Minneapolis Truck Accident Lawyer

Not all collisions are created equal. When a semi-truck barrels through an intersection or loses control on a freeway, the damage it leaves behind can be catastrophic. At Irwin Law, we’ve seen firsthand the devastation that follows truck accidents in Minneapolis.

These aren’t just fender benders. They are life-altering events, often involving multiple vehicles, severe injuries, and overwhelming financial burdens. If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck crash, our Minneapolis truck accident lawyers are here to guide you through the aftermath with clarity, compassion, and aggressive legal representation.

Why Minneapolis Truck Accidents Are So Different

When a fully loaded semi-truck weighs up to 80,000 pounds, the physics of a crash become unforgiving. Compared to the average passenger car, which weighs about 3,000 to 4,000 pounds, a truck's sheer mass creates a greater risk of severe injury or death. This isn’t just about size, though.

Truck accident cases involve unique legal challenges, such as federal and state regulations, corporate liability, multiple insurance policies, and a deep dive into evidence like driver logs and black box data.

That’s where we come in. As your truck accident attorneys in Minneapolis, we don’t just treat these cases like another car crash. We investigate thoroughly, pulling records from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), demanding maintenance reports, and holding every liable party accountable—from the truck driver to the logistics company that rushed the schedule.

Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Minneapolis

Minnesota’s roadways, especially I-94, I-35, and Highway 169, are major freight corridors. Unfortunately, they also see a significant number of commercial vehicle crashes. According to the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, over 4,000 large truck crashes occurred in the state in a recent year. Many of these were in Hennepin County, including Minneapolis.

Our Minneapolis semi truck crash attorneys have handled cases involving:

• Fatigued driving and violations of hours-of-service rules
• Distracted driving, including phone use and GPS mishandling
• Improper lane changes or wide turns
• Overloaded or improperly loaded cargo
• Mechanical failure due to poor maintenance
• Speeding or reckless driving
• Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol

In some cases, the cause isn’t just human error. We often find systemic failures, such as trucking companies cutting corners on safety or pushing drivers to meet unrealistic deadlines.

Minneapolis, Minnesota Laws That Impact Your Case

Understanding the legal framework is essential when pursuing a truck accident claim. In Minnesota, we operate under a "no-fault" insurance system, meaning your insurance may initially cover medical expenses and wage loss regardless of who was at fault.

But in severe injury cases—which most truck crashes are—you can step outside the no-fault system and pursue a claim against the responsible parties.

To do this, your injuries must meet one of Minnesota's thresholds, such as:

• Permanent disfigurement
• Permanent injury
• Death
• Medical expenses exceeding $4,000
• Disability for 60+ days

Once you meet these criteria, we can file a personal injury lawsuit. In many cases, multiple parties may be liable, including:

• The truck driver
• The trucking company
• A third-party logistics company
• A parts manufacturer (in cases of equipment failure)

We understand the Minnesota Statute of Limitations for personal injury is generally two years from the accident date. However, truck accidents are often complex, and the sooner we can begin investigating, the better chance we have of preserving critical evidence.

What Damages Can You Recover?

As your accident lawyer in Minneapolis, our goal is to help you recover full and fair compensation for every loss. This includes:

• Medical expenses (current and future)
• Lost income and reduced earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Property damage
• Rehabilitation and long-term care

In some cases, we may also pursue punitive damages, especially if the trucking company or driver showed a reckless disregard for public safety. For instance, if a driver was under the influence or if records show repeated hours-of-service violations, the court may allow us to seek punitive damages to send a message.

How Our Minneapolis Truck Accident Lawyer Builds Your Case

Truck accident litigation requires speed, precision, and a relentless approach to uncovering the truth. Our Minneapolis truck accident attorneys begin with a full crash scene investigation. We may work with accident reconstructionists, forensic experts, and industry professionals to understand what happened and why.

We gather:

• Police and crash reports
• Truck driver logbooks and employment history
• Electronic logging device (ELD) data
• Truck maintenance records
• Video footage, dash cams, and traffic cams
• Witness statements
• Medical records and expert evaluations

This comprehensive approach allows us to build a solid case against the negligent parties and negotiate from a position of strength. And if the insurance companies won’t play fair, we are always prepared to take your case to trial.

Why Choose Irwin Law Office PLC in Minneapolis

At Irwin Law, we pride ourselves on being more than just attorneys. We’re your legal allies, advocates, and voice when you need it most. Our experience with trucking litigation gives us insight into predicting roadblocks, counter insurance tactics, and delivering results.

We’ve helped injured clients across Minneapolis secure compensation that allows them rebuild after devastating accidents. Our commitment is simple: We fight for accountability, justice, and a better future for our clients.

When you hire a Minneapolis truck accident lawyer from Irwin Law, you get:

• Personalized attention from a dedicated legal team
• Transparent communication and regular case updates
• No upfront fees—we don’t get paid unless we win
• Aggressive representation inside and outside the courtroom

What to Do After a Truck Accident in Minneapolis

If you’ve just been in a crash with a commercial vehicle, your steps can affect your claim. Here’s what we recommend:

1. Call 911 and get medical help, even if you feel okay.
2. Take photos of the scene, vehicles, injuries, and road conditions.
3. Collect contact information from the driver, witnesses, and responding officers.
4. Avoid speaking to the trucking company or insurers before talking to us.
5. Contact a truck accident attorney in Minneapolis as soon as possible.

Trucking companies move quickly to minimize liability. Their investigators may arrive at the scene before your car is towed. Let us handle the legal side so you can focus on healing.

Frequently Asked Questions – Minneapolis Truck Accident Lawyer

What’s the difference between a car accident and a truck accident case?

For several reasons, truck accident cases are more complex than standard car accident claims. First, the injuries are often more severe due to the size and weight of commercial trucks. Second, multiple parties may be liable—including the driver, the trucking company, maintenance providers, or cargo handlers.

Finally, trucking companies are backed by aggressive insurance carriers and legal teams. That’s why it’s critical to work with a Minneapolis truck accident lawyer who understands the unique legal and logistical challenges these cases present.

How long does it take to resolve a truck accident claim in Minneapolis?

Every case is different. Some claims may be settled in months, while others—especially those involving serious injuries or disputes over liability—can take a year or more to resolve. We begin by thoroughly investigating your case, collecting all evidence, and negotiating with insurers. If a fair settlement isn’t possible, we’re always prepared to take your case to trial.

What if the truck driver was an independent contractor? Can I still file a claim?

Yes, you can still pursue a claim. Many truck drivers operate as independent contractors, but that doesn’t necessarily shield the company that hired them from liability. We’ll examine the driver’s relationship with the trucking company, look at their contracts, and determine who can be held responsible. Minnesota law often allows victims to pursue compensation from multiple parties.

Can I sue if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Under Minnesota’s comparative fault law (Minnesota Statutes § 604.01), you can still recover compensation if you were less than 51% at fault. However, your compensation will be reduced by the percentage of your fault. For example, if you’re awarded $100,000 but found 20% at fault, you would receive $80,000. Our role as your truck accident attorney in Minneapolis is to minimize any claims of fault against you.

Will my case go to court?

Not necessarily. Many truck accident cases are settled out of court through negotiations or mediation. However, we always prepare each case as if it will go to trial. That preparation gives us negotiation leverage and ensures we’re ready to fight in court if needed. We’ll guide you through every step and help you make informed decisions based on your goals and what’s best for your future.

If you have more questions, don’t hesitate to contact Irwin Law. We’re here to provide the answers and support you need.

Contact a Minneapolis Truck Accident Lawyer Today

Don’t face the trucking companies and their insurers alone. At Irwin Law, we have the experience, resources, and drive to hold negligent parties accountable and fight for the compensation you deserve. Whether it was a rear-end crash on I-94 or a rollover on Highway 62, our Minneapolis truck accident lawyers are here to help.

Contact us today for a free consultation. Let a trusted truck accident attorney in Minneapolis stand by your side and fight for your future.

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216 Railway St N, Dundas, MN 55019

Mailing Address

P.O. Box 287, Dundas MN 55019