As a passenger in a car accident, you have the right to seek compensation for injuries. This guide will explain how Minnesota’s laws apply to passengers involved in accidents and the types of compensation you can pursue.
Understanding Your Rights as a Passenger in a Minnesota Car Accident
In Minnesota, passengers have specific rights after an accident, including compensation for injuries through various insurance policies. These rights are governed by Minnesota’s no-fault insurance system, which provides coverage regardless of who is at fault.
How Does No-Fault Insurance Work for Passengers in Minnesota?
Minnesota requires all drivers to carry personal injury protection (PIP) insurance. This insurance covers economic damages like medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of fault. As a passenger, you can access PIP benefits through:
- Your own PIP insurance (if you have it)
- Your household members’ PIP insurance (if applicable)
- The driver’s PIP insurance (of the vehicle you were in)
Once PIP coverage is exhausted, you may be able to file a fault-based claim against the responsible driver’s auto liability insurance to cover non-economic damages such as pain and suffering.
What Compensation Is Available to Passengers in Minnesota Car Accidents?
In Minnesota, personal injury protection (PIP) insurance covers medical expenses, lost wages, and funeral costs for passengers injured in a car accident. Once PIP benefits are exhausted, fault-based claims may provide additional compensation.
Minnesota PIP Insurance Limits for Passengers
Minnesota law requires the following minimum PIP insurance coverage:
- $20,000 for past and future medical expenses
- $20,000 for non-medical expenses, such as lost wages
- $2,000 for funeral expenses in case of death
After PIP coverage is exhausted, you can seek additional compensation through a fault-based claim.
Seeking Compensation from Multiple Parties in a Minnesota Car Accident
Minnesota law allows you to pursue compensation from all responsible parties involved in the car accident, including the driver at fault. You can file claims against:
- The driver who caused the accident
- Other responsible entities (e.g., government agencies or auto parts manufacturers)
How Does Comparative Fault Affect My Compensation?
Minnesota follows a modified comparative fault rule, which means you can still recover compensation if you are partially at fault for the accident, as long as your fault is less than 51%. Your total compensation will be reduced in proportion to your percentage of fault.
How Our Minnesota Car Accident Lawyers Can Help You
If you’ve been injured as a passenger in a Minnesota car accident, the legal team at Sieben Polk P.A. can help you navigate the claims process and pursue maximum compensation.
Schedule a Free Consultation with Our Experienced Attorneys
Contact Sieben Polk P.A. for a free consultation. We will help you understand your legal rights and the compensation you are entitled to. Call (651) 437-3148 or reach out online to get started today.
