Many motorcycle riders, who were injured in a crash, were injured in one of the types of collisions discussed in this week’s blog. The sad part is many of these collisions were caused by negligent drivers who did not look for motorcyclists.

Below, our Minneapolis motorcycle accident lawyers detail these kinds of crashes, why they can be especially dangerous and how riders can seek compensation for the cost of ongoing medical care and other damages.

TSR Injury Law may be able to help you take legal action after a motorcycle crash injury. Call us to learn whether you have a case and what your next steps may be.

We have recovered more than $1 billion dollars in settlements for our clients. Call us at (612) TSR-TIME.

What Are Some of the Most Common Motorcycle Collisions?

These are some of the most common motorcycle collisions caused by the negligence of other drivers:

• Left and right-turn collisions: Drivers often turn left or right without checking for motorcyclists. This is incredibly dangerous as riders have little to no time to avoid a head-on collision, even though the riders have the right of way. Even though motorcycles are smaller than other vehicles and may be a little harder to see, drivers must keep an eye out for them.
• Lane-change/sideswipe collisions: Other vehicles’ blind spots can be particularly hazardous for motorcyclists. When a driver in a larger vehicle changes lanes without checking for a motorcyclist, they risk cutting off, clipping or running over the rider.
• Rear-end collisions: Riders should always be careful when they are stopped at an intersection or stop sign. Negligent drivers could rear-end their bike, throwing them off and potentially causing a serious injury. When you approach an intersection, glance behind you to see if anyone is coming. It is also a good idea to move to the side of the lane rather than waiting in the center of the lane.

While many motorcycle crashes are the result of other drivers’ actions, sometimes motorcyclists engage in dangerous behavior that causes a crash. For example, lane splitting is an illegal practice of riding between lanes of traffic, such as when cars are stopped or stuck in slow moving traffic. Other drivers may not anticipate riders in between the lanes and could easily side swipe them, causing serious harm. It is important to note that lane splitting will be legal in Minnesota starting July 1, 2025.

Riders also need to be careful turning corners. If they take a corner too fast, they risk losing control, especially if they hit a patch of sand or gravel. Taking a turn too fast at an intersection is especially dangerous, as riders could get hit by oncoming cars.

The general rule for turns is to slow down into the turn and speed up coming out of it. Keep a close eye out for debris, especially in the areas of the road where vehicle tires do not often touch as there is usually a buildup of dust and dirt.

Why Are These Collisions So Dangerous?

The main reason why many motorcycle collisions are more dangerous than collisions between other types of motor vehicles is that riders have far less protection.

Unlike cars equipped with solid steel frames, airbags and seatbelts, motorcycles provide minimal protection to riders in the event of a crash. Riders are exposed to direct impact with other vehicles, roadside obstacles, and asphalt or gravel roads.

In addition, motorcyclists are not required under Minnesota law to wear a helmet if they are 18 or older. Not wearing a helmet puts you at a much higher risk of head trauma in the event of a crash.

Riders are also at risk of getting thrown off their bikes. When this occurs at high speed, they hit the pavement with extreme force, commonly resulting in serious injuries.

Seeking Compensation for Injuries From a Motorcycle Collision

Unlike car drivers, motorcycle riders in Minnesota do not have personal injury protection coverage that covers the first $20,000.00 in medical bills and wage loss. Instead, if you get hurt in a motorcycle crash, you can seek injury compensation from the bad driver’s liability insurance, assuming he or she is at fault for the collision. The up-front medical bills would be paid by your health insurance and then collected from the other driver’s insurance.  In addition, if you purchased extra coverage on the motorcycle, you could seek injury compensation from first-party insurance in your own policy.

Riders are often so severely injured in motorcycle crashes they are not going to be able to collect evidence at the scene. Consulting an experienced lawyer right away is a vital step. He or she can gather evidence from the scene, including pictures, witness statements, available video footage of the collision, and more.

We can help you seek compensation for all your medical expenses related to the crash, such as:

• Emergency room care
• Diagnostic tests
• Hospitalization
• Surgery
• Physical therapy
• Prescribed medications
• Medical equipment
• In-home health care service
• And more

You can also seek compensation for pain and suffering you experience after the crash. This refers to the physical and emotional toll you may have as a result of the crash. Some victims suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder and the pain from your injuries can dramatically interfere with many aspects of your life.

Not Sure You Have a Case After a Motorcycle Crash? Speak With a Lawyer at TSR Injury Law

If you have sustained injuries in a motorcycle crash, do not hesitate to seek legal guidance from our experienced team of lawyers. We understand how dangerous these crashes can be and the life-changing injuries that often result.

At a time like this, you need experienced legal guidance from a firm that knows how to obtain favorable results for riders. Our law firm has secured hundreds of millions on behalf of our clients, many of whom were injured in motor vehicle collisions.

If you were injured in a crash and hire our firm, we will be committed to fighting for your rights every step of the way. We pride ourselves on exceptional, award-winning representation, as we know you are counting on us during this difficult time.

Contact our office today to discuss your legal options: (612) TSR-TIME. No upfront fees.