Best Car Accident Lawyers in Plymouth

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Plymouth is 952-258-5321.

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

  You can make a request for a police report by downloading the Information Disclosure Request Form on their website (www.plymouthmn.gov/departments/public-safety/police) and sending it to the Plymouth Police Department's email at police@plymouthmn.gov. Alternatively, you may also submit it thru mail or in person at the Public Safety Building located at 3400 Plymouth Blvd.

• How many vehicular accident deaths are there in 2022 in the state of Minnesota?

  According to the report from the Office of Traffic Safety, 414 people were killed in vehicular accidents in 2022 in the state of Minnesota. This is slightly lower than the figures from 2021, which showed 458 deaths. The highest number came from drunk driving incidents, which claimed 117 lives, followed by speed-related deaths at 109.

• How much do I need to pay a lawyer in a car accident lawsuit in Plymouth?

  Plymouth lawyer fees may vary from case to case, but most personal injury lawyers will represent you in filing a case with a contingency fee. This fee will be collected after winning the case and will be based on a percentage of the amount awarded to the client. Other litigation expenses may also be included in the contingency fee, such as filing fees and expert witness fees.

• What are the most common causes of car accidents in Plymouth?

  The four most common causes of car accidents in Plymouth, Minnesota, are speeding, driving while distracted, driving under the influence, and not adhering to traffic rules. All these causes can result in lawsuits and insurance claims, depending on the extent of personal injury and damage to property sustained during the accident.

• Is Minnesota a no-fault state?

  Yes, the State of Minnesota is a no-fault state. This means that your own car insurance will cover certain losses after an accident, regardless of who caused the crash. This will be covered under your Personal Injury Protection (PIP), which is sometimes referred to as "Basic Economic Loss Benefits." The minimum no-fault coverage is $40,000 per person, per accident.

• Who is covered under Minnesota's no-fault car insurance?

  Under Minnesota's no-fault car insurance law, the coverage applies to the driver named on the insurance policy, the passengers in the policyholder's vehicle, any relative living in the policyholder's home if they do not have their own insurance, and any person who is driving the vehicle with permission from the owner.

• 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.