An injury due to a car accident can leave you frightened and confused as you struggle to recover while trying to figure out how to pay your bills. Fortunately, you can file an insurance claim to help ease your burden.
However, answers to common questions about the personal injury claims process in Minnesota can help you make better decisions for yourself and your family.
How do car accident claims work in Minnesota?
Minnesota is a no-fault state, which means that drivers must file claims with their car insurance providers. However, if your medical bills exceed the state’s $4,000 threshold or you sustain severe injuries, it may be possible to file a claim with the other driver’s insurance provider or sue the driver.
What qualifies as a severe injury?
Severe injuries may also result in the loss of body function, long-term or permanent disability, or disfigurement. They may qualify you to initiate a lawsuit to recover damages insurers do not cover.
What is the statute of limitations for personal injury lawsuits?
You have two years to file a personal injury lawsuit in Minnesota. If you miss that deadline the court will automatically dismiss your case.
What are the possible damages?
In most personal injury cases, damages are either economic or non-economic. Economic damages are meant to reimburse you for the specific monetary expenses resulting from your injuries, including medical bills, physical therapy, and transportation to medical appointments.
Non-economic damages are more challenging to calculate and cover pain and suffering, post-traumatic stress, disfigurement, and other intangible consequences of an injury.
The court reduces your damages by your percentage of fault, which must be less than 50%.
Your car accident injury can have devastating consequences but understanding your rights can help you obtain the damages you deserve.