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Car Accident Lawyer Minneapolis MN

Car Accident Lawyer Minneapolis MN

 If you have been injured in a vehicle collision, you may want to get advice from a respectable car accident lawyer Minneapolis MN drivers trust. The lawyers of Johnston | Martineau, PLLP work hard to pursue maximum compensation for victims and their loved ones.  What the lawyers realize, is that when it comes to various cases, it is not only important to have empathy, but they also understand the “why” in the matter as well.  In other words, they understand why compensation is important why workers should get compensation for their tragedies.This is especially true, when it comes to looking for a car accident lawyer, in Minneapolis, MN.  


Who Is Responsible When Someone Is Injured in A Drunk Driving Accident?

Every claim we handle begins with a complimentary consultation with one of our firm’s lawyers. During this time, we listen to what you have to say and may let you know what options you have to move forward. You will also have the opportunity to learn about our legal team, our experience, and our approach. You can ask personal questions and count on an honest, fair, and unbiased answer. To schedule your consultation with a Minneapolis car accident lawyer at Johnston | Martineau, PLLP, please call (651) 269-8463.


What Damages Can I Claim in a Car Accident Lawsuit

If you were involved in a car accident caused by another driver’s negligence, you may be entitled to several types of damages. There are several damages a car accident lawyer Minneapolis MN trusts may help you obtain:

Medical Bills: If you were injured in a car accident, you may be compensated for your doctor’s visits, surgeries and other medical bills. Keep copies of these medical bills in a safe place so that you can show them to the insurance company.

Vehicle Damage: Whether your vehicle endured minor or major damage during the accident, your car accident lawyer in Minneapolis MN could help you get reimbursed for mechanic costs.

Lost Wages: If you were hurt badly during the car accident, you may have had to miss time from work. Those lost wages can add up and you deserve to be compensated for them. If you win your lawsuit with the help of a car accident lawyer Minneapolis MN respects, you might collect lost wages.

Pain and Suffering: Some car accident injuries can leave long-term physical and emotional suffering, as a car accident lawyer Minneapolis MN offers can confirm. If this is the case, you may be entitled to pain and suffering damages.


What Are Common Causes of Car Crashes?

Unfortunately, car accidents occur on a daily basis in the United States. They can cause severe injuries, like concussions, back injuries, and even fatalities. While some of these accident are caused by unsafe road conditions and poor weather, many others are caused by driver error, such as:

Driver Fatigue: A car accident lawyer Minneapolis MN counts on may have represented clients who were in accidents caused by fatigued drivers. Drivers who are running on little sleep may have trouble focusing on the road ahead and collide with other vehicles.

Distracted Driving: When drivers take their focus off the road for any reason, such as texting on a cellphone, they are more likely to cause an accident. To keep everyone on the road safe, drivers should remove all distractions while they are behind the wheel.

Speeding: Not everyone obeys the speed limit. Some drivers may be in a hurry to get somewhere and think that they can get away with going 10 or more miles over the speed limit. Unfortunately, this is a major cause of accidents that a Minneapolis car accident lawyer may see. When drivers drive too fast, they have slower reactions times and can’t slow down as easily when they need to.

Drunk Driving: Drunk driving accidents still occur on a regular basis, as a car accident lawyer Minneapolis MN depends on can attest. When drivers drink too many alcoholic beverages before getting behind the wheel, they have slower reaction times and can’t concentrate on the road very well. Drunk drivers are more likely to crash into other vehicles on the road.

Inexperience behind the wheel: Another reason that car accidents can also happen, is because of drivers that are inexperienced behind the wheel.  While it is required, that everyone gets a drivers license, before being allowed to drive, this does not mean that everyone will have the same experience.  As such, some people are inexperienced on the road, in that while they know the rules of the road, they do not take into consideration, how unpredictable drivers can be. As such, there are those, who are not prepared for other drivers.   


Tips on What to Do After a Car Accident

How will a lawyer know if I have a claim?

As you might already be aware, not all car accidents lead to a viable legal claim. When a car accident lawyer in Minneapolis MN can provide reviews of your case, he or she may examine various factors to determine whether or not it is legally pursuable.

It is impossible for a car accident lawyer Minneapolis MN has to offer to tell if you have a claim without knowing the details of your own unique situation. That said, there are a few general things that can be considered. A car accident lawyer Minneapolis MN families respect may first try to determine who is at fault. Did another driver do something carelessly, such as failing to signal when turning, running a red light, or drive while under the influence? The lawyer might also examine your own contribution to the accident: were you, in any way, careless? Both of these circumstances could be a factor as to whether or not a claim can be filed. Due to their complexities, it’s a good idea to explain the situation to a car accident lawyer in Minneapolis MN.

Once a car accident lawyer Minneapolis MN residents trust has an understanding of who might be at fault, he or she may assess the damages involved. If the damages are minor, pursuing compensation might not be ideal because the costs may outweigh the recovery. On the other hand, if the damages, both physical health or property, are extensive, compensation may be pursued.

Finally, before a lawyer can tell you if you have a claim, he or she may want to focus on the available insurance coverage. If the other driver does not have insurance, or enough coverage, your insurance might cover it. This matter is highly intricate and generally involves a review of the policies in addition to the actual incident.

The decision to continue the process of filing a legal claim is ultimately made by you and your loved ones. What’s most important is that you work with an experienced Minneapolis car accident lawyer you can trust, such as one from Johnston | Martineau, PLLP. 


Learn about How to Choose a Car Accident Lawyer

How to find the best car accident lawyer in Minneapolis MN?

Getting into a car accident can create many more problems than being late to a work meeting or needing to get your car repainted. It can add extreme stress to your life as you question who was at fault for the accident, how you will pay for your medical bills, how you will pay for the damage to your car, and even how you can receive compensation for the pain and suffering you have endured. While all of these questions can seem overwhelming as you begin the road to recovery, finding out who the best car accident lawyer in Minneapolis, MN is can be extremely beneficial when you go to make your claim. Arguing with someone else’s insurance will likely only make your healing take more time and add even more stress to your life, so having an attorney on your side who can negotiate for you on your behalf can alleviate your burdens. For more information on who the best car accident lawyer in Minneapolis, MN is and how they can help you, contact the law firm of Johnston Martineau PLLP today.


Why is it important to find the best car accident lawyer in Minneapolis MN?

The reason why it is important to find the best car accident lawyer, in Minneapolis, MN ,is because various lawyers differ, based on the kind of experience and help that they can offer.  As such, finding the best car accident lawyer, would help build up credibility, that would aid in addressing why someone may need compensation for a car accident.  For example; as mentioned earlier, when it comes to car accidents, sometimes they happen, because drivers are not as experienced on the road as they should be. However, those who caused the accident are still responsible.  As such, compensation is still deserved. Moreover, what the best accident lawyer would assist in doing, is determine how much compensation should be, based on the damage that was done, from the car accident (whether that’s minor or major damage to the car, injuries that the driver suffered, etc).   


How can the best car accident lawyer in Minneapolis help my case?

When you have a professional on your side who understands the laws behind negligence and car accidents, you know you have someone on your team who will aggressively argue on your behalf to get you the compensation you deserve. Your attorney will make sure you what the statute of limitations are when it comes to filing your claim so you do not lose out on any possible portion of compensation.

Additionally, your attorney can advise you when it is best to file a lawsuit—if one is necessary at all. When this happens, your attorney can represent you in court and can also help you get a fair settlement instead of needing to go to trial.


Negotiating with the Insurance Company

Most people are not experienced negotiators when it comes to getting the compensation they deserve through an insurance company. Insurance agents, on the other hand, do this every day and know how to make a low-ball offer sound sweeter than it actually is. Instead of settling for an offer that will not cover your expenses, hire a lawyer in Minneapolis, MN who can point you in the right direction and tell you when you would not get fair compensation. Your attorney can gather the necessary evidence for your claim, including items like:

  1. Witness Statements
  2. Police Reports
  3. Medical Bills


How Do I Pay My Medical Bills After a Car Accident?

Car accidents equal medical bills. Not only do you have to deal with the stress of finding a new mode of transportation, you also have to find a way to pay for expensive doctor visits. If you were involved in a car wreck but do not know how your medical bills will be paid, there are a few things to be considered. If the accident was another driver’s fault, that driver’s insurance may be responsible for your injuries. If you were responsible for the accident, you may have to use your own private insurance or make payment arrangements with the hospital.


At-Fault Party’s Insurance

If the car wreck was caused by a negligent driver, you may be entitled for compensation for your medical bills through the at-fault party’s insurance. Therefore, it is essential to keep accurate records of each visit and the out of pocket cost you encountered. Even if you have to pay the initial balance up front, your lawyer can help you fight to receive the money back from each of your medical visits related to the accident.


Private Insurance

If the accident was your fault or the courts deem that the other party’s insurance does not have to pay your medical expenses, your primary insurance will come into effect. With most private insurance plans, you meet a deductible or out of pocket maximum, and your insurance company covers the remainder. It is important that you have all of your insurance records on file with the hospital to ensure timely filing and payment.


Hospital Payment Plans

If you are not covered by your own insurance and find that you must pay your medical bills yourself, you can try to reach a payment arrangement with the hospital. Many hospitals offer a percentage-off discount if you pay for your entire balance at one time; you may also be able to work out a monthly payment plan with the hospital’s financial coordinators.

Going through a pile of medical bills after an accident can be overwhelming, especially if you suffered serious injuries that required costly treatment. However, insurance companies can often help with some of the expense, and if not, you can ask for payment plan options. If you are concerned about how to cover your medical expenses after a wreck, speak with your car accident attorney to see what your rights are for receiving compensation. You should not have to put off receiving the care you need because of financial burdens, and your lawyer may be able to help your find a way to receive help with your medical payments.

Seven Questions To Ask Before Hiring a Car Accident Lawyer

What Should I Do After My Auto Accident?

If it’s safe to do so, take pictures of the scene. Take photos of your car, the other party’s car, any skid marks, street signs and anything that might have contributed to the accident such as debris in the road.

Should I Pursue the Case?

This is an important question to ask of your car accident lawyer in Minneapolis MN, from Johnston Martineau PLLP. Your attorney should have sufficient experience in car accident cases to determine the strength of your case, and can advise you on whether or not you should move forward with it.

How Is Fault Determined in a Car Crash?

Evidence and witness statements will be used to determine fault in a car accident. In Minnesota, fault doesn’t always matter in car accident cases. Every driver is required to carry no-fault insurance coverage — $20,000 in medical and $20,000 in non-medical costs. Even though the no-fault rule applies to all car accidents, if you have any of the circumstances listed below, you may be able to bring a claim against the other party:

  • More than $4,000 in medical costs
  • A permanent injury
  • Scarring or disfigurement
  • 60+ days of disability

What Should I Do To Protect My Car Accident Case?

Most people believe that once they’ve hired a car accident lawyer in Minneapolis MN, from Johnston Martineau PLLP, all they have to do is sit back, relax and wait for the check to appear. That’s far from the truth. In reality, you may need to talk to investigators, see more doctors and stay involved in your case until its conclusion.

What Deadlines Do I Need To Meet?

The most important deadline is the statute of limitations; you only have two years from the date of injury to file a personal injury claim in a car accident case. Your car accident lawyer in Minneapolis MN will have other deadlines for you to meet throughout your case.

What Information Do I Need To Provide?

The short answer is, everything. Photos, names and contact information of witnesses, medical bills, police reports and anything else you think may help your case. Your car accident lawyer in Minneapolis MN, may have a checklist of what information they want.

What Damages Can I Recover?

Generally speaking, you can recover economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages are those with concrete numbers attached: lost wages, medical bills, future lost wages and future medical costs. Non-economic damages can include pain and suffering or loss of enjoyment of life.


Your Attorney Will Be Your Best Advocate

Many times, insurance companies know that a person does not have the legal knowledge or insurance knowledge when it comes to arguing for a fair settlement. Your attorney, however, can be your best advocate against an insurance company and your best advocate if you need to go to court. When it comes to getting the compensation you deserve after an accident, you should never have to settle for partial compensation while you are stuck footing the rest of the bill. Instead, go with the best car accident lawyer in Minneapolis, MN to represent you after you were the victim in a car accident.


Your First Consultation Is Free

Even if you are not completely sure about having a legal claim, you risk nothing but a little bit of your time because your first consultation is free. If you would like to know more about your options, please call Johnston | Martineau, PLLP at (651) 269-8463 to speak with a car accident lawyer Minneapolis MN residents count on.


Common Car Accident Injuries

Car accidents occur every day in Minnesota and can result in a wide range of injuries. Some injuries are fairly minor while others are life-threatening. Here are the most common car accident injuries people can endure:

Traumatic brain injuries. As a car accident lawyer in Minneapolis MN can confirm, traumatic brain injuries are one of the most severe types of injuries that can result from car accidents. They can occur when there is a bump, jolt or blow to the head during a vehicle crash. Initial signs of traumatic brain injuries include loss of consciousness, nausea, headaches, dizziness and blurred vision. While mild traumatic brain injuries may just require rest, more severe injuries may require surgery or occupational therapy.

Burns. Car accidents victims can suffer burns if the vehicle comes in contact with hot fluids or chemicals during the collision. Burns are very painful and can even cause disfigurement. Severe burns may likely require surgery and skin grafting.

Broken bones. It is also possible to suffer broken bones in your legs, arms, wrists, ankles and other body parts. Broken bones might not be life-threatening, but they cause extreme pain. If you break a bone in more than one spot, you may need to have surgery, which may take a while to recover from.

Whiplash. Whiplash is a neck injury that can occur if your head jolts back and forth suddenly during a vehicle crash. Symptoms include neck pain and stiffness, headaches, tingling in the arms and dizziness. However, these symptoms might not appear for several days. It is still important to seek medical attention promptly to avoid further complications.

Cuts and lacerations. During a car accident, broken glass, sheet metal and other objects can hit your skin, resulting in cuts and lacerations. These injuries can be quite painful and even cause scarring.

Knee injuries. The impact of a car accident may force you to hit your knees against the dashboard, causing injury. You may feel sudden pain, swelling and even a popping sound. Common treatments for knee injuries include crutches, physical therapy and surgery.

Post-traumatic stress disorder. Not everyone considers the psychological injuries that car accidents can cause. Some car accidents can suffer post-traumatic stress disorder, which can lead to nightmares, anxiety, depression and flashbacks. Cognitive behavioral therapy is a common method to treat this disorder.


Common Myths About Car Accidents

A car accident can be one of the most traumatic events of your life. You may be left with serious injuries and you might worry about how you’ll pay the medical expenses. There are many myths about vehicle accidents that can cause you even more confusion. Here are a few common myths about car accidents that you shouldn’t believe.

If you feel fine after the car accident, you don’t need medical care. It’s not uncommon for people to feel relatively okay following a car accident. However, that doesn’t mean that immediate medical care isn’t necessary. The adrenaline you experience after an accident can mask pain. Even if you don’t feel pain right away, it could appear days or weeks after the accident. To prevent your injuries from getting worse, see a doctor right away. He or she will give you a proper diagnosis and recommend the appropriate treatment.

All drivers carry insurance. The state of Minnesota requires all motorists to carry adequate car insurance. However, not all drivers abide by this law. If you get into a vehicle collision with an uninsured driver and don’t carry uninsured motorists coverage, it may be more difficult to obtain compensation.

Any lawyer can handle your case. If you’ve suffered injuries in a car accident caused by another driver, it’s important to have a lawyer on your side. However, you shouldn’t just hire any lawyer. An experienced car accident lawyer in Minneapolis, MN will be more equipped to handle your case than one who primarily deals with divorce or estate cases. He or she will have knowledge about the laws on car accidents in your state and improve your chance of obtaining a fair settlement.

You can file a lawsuit at any time. One of the biggest mistakes car accidents victims make is waiting too long to pursue a lawsuit. If your goal is to obtain compensation for your injuries, you can’t wait too long to pursue legal action. In Minnesota, the statute of limitations to file a car accident lawsuit is two years. Once that deadline is up, you no longer have the right to pursue compensation.

Car accident lawyers are too expensive. Unfortunately, some people who are hurt in car accidents don’t hire lawyers because they assume they can’t afford the legal fees. However, the majority of these lawyers work on a contingency fee, meaning they take a percentage of their client’s settlement. If you hire a car accident lawyer, you don’t have to worry about paying any money upfront.


Benefits of Seeking Legal Counsel After a Car Accident

If you’ve been in a car accident, you know how devastating it can be to your finances, your mental health and your physical well-being. A car accident lawyer in Minneapolis, MN, may be able to help you navigate complicated processes, especially if you’ve been injured. Contact Johnston Martineau PLLP any time of day to request a free case review and find out how an experienced lawyer can help your case.


Navigating Confusing Insurance Claims

Dealing with insurance companies on your best day is frustrating, let alone after you’ve been injured in a car accident. Experienced lawyers typically have working relationships with insurers and fully understand how to file a claim to benefit their clients fully. A car accident lawyer in Minneapolis, MN, can aim to expedite your claims by explaining the process to you and speaking with insurance companies directly.


Seeking Compensation for Damages

Damages can come in several forms, whether that means the cost of repairs to your automobile, lost wages due to medical recovery or financial compensation for the physical and emotional trauma involved. Capable lawyers can advise you on the types of compensation you may be eligible for and will fight for you to get the highest restitution possible.


Helping With Medical Bills, Present and Future

Sometimes when it comes to car accidents, people tend to forget to take into consideration, how quickly bills and expenses can escalate. In other words, being injured after a car accident is scary and the medical bills can pile up quickly. As such, it is advisable to seek out a car accident lawyer in Minneapolis, MN, who can not only assist in submitting medical claims to insurance companies but also help you estimate any future medical expenses that may arise. Moreover, sometimes various medical expenses may covered, based on various factors, that focus on who was more responsible for the accident happening, how severe injuries were, whether someone can afford to pay for expenses and whether a payment plan can be set in place, etc.  


Arguing Who Is At Fault

Sometimes after an accident, either it is difficult to figure out who was at fault or other parties may disagree with the decision. Lawyers are well-versed in how to investigate fault after an accident and can fight to make sure the facts are upheld. Insurance companies are not always willing to pay out on claims, but a lawyer can help stand up for their clients in these situations.


Recommending Medical Specialists for Injuries

When you are injured after a collision, you may not know who to turn to. A car accident lawyer in Minneapolis, MN, may have recommendations for medical specialists who can help you. A lawyer in this area is familiar with many aspects of car accidents and can make sure you get the care you need.


Fighting Your Case in Court

Should you end up in court after you are injured in a car accident, you will want to have a competent and assertive lawyer on your side. While most accidents will not result in a court case, it may happen if there is disagreement on who is at fault or there were significant damages or injuries.

Being injured in a car accident is a life-altering experience, so contacting a car accident lawyer in Minneapolis, MN, at Johnston Martineau PLLP may be the right step for you. Whether you just need advice or your case ends up in court, the professionals

toy cars in accident with gavel and lawyer in the backgroundWhen you have been involved in a car accident, one of the first things you should do is enlist the services of a car accident lawyer in Minneapolis, MN. Having a lawyer that can fight for you is very crucial and can help ensure that you receive the necessary compensation and justice you deserve. When it comes to compensation for car accidents, what first comes to mind is receiving compensation both for the damages of your vehicle as well as any medical bills. However, a proper car accident lawyer will not only make sure you receive compensation for medical and property damages but can also help you in other areas as well including lost wages and compensation for pain and suffering. 

Unfortunately, many times insurance companies will try to settle with the least amount of funds as possible which is why having a lawyer on your side is pivotal. Coupled with the laborious process of filing the claim, going to court, settling the case, etc. you will want a lawyer on your side. However, you want to make sure you get the right lawyer which you can read on to learn more about what kind of lawyer you should be looking for. 

What Qualities Should a Car Accident Lawyer Have?

There are certain qualities that a car accident lawyer should possess before you decide they are the right fit for you and your needs. Regardless of the severity of the accident you want to make sure that the lawyer is able to help you optimize the compensation you deserve. Here as some qualities that a car accident lawyer in Minneapolis, MN should possess. 

Comprehensive Years of Experience

Although car accidents generally fall under personal injury cases, it’s best to enlist the help of a lawyer who specializes in car accidents. Doing so will ensure that they’re the right candidate for the job. A car accident lawyer will know the laws and what they entail and enlisting their services will ensure that you not only receive a court award/final settlement but that the compensation accurately reflects the situation. 

A Great Track Record

You will want a lawyer with a comprehensive track record who has won many cases before. Additionally, you will want a lawyer with a great ethical record, i.e. a lawyer who hasn’t been charged with malpractice or been sanctioned by the State Bar. 

A Willingness to Fight

Most of the time when it comes to car accidents the defendant, your, or their insurance company will try to settle before going to court. However, in addition to the party not always being willing to admit fault, there is also the possibility they will try to offer inadequate compensation. While it might seem easier to accept the first settlement that comes along, you want a lawyer who is confident in their ability and possesses a willingness to fight to make sure you receive the best settlement possible. 

What Happens During a Car Accident Trial

When Do Car Accident Cases Go To Trial?

If you, your car accident lawyer in Minneapolis, MN, from Johnston Martineau PLLP, and the insurance company can’t reach a settlement, your case may go to trial. The trial is often time-consuming, lasting up to three months, so many people try to avoid taking a case this far. The reality is that a car accident trial is rare, but it still helps to be prepared just in case.

What Is the Trial Process?

There is a specific process that you must follow in order for you and your car accident lawyer in Minneapolis, MN, to take your case to court. First, you must file a complaint and send it to the defendant, who then must respond to your complaint within a specific amount of time. Next is the discovery period. During this time, both sides analyze the evidence presented about the accident. Once this is complete, the trial takes place. If someone is unsatisfied with the judge’s ruling, an appeal may take place as well. 

What Happens During the Trial?

The first step of a car accident trial is to select the jury and choose a trial date. Finding a panel of jurors without any potential bias happens first. Once they’re chosen, the judge will set the trial date. While you wait for the trial date, Johnston Martineau PLLP’s car accident lawyer in Minneapolis, MN, will gather evidence and witness testimonies to present.

The day of the trial will begin with opening statements, then your lawyer and the insurance company’s lawyer will present their cases. During this time, evidence will be presented as well. Expect to see photographs or videos, your medical records and bills, vehicle repair bills, and any other evidence. After it is presented, each side will give closing statements that summarize why they think the other side is at fault.

The jury will then deliberate your case to decide who they think is at fault. This can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days. Once they reach a verdict, the judge will read it to both parties. If it is important to keep in mind that you don’t receive money on the same day if you win your case. The opposing side usually has up to 30 days to send a check. The check then goes to your lawyer who takes his or her agreed-upon payment. Then, he or she will send the rest of the money to your bank account.

These are just some of the qualities a good car accident lawyer in Minneapolis, MN should possess. If you have any questions you can reach out to the team at JM Legal today!

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