Part 19: What to Do in a Crash

What to Do in a Crash in Minnesota: A Step-by-Step Guide

Car crashes are stressful and often unexpected, but knowing what to do after an accident can make a significant difference in ensuring your safety, protecting your rights, and complying with Minnesota law. Whether it’s a minor fender bender or a more serious collision, staying calm and following the correct steps is crucial.

In this blog, we’ll guide you through what to do if you’re involved in a crash in Minnesota, including legal requirements, safety tips, and advice for handling insurance claims.

Step 1: Prioritize Safety

  1. Stop Your Vehicle
    • Minnesota law requires all drivers involved in a crash to stop immediately. Failing to do so can result in serious legal consequences, including hit-and-run charges.
  2. Assess Injuries
    • Check yourself, your passengers, and others involved for injuries.
    • Call 911 immediately if there are injuries, fatalities, or significant property damage.
  3. Move to a Safe Location
    • If possible, move your vehicle to the side of the road to prevent further accidents.
    • Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.

Step 2: Call 911

Minnesota law requires you to report accidents involving:

  • Injuries or fatalities.
  • Property damage exceeding $1,000.
  • Collisions with unattended vehicles or objects.

When calling 911, provide:

  • Your location (use landmarks or mile markers if necessary).
  • Details about the crash, including injuries and hazards (e.g., spilled fuel, blocked lanes).

Step 3: Exchange Information

After ensuring everyone is safe, exchange the following information with the other driver(s):

  • Full Name and Contact Information: For future communication.
  • Driver’s License Number: Verify identification.
  • License Plate Number: Record all involved vehicles.
  • Insurance Information: Include the company name, policy number, and contact information.

If the crash involves a parked or unattended vehicle, leave a note with your contact information and a brief description of the incident.

Step 4: Document the Scene

Gather as much evidence as possible to support your case with insurance or law enforcement:

  1. Take Photos
    • Capture damage to all vehicles, license plates, and the overall scene, including skid marks, traffic signs, or road conditions.
  2. Write Notes
    • Record details about the crash, such as time, location, weather, and traffic conditions.
  3. Collect Witness Information
    • If there are witnesses, ask for their names and contact details.

Step 5: Notify Law Enforcement

For crashes requiring a police report, wait for law enforcement to arrive. When they do:

  • Provide factual details about what happened.
  • Avoid admitting fault or making assumptions about the cause of the crash.

Request a copy of the accident report for your records and insurance claim.

Step 6: File an Insurance Claim

  1. Contact Your Insurance Company
    • Notify your insurer as soon as possible after the crash.
    • Provide them with all necessary details and documentation.
  2. Minnesota’s No-Fault Insurance System
    • Minnesota follows a no-fault system, meaning your insurance will cover medical expenses and certain other costs regardless of who was at fault.
    • For property damage or more severe injuries, liability may be pursued through the at-fault driver’s insurance.

Step 7: Seek Medical Attention

Even if you feel fine, it’s important to get checked by a healthcare professional. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal injuries, may not show symptoms immediately.

Legal Requirements After a Crash

Failing to comply with Minnesota’s legal requirements can lead to fines, license suspension, or even criminal charges. Ensure you:

  • Stop your vehicle.
  • Provide aid to anyone injured.
  • Report the crash if required.
  • Exchange accurate and complete information.

What Not to Do After a Crash

  1. Do Not Leave the Scene
    • Leaving the scene of an accident is illegal and could result in hit-and-run charges.
  2. Do Not Admit Fault
    • Avoid statements like “I’m sorry” or “It was my fault.” Let the insurance companies and law enforcement determine liability.
  3. Do Not Delay Reporting
    • Failing to report the crash promptly could complicate insurance claims and legal processes.

Tips for Staying Prepared

  1. Carry Emergency Supplies
    • Keep a first aid kit, flashlight, and warning triangles in your car.
  2. Save Important Contacts
    • Store your insurance company’s contact information and a roadside assistance number in your phone.
  3. Know Your Coverage
    • Understand your insurance policy, including coverage limits and deductible amounts.

Conclusion

Being involved in a car crash is never easy, but knowing what to do can make a stressful situation more manageable. By following Minnesota’s laws and these practical steps, you can ensure your safety, protect your rights, and navigate the aftermath with confidence.

Stay calm, stay safe, and remember: preparation is key to handling the unexpected on the road.