Minneapolis Bicycle Accident Lawyer

At Irwin Law, we understand that the streets of Minneapolis are filled with both opportunity and risk for cyclists. Whether commuting to work, riding for exercise, or simply enjoying the Chain of Lakes, you should feel safe on two wheels. Unfortunately, careless drivers, poor road conditions, and other hazards can turn a routine ride into a traumatic event. When that happens, you need a dedicated Minneapolis bicycle accident lawyer to protect your rights, pursue justice, and help you recover.

We’ve handled countless injury cases throughout Minnesota, and we’ve seen how devastating a bike crash can be—physically, emotionally, and financially. If you or someone you love has been injured in a bicycle accident in Minneapolis, we’re here to help you navigate your next steps with clarity and confidence.

Biking in Minneapolis: The Reality Behind the Rides

Minneapolis consistently ranks as one of the most bike-friendly cities in the United States, thanks to an extensive trail system and robust cycling culture. According to the Minneapolis Public Works Department, the city has over 100 miles of on-street bikeways and more than 90 miles of off-street bikeways. Yet, even in a town committed to safe cycling infrastructure, accidents still happen—and they’re often serious.

Data from the Minnesota Department of Public Safety shows that in a recent year, there were over 800 reported bicycle accidents statewide. Of those, more than 90% resulted in injuries, and several led to fatalities. Minneapolis accounted for a significant portion of those crashes. As experienced bicycle accident attorneys in Minneapolis, we know how quickly a ride can go from routine to life-altering. That’s why we take your recovery seriously from day one.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Minneapolis

Cyclists pay the price when drivers fail to share the road or act recklessly. Some of the most common causes of bike accidents we’ve seen include the following:

• Distracted driving (texting, using GPS, etc.)
• Failure to yield at intersections
• Dooring incidents (where a parked car’s door opens into a cyclist’s path)
• Unsafe lane changes or overtaking
• Driving under the influence
• Speeding or aggressive driving
• Poorly maintained roads or construction debris

Even with dedicated bike lanes and clear signage, too many motorists don’t respect cyclists’ rights. As your bike wreck lawyer in Minneapolis, we’ll investigate every detail of your accident to determine who was at fault—and hold them accountable.

Minnesota Bicycle Laws: Your Rights on the Road

Understanding your legal rights as a cyclist is critical, especially after a collision. Under Minnesota Statute §169.222, bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as motorists. That means you are legally allowed to use the road, and drivers must treat you with the same caution and care as another vehicle.

Key protections under Minnesota law include:

• When passing, drivers must maintain at least three feet between their vehicle and a bicycle (Minn. Stat. §169.18).
• Cyclists are allowed to ride two abreast but must stay as close to the right-hand side of the roadway as practicable.
• Bicycles may use full lanes when necessary for safety—particularly on narrow roads or when avoiding debris or parked cars.

Violations of these laws often play a central role in accident claims. Our Minneapolis accident attorneys work closely with experts to reconstruct accidents, review dashcams and surveillance footage, and gather evidence proving your rights were violated.

What to Do After a Bicycle Accident in Minneapolis

A bicycle crash can leave you disoriented and overwhelmed. If you’re able, taking a few key steps can help protect your health and your claim:

1. Call 911 and request police and medical assistance.
2. Get medical attention—even if injuries seem minor.
3. Take photos of the accident scene, your bike, injuries, and any involved vehicles.
4. Collect contact and insurance information from the driver.
5. Get the names and contact details of any witnesses.
6. Don’t admit fault or apologize.
7. Contact a trusted bicycle accident attorney in Minneapolis as soon as possible.

Time is crucial. Evidence can disappear, memories can fade, and insurance companies may pressure you into accepting a lowball settlement. That’s where we come in.

How Irwin Law Helps Bicycle Accident Victims

At Irwin Law, we don’t just handle cases—we represent people. From the moment you contact us, we take your story seriously and work tirelessly to achieve your desired outcome.

Here’s what you can expect when you work with our Minneapolis bicycle accident lawyers:

• Free Consultation: We listen to your story, answer your questions, and explain your legal options.
• In-Depth Investigation: We gather police reports, medical records, witness statements, video evidence, and expert analysis.
• Aggressive Negotiation: We deal directly with insurance companies to fight for full compensation.
• Trial-Ready Representation: We’ll take your case to court if negotiations fall short.

We don’t get paid unless we recover money for you. Our goal is to remove the stress of the legal process so you can focus on healing.

What Can You Recover After a Bicycle Accident?

A serious bicycle accident can disrupt every part of your life—from your job to your ability to care for yourself or your family. Under Minnesota personal injury law, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical expenses (current and future)
• Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Rehabilitation and therapy
• Property damage (e.g., your bicycle, gear, and accessories)
• Permanent disability or disfigurement
• Loss of enjoyment of life

In tragic cases involving wrongful death, surviving family members may also pursue damages for funeral costs, loss of companionship, and other losses.

Our Minneapolis accident attorneys will work closely with your medical providers, financial experts, and other professionals to calculate the full value of your claim—and fight for every dollar.

Dealing with Insurance Companies: What You Should Know

One of the biggest mistakes we see is when injured cyclists try to negotiate with the insurance company on their own. Insurers may act friendly, but their goal is to minimize what they pay out.

They might:

• Blame you for the accident
• Downplay your injuries
• Pressure you to accept a quick settlement
• Use your statements against you

Don’t go it alone. As your dedicated bike wreck lawyer in Minneapolis, we’ll take over all communication with the insurance company, protect your rights, and pursue the maximum compensation.

How Long Do You Have to File a Claim?

In Minnesota, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is typically six years from the date of the accident (Minn. Stat. §541.05). However, if your case involves a government entity—such as a city-owned vehicle or road hazard maintained by the city—you may have to file a formal notice within as little as 180 days.

The sooner you speak with a bicycle accident attorney in Minneapolis, the better we can preserve evidence, identify responsible parties, and avoid missing critical deadlines.

Why Choose Irwin Law?

We know that choosing a lawyer after a traumatic event is not a decision you make lightly. At Irwin Law, we bring more than legal experience—compassion, commitment, and a track record of results.

Here’s what sets us apart:

• We focus on personal injury law—this isn’t just a case; it’s your life.
• We’ve handled numerous bicycle accident claims throughout the Minneapolis area.
• We offer personalized service—we’re not a settlement mill and don’t treat you like a number.
• We’re local, we’re accessible, and we know the Minneapolis courts, laws, and insurers.

When you trust us with your case, you get a team in your corner from day one—answering your calls, explaining your options, and fighting like hell to get you justice.

Frequently Asked Questions – Minneapolis Bicycle Accidents

Can I still file a claim if I wasn’t wearing a helmet during my accident?

Yes. Minnesota law does not require adult cyclists to wear helmets, and not wearing one does not automatically prevent you from pursuing compensation. However, the insurance company may try to argue that your injuries were worse because you weren’t wearing one. Our team can help push back against these tactics and demonstrate the actual cause of your injuries.

What if I was partially at fault for the bicycle accident?

Minnesota follows a comparative fault rule. This means you can still recover damages if you were less than 50% responsible for the crash. However, your compensation will be reduced by the percentage of your fault. For example, if you’re awarded $100,000 but found to be 20% at fault, you would receive $80,000. We’ll work to minimize any blame unfairly placed on you.

Is the driver always at fault in a bike-car collision?

Not necessarily. While negligent drivers cause many bike accidents, fault depends on the specific circumstances. Road design, mechanical failures, or even the cyclist's actions can sometimes contribute. That’s why we are conducting a thorough investigation to determine all contributing factors and responsible parties.

What types of injuries are common in bicycle accidents?

Bike accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor scrapes to life-altering trauma. Common injuries include broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, internal bleeding, road rash, and facial injuries. Even seemingly minor injuries can lead to long-term complications, so seeking medical and legal help early is essential.

How long does a bicycle accident case take to resolve?

The timeline varies depending on the complexity of your case. A case might settle in a few months if liability is clear and injuries are well-documented. More complex cases, or those that go to trial, can take a year or more. We’ll keep you updated throughout the process and ensure your best interests are protected.

Do I have to go to court?

Not always. Many bicycle accident claims are settled outside of court through negotiation. However, if the insurance company refuses fair compensation, we’re fully prepared to take your case to trial.

Still have questions? Contact Irwin Law today for straightforward answers and strong legal guidance.

Let’s Get Started on Your Road to Recovery

You shouldn’t have to suffer because someone else made a reckless decision. If you were injured in a bicycle crash, don’t wait. The sooner you reach out, the faster we can begin protecting your rights and building your case.

At Irwin Law, our Minneapolis bicycle accident lawyers help you move forward with strength, clarity, and the support you deserve. Contact us today for a free, no-pressure consultation. We’re ready when you are.

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Office Address

216 Railway St N, Dundas, MN 55019

Mailing Address

P.O. Box 287, Dundas MN 55019