Safe Cycling in Minneapolis

As bicycle injury lawyers, we believe it is our responsibility to share information on safe biking. Minneapolis is often ranked as the most bike-friendly city in the United States. The Minneapolis Bicycle Coalition, in conjunction with numerous agencies and corporations, works tirelessly to support bicycling throughout the city. In fact, their goal is to double bicycling in Minneapolis by the year 2020. They cite total health and economic benefits by 2020 to be $63 million per year.

Despite designated areas for bicyclists, numerous accidents occur, especially in dangerous intersections. An estimated four out of five accidents involving bicycles occur in intersections. Most drivers are conscientious of bicyclists and respect their space, but it takes just one uninformed driver to cause an accident.

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A recent survey of bicyclists in Minneapolis found that some bike riders are disgruntled by what they feel is a less than enthusiastic response by police to bicycle accidents. Some noted that, when given details and facts in the case, police have declined to press charges and have instead encouraged bicyclists to pursue action in a civil case.

Minnesota bicycle safety laws encourage bicycle riders to:

• Ride no more than two abreast
• Ride as close as possible to the right curb or side of the road except when passing or avoiding objects or pedestrians
• Travel in the same direction of traffic
• On sidewalks and crosswalks, yield to pedestrians and call out when passing

If you are in a bicycle accident, call 911 immediately and request both rescue personnel and police. If possible, take photographs of the accident. Collect the names and contact information of any witnesses or bystanders. Note the license plate number of the car that hit you, and take down the name, contact information, and insurance information of the driver. If you have been injured, even if you believe your injuries to be minor, it is best to be checked out by medical personnel. A trip to the emergency room may seem excessive, but please remember that many injuries including fractures, head injuries, and torn muscles may initially seem painless due to the release of endorphins in the body. As soon as possible, contact a Minneapolis bike accident attorney for further guidance.

At Kass & Moses, we believe that it takes a special attorney to represent the rights of bicycle riders. Far too often, their rights are violated both on the roadway and in the courtroom. Our bike accident law firm fights for the rights of injured bicyclists across the nation.