If you’re involved in a car accident in Minnesota and the at-fault driver is uninsured, there are specific legal avenues available for compensation. The skilled car accident lawyers at Sieben Polk P.A. can guide you through the legal process to help you secure your deserved compensation.
Navigate This Page
- What Is the Minnesota No-Fault Insurance System?
- What Happens When an At-Fault Driver Has No Insurance in Minnesota?
- Minnesota Minimum Insurance Coverage Requirements
- How Does Uninsured Motorist Insurance Work in Minnesota?
- Pursuing Damages Beyond PIP Coverage When the At-Fault Driver Is Uninsured or Underinsured
- Steps to Take After an Accident With an Uninsured Driver
- What Happens if You Drive Without Insurance in Minnesota?
- Why You Need a Skilled Car Accident Lawyer After an Uninsured Accident
- Related Reading
What Is the Minnesota No-Fault Insurance System?
Minnesota follows a no-fault insurance system. This means that after an accident, your insurance policy covers certain damages regardless of who caused the accident. You must file a claim with your own insurance company, even if the other driver was at fault. However, no-fault coverage is limited to economic damages like medical bills and lost wages. Non-economic damages such as pain and suffering may require filing a claim against the at-fault driver.
What Happens When an At-Fault Driver Has No Insurance in Minnesota?
When the at-fault driver lacks insurance, Minnesota’s no-fault system requires you to first seek compensation under your own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance. However, if the damages exceed your PIP coverage, you may still pursue compensation through other methods. Additionally, Minnesota law allows you to seek non-economic damages if certain conditions are met.
Minnesota Minimum Insurance Coverage Requirements
To legally drive in Minnesota, drivers must have specific minimum insurance coverage:
- Bodily Injury Liability: $30,000 for one person, $60,000 for two or more people.
- Property Damage Liability: $10,000.
- Personal Injury Protection: $40,000, covering medical expenses and lost wages.
- Uninsured Motorist Coverage: $25,000 for one person, $50,000 for two or more people.
These insurance requirements are designed to help you recover damages if the at-fault driver lacks sufficient coverage or insurance altogether.
How Does Uninsured Motorist Insurance Work in Minnesota?
Uninsured motorist (UIM) coverage helps pay for your medical expenses if the at-fault driver has no insurance. In addition to covering medical expenses, UIM may also compensate for non-economic damages like pain and suffering. If the other driver is uninsured, this coverage is vital to ensure you receive compensation.
Pursuing Damages Beyond PIP Coverage When the At-Fault Driver Is Uninsured or Underinsured
If your accident results in damages exceeding your PIP coverage, you have two primary options:
- File a Third-Party Claim: If the at-fault driver has insurance but insufficient coverage, you can pursue a claim with their insurance company.
- File a Lawsuit: If the at-fault driver is uninsured, you can file a lawsuit to recover the damages.
Your legal team will help determine the best course of action, based on your case specifics.
Steps to Take After an Accident With an Uninsured Driver
After a crash with an uninsured driver, follow these steps:
- Document the Accident: Take photos and gather evidence from the scene.
- Obtain a Police Report: This report is critical for proving fault.
- Review Your Insurance Coverage: Contact your insurance provider to verify coverage details.
- Consult With a Car Accident Lawyer: Having a skilled attorney can ensure that you follow the correct process and maximize your compensation.
What Happens if You Drive Without Insurance in Minnesota?
Driving without insurance in Minnesota is a misdemeanor. Penalties include:
- Fines up to $1,000 for a first offense and $3,000 for a second offense.
- License revocation and vehicle impoundment.
- Potential jail time, especially if an accident causes significant injury or death.
Why You Need a Skilled Car Accident Lawyer After an Uninsured Accident
If you’ve been involved in an accident with an uninsured driver, it’s critical to have experienced legal representation. A car accident lawyer can navigate the complexities of insurance claims and lawsuits, ensuring that you receive the compensation you deserve. Contact Sieben Polk P.A. for a free consultation and legal guidance after an accident.
