Riding a motorcycle in Minnesota can be exhilarating, allowing you to freely explore the wonders and beauty of our great state. Sadly, even the most skilled riders face significant risks every time they hit the pavement.

Motorcycles offer far less protection than cars, and even a minor mistake by another driver can lead to devastating injuries for riders. If you or a loved one has been injured or tragically killed in a motorcycle accident, you know how life-changing this event can be.

Beyond the immediate physical and emotional pain, you might be struggling with lost wages, mounting medical bills, the financial strain of vehicle repairs, and complicated insurance forms.

At Meshbesher & Spence, we understand the unique challenges motorcyclists face. Our experienced Minnesota motorcycle accident attorneys are here to help you get through this chaotic time. We offer free consultations to discuss your case and guide you through the legal process, so you can focus on your recovery and rebuilding your life.

Don’t let the aftermath of a motorcycle accident leave you feeling powerless. Contact our team today online or call (612) 339-9121 to learn how we can support you.

Minnesota Motorcycle Accident Statistics

When you’re riding in Minnesota, you’re sharing the road with drivers who don’t always see motorcycles or don’t expect them. Recent data from the Minnesota Department of Public Safety shows just how risky that can be.

In 2024, there were 1,137 motorcycle crashes statewide. Those crashes resulted in 76 deaths and more than 1,000 injuries. While 2025 brought a welcome drop in fatalities, the numbers are still serious.

As of the end of 2025, 57 people lost their lives in motorcycle crashes, marking a six-year low. Minnesota Motorcycle Safety Specialist Jay Bock noted that 2024 was “a pretty high number,” and officials are hopeful the downward trend continues into 2026.

Even with that progress, one statistic stands out: nearly 98% of motorcycle crashes in Minnesota cause an injury or death. Compare that to car crashes, where only about 25% lead to injuries. The difference is simple—motorcyclists don’t have the same protection as people inside vehicles.

Minnesota has an estimated 400,000 motorcyclists, many riding in the central and west-central parts of the state. With that many riders on the road, crashes aren’t rare—and when they happen, the consequences are often severe.

Can a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Minnesota Still Help Me If I Was Partially At Fault?

If you were involved in a motorcycle accident and think you might be partly to blame, you may still be eligible for legal help in Minnesota.

In Minnesota, we follow a rule called “comparative negligence,” meaning that even if you were partly at fault for the accident, you could still pursue compensation for your injuries.

Here’s how it works: Minnesota’s comparative negligence system allows you to recover damages based on your percentage of fault.

For example, if you’re found to be 30% at fault for the crash, you can still claim 70% of the damages you’re entitled to. So, if someone else’s actions were a major cause of the accident, a lawyer can still help you get financial support for your share of the damages.

“I went to see Gus Nicklow at Meshbesher & Spence after an auto accident. From the moment I met Gus I knew I had nothing to worry about. Gus and his staff are phenomenal. Never really concerned about anything while working with Gus and his team. Gus and his staff were always there to answer any questions or concerns that I had. I would not recommend anyone else. Gus and his team are simply the best. Thanks again!”

– Client: Bobby Lea

The Frightening Reality of Motorcycle Injuries

Unlike cars, which have safety features like airbags and seatbelts, motorcycles leave riders extremely exposed, making even small accidents potentially life-threatening. These injuries can seriously disrupt and derail your life.

Below are some of the horrific injuries stemming from motorcycle accidents:

Broken Bones: Fractures in arms, legs, or ribs from impact with the ground or other vehicles.
Head Injuries: Concussions or traumatic brain injuries from impacts, even if wearing a helmet.
Internal Injuries: Internal bleeding or organ damage from blunt force trauma.
Spinal Injuries: Damage to the spine or vertebrae, which can lead to long-term disability or paralysis.
Facial Injuries: Cuts, fractures, or disfigurement from impacts with the road or debris.

If you or someone you care about has been hurt in a motorcycle accident, it’s really important to get medical help right away.

Early treatment not only boosts your chances of a quicker and more complete recovery but also provides essential documentation for any injury claim you might need to file. It’s all about getting the care you need and making sure you have the records to support your case.

Once you have been properly tended to by medical professionals, you can reach out to a Minnesota motorcycle accident lawyer to guide you through the process of seeking justice for the injuries you suffered in your accident.

Watch Out for Recorded Statements to Insurance Companies

After a motorcycle accident, be cautious about giving a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance company.

These statements can hurt your case because insurance adjusters are trained to ask questions that might benefit them, not you. Even simple questions about how you’re feeling can be used against you later on.

For instance, if you say you’re “fine” right after the accident, the insurance company might use that to argue you weren’t seriously injured, even if you’re in pain but didn’t fully realize it at the time.

That’s why it’s important to chat with a Minnesota motorcycle accident attorney first, so they can handle the insurance companies and help you avoid any communications that could damage your claim.

Partnering with an attorney sooner rather than later can improve the chances of success in your claim. By enlisting the help of a lawyer early on, you can avoid potential pitfalls that could hurt your case and strengthen your claim from the start.

Learn what our Minnesota legal team can do for you by reaching out to us online or calling (612) 339-9121 today.

How Can a Motorcycle Accident Attorney in Minnesota Help Me?

At Meshbesher & Spence, our team of experienced lawyers is dedicated to evaluating your legal rights and determining whether you have a valid case for compensation. We dive deep into every detail of your situation with precision and care, ensuring you get fair treatment.

A motorcycle accident lawyer in Minnesota will take care of several key aspects of your claim, including:

Evaluating Your Case

We will assess any damage or injury caused by the accident, determine fault, and investigate who the responsible parties are. Furthermore, we will develop a strategy to get you financial compensation to cover your losses.

Gathering Medical Evidence and Documentation

Gathering medical evidence to support your injury claim is one of the most important aspects of any personal injury case.

When you hire our law firm, you can rest assured knowing our accident lawyers have the experience and knowledge necessary to collect comprehensive medical records and provide professional testimony in court to accurately support your case.

Negotiating Fair Compensation

As your motorcycle accident lawyer, we are uniquely positioned to handle negotiations with insurance companies on your behalf. Unfortunately, many insurance providers use tactics, such as lowball offers and other unfair strategies, to minimize the amount they have to pay out in claims.

Our experienced lawyers at Meshbesher & Spence know these tricks and will fight for the full and fair compensation you deserve. We have the knowledge, experience, and resources necessary to negotiate a favorable outcome on your behalf.

Do I Need to Work With a Minnesota Motorcycle Wreck Attorney?

You are not required to work with a lawyer to proceed with filing a claim. That said, if you’re thinking about handling your claim on your own, some numbers might make you pause. A survey from Martindale-Nolo shows just how much difference having a personal injury lawyer can make.

Better chance of getting paid: More than 9 out of 10 people with a lawyer received a settlement or award, compared to about half of those who went it alone.
Higher payouts: On average, people with a lawyer walked away with $77,600, while those without legal help averaged just $17,600.

These numbers show why many people see it as worth it to work with a lawyer: better guidance, fewer headaches, and significantly higher compensation.

Minnesota Motorcycle Laws You Should Know

Knowing the rules of the road isn’t just about avoiding tickets. It can also matter a lot if you’re ever involved in a crash. Minnesota has several motorcycle-specific laws that every rider should understand before heading out.

Licensing and Riding Rules

To ride legally, you must have a valid driver’s license with a motorcycle endorsement or a motorcycle instruction permit. Permit riders face added limits, including riding only during daylight hours and not carrying passengers.

Motorcyclists are entitled to the full use of their lane. Other drivers are not allowed to crowd you or force you to share a lane.

Minnesota traffic laws apply to riders just like drivers. Careless or reckless driving includes behaviors such as wheelies, stoppies, or standing on the seat while the bike is moving.

Helmets and Eye Protection

Helmets are required for:

Riders and passengers under 18
Anyone riding with a motorcycle permit

The helmet must meet Department of Transportation (DOT) standards.

All riders must wear eye protection, such as goggles, glasses, or a face shield. A windshield alone does not meet this requirement.

Lane Splitting, Filtering, and Red Lights

As of July 1, 2025, lane splitting is legal in Minnesota under strict conditions. You may split lanes only when traffic is moving at 25 mph or less, and you cannot exceed surrounding traffic by more than 15 mph.

Lane filtering, which is moving to the front of stopped traffic at a red light, is also allowed at low speeds.

Minnesota law also gives motorcyclists a legal defense if they carefully proceed through a red light that does not change after an unreasonable amount of time, as long as no vehicles or pedestrians are approaching.

Passengers and Seating

You may only carry a passenger if your motorcycle is designed for more than one person. Riders must sit on a permanent seat, and passengers must use a passenger seat or a sidecar.

If the bike has a passenger seat, it must also have passenger footrests, and passengers are required to use them while the motorcycle is moving.

Required Equipment

Minnesota law requires motorcycles to be properly equipped, including:

A headlight that is on at all times, day and night
At least one working brake, either front or rear
A rear-view mirror and a horn
Turn signals that are visible from at least 100 feet in both daylight and darkness
One to four headlights with both high and low beams
A muffler that reduces exhaust noise and does not produce sharp popping or crackling sounds
A license plate that is securely fastened, upright, and clearly visible

Motorcyclists are also allowed to use hand signals when signaling turns or stops.

Motorcycle laws can directly affect whether your claim succeeds or falls short. Small details like helmet use, lane positioning, or even how a passenger was seated can influence fault and the value of your claim. Insurance companies will often use these rules against riders, looking for any reason to pay less. That’s why having an experienced Minnesota motorcycle accident lawyer by your side can make all the difference, because they know how to interpret the law, gather the right evidence, and make sure your rights are protected.

Don’t leave your case to chance. Contact our team today online or by calling (612) 339-9121 to see how we can fight for you.

Practical Motorcycle Safety Tips for the Road According to a Minnesota Motorcycle Crash Attorney

You can’t control traffic around you, but you can control how prepared you are. Small choices before and during a ride can lower your risk.

Assume Drivers Don’t See You

Never assume a driver sees you. Stay out of blind spots, leave extra space between you and other vehicles, and be ready to react if a car drifts into your lane.

Watch for Left Turns at Intersections

Intersections are one of the most dangerous places for riders. A common crash happens when a car turns left in front of an oncoming motorcycle. Slow down as you approach intersections and apply your brakes so you can react quickly.

Wear Protective Riding Gear

What you wear matters. Protective gear can reduce serious injuries if you go down. That includes:

A helmet (full-face offers the most coverage)
Gloves that protect your hands and improve grip
A durable jacket and long pants made for riding
Sturdy footwear that covers your ankles

Make Yourself Easy to See

Bright colors and reflective materials help drivers notice you sooner, especially at dawn, dusk, or in traffic. Keep your headlight on at all times and avoid riding in areas where cars are likely to overlook you.

Practice Controlled Braking

Emergency stops happen fast. Knowing how to use both brakes together, without locking them up, can help you stay upright and avoid a collision. Practicing in a safe area builds muscle memory when it counts.

Pay Attention to Road Conditions

Wet pavement, loose gravel, potholes, and uneven surfaces can all affect your traction. Slow down and stay alert when conditions aren’t ideal.

Avoid Riding in Bad Weather

If a storm rolls in or the roads turn slick, it’s often safer to pull over and wait it out. Riding in heavy rain or high winds increases the risk of losing control.

Keep Learning

Even seasoned riders benefit from brushing up on their skills. Motorcycle safety courses can sharpen braking, cornering, and hazard awareness while keeping you current on Minnesota laws.

What Types of Compensation Can a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Minnesota Recover for Me?

If you’ve been in a motorcycle accident, you’re likely feeling the crushing weight of medical bills, lost income, and the stress of an uncertain future piling up. A seasoned personal injury lawyer can help you through this stressful time and fight for the financial relief you need.

Here’s a look at the different types of compensation that may be available to you:

Lost Wages and Future Earnings: Compensation for income you’ve lost due to the accident, as well as any future earning capacity that might be affected.
Medical Expenses: Coverage for past, present, and future medical bills related to your injuries.
Pain and Suffering: Financial support for the emotional distress and physical pain caused by the accident.
Permanent Injury and Disability: Damages for long-term impairments that affect your daily life.
Disfigurement and Scarring: Compensation for visible injuries or scars that impact your life or self-esteem.
Wrongful Death: If a loved one passed away, this money could cover funeral expenses and lost income.
Property Damage: Coverage for repairs to your motorcycle and rental costs while your motorcycle is being repaired.

FAQs

• How Long Do I Have to File a Motorcycle Accident Claim in Minnesota?

It is important to keep in mind that you only have a limited window of time to file a motorcycle accident claim. The laws determining how much time you have are called the statute of limitations. Generally, you have six years from the date of the accident to file a claim in Minnesota.
• What Should I Do If the Insurance Company Offers Me a Settlement?

If the insurance company offers you a settlement after a motorcycle accident, don’t rush to accept it. Consult with an experienced attorney who can review the offer to ensure it covers all of your damages before you sign anything.
• What If My Loved One Died in a Motorcycle Accident?

If your loved one died as a result of a motorcycle accident, you may qualify for a wrongful death claim in Minnesota. Typically, close family members such as spouses, children, or parents can pursue this type of claim. A lawyer from our team can determine whether you are eligible and take you through every step.
• How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Minnesota Lawyer?

At Meshbesher & Spence, we offer 100% free case evaluations, and if you qualify for legal action, we work on a contingency fee. This means that you won’t pay anything unless we win your case, so you can access effective legal assistance without any additional financial worries.
• What If the Other Driver Doesn't Have Insurance?

If the person who hit you has no insurance, you can often turn to your own “Uninsured Motorist” coverage. Our team can look at your policy and help you find every available source of money to pay for your bills.
• What If I Was Partially at Fault for My Motorcycle Accident?

You can still have a case. Minnesota follows a modified comparative fault rule, which means fault can be shared between everyone involved. If you are found to be 50% or less at fault, you may still recover damages. Your total recovery is simply reduced by your share of the blame. For example, if you’re found 10% at fault, the final amount is reduced by 10%.

However, if you are found 51% or more responsible, Minnesota law does not allow you to recover damages from the other party. This is why fault disputes are such a big focus in motorcycle accident cases.
• Can I Still File a Claim If I Wasn’t Wearing a Helmet?

In Minnesota, only riders and passengers under age 18, or those riding with an instruction permit, are legally required to wear a DOT-approved helmet. If you are 18 or older and have a full motorcycle license, it is your choice. However, not wearing one might be used by an insurance company to try to lower your settlement if you have a head injury.
• Can I Still Recover Compensation If the Road Was in Bad Shape?

Yes. If a pothole, loose gravel from construction, or a poorly designed road caused your crash, you might be able to bring a claim against the government agency responsible for the road. These cases have very short deadlines (sometimes only 180 days), so you should talk to a Minnesota motorcycle accident lawyer immediately.
• Can My Motorcycle Passenger Bring Their Own Claim After an Accident?

A passenger is treated separately from the rider under Minnesota law and can file their own claim for their injuries. In most cases, the claim is brought against the driver who caused the crash, but there are situations where fault may also be shared by the motorcycle operator. Because injuries and losses are different for every person, each claim is handled on its own, and a Minnesota motorcycle accident attorney can help sort out liability issues and determine the best path forward.
• Can I File a Claim If a Motorcycle Defect Caused My Accident?

If a mechanical problem or defect played a role in your crash, you may have a product liability claim against the manufacturer. These cases can be complicated, but our experienced Minnesota motorcycle accident attorneys have the tools and resources to investigate the defect, preserve evidence, and hold even large manufacturers accountable. It’s important to keep the motorcycle safe and intact so it can be inspected as part of building a strong case.
• Can a Minnesota Motorcycle Wreck Attorney Still Help Me If the Police Report Blames Me?

Even if the police report assigns blame to you, it doesn’t automatically determine fault in your case. A motorcycle accident lawyer can review the report, gather evidence like eyewitness statements, video footage, or accident reconstruction data, and help show what really happened. With the right investigation, it’s possible to challenge inaccurate findings and make sure your side of the story is properly represented.
• If an Insurance Company Offers Me an Early Settlement, Should I Take It?

It is usually best to wait. While a quick check might seem like a relief, early offers are often much lower than what your case is actually worth. Insurance companies sometimes send these offers before you even know the full extent of your injuries. Once you sign that agreement and cash the check, you lose the right to ask for more money later. Before you sign anything, let a Minnesota motorcycle accident attorney review the offer to make sure it covers all your future needs.

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