A single-vehicle crash can leave you wondering how you will pay for your losses. When no other driver appears at fault, you may think you have to cover your medical bills, lost income and other costs yourself. That may not be true.
Here are some situations that could give you other options.
You may be eligible for no-fault benefits
Minnesota’s no-fault insurance system can help cover certain losses after a motor vehicle crash, even when no other driver caused it. Depending on your coverage, these benefits can help pay medical expenses and replace part of your lost income after an injury.
A liability claim may apply when another party contributed to the crash
Depending on who created or controlled the hazard, a claim could involve a government entity, road contractor or another responsible party. Minnesota law allows certain claims against government entities, although special rules and exceptions can limit when they face liability.
The state also considers each person’s share of the blame when more than one party caused an injury. Your recovery could depend on how much blame another party carries for the crash.
A vehicle defect may create another source of compensation
A bad vehicle part could give you another way to seek damages if it helped cause the crash. A faulty tire, brake or other key part could raise questions about the role of the manufacturer, seller or another party.
Evidence from the car and crash scene can help show whether a faulty part played a role.
Your own fault does not always prevent recovery
Your own role in the crash does not always stop you from seeking damages from another party. Minnesota law generally lowers your damages based on your share of the blame, as long as your share does not exceed the combined share of the parties you seek damages from.
Don’t assume you’re on your own after a crash
A crash involving only your vehicle does not always leave you without options. Your insurance, the road conditions, a faulty vehicle part or another person’s actions could affect what you can recover.
If you suffered an injury, consider reviewing the crash, your insurance and the available evidence with an attorney. They can help you determine whether you have another source of compensation.