In a Motorcycle Accident in Minnesota? Here Are Your Legal Rights

Motorcycle accidents often leave riders with catastrophic injuries, as they aren’t afforded the same protection from collisions as other motorists. A motorcycle rider can not only suffer injuries caused by the initial impact with the vehicle that struck them but also further injuries caused by their impact with the pavement or another object.

Because motorcycle riders often suffer severe injuries, they frequently find themselves with extensive medical bills, lost wages, and other losses for which they need compensation. Fortunately, motorcyclists have certain rights that are crucial for helping them seek the compensation they deserve.

Motorcycle Rider’s Rights on the Road

In Minnesota, motorcycle riders have the same rights as other motorists. This includes the right to the full use of the lanes they are in. This right is particularly important after an accident because many motorcycle accidents result from drivers not giving riders the space they are entitled to.

When it comes time to prove fault for the accident, your lawyer can use evidence to demonstrate how the other driver violated your right to your lane by merging into you without looking, attempting to pass you within the same lane, or following too closely behind you.

Filing a Fault-Based Auto Insurance Claim

Minnesota has slightly different insurance requirements for motorcycle riders compared to other motorists. Cars and trucks must have personal injury protection (PIP) coverage, which is a type of no-fault insurance, in addition to their liability coverage. Motorcycle riders are not covered by PIP insurance, meaning they often have to file fault-based auto insurance claims to recover compensation.

Under the law, motorists must have the following minimum amounts of liability coverage which injured riders can file claims against:

• $30,000 per person in bodily injury
• $60,000 per accident in bodily injury
• $10,000 per accident in property damage

In addition to claims filed against the at-fault driver’s liability coverage, injured riders also have uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage they can rely on.

Compensation Available to Motorcycle Riders

Through a fault-based claim against the other driver’s liability insurance, motorcycle riders can seek the following compensation after a motorcycle accident in Minnesota:

• Medical Expenses – Compensation for past and future medical treatments, surgeries, prescription medications, medical devices, and physical therapy
• Lost Wages – Compensation for the income you lost or will lose in the future due to your injuries.
• Permanent Disability –  Compensation for accommodating any permanent disabilities you suffered because of the accident
• Pain and Suffering – Compensation for the physical pain and emotional suffering you experienced because of your injuries, which isn’t available in PIP claims

Motorcycle Accidents and Comparative Fault

Comparative fault is a legal concept that reduces the compensation a victim can receive based on their percentage of fault for the accident or their injuries. For example, if you were speeding before the collision, you may be found 20 percent at fault, which means the other motorist is only liable for 80 percent of your damages. Minnesota uses a modified version of comparative fault, which bars victims from recovering any compensation if they are more than 50 percent at fault.

In Minnesota, riders 18 and older do not have to wear a helmet, and your lack of a helmet cannot be used as evidence for determining the cause of the accident. However, it may be used when determining liability, which could reduce the value of your case.

Final Thoughts on Motorcycle Rider Rights

Insurance companies will often attempt to place at least part of the blame for the accident on the motorcycle rider, even when it’s clear that the other driver was at fault. Without the right legal knowledge and representation, this can significantly impact your case. If you are injured in a Motorcycle Accident in Minnesota, knowing your legal rights can help you seek fair compensation more effectively.

Law Tigers Always Have Your Back

At Law Tigers, we’re riders just like you. This allows us to provide the best legal representation and resources with a biker-friendly perspective. With our team on your side, you can go on adventures anywhere in the country and know that we’ll be there in case something unfortunate does happen.

Sign up for our free rider benefit kit today so you can be part of The Law Tigers Team. That way, you’ll never ride alone.