Best Car Accident Lawyers in Apple Valley

FAQs

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

  952-322-2323 is the non-emergency contact number for the Apple Valley Police Department.

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

  You can obtain a copy of your police report by submitting an Information Disclosure Request Form. You can download the form at https://www.ci.apple-valley.mn.us/DocumentCenter/View/404/Data-Request-Form?bidId= or get a copy from the Apple Valley Police Department. Complete and submit the form through fax at 952-953-2733 or email to police@ci.apple-valley.mn.us. You can also submit the form in person at the police department. Reports are available within five days of submission.

• What should you prove to win a car accident lawsuit in Apple Valley?

  To strengthen your chances of winning a car accident case in Apple Valley, your legal team must prove that another driver was negligent and at fault for causing the crash. To do this legally, your team must prove that the defendant owed you a duty of care, that the defendant breached this duty by his negligent actions or failure to act, that his breach of duty caused the accident, and that the accident caused actual injuries, damages, and losses to you.

• What factors can affect your settlement amount in a car accident case in Apple Valley?

  Some factors that may affect your settlement award in a car accident claim in Apple Valley include the actual costs of your expenses and losses, the extent and permanence of your injuries, your lost wages and future earning capacity, and whether a wrongful death was caused by the accident. Additionally, the insurance coverage and assets of the defendant may also affect the settlement amount.

• Can I still obtain compensation if I was partially at fault for a car accident in Apple Valley?

  You can still obtain compensation even if you were partially at fault for a car crash in Apple Valley. However, due to Minnesota’s “comparative fault” practice, your compensation will be reduced by the percentage of your fault. For instance, if you are deemed 25% at fault for the car accident, you can only receive 75% of the total settlement award.

• How much does it cost to hire a car accident lawyer in Apple Valley?

  Most car accident lawyers in Apple Valley and Minnesota operate on a contingency fee basis. This means that lawyers do not require any upfront or hourly consultation fees unless a car accident case is won or a favorable settlement is awarded. However, most contingency fees are equivalent to 33% or one-third of the total settlement award.

• How long do I have to file a car accident claim after the incident in Apple Valley?

  If you have been injured in a car accident in Apple Valley, you must file a personal injury claim six years from the date of the accident, according to State laws. However, there are several exceptions to this rule. For instance, if you lost a loved one in a car accident caused by another party’s negligence, you have three years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. Meanwhile, if you have been injured in a crash caused by a drunk driver, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a claim.

• 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.