Best Car Accident Lawyers in Mankato

FAQs

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

  507-387-8725 is the non-emergency phone line of the the Mankato Department of Public Safety.

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

  You can get a copy of your car accident police report from the Mankato Department of Public Safety, located at the Public Safety Center, 710 S. Street Front. You can also get in touch with the department's records staff at (507) 387-8701, as they deal with processing paperwork, data requests, background checks, property and evidence, gun permits, and data requests.

• What are the typical reasons for car crashes in Mankato?

  The primary factor in car accidents in Mankato is driver error. It includes reckless driving, road rage, driving drunk or under the effects of alcohol or drugs, disobeying traffic laws, and texting or talking to passengers while operating a car. Additionally, bad weather often contributes to auto accidents in Mankato.

• How do you obtain compensation after a Mankato car collision?

  Because Minnesota is a no-fault state, you can pursue personal injury damages in your Mankato car accident case without establishing liability. However, to claim compensatory damages above and beyond what's covered by insurance, you need to meet one of the following conditions:

  • The accident has caused you to spend at least $4,000 on medical bills.
  • The accident has left you with a deformity or handicap that has lasted at least 60 days.

• How much money can you get in Mankato if you file a car accident claim?

  There is no standard settlement value for car accident claims in Mankato because it depends on different factors. Those factors include the following:

  • How your injuries affected your finances, both current and future.
  • How the incident affected your general quality of life.
  • The way the incident affected your capacity to look after your family.
  • If the car accident was caused by grave negligence or malicious intent.
  • The amount of evidence you have.

• How much does hiring a car accident attorney in Mankato cost?

  The majority of Mankato's car accident attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. Under a contingent fee agreement, your attorney promises to work on your case without payment until the attorney obtains a settlement rather than charging you upfront. Only when the client receives compensation as a result of a settlement or court decision will the attorney be compensated, and only then as a portion of the recovery.

• When should you get in touch with a Mankato car accident attorney?

  The best time to contact a lawyer in Mankato following a car collision is immediately after exiting the accident scene or at the emergency hospital if your injuries are severe. Before speaking with the insurance provider, call an attorney first to get their opinion and to establish a reliable narrative of the accident.

• 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.