Minnesota Truck Accident Laws

Minnesota truck accident laws regulate how legal claims are handled when accidents involve large commercial vehicles. Due to the serious nature of truck accidents, these laws are essential in determining liability, compensation, and legal processes. An attorney understands the unique legal considerations that come with truck accident claims in Minnesota, and are dedicated to guiding clients through the legal process.

Liability In Minnesota Truck Accidents

Minnesota operates under a no-fault insurance system, which means that after most accidents, drivers first turn to their own insurance policies to cover medical expenses, regardless of who was at fault. However, when truck accidents result in significant injuries or damages, the no-fault system may no longer apply, and claims can be filed against the at-fault party. In these cases, Minnesota truck accident laws will play a central role in determining who is responsible.

The trucking industry is heavily regulated, both at the federal and state levels, and violations of these regulations can influence liability. For example, if a truck driver violates hours-of-service rules or fails to perform regular vehicle inspections, those violations could be factors in assigning fault. Minnesota truck accident laws also consider other aspects, such as whether the truck driver was employed by a company or an independent contractor, which may impact the liability of trucking companies as well.

Contributory Negligence And Comparative Fault

Minnesota’s truck accident laws cover a range of regulations that impact truck drivers, companies, and accident victims. Key provisions from the Minnesota Motor Vehicle Code govern truck operation, such as hours of service, weight limits, and insurance requirements. Truck accident victims may use violations of these rules as evidence of negligence. Minnesota also enforces strict distracted driving laws and impaired driving penalties, especially for commercial drivers. In personal injury claims, Minnesota follows a modified comparative fault system, allowing victims to recover damages if they are less than 51% responsible for the accident. There are no caps on pain and suffering damages, and victims have up to six years to file a lawsuit.

For more information, visit the Minnesota Department of Transportation.

Time Limits For Filing A Truck Accident Claim

Minnesota truck accident laws impose a statute of limitations, which limits the time you have to file a lawsuit. For most personal injury claims, including those involving truck accidents, the statute of limitations is six years. This means that you have six years from the date of the accident to initiate legal proceedings. If the claim is not filed within this time frame, you could lose the right to pursue compensation. However, there are specific exceptions, such as wrongful death claims, which may have different time limits.

Compensation Available In Truck Accident Cases

The compensation available in Minnesota truck accident cases typically covers a range of damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. In cases involving catastrophic injuries, such as spinal cord damage or traumatic brain injuries, the compensation may be significantly higher. Trucking companies and their insurance providers often attempt to minimize payouts, which is why it is essential to be aware of your rights under Minnesota truck accident laws.

Taking Legal Action

If you’ve been involved in a truck accident in Minnesota, it is important to act quickly to protect your rights. The complexity of truck accident cases, combined with the unique aspects of Minnesota truck accident laws, can make it challenging to navigate the legal process alone. At Truck Law, we are here to help you pursue the compensation you deserve. With the statute of limitations in mind, we encourage you to contact us today to discuss your case and take the necessary steps to move forward.