When you are hit by an uninsured driver, you may be left wondering how you will recover damages or whether your insurance will cover your injuries. As experienced car accident attorneys in St. Cloud, MN, we’re here to guide you through the legal maze and ensure your rights are protected.
The Challenges of Uninsured Drivers in St. Cloud
Minnesota law requires every driver to carry minimum insurance coverage. However, statistics reveal that approximately one out of 10 Minnesota drivers operate their vehicles without insurance. This lack of compliance puts responsible drivers at risk. Even though the uninsured drivers are the ones breaking the law, the burden often falls on accident victims to navigate the financial aftermath.
Our St. Cloud motor vehicle accident attorneys specialize in handling cases involving uninsured drivers. We’ll work tirelessly to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve, even when the other party lacks proper insurance coverage.
Minnesota’s Insurance Requirements and Uninsured Drivers
Minnesota is a no-fault insurance state, which means your insurance policy typically covers a certain amount in your medical expenses ($20,000) and lost wages ($20,000), regardless of fault.
Minnesota state law requires all drivers to carry the following minimum coverages for insurance:
- $30,000 for bodily injury per person
- $60,000 for bodily injury per accident
- $10,000 for property damage
In addition, Minnesota mandates uninsured motorist (UM) coverage to protect drivers when an at-fault party lacks insurance. Your UM coverage is a critical safety net in these situations, allowing you to recover damages for medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering.
Our experienced St. Cloud uninsured driver car accident lawyers can help you understand your policy and ensure you get the maximum benefits available under your coverage.
What to Do After an Accident with an Uninsured Driver
When you’re in an accident with an uninsured driver, emotions can run high. To protect your rights and your ability to recover damages, take the following steps:
- Call the Police: Always report the accident to local law enforcement. The police report will document that the other driver was uninsured, which is crucial for your claim.
- Gather Evidence: Take photos of the scene, including vehicle damage, injuries, and road conditions. Collect contact information from witnesses.
- Notify Your Insurance Company: Inform your insurer about the accident as soon as possible. They may require specific documentation for your uninsured motorist claim.
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, some injuries take time to manifest. Prompt medical care ensures your health and creates a record for your claim.
- Consult an Attorney: Navigating an uninsured driver claim can be complicated. Our auto collision attorneys in St. Cloud will handle the legal details so you can focus on recovery.
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How We Handle Uninsured Driver Cases
At Nelson Personal Injury LLC, we’ve helped countless clients in St. Cloud and beyond successfully resolve uninsured driver cases. Our approach involves:
- Reviewing Your Insurance Policy: We carefully analyze your coverage to determine what coverages you have available to you.
- Investigating the Accident: Our team collects evidence, interviews witnesses, and consults accident reconstruction experts to build a strong case.
- Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Insurers often try to minimize payouts. We’ll fight to ensure they honor your policy and provide the full benefits you deserve.
- Pursuing Additional Compensation: If applicable, we’ll explore other recovery options, such as holding the uninsured driver personally liable or seeking compensation through other policies.
Our car accident attorneys in St. Cloud are committed to achieving the best possible outcome for every client.
Common Injuries in Uninsured Driver Accidents
Uninsured driver accidents often result in severe injuries that require extensive medical care. Common injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Spinal cord injuries
- Broken bones and fractures
- Internal organ damage
- Whiplash and other soft tissue injuries
The costs associated with these injuries can be overwhelming. Our St. Cloud car crash lawyers will fight to recover compensation for medical expenses, rehabilitation, lost wages, and other damages.
Minnesota’s Comparative Fault Law
Minnesota follows a modified comparative fault system, which means you can recover damages as long as you are less than 50% at fault for the accident. However, your compensation will be reduced by the percentage of your fault. For example, if you are found 20% at fault and your damages total $100,000, you’ll receive $80,000.
Insurance companies may attempt to place more blame on you to reduce their liability. Our accident lawyers in St. Cloud have the experience to counter these tactics and protect your interests.
Why Choose Nelson Personal Injury LLC?
- Proven Results: We have a track record of securing significant client settlements and verdicts.
- Personalized Attention: Every case is unique. We take the time to understand your situation and develop a strategy tailored to your needs.
- No Upfront Costs: We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay unless we win your case.
- Local Experience: As St. Cloud, MN, residents, we understand the specific challenges and opportunities of practicing law in this community.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if the uninsured driver was driving a borrowed car with insurance?
In some cases, the vehicle owner’s insurance may cover the accident. However, this may hinge on whether the driver had permission from the owner to use the vehicle. We’ll investigate all potential sources of compensation to ensure you receive what you’re owed.
How long do I have to file a claim?
Minnesota’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims is typically six years. However, acting quickly to preserve evidence and build a strong case is crucial.
Can I sue the uninsured driver directly?
Yes, but recovering compensation can be challenging if they lack assets. We’ll explore this option and advise you on the best action.
Contact Us Today
If you’ve been involved in an accident with an uninsured driver, don’t navigate this challenging situation alone. At Nelson Personal Injury LLC, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Contact our St. Cloud uninsured driver car accident lawyers today for a free consultation. Let us handle the legal complexities while you focus on healing.
