Resources for Victims and Families of Accidents in Minnesota

Accidents in Minnesota, whether on icy highways in Minneapolis, rural roads in greater Minnesota, or at local workplaces, can leave victims and their families reeling. The path to recovery often includes navigating medical care, insurance issues, and legal decisions.

This guide provides key Minnesota accident victim resources to help you take the right steps after a serious injury or fatal accident. Learn where to get medical help, how to obtain a police report, what your rights are, and how to access financial and emotional support.

Help for Injury Victims After Accidents in Minnesota

Whether you were injured in a car crash, a slip and fall, or another type of accident, knowing what to do next can protect your health and your right to compensation.

Medical and Rehabilitation Services

Minnesota has excellent medical facilities for trauma care and recovery:

• Regions Hospital (St. Paul) – Level I trauma center
• Hennepin Healthcare (Minneapolis) – Emergency care and rehabilitation services
• Mayo Clinic (Rochester) – Top-ranked care and advanced physical rehabilitation
• Gillette Children’s (St. Paul) – Pediatric rehabilitation for traumatic injuries

You can find additional public health resources and community clinics through the Minnesota Department of Health at https://www.health.state.mn.us

Understanding Minnesota’s Personal Injury Laws

Minnesota is a no-fault state for car accidents. That means your auto insurance pays for your medical bills and lost wages, regardless of fault, up to your policy’s limit. However, you may be able to sue the at-fault driver if:

• Your medical expenses exceed $4,000
• You suffer a permanent injury or disfigurement
• The accident causes a disability lasting 60+ days

Minnesota uses comparative fault rules. If you are found to be 50% or less at fault, you can still recover compensation, reduced by your percentage of responsibility.

The statute of limitations for most personal injury claims is six years, but it may be shorter in some cases.

Support for Families After Fatal Accidents in Minnesota

If someone you love was killed in a vehicle crash, workplace accident, or other incident, your family may be eligible to file a wrongful death claim and access support services.

Grief Counseling and Emotional Support

Several organizations in Minnesota provide emotional care for grieving families:

• Brighter Days Family Grief Center (Eden Prairie) – Support groups and counseling
• Fairview Bereavement Services – Statewide grief support
• The Compassionate Friends (Twin Cities chapters) – Peer-led grief support for parents and siblings
• Call 988 – Minnesota’s 24/7 mental health and crisis line

Filing a Wrongful Death Claim in Minnesota

Under Minnesota Statutes § 573.02, a wrongful death claim must be brought by a court-appointed trustee on behalf of surviving family members, including:

• Spouses
• Children
• Parents
• Siblings or other next of kin

Damages can include:

• Funeral and burial costs
• Loss of income and support
• Medical expenses
• Pain and suffering of the family

The deadline to file a wrongful death lawsuit is three years from the date of death.

Getting a Police or Crash Report in Minnesota

Accident reports help establish facts and may be needed for insurance or legal claims.

How to Get a Police Report in Minnesota

You can request a crash report through:

• Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS): Order crash reports online at https://dps.mn.gov
• Minnesota State Patrol: For reports involving state highways
• Local Police Departments or Sheriff’s Offices: Contact the agency that responded to your accident

You’ll typically need:

• Date and location of the crash
• Names of the people involved
• A fee (usually $5 to $10)

Reports are usually ready within 7 to 10 business days.

Financial Help and Social Services for Minnesota Accident Victims

Injuries and deaths can lead to unexpected expenses and lost income. Minnesota offers assistance programs to help with healthcare, housing, food, and more.

Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS)

DHS offers:

• Medical Assistance (MinnesotaCare/Medicaid) – Health coverage for low-income individuals
• General Assistance and Emergency Assistance – Financial help with rent, utilities, or daily needs
• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – Grocery benefits
• Disability Services – Help for those with long-term impairments

Visit https://mn.gov/dhs to apply or learn more.

Minnesota Crime Victim Reparations Board

If your injuries were caused by a crime—such as a hit-and-run, DUI, or assault—you may be eligible for help through the Crime Victim Reparations Board.

Eligible expenses include:

• Funeral costs
• Lost income
• Medical bills
• Counseling

Apply at https://dps.mn.gov/divisions/ojp or call (651) 201-7300.

Frequently Asked Questions About Accidents in Minnesota

How long do I have to file a lawsuit?

You generally have six years to file a personal injury claim and three years to file a wrongful death claim. However, consult an attorney promptly to avoid missing important deadlines.

What’s included in accident compensation?

You may be entitled to recover money for:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Funeral costs (in fatal cases)
• Loss of companionship

Can I sue if I was partly at fault?

Yes. As long as you are 50% or less at fault, you may still receive compensation. Your settlement will be reduced based on your share of the blame.

Do I need a police report to file an insurance claim?

Most insurance companies require a crash report. It can also support your legal case by showing who was involved, where the accident happened, and what officers observed.

Should I contact an attorney?

Yes. Even if you’re dealing with insurance alone, an attorney can help you avoid mistakes, ensure proper documentation, and pursue all available compensation.

Call a Minnesota Accident Attorney Today

When an accident leaves you or a loved one injured—or worse—it can be hard to know what to do next. Between insurance claims, medical bills, and the emotional toll, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.

A skilled Minnesota accident lawyer can help you:

• Get your crash or police report
• Understand your rights under no-fault laws
• File a claim or lawsuit within the legal deadline
• Seek fair compensation for your losses

You don’t have to face this alone. Call a Minnesota accident attorney today to get help, answers, and peace of mind as you move forward.