After an Accident
A step-by-step guide to protecting your health and your claim after a Minnesota car accident, from the scene to the insurance call.
At the Scene
Check for injuries and call 911. Minnesota law requires reporting crashes involving injury, death, or significant property damage. Move to safety if you can, but don't leave the scene. Photograph everything — vehicle positions, damage, road conditions, traffic signs, and your injuries.
Exchange and Document
Exchange insurance and contact information with the other driver, and collect names and numbers of any witnesses. Note the time, weather, and road conditions. The more you document now, the less the insurer can dispute later.
Seek Medical Care
See a doctor promptly even if you feel fine — adrenaline masks injuries, and some serious conditions appear hours or days later. Prompt medical records also tie your injuries to the crash, which protects your claim.
Be Careful With Insurers
Report the crash to your own insurer, but be cautious about giving the other driver's insurer a recorded statement or accepting a quick settlement. Under Minnesota's comparative fault rule, your words can be used to shift blame. Consider a free case review before signing anything.
This article is general information, not legal advice. Every case is different. For guidance on your specific situation, call 973-566-5599 for a free, confidential case review.