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What should I do after a car accident in Minnesota?

Federal & State Law Editorial TeamLast reviewed: 2026-04-30

Minnesota operates a no-fault system under the Minnesota No-Fault Automobile Insurance Act (Minn. Stat. §§ 65B.41-65B.71).

1. Immediate Steps at the Scene

  • Stop and exchange information (Minn. Stat. § 169.09). Felony for hit-and-run with injury.
  • Render reasonable aid.
  • Call 911 for injuries.

    • 2. Mandatory Reporting

  • Police: Required for injury, death, or apparent damage exceeding $1,000 (Minn. Stat. § 169.09).
  • The investigating officer files the Minnesota Crash Report.
  • Notify insurer to preserve PIP benefits.

    • 3. Minimum Insurance

  • Liability: 30/60/10 (Minn. Stat. § 65B.49).
  • Basic Economic Loss Benefits (PIP): $40,000 total — $20,000 medical + $20,000 wage loss/replacement services (Minn. Stat. § 65B.44).
  • UM/UIM: 25/50 minimum.

    • 4. Tort Threshold (Minn. Stat. § 65B.51)

    You may sue for non-economic damages (pain and suffering) only if:

  • Medical expenses exceed $4,000 (excluding diagnostic), OR
  • Injury results in 60+ days of disability, permanent injury, permanent disfigurement, or death.

    • 5. Modified Comparative Negligence — 51% Bar

    Under Minn. Stat. § 604.01, the plaintiff is barred from recovery if their fault is greater than 50%. At 50% or less, damages are reduced proportionally.

    6. Statute of Limitations — Notably Long

  • Personal injury: 6 years (Minn. Stat. § 541.05) — among the longest in the U.S.
  • Property damage: 6 years (§ 541.05).
  • Wrongful death: 3 years (Minn. Stat. § 573.02).
  • No-fault PIP claim: 6 years (Minn. Stat. § 65B.55).
  • Minnesota Tort Claims Act: Notice within 180 days (Minn. Stat. § 466.05 local; § 3.736 state).

    • This is legal information, not legal advice.

    When to Talk to a Lawyer
    • Medical bills approach the $4,000 tort threshold
    • PIP benefits ($20K medical) are exhausted
    • Public entity defendant — 180-day Notice of Claim
    Related Statutes & Laws
    • Minn. Stat. § 65B.44
    • Minn. Stat. § 65B.49
    • Minn. Stat. § 65B.51
    • Minn. Stat. § 169.09
    • Minn. Stat. § 541.05
    • Minn. Stat. § 604.01
    • Minn. Stat. § 466.05

    This is legal information, not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. Always verify current law with official sources and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction for advice on your specific situation.