Minneapolis Car Accident Lawyer

At Irwin Law, we understand that a car accident can change your life instantly. The aftermath can be overwhelming, leaving you with physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial uncertainty.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, you need a trusted advocate on your side. As experienced Minneapolis car accident lawyers, we are here to fight for your rights and help you recover the compensation you deserve.

Understanding Car Accidents in Minneapolis

Car accidents happen every day in Minneapolis, often due to the negligence of other drivers. According to the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, in a recent year, there were over 75,000 crashes statewide, with more than 27,000 injuries and nearly 400 fatalities.

Many of these accidents could have been prevented if drivers had exercised more caution and responsibility.

Common Causes of Car Accidents

As a dedicated car accident attorney in Minneapolis, we have seen firsthand the devastation caused by reckless and negligent driving. Some of the most common causes of car accidents include:

• Distracted Driving: Texting, eating, or adjusting the radio can lead to a crash in mere seconds.
• Drunk Driving: Despite strict DUI laws, intoxicated drivers continue to cause serious accidents.
• Speeding: Exceeding the speed limit reduces reaction time and increases the severity of crashes.
• Reckless Driving: Aggressive driving, such as tailgating or weaving through traffic, puts everyone at risk.
• Weather Conditions: Snow, ice, and heavy rain make Minneapolis roads particularly hazardous.

No matter the cause of your accident, our Minneapolis accident lawyers are prepared to investigate your case and hold the responsible parties accountable.

Common Injuries Seen in Car Accidents

Car accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, from minor bruises to life-altering conditions. Even at low speeds, the impact of a collision can place immense stress on the body. As experienced Minneapolis car accident lawyers, we have seen firsthand how devastating these injuries can be for victims and their families. Some of the most common injuries include:

1. Whiplash and Soft Tissue Injuries

Whiplash is one of the most frequently reported injuries in car accidents, especially rear-end collisions. When the head is suddenly jerked forward and backward, it can strain the neck muscles, ligaments, and tendons. Soft tissue injuries may not appear immediately but can cause chronic pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.

2. Head and Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

A sudden impact can cause a victim’s head to strike the steering wheel, dashboard, or window, leading to concussions or more severe traumatic brain injuries. TBIs can result in headaches, memory loss, cognitive difficulties, dizziness, and long-term neurological impairments. Even mild brain injuries can significantly affect daily life, making it crucial to seek medical attention immediately after a crash.

3. Broken Bones and Fractures

The force of a crash can break bones in various parts of the body, including the arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis. Fractures can be particularly painful and may require surgery, physical therapy, and extended recovery periods. In severe cases, a broken bone may lead to long-term complications or permanent disability.

4. Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis

Spinal cord injuries are among the most serious consequences of a car accident. Damage to the vertebrae, discs, or nerves can result in partial or complete paralysis. Even less severe spinal injuries can lead to chronic pain, mobility issues, and a diminished quality of life.

5. Internal Injuries

Blunt force trauma from a crash can cause internal bleeding or organ damage. Injuries to the liver, spleen, kidneys, or lungs can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. The challenge with internal injuries is that they may not show immediate symptoms, making it crucial to undergo a medical evaluation after an accident.

6. Psychological Trauma and PTSD

Not all injuries are physical. Many accident victims suffer from emotional distress, anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The psychological effects of a serious crash can be just as debilitating as physical injuries, often requiring therapy and long-term support.

At Irwin Law, we understand how devastating car accident injuries can be. We fight tirelessly to ensure our clients receive the medical care, financial compensation, and justice they deserve.

Minnesota Car Accident Laws

Navigating the legal system after a car accident can be complex, but as experienced auto accident attorneys in Minneapolis, we are here to guide you every step of the way. Here are some key Minnesota car accident laws that may impact your case:

No-Fault Insurance System

Minnesota follows a no-fault insurance system, meaning that after an accident, your insurance company covers medical expenses, lost wages, and certain out-of-pocket costs—regardless of who was at fault.

This is covered under Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance. However, if your injuries are severe, you may be eligible to step outside the no-fault system and pursue a claim against the at-fault driver.

Comparative Negligence Rule

Minnesota uses a modified comparative negligence rule. This means that if you are partially at fault for the accident, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. However, you cannot recover damages if you are more than 50% responsible for the accident.

Our car accident attorneys in Minneapolis will work to build a strong case proving the other party’s negligence.

Statute of Limitations

In Minnesota, you must file a personal injury lawsuit six years from the accident date. You may lose your right to seek compensation if you miss this deadline. Contacting a Minneapolis car accident lawyer as soon as possible is critical to ensure your case is handled within the required timeframe.

The True Cost of a Car Accident

A car accident affects more than just your vehicle. Many victims face long-term physical, emotional, and financial challenges, including:

• Medical expenses: Hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing treatment.
• Lost wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may struggle to pay bills and support your family.
• Pain and suffering: The trauma of an accident can impact your mental health and overall well-being.
• Property damage: Repairing or replacing your vehicle can be a significant expense.

At Irwin Law, we believe you should not have to bear these burdens alone. We are committed to fighting for full and fair compensation to help you rebuild your life.

How We Can Help

When you choose us as your Minneapolis accident lawyers, you gain a dedicated legal team that will:

• Investigate your accident: Gathering evidence, reviewing police reports, and speaking with witnesses.
• Handle insurance companies: Insurers often try to minimize payouts, but we won’t let them undervalue your claim.
• Negotiate settlements: We strive to secure a fair settlement without unnecessary delays.
• Take your case to court if necessary: If the insurance company won’t offer a fair settlement, we are prepared to fight for you in court.

What to Do After a Car Accident

The steps you take after a car accident can impact your claim. Here’s what you should do:

1. Call 911: Always report the accident and request medical assistance if needed.
2. Seek medical attention: Even if you feel fine, injuries may not be immediately apparent.
3. Gather evidence: Take photos, collect witness contact information, and document everything.
4. Notify your insurance company: Report the accident promptly, but avoid admitting fault.
5. Contact a Minneapolis car accident lawyer: The sooner you have legal representation, the stronger your case will be.

Why Choose Irwin Law?

At Irwin Law, we treat our clients like family. We understand the emotional toll of a car accident and are here to provide the compassionate legal support you deserve. Our experience, dedication, and results-driven approach make us the trusted choice for those seeking justice after a car accident.

Frequently Asked Questions About Car Accidents in Minneapolis

1. What should I do if the other driver doesn’t have insurance?

Minnesota law requires all drivers to carry insurance, but unfortunately, not everyone follows the law. If the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured, you may still be able to recover compensation through your own Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage.

This coverage is included in most auto insurance policies and can help cover medical expenses and lost wages. As experienced Minneapolis car accident lawyers, we can review your policy and help you file a claim.

2. How long do I have to file a car accident claim in Minnesota?

The statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Minnesota is six years from the accident date. However, if the accident resulted in a wrongful death, the time limit to file a claim is three years. While this may seem like a long time, starting your claim as soon as possible is essential to gather evidence, secure witness statements, and build a strong case.

3. Will my case go to trial?

Most car accident cases are settled outside of court through negotiations with the insurance company. However, if the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, taking your case to trial may be necessary to get the compensation you deserve. At Irwin Law, we are skilled negotiators, but we are also fully prepared to take cases to court when needed.

4. How is fault determined in a car accident?

Minnesota follows a comparative fault system, meaning each party can be assigned a percentage of fault for the accident. If you are found to be less than 50% at fault, you can still recover damages, but your percentage of fault will reduce your compensation.

For example, if you are awarded $100,000 but found to be 20% at fault, you would receive $80,000—our auto accident attorneys in Minneapolis work to minimize your liability and maximize your compensation.

5. How much does it cost to hire a car accident lawyer?

At Irwin Law, we work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing upfront. We only get paid if we win your case. This allows you to focus on recovery without worrying about legal fees.

6. What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

You may still be eligible for compensation, even if you were partially at fault. Minnesota’s comparative negligence rule allows accident victims to recover damages if they are less than 50% at fault. It’s essential to speak with a car accident attorney in Minneapolis to understand how your case may be affected.

If you have more questions about your car accident case, contact us today for a free consultation.

Contact Us Today

If you have been injured in a car accident, don’t wait to seek legal help. Contact Irwin Law today for a free consultation. Let our experienced auto accident attorneys in Minneapolis fight for the compensation you deserve so you can focus on healing and moving forward.

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Office Address

216 Railway St N, Dundas, MN 55019

Mailing Address

P.O. Box 287, Dundas MN 55019