Cycling: It’s Green and Healthy But Sometimes Not Good For Your Health
Minnesota is home to an avid cycling and bicycle culture. Many Minnesotan’s share the road with motor vehicles while bicycling to work, home and school. In 2010, Minnesota was ranked as the 4th most bicycle-friendly state by the League of American Bicyclists, moving up from its 5th-ranked position in 2008 and 2009. Much of Minnesota's bicycle culture is centered in Minneapolis, but the extensive network of bike trails has helped make cycling popular throughout the state; Minnesota has more miles of bike trails than any other state in the U.S.
Bicycling magazine called Minneapolis the country's #1 bike city in 2010. Among the 50 U.S. cities with the largest workforces, Minneapolis ranked #2 in percentage of bicycle commuters, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. While many Minnesota bicycle riders and commuters chose to leave the car in the garage-–that doesn’t mean they leave their insurance protection behind as well. Unfortunately, sharing the road can lead to bicycle and car, truck or taxi collisions. Auto insurance policy benefits can extend coverage to you when you are injured on a bicycle, and those benefits are something than many are not aware of.
If you have been injured in a bicycle accident you need an experienced bicycle accident lawyer for proper advice and experienced representation. Cory Whalen recently represented a bicyclist that was riding safely and legally on an oversized shoulder when he was struck by a motorist that executed an illegal turn directly into his bicycle. The driver of the car blamed the sun for being in her eyes and her insurance company defended her. The bicyclist hired Cory Whalen as his rights were being challenged. Whalen was able to obtain the full amount of medical benefits from the bicyclists’ automobile insurance and the full amount of liability insurance coverage carried by the at fault driver.
Even though the snow will be flying soon, many hearty Minnesota bicyclists continue to commute to work and school. Winter shouldn’t stop you from cycling if you are fully prepared for the weather and driving conditions. Commuting by bike promotes physical health, reduces emissions in the environment, takes up less space for parking, costs the rider less money, and can help your brain relax after a long day of work.
Accidents happen, even when you follow every safety tip out there. If you or someone you know was injured in a bicycle accident, reach out to experienced bicycle accident attorney Cory Whalen who can analyze all available insurance coverages and guide you through the legal process.
