Even if you’ve lived in one state all your life, drivers have probably experienced the confusion that can be no-fault vs. at-fault states when traveling. For Minnesota drivers, they should know which law their state follows and what that means in the event of a collision.

What is a no-fault state?

A no-fault state means that in the event of a collision, a driver’s own insurance will cover their damage and injuries regardless of who caused the crash. Essentially, both drivers will make a claim with their insurance. States that do not have this law will require the driver deemed at fault to make a claim with their insurance.

What does that mean for Minnesota drivers?

As a no-fault state, Minnesota requires drivers to have Personal Injury Protection (PIP) on their insurance policy. That coverage will take care of medical costs resulting after the crash. According to the Minnesota Department of Safety, the state established their no-fault law to “help ease the burden of courts and to ensure prompt treatment for accident victims.” However, certain instances could still result in a driver getting sued. For example, if the medical expenses are higher than the PIP limit on your insurance, you can make a claim against the other driver if they are ruled to be liable for the accident.

Generally, a Minnesota driver’s policy takes care of it. Unless those damages or medical expenses become high enough to sue the other liable driver, most of the aftermath will be covered by your own insurance.

How does this affect auto insurance claims?

In general, it makes the exchange a little easier as you’re communicating with your own insurance instead of yours and the other driver’s. Each driver should begin a claim after the collision and have information ready such as:

  • Photos of the scene and your vehicle.
  • The police report number.
  • Contact information from the other driver.
  • The other driver’s insurance policy number and make/model of the car.
  • The location of the accident.
  • The state of the roads and weather at the time.
  • Any other information about the accident.

In case a need to sue does occur, it’s important to have this information.

Overall, the collision center you choose should help when communicating with the insurance on estimates and repairs. Superior Collision Center works with your insurance when you come in for auto body repair after a collision. We have a location in Eagan, MN and can help with all your auto body needs.