{"id":374217,"date":"2017-10-05T14:29:31","date_gmt":"2017-10-05T19:29:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/content.findlaw-admin.com\/ability-law\/state\/minnesota-law\/minnesota-car-accident-report-basics.html"},"modified":"2024-06-01T19:24:32","modified_gmt":"2024-06-02T00:24:32","slug":"minnesota-car-accident-report-basics","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/state\/minnesota-law\/minnesota-car-accident-report-basics.html","title":{"rendered":"Minnesota Car Accident Report Basics"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
\n \n
\n

Minnesota Car Accident Report Basics<\/h1>\n
\n
\n By Christie Nicholson, J.D.<\/a> | Legally reviewed by Katrina Wilson, Esq.<\/a>\n | Last updated\n
\n \n <\/i>\n Legally Reviewed\n <\/summary>\n\n
\n

This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by FindLaw\u2019s team of legal writers and attorneys<\/a> and in accordance with our editorial standards<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n\n

\n \n <\/i>\n Fact-Checked\n <\/summary>\n\n
\n

The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our contributing authors<\/a>. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please contact an attorney in your area<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n<\/section>\n

If you live in certain parts of Minnesota, such as Minneapolis, you know how bad traffic can be on a busy morning. No matter where in the state you\u2019re traveling, there\u2019s a chance you\u2019ll be in a motor vehicle accident.<\/p>\r\n

Unfortunately, many people are unaware of Minnesota\u2019s car accident reporting laws. If you don\u2019t report your car crash, you may face fines, jail time, and a suspension of your driver\u2019s license. <\/p>\r\n

Here, we\u2019ll explain what the crash reporting requirements are in Minnesota. We\u2019ll also discuss how you can report your auto accident. Finally, we\u2019ll explain why it\u2019s crucial that you contact the police immediately after your collision.<\/p>\r\n

If you still have questions about your traffic accident, contact an experienced Minnesota car accident lawyer. <\/p>\r\n

You No Longer Need to File an Accident Report in Minnesota <\/b><\/h2>\r\n

Most states require their motorists to report motor vehicle accidents. This used to be the case in Minnesota. However, as of 2021, you no longer need to file a Minnesota Motor Vehicle Accident Report<\/a>, crash report, or state accident report in Minnesota. <\/p>\r\n

The legislature repealed Minnesota statute section 169.09, subd. 7<\/a>, on July 1, 2021. Under the current laws, the police officer who investigates the crash must prepare an incident report. <\/p>\r\n

Once law enforcement completes its police report<\/a>, you can request a copy. Your personal injury lawyer will need a copy of this report to prove your case.<\/p>\r\n

Note:<\/b><\/i> State laws are subject to change through new legislation, higher court rulings, ballot initiatives, and other means. While we strive to provide the most current information, seek legal advice or conduct legal research to verify your state laws.<\/i><\/p>\r\n

Steps To Take After Your Minnesota Car Accident<\/b><\/h2>\r\n

Ideally, when you file your accident claim against the at-fault driver\u2019s insurance policy, the adjuster will pay your claim. However, this isn\u2019t always the case. If the insurance adjuster denies your claim, you may have to file a personal injury lawsuit<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n

You must take specific steps to preserve evidence related to your crash. Your attorney will need this evidence to prove the other driver was negligent. This is especially true if you suffer permanent injuries such as disfigurement, spinal cord injuries, or a traumatic brain injury.<\/p>\r\n

The best way to preserve your case is to take the following steps immediately after your car crash:<\/p>\r\n