Auto Accidents

As Minnesotans, we like to take advantage of the few months we have with warm, sunny weather to get outside and be active. This typically means enjoying bicycle rides, and/or walking or running outside – especially when there are so many trails in Burnsville, Eagan, and Farmington! However, this also means potentially being on or near the same paths as vehicles. What rights do you have if you find yourself a victim of a bicyclist/pedestrian – auto accident?

You have the same rights and benefits as if you had been in a vehicle at the time of the accident yourself! Since you were hit by a vehicle, your Personal Injury Protection benefits under your auto insurance has you covered, whether you were riding a bicycle or walking/running as a pedestrian. The benefits include $20,000 in medical expenses, and $20,000 in wage loss.

Additionally, you have the right to pursue a pain and suffering claim against the at-fault driver of the vehicle’s auto insurance. This is also known as a liability claim. Under the liability claim, any property damage sustained in the accident should also be paid by the at-fault driver’s auto insurance – whether it is damage to the bicycle, your helmet, glasses, or clothing.

Please explore the Otten Law website for more information or call us at 952-736-3300 for more information.

After losing a loved one, we are faced with overwhelming emotions, innumerable decisions, countless questions – all creating one of the most distressing times we might have to endure. This often creates a time of uncertainty, especially when the cause of death was at the hands of someone else’s actions.

Wrongful death claims can be brought forth if the at-fault party’s negligent or intentional act resulted in the death of another.

Car accidents are the most common cause of wrongful death because of the number of drivers and how often people are driving. South of the Metro, 35W runs through Lakeville, intersecting with County Road 42, which runs through Apple Valley and Rosemount, giving rise to the chances of unforeseen occurrences. Wrongful death claims can also come from pedestrian accidents, accidents at work, defective products, and medical malpractice.

Family members may be entitled to compensation for the loss of their loved one. This compensation could include lost income, funeral expenses, medical expenses, the value of counsel, guidance, advice, assistance, companionship, and protection, which would have been provided by the deceased family member to each of the surviving family members. 

A wrongful death claim must be brought by a court appointed Trustee. So, before any claims can be made, a surviving family member must be appointed by the Court as a Trustee to pursue the claim. However, each next-of-kin have a claim for damages.  Retaining legal counsel immediately will help alleviate the stress and uncertainty for family members and begin the process of pursuing the claim against the at-fault party within the time limits prescribed by law.

If you or someone you know is forced into enduring this unimaginable time, please call Otten Law Offices at 952-736-3300 for more information.