Riding in Stillwater offers river views and winding roads, but a sudden crash can turn everything upside down. If you were hurt on Highway 36, along Main Street, or anywhere in Washington County, Metro Law Offices is ready to help you understand your options and pursue fair compensation. Motorcycle cases demand careful attention to insurance coverage, medical care, and the unique dynamics of two‑wheel collisions. Our Minnesota team serves riders and families who need steady guidance after injuries, lost wages, and bike damage. From the first call to resolution, you will receive clear communication, practical advice, and a plan that reflects your priorities. For a free consultation, call 651-615-3322 today.
Recovering after a motorcycle crash often means navigating treatment, bills, and calls from insurance adjusters. We help organize the details so you can focus on healing. Our approach blends local insight about Stillwater streets and traffic patterns with proven negotiation strategies designed for Minnesota claims. We coordinate medical records, evaluate liability, and identify all available coverages, including uninsured or underinsured motorist benefits. Whether your case resolves through settlement or requires filing a lawsuit, you will know what to expect at each stage. We welcome questions, explain every option in plain language, and move at a pace that respects your recovery. Reach out to Metro Law Offices to get started.
Motorcyclists face unique challenges when seeking compensation. Drivers often claim they did not see the rider, insurers scrutinize injuries, and property damage can overshadow the full human impact of a crash. Working with a Stillwater attorney keeps the focus on the facts that prove liability and the documentation that supports medical needs, wage loss, and future care. We handle communications with insurers, track deadlines, and protect the value of your claim from common pitfalls. By gathering evidence quickly, consulting with appropriate professionals, and presenting a complete damages picture, we aim to shorten delays and pursue the strongest outcome available under Minnesota law.
Metro Law Offices is a Minnesota personal injury law firm serving riders across Washington County and neighboring communities. Our team brings a practical, client-first approach to motorcycle cases, built on prompt investigation, organized case management, and steady advocacy from start to finish. We know the Stillwater area, from weekend traffic near the Lift Bridge to commuter patterns along Highway 36, and we tailor strategies to fit how crashes happen here. You will always have a direct line for updates and decisions, and we welcome your input. We measure success by attentive service, thorough preparation, and results that reflect the full scope of your losses.
Motorcycle claims differ from standard auto cases because riders lack many of the physical protections occupants have, and injuries can affect work, mobility, and daily life in lasting ways. Representation typically includes investigating how the collision occurred, evaluating road and weather conditions, analyzing police reports, and interviewing witnesses. We identify every insurance policy that may apply, including the at-fault driver’s liability coverage and your own uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage. We also coordinate medical records and bills to show the connection between the crash and treatment. Throughout the process, we communicate with adjusters on your behalf while you focus on healing.
In Minnesota, claims are shaped by comparative fault rules and firm deadlines. That means the amount you can recover may be affected by how fault is allocated, and waiting too long to act may limit your options. We help preserve evidence early, such as dashcam footage from nearby vehicles, roadway markings, or store surveillance near downtown Stillwater. We guide you on documentation, from symptom journals to tracking out-of-pocket costs. If a settlement is fair, we will explain why; if it is not, we will discuss filing a lawsuit in the local courts. At every turn, our goal is to protect your rights and position your case for the best available result.
A motorcycle injury claim is a request for compensation from the party responsible for your crash and any available insurance carriers. It covers economic losses like medical bills and lost income, as well as non-economic harms such as pain, limitations, and the loss of activities you enjoy. Building the claim requires proof of liability and proof of damages. We assemble photographs, scene data, repair estimates, medical opinions, and employment records to tell a clear story about what happened and how it changed your life. The stronger and more organized the evidence, the more persuasive your claim will be during negotiations or in court.
Successful claims rest on four pillars: liability, coverage, damages, and procedure. Liability establishes who caused the crash and why. Coverage identifies all policies that can pay the loss, including your own UM or UIM coverage. Damages detail the full scope of medical care, wage loss, and the daily impact of injuries. Procedure ensures deadlines are met and the case moves forward. In practice, this means prompt investigation, careful documentation, regular communication with adjusters, and readiness to file suit if needed. In Stillwater, local knowledge of common collision points and traffic patterns helps us ask the right questions and secure evidence before it disappears.
Understanding common insurance and legal terms helps you follow the progress of your case and make informed decisions. Motorcyclists in Minnesota face unique coverage rules, so it is important to know how no-fault, liability, and UM or UIM benefits interact. You will also hear terms like comparative fault, statute of limitations, subrogation, and liens from health insurers or medical providers. These concepts affect when a case can be filed, how fault is assigned, what compensation may be available, and whether some payments must be reimbursed from a settlement. We explain each term clearly and apply it to the specific facts of your Stillwater crash.
Minnesota’s no-fault system provides Personal Injury Protection, commonly called PIP, to many vehicle owners. However, standard no-fault coverage does not automatically include motorcycles. Riders must typically purchase optional coverage for similar benefits, and many policies differ on what is included. If you do not have optional PIP, your medical bills may be paid through health insurance or recovered from the at-fault driver’s liability carrier, depending on the facts. We review your policy language and the other driver’s insurance to determine available benefits. Understanding these distinctions early helps set expectations for billing, reimbursements, and the order in which different insurers may be responsible for your care.
Comparative fault allocates responsibility among everyone involved in a crash. In Minnesota, your recovery may be reduced by your percentage of fault, and if your share exceeds the other party’s, recovery may be limited. Insurers often argue a rider was speeding, lane filtering, or otherwise contributing to the collision. We gather evidence to counter unsupported claims, including scene measurements, witness statements, and expert reconstruction when appropriate. Clear documentation of the other driver’s conduct—such as failing to yield on a left turn—can significantly improve your position. Our goal is to present a factual, detailed account that fairly reflects how the crash actually happened.
Every case has deadlines that control how long you have to bring a claim or file a lawsuit. Minnesota’s timelines can vary based on the type of claim and coverage involved, and changes in the law can affect current limits. Because waiting risks lost evidence and missed filing dates, we encourage contacting an attorney as soon as possible to evaluate specific deadlines for your situation. Early action allows time to collect records, locate witnesses, and explore settlement before litigation. If filing suit is necessary, timely service preserves your rights and keeps the case on track in the appropriate Washington County or nearby Minnesota court.
Subrogation occurs when an insurer or healthcare plan that paid some of your bills seeks reimbursement from your settlement. Liens are similar legal claims by medical providers or plans that must be addressed before funds are disbursed. These issues can affect your net recovery if not handled correctly. We identify potential liens early, request itemized balances, and negotiate when allowed by law or contract. Properly resolving subrogation and liens ensures that distributions are accurate and that your final settlement reflects what you actually take home. Clear accounting, timely notices, and documentation of related charges are key parts of this process.
Not every motorcycle crash requires the same level of legal support. Some riders only need brief guidance to submit documents or understand coverage. Others benefit from full representation, where the firm leads investigation, manages all communications, and, if necessary, files suit. A limited approach may save cost in straightforward, low-damage situations, but it can miss recoverable losses if injuries later worsen. Comprehensive representation builds a stronger record from day one and keeps adjusters accountable with deadlines and evidence. We discuss both paths honestly, weigh risks and benefits, and help you choose the approach that fits your Stillwater case, budget, and recovery timeline.
If the collision involved only minor property damage, no injuries, and an undisputed police report, limited assistance might be appropriate. In these cases, providing estimates, photos, and repair invoices to the insurer can resolve the matter efficiently. We can still offer brief consultations to answer questions about diminished value, rental cars, and the best way to communicate with adjusters. Document everything and keep copies of receipts and correspondence. If symptoms appear later, seek medical attention and contact us to revisit your options. Starting small does not prevent you from expanding representation if the facts change or the insurer becomes uncooperative.
For soft-tissue injuries that respond quickly to conservative care, a limited approach may help you submit records, confirm wage loss, and reach a fair settlement. The key is honest evaluation of symptoms and steady communication with providers so treatment notes reflect your recovery. Keep a simple journal of pain levels and activity limits while you heal. If your condition lingers, imaging reveals a more serious issue, or your job duties remain affected, consider transitioning to full representation. Insurers often downplay injuries when documentation is sparse. A short call with our team can help you decide whether limited guidance will meet your needs.
Complex liability scenarios benefit from a thorough strategy. Multi-vehicle crashes, chain-reaction impacts on Highway 36, and cases with commercial vehicles require deeper investigation. We secure scene photos, ECM or telematics data when available, and statements from all parties. If necessary, we coordinate accident reconstruction to address speed, sightlines, and braking distances. Multiple insurers may be involved, each with different adjusters and policy limits. Coordinating these moving parts, tracking deadlines, and preventing conflicting statements are essential to preserving your rights. Comprehensive representation centralizes communication and builds the documentation needed to prove fault clearly in negotiations or in a Washington County courtroom.
When injuries involve fractures, head trauma, nerve damage, or lasting mobility limits, the case value depends on careful documentation and forward-looking analysis. We work with your providers to understand prognosis, future care, and how injuries impact work and daily life. Accurate wage loss calculations, vocational opinions when appropriate, and life-care planning for ongoing needs can help demonstrate the full scope of damages. Insurers may make early offers that do not reflect long-term costs. Comprehensive representation ensures your claim accounts for future treatment, potential complications, and the personal losses that accompany lasting injuries, giving you a grounded basis for negotiations or trial.
A thorough strategy brings structure to a stressful time. From preserving the bike and gear as evidence to organizing medical records and bills, we make sure important details are not lost. Early contact with witnesses secures accurate statements, and timelines help track appointments and insurer deadlines. This foundation allows us to present a complete, persuasive claim package that explains liability and damages clearly. It also reduces back-and-forth with adjusters, shortens delays, and positions your Stillwater case for fair consideration. If settlement discussions stall, the same preparation carries over to litigation, saving time and helping the court understand the story behind your injuries.
A comprehensive approach also supports your recovery by limiting interruptions and unnecessary calls from insurers. We handle requests for records, coordinate authorizations, and ensure communications go through the firm. You receive updates at reasonable intervals and can focus on medical appointments and getting back to work when ready. Consistency in messaging prevents misstatements that can be used against you. It also helps identify patterns, such as symptom flare-ups or activity restrictions, that belong in your damages presentation. With a complete file, settlement decisions become clearer, and if a lawsuit is needed, the case is already organized for filing in the appropriate court.
Strong evidence determines how seriously an insurer evaluates your claim. We work to secure traffic camera footage near downtown Stillwater, nearby business videos, and scene measurements before conditions change. Medical records are reviewed for accuracy and clarity, and providers can supply narrative reports when needed. We also track wage documentation, company policies on missed time, and benefits used during recovery. Together, these materials create a credible, consistent account that supports liability and damages. When the evidence is well-organized and presented with context, negotiations tend to be more productive, and the case is better positioned should a judge or jury need to decide.
Preparation drives negotiation. By the time we present a demand, we have calculated medical specials, projected future care, and evaluated comparable outcomes under Minnesota law. We are ready to answer adjuster objections with documentation, and we set clear timelines for responses. If a fair settlement is not offered, we discuss filing suit without delay. Litigation readiness encourages serious engagement from the insurer, and it ensures no time is lost if court action becomes necessary. In either setting, you will understand your options, risks, and likely next steps, so decisions are made with confidence and your Stillwater case continues to move forward.
Your health comes first. Even if you feel okay, get evaluated the same day, and follow provider instructions. Delayed symptoms are common after motorcycle crashes. Keep copies of discharge notes, prescriptions, and referrals, and save every bill and receipt. Photograph your injuries, the bike, gear, and the crash location from multiple angles. Note nearby businesses that might have cameras along Main Street or near the riverfront. Start a simple journal describing pain levels, sleep issues, and daily limitations. Organized documentation makes it easier to prove your losses and speeds up claim handling, whether you settle or decide to file a lawsuit.
Do not rush repairs or disposal. Your motorcycle, helmet, jacket, and even torn gloves can help explain how the crash occurred and the forces involved. Store items in a safe place and photograph them thoroughly. Keep estimates and parts lists, and avoid allowing an insurer to take the bike before you have documented everything. If storage fees are an issue, call us to discuss options. Preserving this evidence often strengthens liability arguments and can support injury explanations. When adjusters see a well-documented file, they are more likely to evaluate your Stillwater claim carefully and respond with realistic offers.
Insurance carriers move quickly after a crash, gathering statements and shaping the narrative. Having a lawyer ensures your story is documented accurately and deadlines are met. We coordinate medical records, organize wage loss proof, and identify every potential source of recovery, including UM or UIM coverage. Local familiarity with Stillwater roads and Washington County procedures helps us secure evidence and anticipate insurer defenses. We also relieve you from constant phone calls and conflicting requests, allowing you to focus on treatment. From start to finish, our goal is to put you in the best position to make informed decisions about settlement or litigation.
Many riders worry about cost. We handle motorcycle injury cases on a contingency fee, meaning you pay no attorney fee unless we recover compensation. During a free consultation, we explain how costs and fees work, so there are no surprises. We discuss the strength of your claim, likely timelines, and steps you can take to support your case. Clear communication and realistic expectations build trust and reduce stress. Whether your crash happened near downtown Stillwater, on a rural road, or during a weekend ride along the St. Croix, we tailor representation to your needs and keep your case moving toward resolution.
Many riders call us after left-turn collisions where a driver cut across their path, lane-change impacts on multilane roads, and rear-end crashes at intersections. Gravel, potholes, or construction near Stillwater can complicate liability and require investigation into road maintenance. Hit-and-run and uninsured driver cases often rely on UM coverage and quick notice to your insurer. Distracted driving remains a factor in many crashes, as does failure to yield when motorcycles have the right-of-way. In each situation, early evidence preservation and consistent medical care help build a persuasive claim. We guide you through these steps while managing communications with insurers.
Left-turn crashes are common when drivers misjudge a motorcycle’s speed or overlook a rider in oncoming traffic. These impacts often occur at intersections near shopping areas or along Highway 36, where visibility and timing matter. We analyze sightlines, traffic signals, and approach speeds, and gather witness statements and photos of skid marks or debris. Many times, the physical layout of the intersection helps demonstrate fault. If necessary, we consult reconstruction resources to explain angles and distances. Because injuries from left-turn impacts can be significant, documenting symptoms and following through with care is essential to show how the collision affected your daily life.
Unsafe lane changes often arise when drivers fail to check blind spots or assume a motorcycle is farther away than it appears. We look for dashcam footage, nearby traffic cameras, and side-swipe damage patterns to establish how the collision occurred. Statements from drivers and passengers can be compared for inconsistencies, and cell phone use may be relevant. Insurance carriers may argue the motorcyclist was splitting lanes or speeding. We counter with evidence and clear timelines. Your helmet damage, clothing scuffs, and the location of paint transfer can support your account of the crash and help establish that the lane change was unsafe.
Hit-and-run and uninsured driver crashes require swift action. Promptly notify law enforcement and your insurer, and provide any partial plate numbers or vehicle descriptions. Your own uninsured motorist coverage can step in, but strict notice and cooperation provisions often apply. We help you comply with policy requirements, collect medical documentation, and present a strong UM claim. If a driver is identified later, we coordinate claims against that party as well. Preserving the bike, gear, and scene photos is especially important because there may be fewer witnesses. Our team manages communications so the process stays organized and your rights remain protected.
Our firm combines local knowledge with a disciplined approach to case building. We act quickly to secure evidence in Stillwater, coordinate with your doctors, and present adjusters with a detailed claim package backed by documents, photos, and timelines. You will receive plain-language explanations of strategy options and what each decision means for timing and cost. We emphasize accessibility, returning calls and messages promptly and scheduling regular updates. Our role is to stand between you and the insurance process, reduce stress, and move your case forward while you concentrate on healing and getting back on the road when it is safe.
From day one, we focus on preserving your rights. That includes notifying insurers properly, preventing avoidable misstatements, and tracking all deadlines. We examine every available coverage, such as liability, med-pay if applicable, and UM or UIM, to avoid leaving money on the table. When offers arrive, we compare them to your documented losses and projected needs, and we discuss the pros and cons of settlement versus litigation. This measured approach provides a transparent path to resolution and gives you the information needed to make confident choices at each stage.
Metro Law Offices represents clients throughout Minnesota, including Stillwater and Washington County. Our team values preparation, communication, and follow-through. We collaborate with you on goals, from covering immediate bills to addressing long-term needs. If litigation becomes the right path, we are ready to file promptly and pursue your case in the appropriate court. Throughout, you will receive candid guidance and steady advocacy aligned with your priorities. We are honored to help riders and families rebuild after serious crashes and to pursue outcomes that reflect the full impact of what you have endured.
Our process is designed to be clear and predictable. We begin with a free consultation to understand your crash, injuries, and goals. Next, we gather records, evaluate liability, and identify all insurance coverages. We keep you updated and explain options at each decision point. If negotiations can resolve the case fairly, we pursue settlement. If not, we prepare to file suit and move forward in court. At every step, we protect your time by handling insurer communications and document requests. The result is a focused plan built around your needs and the facts of your Stillwater motorcycle accident.
Your first meeting sets the foundation. We discuss how the crash occurred, your injuries, medical history, and insurance details. We outline potential sources of recovery and explain how claims typically unfold in Minnesota. You will leave with a clear list of next steps, such as medical follow-up, photos to capture, and documents to gather. We also talk through timelines and what to expect from adjusters. If you choose to hire us, we send notices to insurers, start collecting records, and create a case plan that matches your goals. The aim is to move quickly while keeping the process straightforward.
We start by listening. Your account of the crash, the road layout, weather, and traffic flow in Stillwater gives us essential context. We review the police report, any citations, and your initial medical visits. Photos of the bike, gear, and injuries help us understand forces involved. We also identify potential witnesses and nearby cameras. Insurance information from both parties is collected so we can open claims and protect your interests. This fact-gathering phase allows us to pinpoint strengths and address gaps early, building a roadmap for the claim and setting expectations about timing and likely outcomes.
Next, we make the process understandable. We explain Minnesota comparative fault rules, deadlines for claims and lawsuits, and how UM or UIM coverage may apply. We outline how medical billing typically flows between health insurance, auto policies, and potential liens. You will know what documents we will request and how to handle calls from insurers. We discuss the difference between a demand package and a lawsuit, and when each makes sense. Clear guidance now prevents missteps later, keeps communications consistent, and positions your Stillwater case to move efficiently toward settlement or, if necessary, litigation.
This phase focuses on evidence. We secure scene photos, measurements, and videos, and we obtain full medical records and bills to show the link between the crash and treatment. We track your symptoms and restrictions through provider notes and your journal entries. Wage loss is documented with employer statements and pay data. We also analyze coverage, including policy limits and potential stacking of UM or UIM where allowed. With these materials, we prepare a comprehensive demand that explains liability, damages, and the legal basis for recovery under Minnesota law.
Liability analysis starts with the basics: scene layout, impact points, and the sequence of events. We compare statements from drivers and witnesses with physical evidence, damage patterns, and available video. If helpful, we consult resources to assess speed, stopping distances, and visibility. Citations and traffic signal timing can be important. Our goal is to present a clear, supported narrative that leaves little room for speculation. When insurers understand how and why the crash occurred, negotiations tend to focus on fair compensation rather than unfounded disputes over fault.
Damages documentation is the backbone of your claim. We gather itemized bills, treatment notes, imaging, and referrals to show the course of care. Your own observations help connect symptoms to real-world limitations, such as missed work, reduced activities, or sleep problems. We calculate wage loss and consider future expenses if ongoing treatment is anticipated. Photographs of visible injuries over time can illustrate recovery. With this information, we prepare a demand package that ties medical evidence to the crash and supports a settlement that reflects both economic and non-economic losses.
With liability and damages documented, we engage the insurer in structured negotiations. We set deadlines for responses and address objections with evidence. If a fair offer is not made, we discuss filing suit in Washington County or the appropriate Minnesota court. Litigation includes formal discovery, depositions, and, if needed, trial. Throughout, we continue to evaluate opportunities for resolution, including mediation. You remain informed and in control of decisions. Whether your case settles or proceeds to trial, our preparation ensures the next step is clear and your Stillwater claim keeps moving.
Negotiations aim to resolve your case efficiently while honoring the value of your claim. We present a detailed demand, respond to counteroffers with documentation, and push for timelines that prevent unnecessary delays. Mediation can provide a structured environment to bridge gaps, with a neutral mediator helping both sides evaluate risks. We prepare you for the process, discuss ranges that reflect your damages, and identify non-monetary terms that may matter, such as release scope and payment timing. If settlement is reached, we handle closing documents and lien resolution so funds are distributed correctly.
If a lawsuit is filed, preparation continues with the same organization used in negotiations. We draft pleadings that clearly state your claims, exchange information through discovery, and take depositions of parties, witnesses, and providers. Motions may be used to narrow issues for trial. We also prepare exhibits, timelines, and demonstratives that help a jury understand how the crash happened and how injuries changed your life. Throughout, we revisit settlement possibilities while positioning your case for a persuasive presentation in court. Clear communication ensures you are ready for each step and comfortable with the process.
First, move to a safe location if you can and call 911 to report the crash and request medical help. Accept medical evaluation at the scene or go to an urgent care or ER the same day, even if symptoms seem mild. Photograph the vehicles, the roadway, skid marks, debris, and your injuries. Capture traffic signals, signs, and any nearby businesses that may have cameras, especially in downtown Stillwater. Get contact information for witnesses and the other driver, including insurance and plate numbers. Do not discuss fault. If your bike is towed, note the location and keep your helmet and gear. Within 24 hours, notify your insurer about the crash, but limit details to the basics until you have legal guidance. Request a copy of the police report as soon as it becomes available. Save all medical paperwork, receipts, and repair estimates. Start a short daily journal describing pain levels, missed work, and activity limits. Politely decline recorded statements from the other driver’s insurer and refer them to your attorney. Then call Metro Law Offices at 651-615-3322 for a free consultation. We will help organize evidence, protect your rights, and map the next steps for your Stillwater claim.
Minnesota’s standard no-fault coverage, called Personal Injury Protection, does not automatically apply to motorcycles. Some riders purchase optional PIP for medical and wage benefits similar to those available to car owners. If you do not carry optional PIP, your medical bills may flow through health insurance first, with reimbursement sought from the at-fault driver’s liability carrier. You may also have medical payments coverage or other benefits depending on your policy. Because policy language varies, we review your declarations, endorsements, and exclusions to identify available coverages. Even without PIP, you may still recover damages through a bodily injury claim against the responsible driver and, when applicable, through your own uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage. Prompt notice to all potentially involved insurers is important. We help coordinate billing, address liens or subrogation claims, and present documentation that connects treatment to the crash. Understanding the coverage landscape early helps avoid delays, reduces surprises, and positions your Stillwater case for a more efficient resolution.
Deadlines for bringing claims or filing lawsuits in Minnesota are strict and can vary based on the type of claim, insurance involved, and recent changes to the law. Waiting risks lost evidence and missed filing dates that could limit your rights. The safest approach is to contact an attorney as soon as possible after the crash so specific timelines can be identified for your situation. Early action gives us time to gather records, interview witnesses, and explore settlement opportunities before litigation becomes necessary. If a fair resolution is not reached, filing a lawsuit before the applicable deadline preserves your claim and keeps the case moving in court. Because each case is different, we do not rely on general estimates for timing. Instead, we review your facts, policies, and the relevant statutes to set a clear schedule. We will monitor all key dates and provide reminders so nothing is missed. A timely, organized approach often improves negotiation leverage and helps your Stillwater case proceed smoothly.
Fault is determined by evidence. We analyze the crash scene, vehicle damage, rider and driver statements, and any photos or video from traffic or business cameras. Police reports, citations, and 911 records provide additional context. In some cases, we consult resources to assess speed, braking, and sightlines. This information is compared to Minnesota traffic laws to show how the collision happened and who failed to yield or maintain a proper lookout. Comparative fault may be raised by insurers to reduce payouts, so clear documentation is essential. Photographs of the bike and gear, consistent medical records, and credible witness statements can counter speculation. We also examine cell phone activity and prior complaints at the intersection when relevant. The goal is to present a detailed, supported narrative that fairly assigns responsibility and supports full and fair compensation under Minnesota law.
It is usually best not to give the other driver’s insurer a recorded statement before speaking with an attorney. Adjusters are trained to ask questions that may shift blame or minimize injuries. You can provide basic information such as date, time, location, and involved vehicles, but politely decline detailed questioning. Tell the adjuster you will follow up after consulting counsel. This protects you from inadvertent errors and ensures your account is complete and consistent. Once we represent you, we handle communications with insurers and schedule any necessary statements at the right time, with proper preparation. We supply documents and photos in an organized way that supports your position. If settlement negotiations begin, we present a demand supported by medical records, bills, and proof of wage loss. Our role is to reduce stress, avoid missteps, and advocate for a resolution that reflects the full impact of your Stillwater crash.
Most motorcycle injury cases are handled on a contingency fee. That means you do not pay an attorney fee unless we obtain a settlement or verdict. The fee is a percentage of the recovery, explained in writing at the start of the case. Case expenses, such as records fees, expert consultations, or court costs, are also discussed in advance. In many cases, the firm advances costs and is reimbursed at the end from the recovery, subject to the fee agreement. We believe in clarity about fees and costs. During your free consultation, we will explain how the percentage applies, what costs might be necessary, and how liens or subrogation will be handled. At resolution, you will receive a written closing statement showing the gross amount, itemized deductions, and your net recovery. This transparency helps you make informed choices about settlement and ensures there are no surprises when funds are disbursed.
Helmet use is strongly encouraged for safety, but Minnesota law does not require helmets for most adult riders. If you were not wearing a helmet, you can still pursue a claim for injuries caused by another driver’s negligence. Insurers may argue that the absence of a helmet contributed to certain injuries. The issue is fact-specific and depends on medical evidence and how the crash occurred. We work to separate speculative arguments from documented causation based on records and expert opinions where appropriate. The key is focusing on the other driver’s conduct and the injuries tied directly to the crash. Consistent treatment, accurate medical histories, and photos of visible injuries help establish damages. Even when helmet use is disputed, many claims resolve fairly with strong documentation and a clear explanation of how the collision happened. We will discuss how this issue might affect your case and develop a strategy tailored to your circumstances in Stillwater and throughout Minnesota.
Powerful evidence includes clear scene photos, videos, and prompt medical records that connect symptoms to the crash. Witness names, phone numbers, and statements add credibility. Keep your damaged helmet, clothing, and bike parts, as these items can help explain impact forces and mechanisms of injury. Document expenses and missed work with receipts, pay stubs, and employer letters. Police reports, citations, and 911 recordings can also be helpful. Consistent documentation over time strengthens your claim. Take periodic photos of healing injuries, maintain a simple journal of pain levels and activity limits, and keep copies of every bill. If you notice nearby cameras in Stillwater’s business areas, write down their locations quickly so footage can be requested. Share updates with your attorney so the demand package reflects your current condition. The more organized your materials, the more persuasive your case will be in negotiations or court.
If the at-fault driver is uninsured or leaves the scene, your uninsured motorist coverage may provide compensation. Report the crash to police immediately and notify your insurer right away, as policies often require prompt notice and cooperation. Provide any partial plate numbers, vehicle descriptions, and witness contact information. Seek medical care and document your injuries and expenses. We help open the UM claim, collect records, and present a supported demand. If a driver is later identified, we coordinate claims against that party and address how UM benefits interact with any new recovery. Evidence preservation is especially important in hit-and-run cases, since video or witness statements can make a decisive difference. Our team manages communications and deadlines so your Stillwater claim remains on track while law enforcement and insurers complete their investigations.
Timelines vary. Cases may resolve in a few months if injuries stabilize quickly, liability is clear, and policy limits are adequate. More complex claims involving disputed fault, ongoing treatment, or multiple insurers can take longer. We generally wait until you reach a reasonable point in recovery to accurately value damages, which helps avoid settlements that overlook future care. Throughout the process, we provide updates and realistic timing estimates so you know what to expect. If settlement talks stall, filing a lawsuit keeps the case moving and sets a schedule defined by the court. Discovery, depositions, and mediation add time but can also clarify issues and promote resolution. Whether your case settles early or proceeds to trial, preparation is the constant. We build your Stillwater claim step by step so that when opportunities arise, you are ready to make informed decisions.
