Bicycle wrecks can cause severe injuries. One of the most devastating is a traumatic brain injury (TBI), which can leave an injured person with permanent physical, cognitive, and emotional impairment.

The bike wreck attorneys at Maschka Personal Injury have a clear understanding of traumatic brain injuries and Mankato bicycle accidents. We have years of experience representing injured people. Our team is based in Mankato and serves the surrounding areas, offering compassionate support to help manage your legal claim.

TBIs Are Common in Bike Accidents

During a crash, cyclists are often propelled off their bikes, and their heads may hit the pavement, the vehicle they collided with, or another object. The force of this collision can cause the brain to slam into the skull, leading to swelling, torn tissues, and bleeding.

Immediate medical treatment may be required to reduce swelling and bleeding. Although prompt treatment can limit additional injury, it cannot repair the damage already done. Depending on the area of the brain affected, a cyclist may have permanent problems with:

  • Cognitive functioning
  • Speech
  • Memory
  • Mobility
  • Mood regulation
  • Fine motor skills

After sustaining a severe TBI, you may require nursing care for the rest of your life.

Even a moderate TBI can significantly impact your finances and quality of life. After suffering a traumatic brain injury, a bicycle accident lawyer on our Mankato team can protect your rights and ensure your legal claim is managed efficiently and effectively.

How Does Helmet Use Affect Your Claim?

Bicycle helmets can reduce fatal head injuries and may limit the severity of a traumatic brain injury. A helmet is an important piece of safety equipment, but it does not eliminate the risk of TBI in a wreck.

Minnesota law does not require cyclists to use helmets. Even so, if you were not wearing a helmet and suffer a head injury, the insurance company for the responsible party is likely to assert that your injuries are your fault.

Our experienced Mankato attorneys can present evidence showing that helmet use does not eliminate the risk of traumatic brain injuries in bicycle collisions. If appropriate, we can provide medical records showing that helmet use would not have reduced the severity of your specific TBI. Most importantly, we will present compelling evidence showing that the accident was caused by the driver’s negligence.

Damages in TBI Cases

If you prove another party’s negligence caused your injuries, you are entitled to compensation for all of your injury-related expenses. This includes:

  • Lost wages
  • Past and future medical expenses
  • Diminished future earning capability

You can claim damages for the changes in your quality of life. A Mankato attorney can demonstrate how your TBI from the bicycle crash has impacted your ability to work, maintain your close relationships, and participate in activities you once enjoyed.

If the at-fault driver was drunk, texting while driving, or intentionally harassed you with their vehicle, you may be entitled to punitive damages. If there is substantial evidence showing the driver acted with deliberate disregard for your safety, a court may award you punitive damages to punish the driver.

Work With a Mankato Lawyer After a Bike Crash TBI

Bicycle wrecks can result in serious injuries, with traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) being among the most severe – even when a helmet is worn. At Maschka Personal Injury, we handle cases involving traumatic brain injuries and Mankato bicycle accidents with compassion and skill. Contact us now to schedule a free consultation with our bike accident lawyers to begin building a strong legal case.