Best Car Accident Lawyers in Minneapolis

FAQs

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

  For non-emergencies and help in alternative formats, please call 311. Residents who are deaf or hard of hearing can use the relay service, TTY at 612-263-6850.

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

  Call 612-673-2961 first to make sure the report is available. Once confirmed, individuals may request a copy by emailing Police-RecordsInformationUnit@minneapolismn.gov.

• What are the rules for reporting a car accident in Minneapolis?

  Calling the police is the quickest way to report an automobile collision in Minneapolis that resulted in the injury or death of another person. The accident must be reported to the local police, the State Police, and the county sheriff's department. These rules can be found in section 169.09 of the Minnesota Statutes.

• If one is partly at fault for a Minneapolis car accident, how does that affect their claim?

  Section 604.01 of the Minnesota Statutes establishes a “modified comparative negligence” rule. This implies that you can still collect damages in a lawsuit arising from an automobile accident, but your award will be adjusted proportionally to your degree of negligence, so long as your share of responsibility is “not more than the fault of the party against whom recovery is sought”, meaning you cannot be more at fault than the defendant you are suing. If so, you are not entitled to any compensation in court.

• What are no-fault benefits under the laws of Minneapolis, and what do they cover?

  Your no-fault insurance coverage must cover at least $40,000 in damages for the injury of a single individual. In addition to not covering certain categories of damages, such as pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, emotional trauma, decreased future earning capacity, or permanent disability, the monetary limits may be insufficient to cover your medical expenses and lost wages, particularly if your injury is severe. Seek the counsel of a Minneapolis attorney for your legal options.

• If Minnesota is a “no-fault” state, can a person still file a claim against a negligent driver following a Minneapolis car accident?

  Although Minnesota is a no-fault state, a negligent motorist may still be held accountable in certain circumstances. If a Minneapolis car accident results in medical expenses over $4,000, permanent injuries, scars, disfigurement, or 60 days of incapacity, you may be entitled to make a claim against the at-fault driver's insurance company.

• Can a Minneapolis individual still pursue a personal injury claim if they failed to wear a seat belt during the car accident?

  Although seat belt violations can result in a fine, Minnesota law prohibits the use or non-usage of a seat belt from affecting a claim for personal injury or property damage. This regulation, sometimes referred to as the “seat belt gag rule,” provides that evidence indicating whether a seat belt was worn during a motor vehicle collision is inadmissible in court. This law also applies to kid restraint systems.

• 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.