The Cody Law Group

Young drivers have the highest fatal accident rate

2026-07-23T02:25:33Z

Statistically speaking, the highest fatal car accident rates belong to teenage drivers. The risk is greatest for those from 16 to 19 years old, and their fatal accident rate is higher than any other age group in the United States. This becomes especially clear over the summer months, when the total number of fatal teenage car accidents also climbs. Largely due to the fact that teenagers have more free time when they are not in school over the summer, they tend to get into more accidents. This does not mean that teenagers cause the most fatal accidents overall. They are, after all, a relatively small age group. But because they have the highest rate, it shows that there is a significant risk for them and all other drivers who share the road with them.

Why is the accident rate so high?

There are many contributing factors, such as lack of seat belt use, distracted driving, aggressive driving and even impaired driving. Every accident is unique. But one underlying factor that contributes to the high accident rate is that these young drivers are just inexperienced. It leads to mistakes they would not make otherwise. For example, an experienced adult driver may understand when to slow down in certain weather conditions or how to consistently maintain a safe following distance. An inexperienced teenager, on the other hand, may accidentally tailgate or fail to slow down when it would be safer to do so. They are not trying to drive poorly, but they are simply making mistakes because they do not have that much experience behind the wheel.

Seeking compensation after a fatal crash

Have you lost a loved one in a car accident that another driver caused? You may be able to seek compensation through a wrongful death case, so be sure you understand all of your options.

Untreated dog bite wounds can lead to serious complications

2026-07-14T12:41:24Z

A dog bite may seem minor at first, especially if the wound is small or the bleeding stops quickly. However, even a puncture wound can allow harmful bacteria to enter the body and lead to serious medical complications if left untreated.

Prompt medical care protects your health and creates a record of your injuries if the bite resulted from someone else's negligence. Understanding the risks associated with dog bite wounds is an important step after any animal attack, particularly when pursuing a Minnesota personal injury claim.

Watch for signs of infection

One of the most common complications of dog bite wounds is infection. Warning signs include increasing redness, swelling, warmth around the injury, persistent pain or drainage from the wound. Some people also develop fever, chills or night sweats if the infection begins to spread. These symptoms should never be ignored because early treatment may prevent more serious health problems.

Serious infections can develop

Certain bacterial infections can become severe if they are not treated promptly. In some cases, bacteria may spread through the bloodstream and lead to life-threatening conditions such as sepsis. Other infections can affect the skin, joints or internal organs and require intensive medical treatment.

A dog bite from an animal with an unknown vaccination history may also require evaluation for rabies exposure. Depending on your vaccination history and the nature of the wound, a tetanus booster may also be recommended.

Dog bites do not only damage the skin. Teeth can injure muscles, tendons, nerves or even bones beneath the surface. Bites involving the hands, feet or face often require careful examination because these areas are more vulnerable to lasting complications.

Early treatment supports recovery

Cleaning the wound thoroughly as soon as possible helps reduce the risk of infection. More serious injuries may require professional wound cleaning, antibiotics, vaccinations or additional treatment depending on the severity of the bite.

If another person's dog caused your injuries, medical records may also become important evidence in a Minnesota personal injury claim. Seeking prompt care protects both your health and your legal interests. If you have questions about recovering from dog bite wounds or your legal options, seek legal guidance as soon as possible.

Is there an uptick now in summer car accidents?

2026-06-28T03:33:07Z

Minnesota residents are out in force these days, enjoying lots of fun summer activities. From going away on lakeside family vacations to taking weekend golf trips with friends, people tend to make the most of the warm, sunny weather. All the activities taking place now contribute to this time of year being known as the “100 deadliest days.” From Memorial Day weekend in May running through the unofficial end of summer on Labor Day is a time of enhanced danger for those driving or riding on the nation’s roads and interstates.

Other factors are involved as well

During summer vacation, there are also many inexperienced teenage drivers behind the wheel. Their lack of driving hours can contribute to accidents that affect anyone in proximity to them. Then, too, summer is also the road construction season. Traveling at lower speeds through miles of narrow, orange-coned lanes makes collisions more likely to occur.

Celebrating holidays with alcohol

The upcoming Fourth of July celebrations of our nation’s 250th birthday will be taking place all over the country and region. Many of those parties will undoubtedly include the consumption of alcoholic beverages of every stripe. But not everyone is responsible enough not to drink and drive. Regardless of whether someone personally consumes alcohol or not, they can certainly suffer the ill effects of another driver’s disastrous decision to drive after imbibing.

If you are injured in a summer accident

No matter how safely you may drive, accidents happen. If they happen and injure you or claim the life of your loved one, there is a path to civil justice. Filing a claim for damages is the first step to recovering compensation for your injuries, losses and other damages.

2 tips for managing bills after a serious car crash

2026-06-15T15:40:41Z

Being in a car crash can affect every area of your life, particularly if the injuries are serious. One of the most immediate effects has to do with your finances. You’ll likely need medical care, which can be costly. At the same time, you may not be able to return to work. The increase in expenses and reduction or cessation of income can be financially devastating. If you’re in this position, one of the first things that you should do is to determine how you can manage your bills in the aftermath of the crash. These tips may be beneficial as you embark on this task:

1. Get organized

One of the first things you should do is to organize your bills. Divide these into ones that are required for you to live, ones that you need to pay, and ones that can be skipped or delayed. The ones that require you to live include the rent or mortgage, utilities and food. Ones that you need to pay are things like insurance and medical deductibles. Ones that can be skipped or delayed are things like streaming services and possibly some medical bills.

2. Communicate early

Some creditors may be willing to work with you on due dates, which may involve making payment plans. Learning the options that you have may make it easier to set up a budget, and it may clarify your order of importance for bills. Some creditors, such as credit companies, may be able to have more leeway than a utility company. It’s best to speak to them as early in the process as possible. It's important to remember that your accident-related medical bills may also be covered through your own health or auto insurance. The insurer may then seek to reclaim what they spent through any award you receive if you seek compensation from the negligent party for the damages. Working with someone who understands these matters may be beneficial, so you can focus on healing.

How to pay your bills while you recover from a crash

2026-06-09T16:50:53Z

The crash left you hurting, but what keeps you up at night may be the stack of bills on the counter. Rent, groceries and medical costs do not pause while you heal, and missing a paycheck feels terrifying when people depend on you. The good news is your insurance policy and other benefits may provide several practical sources of short-term financial relief.

Start with no-fault, your first line of help

Minnesota is a no-fault state, so your own auto insurance helps pay your costs no matter who caused the crash. State law requires personal injury protection (PIP) coverage in every policy, and those benefits can begin before any dispute over fault gets resolved. Under Minnesota's no-fault benefits, every policy includes at least $20,000 for medical care and $20,000 for lost wages and related costs.

Put your wage-loss benefits to work

If your injuries keep you off the job, PIP can replace much of your lost income. The law generally covers 85 percent of your gross wages, up to $500 a week, until you recover or reach your limit. To get paid sooner, report the crash quickly and send proof of missed work, like pay stubs, employer wage statements and a doctor's note. Filing a no-fault claim correctly from the start can reduce avoidable delays and give the insurer fewer reasons to request more information.

Layer in any other coverage you have

No-fault may not stretch far enough alone, so check what else you carry. Health insurance can cover medical bills beyond your PIP limit, and short-term disability, sick leave or paid time off can fill part of the wage gap. If you were driving for work, traveling between job sites or performing another work-related task when the crash happened, workers' compensation might also apply.

Talk to your creditors before you fall behind

Many lenders, hospitals and utility companies offer hardship plans, but usually only if you ask before missing a payment. A quick call explaining your situation can bring lower payments, a temporary pause or more time. Save every bill, receipt, pay record and message from the insurer, since those documents can support your injury claim later. Try not to rush into an early settlement before doctors understand your prognosis and the full cost of your recovery.

You do not have to face the bills alone

Money stress can feel heavier than the injury itself, but you have real tools to steady things. Start by filing your no-fault claim and gathering your records, since those steps protect both your budget and your case. If the bills keep mounting or your benefits fall short, a Twin Cities injury attorney can line up support and pursue the at-fault driver for what no-fault does not cover.

What is an underride truck accident?

2026-06-04T09:22:05Z

Sharing the road with large commercial trucks is something American drivers do every day without giving it much thought. And, while many trips end safely, certain types of truck accidents can have devastating consequences when they occur. The size and weight of tractor-trailers make collisions particularly dangerous for occupants of smaller vehicles. Some crashes are especially dangerous because of the way the vehicles impact one another, often leaving little protection for those involved.

Why underride collisions are so dangerous

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)F explains that an underride truck accident occurs when a smaller passenger vehicle slides underneath the rear or side of a large commercial truck or trailer during a collision. Because the truck's trailer sits much higher than the front end of most cars, the upper portion of the passenger vehicle can be crushed or sheared away during impact. These accidents often happen when a truck suddenly stops, slows unexpectedly or is difficult to see due to poor lighting or weather conditions. To help reduce the risk of these collisions, many commercial trailers are equipped with underride guards. These metal barriers are mounted beneath the rear of a trailer and are designed to prevent smaller vehicles from traveling underneath the truck during a crash. While rear underride guards are required on most trailers, safety advocates have long argued that stronger standards and additional side underride guards could help prevent more serious injuries and fatalities. Underride crashes are often catastrophic because they impact areas of a passenger vehicle that are not designed to withstand such forces. Occupants may suffer severe head, neck or traumatic brain injuries. In many cases, the damage is so extensive that these accidents result in fatal outcomes, making underride collisions one of the most dangerous types of truck accidents on the road. After a serious truck accident, understanding your legal options can be difficult, especially when you’re already dealing with injuries, medical bills and uncertainty about the future. Speaking with an experienced legal professional can help you better understand your rights and whether compensation may be available to you.

Wrongful death: Steps a young parent might consider

2026-05-28T11:19:44Z

When a partner dies in a crash, grief often comes with urgent practical questions. If you live in Vadnais Heights or the north metro, knowing a few possible next steps may help protect finances and keep options open.

First actions to take

You could request a police or crash report number and ask how to obtain copies. Consider ordering certified death certificates from the county. If impairment seems involved, you might ask whether toxicology or investigation reports will be available.

Essential documents to collect

It may help to collect pay stubs, bank statements, tax records and any life insurance or benefit paperwork that lists your partner. You might keep hospital records, medical bills and funeral invoices together. Scanning documents and saving them to a secure cloud folder could reduce the risk of loss.

Securing benefits and managing bills

You may want to check with your partner’s employer about possible life insurance, unpaid wages or retirement survivor options. Exploring Social Security survivors benefits and state or federal emergency programs might be useful. If bills feel overwhelming, consider contacting service providers to ask about extensions or hardship options.

Financial planning and immediate budget

Create a simple budget that lists essentials such as housing, utilities, food and childcare. You might prioritize immediate needs and note flexible expenses to postpone. If you expect lost income, tracking missed work dates and related costs could be helpful.

Finding help and resources

Local victim services in the Twin Cities, county human services, faith communities and nonprofit groups may offer emergency aid, child care or counseling. Because Minnesota law requires a district court judge to formally appoint a trustee before a wrongful death claim can be filed, consulting with a qualified attorney is necessary to navigate the required court petitions and filing deadlines.

Preserving options and looking ahead

Taking these final actions can help preserve your options and provide necessary support during this difficult time:

Preserve evidence, such as photos or vehicle estimates, as they might be useful later.
Keep a dated list of all calls, contacts and documents.
Lean on trusted friends or family when making decisions, and seek neutral guidance when paperwork or deadlines become confusing.

These steps are crucial for maintaining clarity and control as you plan for the future.

Taking action after loss

In the face of overwhelming loss, taking proactive steps today can help secure your family’s future and provide a bedrock of stability during a time of immense sorrow. By focusing on these practical actions, you are honoring your loved one and establishing a foundation from which you can begin to heal and move forward.

Why back injuries shouldn’t end a healthcare career in Minnesota

2026-05-12T08:58:37Z

Many Minnesota nurses and nursing assistants put patient safety before their own physical limits. When patient lifting leads to a serious back injury, the Workers' Compensation Act provides specific protections. These laws help workers avoid physical and financial ruin.

How patient lifting impacts Minnesota healthcare workers

Healthcare professionals in Vadnais Heights and the north metro area face high physical demands. Lifting, transferring or repositioning patients causes immediate disc injuries or long-term strain. These injuries often make returning to work difficult without medical help. Common situations that lead to these injuries include:

Manual transfers: Moving patients between beds and wheelchairs without mechanical lifts
Catching falls: Straining the lower back to prevent a patient from hitting the floor
Repetitive repositioning: Adjusting patients in bed over several hours of a shift

These events cause chronic pain that requires medical attention and time away from the hospital.

Relieving the financial weight of a workplace injury

The loss of a paycheck often creates more stress than the injury itself. For many Hmong families and others in the Twin Cities, a workplace injury can quickly lead to debt. Minnesota workers' compensation benefits replace a statutory portion (generally two-thirds) of lost wages and cover medical costs. According to 2023 Bureau of Labor Statistics reports, nursing assistants suffer some of the highest rates of musculoskeletal disorders in the workforce. Benefits ensure that an injury does not lead to bankruptcy or foreclosure while a worker recovers.

Protecting your future after a healthcare injury

Returning to a healthcare role requires a full recovery and financial stability. Many healthcare workers feel guilty about filing a claim, but these benefits protect people who care for others. A Minnesota workers' compensation lawyer clarifies the rules and helps ensure a denied claim is not the end of the road. Understanding your rights is the first step toward providing for your family. Professional guidance helps you get the support the law allows.

Who is liable for a truck tire blowout?

2026-04-27T16:12:59Z

Finding out who is at fault for a truck tire blowout requires a close look at federal rules, repair logs and build standards. These crashes often stem from a specific person's or company’s mistake.

Investigating the root cause of tire failure

A tire blowout usually shows a lack of truck care. While car drivers handle their own car care, federal law requires truck firms to do strict pre-trip checks and regular fixes. When a carrier ignores thin treads or weak sidewalls to keep a truck on the road, they may be liable for the crash. Even if these firms try to blame the driver, the law says they must keep their fleet safe. In these instances, a lawyer may use repair records and logs to see if the firm’s neglect caused the tire to fail.

Recognizing manufacturing and maintenance errors

Bad parts or poor repairs create another path to a legal claim. If a tire has a design flaw or uses materials with poor quality, the maker may face a lawsuit under Minnesota product liability laws. Outside shops may share the blame too. For example, a shop that plugs a tire the wrong way or installs the wrong size creates a highway hazard. These shops must provide work that meets high safety standards. Any shortcut they take makes them liable when a blowout happens.

Evaluating the impact of cargo weight

Logistics firms and loaders also play a big role. Trailers that are not loaded right put too much heat and stress on tires. This leads to quick failures. When loaders go over weight limits or pack cargo poorly, even new tires can pop. These professionals have a duty to keep the truck within its mechanical limits. To find the source of the blowout, lawyers look for the party that signed the shipping papers. This document trail often provides proof of neglect.

Seeking accountability after a crash

Finding who is liable in a truck accident takes more than just looking at what the driver did. It means looking into layers of company choices. Whether the blame lies with a lazy carrier, a careless maker or a tired loading crew, you can hold them to account for their mistakes.

4 things to do if your employer denies your workplace injury claim

2026-04-15T14:04:51Z

Getting hurt at work is stressful enough. Finding out your employer denied your workers' compensation claim makes it even harder. As a Twin Cities worker facing a denial, you need to know that a denial does not constitute a final determination. With the right steps, you can still pursue the compensation you deserve. Here are the four steps you can take after a denied claim.

Find out why your claim was denied

When your employer denies your claim, the insurer must send you a Notice of Insurer's Primary Liability Determination. This document outlines the specific facts and legal basis behind the denial. Review it thoroughly, as understanding the grounds for denial is your most critical first move. You typically have 30 days to initiate your appeal, so do not wait. Once you know the reason, you can start building a stronger case.

Build your case with strong evidence

With a clear picture of the denial reason, the next step is to gather compelling evidence. Collect witness statements, photos or videos of the accident scene, and all medical records related to your injury. If the insurer attributes your injury to a pre-existing condition, ask your doctor for a report demonstrating that the work incident aggravated your condition. Strong evidence significantly strengthens your appeal and prepares you for the next step.

File a formal claim petition

After gathering your evidence, file a formal employee's claim petition through the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry. This formally initiates the appeals process and puts your case on record. Do not skip this step, as it is essential to advancing your case. Additionally, having the right support alongside you can make this process far more manageable.

Get professional guidance

A denial is not the end of your case. It is simply the beginning of the next step. The appeals process can feel complex, but you do not have to navigate it alone. Having the right guidance can make a meaningful difference in understanding your options and building a stronger case. With the proper support, you can move forward with confidence and secure the compensation you rightfully deserve.