering: Provides compensation for physical pain, emotional suffering, and mental distress stemming from the accident.
• Property Damage: If your motorcycle or personal belongings were damaged in the accident, you may be entitled to compensation for the repair costs or replacement of your damaged property.
• Loss of Consortium: If the accident has affected your relationship with a spouse or family member, you may be entitled to damages for the loss of companionship and emotional support.
• Punitive Damages: In severe negligence or intentional misconduct cases, punitive damages could be granted to punish the responsible party and discourage similar future actions.    

Our experienced motorcycle accident attorneys can evaluate your case and help ensure all potential damages are accounted for when seeking compensation.

Minnesota Motorcycle Laws & Regulations 

Minnesota, including Detroit Lakes, has specific laws regulating motorcycle operations on roads. Understanding these laws is crucial for local motorcyclists to ensure safety and compliance. For example, Minnesota law mandates that all motorcycle operators and passengers wear protective eyewear unless the motorcycle is equipped with a windshield. Helmets are compulsory for all riders under 18 and required for those using a motorcycle permit. It's essential to also adhere strictly to speed limits and lane usage instructions, as motorcycles are subject to all general traffic laws.

Minnesota law also includes noise control and exhaust system regulations to maintain public peace and safety. Motorcyclists should ensure their bikes comply with these to avoid fines and contribute to a safer environment. Familiarizing yourself with these local laws keeps you compliant and reduces potential risks on the road.

Community Support Resources for Motorcycle Accident Victims

In Detroit Lakes, various community resources provide support to motorcycle accident victims, emphasizing recovery and adaptation to life changes post-accident. Local support groups offer a network of companionship and emotional guidance, which is essential for those struggling with trauma or severe injuries. Organizations such as Essentia Health-St. Mary's in Detroit Lakes can offer medical support and rehabilitation services for physical recovery.

The Detroit Lakes community also hosts various road safety campaigns to educate riders and drivers on mutual road respect and accident prevention strategies. Engaging in these programs enhances individual safety awareness and fosters community solidarity in roadway safety efforts. These resources can significantly aid recovery, providing access to essential services and fostering a supportive environment.

FAQs About Motorcycle Accidents 

What Should I Do Immediately After a Motorcycle Accident?

Immediately after a motorcycle accident, it is crucial to prioritize safety. First, determine if you or anyone involved in the accident is injured. If so, call 911 for emergency medical assistance. Next, move to a safe location, away from traffic, if possible. Gathering evidence at the scene is beneficial; this includes taking photographs of the accident, any injuries, and road conditions. It's also important to obtain contact information from witnesses and other parties involved. Once the immediate concerns are addressed, report the incident to the police, ensuring an official accident record. Lastly, seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor, as some symptoms could emerge later.

What Role Does Insurance Play in a Motorcycle Accident Claim?

Insurance is pivotal in motorcycle accident claims, often determining the compensation you can receive for damages and injuries. In Minnesota, the no-fault insurance rule means that your insurance covers basic medical expenses and economic losses up to a certain amount, regardless of who caused the accident. Beyond this, liability insurance comes into play when determining responsibility for the accident, potentially covering additional costs for property damage and serious injuries. Understanding your policy details and coverage limits is essential for managing expectations regarding a claim outcome. Consulting with a legal professional can help you navigate these complexities more effectively.

Are There Legal Timeframes to File a Motorcycle Accident Claim?

Minnesota has a statute of limitations for filing personal injury claims, including those from motorcycle accidents. Typically, you have two years from the accident date to file a lawsuit. However, this timeframe may vary depending on circumstances such as injuries discovered later, involving minors, or negligent parties associated with governmental entities. Missing this window may forfeit your right to pursue compensation through the court. Therefore, consulting with an attorney promptly after an accident can ensure you remain informed of applicable timelines and take necessary legal actions within the required periods.

Contact Our Detroit Lakes Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Today

If you've been involved in a motorcycle accident, the Maring Williams Law Office is here to assist you with your claim. Our team of motorcycle accident lawyers in Detroit Lakes can handle your case from start to finish, or we can work with you to develop a proper strategy for your needs. We also assist loved ones impacted by a fatal crash.

Contact us today. Let our Detroit Lakes motorcycle accident lawyers protect your rights and fight for your best interests!