Best Car Accident Lawyers in Duluth

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Duluth, Minnesota?

  Call +1 218-730-5400 to reach the Duluth Police Department for non-emergency concerns.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Duluth, Minnesota?

  The Duluth Police Department offers accident report retrieval on its website. You may request a copy of the record of your accident at https://duluthmn.gov/police/public-data/police-data-request/.

• What are the pieces of evidence that you can gather after a car accident in Duluth, MN?

  It is imperative that you collect proof to demonstrate that you are the victim of a car accident in Duluth, MN, if you are physically and mentally capable of doing so. The pieces of evidence that you can gather may include:

  -Pictures of the scene of the accident, showing the vehicles, plate numbers, accident site, weather conditions, and road conditions -Eyewitness testimony and depositions -Police reports -Medical records and hospital bills -Depositions from family and friends stating how your injuries affected your life

• How can you make a legal claim if a teen driver caused your accident in Duluth, MN?

  Teen drivers are overrepresented in Minnesota traffic crashes, but since they may not have the assets to take care of your financial damages after a car accident in Duluth, you may be able to get compensation through their insurance coverage or the parents and their insurance carrier. Moreover, a parent can be held accountable for the accident that their teenager caused under a legal concept known as “negligent entrustment,” which supposes that they provided their inexperienced child with a dangerous instrument, the vehicle, which caused harm to others.

• If a child is injured in a car accident in Duluth, MN, is it possible to file a lawsuit on their behalf?

  Because a minor who gets involved in a Duluth car crash can’t file a lawsuit under their own name, a parent or a representative approved by the court to act as the guardian of the child’s property rights may file a claim on the child’s behalf. Alternatively, the child can file their own lawsuit within a year after their 18th birthday, but it is still highly recommended that the parents seek the help of a child injury lawyer as soon after the accident as possible to file the case.

• Can you make manufacturer error claims for a car accident in Duluth, MN?

  There are rare cases when a defective automobile part, like faulty seat belts, brakes, or airbags, can lead or contribute to an accident or injuries. In the event that this happens to you or a loved one in Duluth, you might be able to file a legal claim against the auto manufacturer, whether the defective part was in your car or the other party’s car.

• How much time do Duluth, MN car accident victims have to file a lawsuit?

  Car accident victims in Duluth and the rest of Minnesota generally have six years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. This time window is called the statute of limitations. If a car accident victim fails to file a lawsuit within this time, they may lose their ability to sue the negligent party. If the claimant is filing a case against a car manufacturer, the time limit to sue may be shorter than the allowed time to sue the other driver.

• How do I choose a car accident lawyer?

  To select a car accident lawyer, consider the lawyer's experience, focus, and reputation. While nearly any attorney can negotiate with insurers for a settlement, not all attorneys have amassed experience litigating a claim in a court of law. Choose an attorney with a background that includes car accident claimants; it's helpful if the attorney is focused on personal injury law. Lastly, read reviews from previous clients to get a feel for the attorney's helpfulness and responsiveness to clients. The best lawyer for your case is one that you feel comfortable and confident working with.

• What steps should I take after a car accident?

  Immediately following a car accident, get out of traffic as soon as possible and dial 9-1-1. Exchange car insurance information with any other involved drivers and get a police report as soon as possible. Be truthful about what happened, even if you are at fault, but stick to reporting the facts of the accident without offering an opinion on who is to blame. If possible, take photos of your car, other cars at the scene, and the scene itself.

• (When) Do I need a lawyer after a car accident?

  Start working with a car accident lawyer as soon as possible following your car accident (some attorneys even make hospital visits). By reaching out for legal help early on, you avoid some of the pitfalls of trying to handle your claim on your own. Your attorney can also get the ball rolling on reimbursement for your medical bills and lost wages while awaiting the outcome of your claim.

• How long after a car accident can you claim an injury?

  The length of time you can file a claim for an injury following a car accident is governed by the statute of limitations in your state. Although it varies, most states set the statute of limitations for injured parties to seek compensatory damages at three years following the accident or three years after you discover your injuries. In cases where children are injured, the statute of limitations may be longer.

• What do I do after a car accident that I'm not responsible for?

  After an accident that's not your fault, seek immediate medical help if you are injured. Once it's safe to do so, obtain the other driver's contact and insurance information, any statements from witnesses, and photos of the scene. Obtain a police report and contact your insurer and the at-fault party's insurer. If you are injured, schedule a consultation with a car accident attorney to discuss your legal options.

• What happens if someone sues you after a car accident?

  If you have car insurance in force at the time of the accident, your insurance is contractually bound to represent you on any claims that arise, indemnifying you against loss up to the limits of your policy. You can help your insurance company by cooperating fully. If the plaintiff in any lawsuit obtains a judgment above your policy limits, then you can be held personally responsible for any damages awarded.

• What/how much can I expect from a car accident settlement?

  According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average bodily injury claim in 2018 was $15,785. The amount of any particular car accident settlement hinges primarily on the severity of the injuries sustained as a result and whether or not any partial or total permanent disability was caused by the accident. Claims that involve broken bones or nerve damage likely settle for more than claims where soft tissue injuries are present.

• How do I arrange a rental car after an accident?

  To arrange a rental car after an accident, first consider whether your insurance or the other party's insurance will be paying for the rental. If another driver is found to be at-fault for the accident, that driver's insurance may pay the costs. If you are responsible, your insurance may pay if your policy covers such expenses. Speak with your insurance adjuster to determine if you have benefits available.

• How long does it take for car insurance to go back down after an accident?

  Post-accident rate spikes can last anywhere from three to five years, depending on your insurer. However, if damages incurred during the accident are less than $2,000, your rate may not go up at all. Three years is typical for collision and property damage claims. Five years is not uncommon in accidents involving bodily injury claims, DUI or DWI, reckless driving, or serious violations at the time of the accident.

• How to settle a car accident claim without a lawyer?

  To negotiate a car accident settlement without a lawyer, you'll have to prove that the other party was to blame for your damages. Gather evidence at the scene to support your claim, including witness statements and photos. Seek medical treatment for your injuries immediately. Notify the other driver's insurer of your intent to file a claim. If you reside in a no-fault state, you will need to use your personal injury protection (PIP) benefits first before filing a claim against the other party for medical expenses and bodily injury. Be prepared with medical records, police reports, receipts for out-of-pocket accident-related costs, and proof of lost income due to the accident before beginning negotiations.