If a Minnesota car accident injures you, your own insurance pays certain costs right away. This “no-fault insurance” system gives you benefits without waiting to decide who caused the crash.
What no-fault coverage includes
No-fault insurance, or personal injury protection (PIP), pays for basic costs after a crash. Minnesota law requires drivers to carry at least:
- Medical expenses: Up to $20,000 for accident-related treatment, such as hospital visits, physical therapy or medication.
- Lost income and services: Up to $20,000 for wage replacement (85% of weekly pay, capped at $500) and $200 per week for household services you can’t perform.
- Funeral expenses: Up to $5,000 in the event of a fatal crash.
PIP covers these costs no matter who caused the accident, but it doesn’t pay for vehicle repairs or pain and suffering.
When you can sue the other driver
Minnesota law limits when you can step outside the no-fault system to sue another driver. You can take legal action against the at-fault driver only if your injuries meet at least one requirement:
- Over $4,000 in medical expenses (excluding X-rays and MRIs)
- Permanent injury or disfigurement
- Disability lasting more than 60 days
- Death caused by the crash
Meeting a threshold allows you to claim pain and suffering and other losses PIP does not cover.
When no-fault coverage doesn’t apply
Not every accident qualifies for no-fault benefits, and certain situations require different coverage. Some situations fall outside Minnesota’s no-fault rules:
- Motorcycles or certain recreational vehicles: You need separate insurance.
- Commercial vehicles: Business policies may work differently.
- Intentional crashes: No coverage for deliberate acts.
If a vehicle hits you while walking or biking, you often use your own PIP. Without your own policy, the state’s priority system decides whose coverage applies.
Protect your rights
Minnesota law gives you about six months to start a no-fault claim, but filing right away speeds up payment. If your insurer delays or refuses benefits, a car crash lawyer can push back and protect your claim.
Learning these rules now helps you choose the right coverage and keep your finances safe after a crash.