Minnesota Motor Vehicle Accident Laws

Insurance Systems & Requirements

System type

Minnesota operates under a “no-fault” insurance system. This means that if you’re injured in a car accident, your own insurance policy covers your medical expenses and certain other losses, regardless of who was at fault for the accident. This system is designed to provide prompt payment for medical treatment and to reduce the necessity of legal action for minor accidents. 

Minimum liability requirements

Minnesota law mandates that all drivers carry the following minimum liability coverage:

• $30,000 for bodily injury per person
• $60,000 for bodily injury per accident
• $10,000 for property damage

These limits ensure financial protection for both drivers and victims in the event of an accident. 

Personal injury protection (PIP)

As part of the no-fault system, Minnesota requires drivers to carry Personal Injury Protection coverage. PIP covers medical expenses, lost wages, and replacement services up to the policy limits, regardless of who caused the accident.

Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage (UM/UIM) 

Minnesota law also requires drivers to carry uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage with minimum limits of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident. This coverage protects you if you’re involved in an accident with a driver who has insufficient or no insurance. 

Non-compliance penalties

Driving without the required insurance in Minnesota can result in fines, license suspension, and even imprisonment. It’s crucial to maintain continuous insurance coverage to avoid these penalties.

Fault & Negligence Laws

While Minnesota’s no-fault system covers medical expenses through your own insurance, you can pursue a liability claim against the at-fault driver if certain thresholds are met, such as significant medical expenses or permanent injury. In such cases, Minnesota follows a “comparative fault” rule. This means that if you’re partially at fault for the accident, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you’re found to be 30% at fault, your compensation will be reduced by 30%.

Statute of Limitations

In Minnesota, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit resulting from a car accident is generally six years from the date of the accident. However, for claims involving wrongful death, the period is three years. It’s important to act promptly, as failing to file within these time frames can bar you from seeking compensation.

Procedures for Handling MVAs

When to report an accident
Minnesota law requires drivers to report an accident to law enforcement if it results in injury, death, or property damage of $1,000 or more. Additionally, a written report must be submitted to the Commissioner of Public Safety within ten days of the accident. 

Filing a report
The written report should include details such as the names and addresses of all involved parties, vehicle registration numbers, and insurance information. Accurate and timely reporting is essential for legal and insurance purposes.

How to access accident reports
Accident reports can be obtained from the Minnesota Department of Public Safety. Requests can typically be made online, by mail, or in person. It’s advisable to check the department’s official website for the most current procedures and any applicable fees.

Types of Compensation Available & Limits in Minnesota

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Minnesota, your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage will take care of immediate medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of fault. However, if your injuries are severe enough to step outside the no-fault system, you may have the legal right to pursue additional compensation from the at-fault driver.

Here’s a breakdown of the two main types of compensation available in Minnesota:

1. Economic damages

These are tangible financial losses that can be easily calculated. They include:

Medical expenses: Covers hospital bills, surgery costs, physical therapy, medications, rehabilitation, and any future medical care related to the accident.

Lost wages and earning capacity: If your injuries prevent you from working, you can claim compensation for lost income. If your ability to work in the future is affected, you may also receive damages for reduced earning potential.

Property damage: If your vehicle or other personal property was damaged in the crash, you can seek reimbursement for repairs or replacement.

Other out-of-pocket costs: This includes transportation expenses for medical visits, home modifications for disability-related needs, or hiring help for household tasks you can no longer manage.

2. Non-economic damages

These damages account for the emotional and physical toll of an accident, which don’t come with straightforward price tags:

Pain and suffering: Compensation for the physical pain and discomfort you’ve endured due to the accident and your injuries.

Emotional distress: Covers mental health struggles such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, or sleep disorders resulting from the trauma of the accident.

Loss of enjoyment of life: If your injuries prevent you from engaging in activities you once loved—whether it’s hobbies, exercise, or daily routines—you may be entitled to damages.

Loss of consortium: In cases of severe injuries, spouses and close family members may seek compensation for the loss of companionship, affection, or intimacy.

No caps on personal injury damages in Minnesota

Unlike some states that limit the amount of compensation a victim can receive, Minnesota does not impose any caps on personal injury damages. This means that if you can prove the extent of your losses, you have the right to seek full compensation—whether it’s for financial burdens or the long-term effects of pain and suffering.

However, Minnesota does follow comparative fault rules, meaning your compensation could be reduced if you were partially at fault for the accident. For example, if you were found 20% responsible for the crash, your total compensation would be reduced by 20%.

If you’ve been seriously injured in a Minnesota car accident, consulting a personal injury attorney can help you determine how much compensation you may be entitled to and ensure that you receive a fair settlement for both your economic and non-economic losses.

Medical Payments & Health Coverage

After an accident, your PIP coverage will handle your medical expenses up to the policy limits. If your medical costs exceed these limits, you can use your health insurance or pursue a claim against the at-fault driver if applicable. It’s important to coordinate between your auto and health insurance providers to ensure all expenses are covered appropriately.

Unique Local Considerations

Minnesota’s diverse climate can impact driving conditions:

• Winter weather: Snow and ice can make roads hazardous. Drivers should equip their vehicles with appropriate tires and exercise caution during winter months
• Flooding: Spring thaws and heavy rains can lead to flooding. Never attempt to drive through flooded areas, as it can be dangerous and cause vehicle damage

Legal Resources & Contacts

If you’re involved in a car accident in Minnesota, knowing where to turn for legal and administrative support can make a significant difference in how smoothly you navigate the aftermath. Whether you need to report an accident, file an insurance claim, or seek legal guidance, several state agencies provide crucial resources to help you through the process.

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS) is the primary agency overseeing driver and vehicle services, including accident reporting, license suspensions, and insurance verification. If you need to obtain an accident report, replace a damaged driver’s license, or check the status of your vehicle registration after an accident, the DPS is the agency to contact. Reports are usually available within ten days of the accident, and requests can be made online through the Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) division or in person at a DPS office. Drivers involved in accidents that result in injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,000 are required by law to report the incident to the DPS. If an accident leads to a license suspension, this agency also handles the reinstatement process and provides information on insurance compliance.

The Minnesota Department of Commerce plays a vital role in regulating the insurance industry and ensuring that consumers are treated fairly. If you encounter problems with an insurance claim—whether it’s a delayed payout, a dispute over fault, or issues with an uninsured driver—the Department of Commerce can help by providing information on Minnesota’s auto insurance laws and consumer protections. The agency also investigates cases of insurance fraud and unfair claim denials. If you believe your insurance provider is acting in bad faith, filing a complaint with the Department of Commerce may prompt an investigation into the matter and help resolve your concerns.

For legal disputes related to motor vehicle accidents, the Minnesota Judicial Branch provides guidance on how to file claims, understand court procedures, and access legal forms. If an accident leads to a lawsuit, such as a personal injury claim against an at-fault driver or a dispute over an insurance settlement, this agency offers resources on navigating the legal system. The judicial branch’s website includes information on statutes of limitations, court filing deadlines, and the process for small claims court. While legal representation is not required for all cases, seeking professional advice can be beneficial when dealing with complex legal matters.

Understanding Minnesota’s motor vehicle accident laws ensures that you are prepared and protected on the road. While no one anticipates being in an accident, knowing where to turn for help can make the process of filing claims, accessing accident reports, and pursuing legal action much less stressful. Maintaining the required insurance coverage is essential not only to comply with the law but also to protect yourself financially. If you find yourself involved in a serious accident, consulting a legal expert can help clarify your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Whether dealing with an insurance dispute, requesting a police report, or considering legal action, Minnesota provides numerous resources to guide you through every step of the process.