Make My Law Firm Your First Call After A Motorcycle Accident
Anyone who has been a biker for long knows the feeling, many drivers exhibit a general hostility toward motorcycles. Even after a crash that was the car driver’s fault, there is still a sense among too many people that the biker and passengers didn’t have the same right to the road.
If you were injured or lost a loved one in a motorcycle accident in Minnesota, make sure your lawyer knows the strategies insurance companies use to “blame the victim” for your injuries. Call to talk to a motorcycle accident attorney at Yaeger & Weiner Law in Minneapolis. My name is Michael L. Weiner. As a personal injury litigation lawyer, I have over four decades of experience investigating, preparing and resolving motorcycle claims for the full and fair amount the injured party is entitled to.
I know how important it is to get all of the evidence before negotiating a settlement or taking a motorcycle accident case to trial. That is why I employ a staff investigator, Bill Sullivan, who has more than 40 years of investigating crash scenes and reconstructing accidents. I am prepared to win in trial before we talk to the other side.
I also represent clients injured while using ATVs and other recreational vehicles.
What To Do Immediately After A Motorcycle Crash
The actions you take after a motorcycle accident can significantly affect both your physical recovery and your legal claim. After a motorcycle accident, it is important to focus on the following priorities:
- Seeking medical attention right away, even if injuries seem minor
- Calling law enforcement so the crash is officially documented
- Photographing the scene, vehicles, road conditions and visible injuries
- Gathering contact information from witnesses and involved drivers
- Avoiding statements to insurers before speaking with a lawyer
Taking these steps helps preserve evidence and creates a clear record of what occurred. This foundation is critical before any settlement discussions begin. If you did not take some of these steps, it’s even more important to contact an attorney to strengthen your claim.
Understanding The Full Scope Of Recoverable Damages
Motorcycle accidents often result in serious injuries that extend far beyond immediate medical treatment. Compensation is intended to address both short-term losses and long-term consequences of the crash.
Depending on the circumstances, compensation may include:
- Medical expenses for emergency care, surgery and rehabilitation
- Lost income during recovery and reduced future earning capacity
- Pain, emotional distress and loss of enjoyment of life
- Property damage to the motorcycle and riding gear
Every case is different, and the value of a claim depends on the severity of injuries and their impact on daily life.
How Minnesota’s Shared Fault Law Affects Motorcycle Claims
Minnesota follows a modified comparative fault system under Minnesota Statute § 604.01. Insurance companies often use this rule to shift blame onto motorcyclists by pointing to speed, lane position or riding behavior.
Under this law, an injured rider can still recover compensation as long as they are not more than 50 percent responsible for the accident. Any recovery is reduced by the percentage of fault assigned. This means that even if you believe you may share some responsibility, you may still have a valid claim.
Dealing With Insurance Companies After A Motorcycle Accident
Insurance adjusters are trained to protect their company’s financial interests. Their goal is often to minimize payouts, particularly in motorcycle cases where bias against riders is common.
When communicating with insurers, it is important to be cautious by:
- Avoiding recorded statements without legal guidance
- Not accepting early settlement offers before injuries are fully understood
- Being careful about how injuries and the accident are described
- Allowing your attorney to handle communications whenever possible
Proper handling of insurance interactions can prevent missteps that reduce the value of your claim and protect your ability to pursue fair compensation.
Get Help For Seeking Justice For Your Motorcycle Accident Case
Don’t let insurance companies take advantage of you. I can help you go through the legal process and protect your rights as you seek justice and fair compensation. Call my office at 612-345-8002 or send an email to schedule a free consultation about your motorcycle accident claim. I handle all personal injury cases on a contingency fee basis. You pay no attorneys’ fees unless you win.