Best Car Accident Lawyers in Eden Prairie

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for the Eden Prairie Police Department is 952-949-6200.

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

  To obtain a copy of your car crash police report, print a copy of the Document Request Form available on the local government's website and submit the completed form to the Eden Prairie Police Department's Records Unit. Citizens may also write a letter of request to the above-mentioned unit. Indicate the case number, date and time reported, nature, and location of the incident. Requests can be processed within 14 days.

• Who is responsible for paying your medical bills after a car accident in Eden Prairie?

  Your auto insurance company is responsible for paying your initial medical bills if you obtained injuries in a car accident in Eden Prairie. The state's No-Fault Law requires your auto insurance to cover your medical bills even if the other driver is at fault. If your medical bills exceed $20,000, the standard limit of an automobile policy, the at-fault driver's insurance policy must pay your health insurance or pay the remaining amount directly. This, however, is only possible after you have reached a final settlement in your case.

• Can you still sue the at-fault party for damages following a car accident in Eden Prairie, which follows a no-fault policy?

  Because Minnesota is a no-fault state, the PIP coverage of your insurance policy would cover your medical bills and other out-of-pocket expenses if you were involved in an accident in Eden Prairie. Non-economic damages will not be compensated. However, you may file a claim against the at-fault driver if you have sustained at least $4,000 in reasonable medical expenses and 60 days of disability, permanent injury, or disfigurement. You may be eligible for compensation in addition to your PIP coverage and for non-economic damages.

• How long does it take to settle a car accident case in Eden Prairie?

  It usually takes between five and 18 months to reach a settlement after being involved in a car accident in Eden Prairie. The severity of your injuries also influences the settlement period, as attorneys frequently require a doctor's final opinion on the permanent nature of the injuries. Settlements can also take longer if the insurance company disputes who was at fault in the car accident. In such cases, your attorney may be forced to file a lawsuit.

• Do you need a lawyer if you are involved in a car accident in Eden Prairie?

  No, but hiring a lawyer can help you receive a fair settlement. In order to protect your rights and avoid having to dispute a denied or undervalued claim following a car accident in Eden Prairie, you should also consult a lawyer. In addition, they evaluate the validity of your claim against the other driver and build your case by consulting with experts and gathering evidence while you concentrate on recovering from any injuries you may have sustained.

• Is there a deadline for filing car accident claims in Eden Prairie?

  Yes, according to Minn. Stat. § 541.05, Subd. 1(5), you have six years to file a claim following an auto or truck accident in Eden Prairie. In the case of a fatal car accident, the surviving family has three years from the date of the accident to file a wrongful death lawsuit. If your car accident was caused by the negligence of your local municipality or township, you have 180 days from the date of injury and one year from the date of death 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.