Minnesota is a no-fault automobile state. This means that when you are in a collision there are basic benefits of medical bills, wage loss, medical mileage and replacement services that will be covered by your own car insurance policy. The no-fault benefits goes back to a deal from the 1970s where insurance companies got tort thresholds (items proving a severe enough injury to bring a personal injury claim) in return for guaranteeing that they would provide no-fault coverage. Using your no-fault benefits does not raise your insurance rates and should be a relatively easy and fast system.
A 30 year old man with no prior injuries is sent to a doctor of the insurance company’s choosing. That doctor concludes that he is hurt, but then gives a treatment plan on who he should see and limits the number of visits. The man’s insurance company then uses this report and misstates Minnesota law as to what they will pay for. The man comes to us and we confirm with the insurance company that Minnesota is not a managed care no-fault state. Consequently, the conclusion that the man is hurt allows him to choose his medical provider. The insurance company denies his bills and an arbitration is commenced. All medical bills are awarded, along with costs and interest. At the hearing, the defense attorney concedes a misstatement of the law.
If you are in a motor vehicle collision in Minnesota, you need to notify your insurance agent in order to start the no-fault process. If you have questions, you should talk to an attorney who is experienced in handling these types of injuries.
A founding partner with Bradshaw & Bryant, Mike Bryant has always fought to find justice for his clients—knowing that legal troubles, both personal injury and criminal, can be devastating for a family. Voted a Top 40 Personal Injury "Super Lawyer" multiple years, Mr. Bryant has also been voted one of the Top 100 Minnesota "Super Lawyers" four times.
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