Minnesota law
Personal Injury Laws in Minnesota.
Minnesota follows a modified comparative fault system with a 51% bar, meaning you can recover damages if you are 50% or less at fault. Minnesota is also a no-fault auto insurance state, which affects when you can sue after a car accident. The general statute of limitations for personal injury is 6 years — longer than most states.
Last verified: 2025-02-24
State law
Statute of Limitations
Personal injury claims must be filed within 6 years of the date of injury. This is one of the longest limitation periods in the country.
Exceptions
When an injury could not reasonably have been discovered at the time it occurred, the statute begins running from the date the injury was or should have been discovered.
The statute of limitations does not begin running until a minor reaches age 18.
Claims against healthcare providers must be filed within 4 years of the act or omission, regardless of when the injury was discovered.
Wrongful death actions must be commenced within 3 years after the date of death.
State law
Fault & Liability Rules
You can recover damages as long as your fault does not exceed that of the other party. Your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault. If you are 51% or more at fault, you recover nothing.
State law
Damage Caps
Minnesota does not impose a statutory cap on compensatory damages in personal injury cases.
Punitive damages require clear and convincing evidence of deliberate disregard for the rights or safety of others. While there is no fixed cap, awards must be proportional to the conduct.
State law
Auto Insurance System
Minnesota is a no-fault auto insurance state. Your own insurance pays medical expenses and wage loss benefits regardless of who caused the accident. You can only sue the at-fault driver if you meet the tort threshold.
Tort Threshold
$4,000 in medical expenses, or permanent injury, permanent disfigurement, or 60+ days of disability
State law
Filing Requirements
Civil filing fee for district court as of 2024.
Cases are generally filed in the county where the cause of action arose or where any defendant resides.
State law
Key Minnesota Statutes
Defendants who are 50% or more at fault are jointly and severally liable for economic damages. Defendants below 50% fault are liable only for their proportional share.
After a verdict, the defendant may petition the court to reduce the award by amounts the plaintiff received from collateral sources like health insurance, minus any premiums paid.
A trustee appointed by the court may bring an action for wrongful death on behalf of the next of kin within 3 years of the date of death.
A person injured by an intoxicated individual may sue the bar, restaurant, or liquor store that illegally sold alcohol to that person.
State law
Official Sources
Not Legal Advice
This page summarizes publicly available statutes and rules for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice, and no attorney-client relationship is created by viewing this content. Laws change — always verify with the primary source or consult a licensed attorney in Minnesota.
Minnesota
County-by-County Personal Injury Guides
View courthouse information, legal aid organizations, and local resources for personal injury cases in specific Minnesota counties.
Browse Minnesota county guidesMore in Minnesota
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