Minnesota Car Accident Report Basics

No matter how careful you are, you may still get into a motor vehicle accident. And as the population grows in the state of Minnesota in many urban areas, such as Minneapolis, St. Paul, and Duluth, so do your chances of being involved in an auto accident with another motorist.

Filing a Report in Minnesota No Longer Required

You no longer have to file a Minnesota Motor Vehicle Accident Report, crash report form, incident report, or state accident report of any form in Minnesota. The statute that used to require one, Minnesota statute section 169.09, subd. 7, was repealed effective July 1, 2021. The police officer who is called to the scene will prepare a police report once their investigation is concluded. You can obtain a copy with the case number.

Note: State laws are always subject to change through the passage of new legislation, rulings in the higher courts (including federal decisions), ballot initiatives, and other means. While we strive to provide the most current information available, please consult an attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.

What To Do After an Accident To Preserve Evidence

Knowing what to do at the scene of an accident can take away some of the stress and uncertainty. Here are some tips:

• Stop your vehicle if it is still running
• Don't leave the scene. Leaving the traffic crash scene could be considered a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the extent of any personal injuries or fatalities.
• Get to safety out of traffic and check everyone involved in the car crash for injuries (and consider providing first aid to any car accident victims)
• Call 911 or law enforcement (the Minnesota State Patrol or, if you're in town, the local police department) for help and medical assistance
• Collect contact information (including the driver's license number and the vehicle's license plate number) and driver's insurance information from the people who were driving any vehicles involved in the accident
• Take pictures of the scene (including any speed limit signs) and get the contact information of any witnesses
• Call your insurance claims agent and notify them of a possible car accident claim
• Get checked out by a doctor
• Do not speak about the accident to anyone other than the police, medical professionals, and your own insurance company
• Do not sign anything

Want on-demand legal guidance when an accident happens? The award-winning TurnSignl app has launched in Minnesota! If you have already been in an accident and need a lawyer, you can find one through our car accident attorney directory.

Get Legal Help With Your Minnesota Car Accident Report Questions

If you've suffered a personal injury after a car accident and cannot perform your duties at home or at work, then you should consult with an experienced car accident attorney about representing your interests. Many personal injury attorneys provide a free consultation.