What to Do After a Minneapolis Hit-and-Run Crash Today

1) Prioritize safety and call 911

Move to a safe location if you can do so safely, turn on hazard lights, and call 911 to report the crash and request medical help. Reporting ensures police are dispatched, creates an official record, and may increase the chances of locating the fleeing driver.

2) Do not chase the fleeing vehicle

Pursuing a hit-and-run driver can be dangerous and may complicate the investigation. Provide dispatch with any details you observed—direction of travel, vehicle make/model, color, distinctive damage, partial plate, or driver description—without leaving the scene.

3) Stay at the scene and comply with Minnesota’s reporting rules

Remain at the scene and cooperate with law enforcement. Minnesota law requires drivers involved in crashes to stop, provide identifying information, and render reasonable assistance when able. Leaving the scene can result in criminal penalties. See Minn. Stat. § 169.09.

4) Document evidence immediately

Take wide and close photos of vehicle damage, debris, skid marks, street signs, traffic signals, weather and lighting conditions, and any visible injuries. Note the exact time and location. Ask nearby businesses or homeowners about exterior cameras. Preserve dashcam footage if available.

5) Identify and speak with witnesses

Politely request names, phone numbers, and brief statements from anyone who saw the crash or the fleeing vehicle. Witness accounts captured early often carry more weight and can support both the police investigation and an insurance claim.

6) Seek prompt medical evaluation

Even if you feel okay, get checked by a medical professional as soon as possible. Some injuries appear hours or days later. Medical records created close in time to the crash can connect your injuries to the incident and guide appropriate treatment.

7) Notify your insurance and explore Minnesota no-fault and UM/UIM coverage

Minnesota is a no-fault state. Your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits may cover certain medical expenses and wage loss regardless of who caused the crash. See Minn. Stat. § 65B.44. If the at-fault driver cannot be identified, uninsured motorist (UM) coverage may apply, subject to policy terms (such as prompt reporting and possible corroboration requirements). See Minn. Stat. § 65B.49. Report the claim to your insurer promptly and provide the police case number. Avoid speculative statements about fault until facts are clear.

8) Preserve damaged property and keep a crash file

Do not discard damaged parts or repair receipts. Keep a folder with the police case number, claim correspondence, medical records, bills, employment documentation, photos, and notes of pain levels and missed activities. Consistent recordkeeping supports your claim.

9) Be cautious with adjuster communications

Insurers may request recorded statements or broad medical authorizations early. You may decline a recorded statement until you’ve obtained guidance. Stick to facts, avoid guessing, and review any authorizations before signing.

10) Consider consulting a Minnesota attorney early

An attorney can coordinate with investigators, protect your rights in communications with insurers, identify all available coverages, and manage deadlines. Early guidance often improves claim outcomes, especially when the other driver fled the scene. Contact our team to discuss your situation.

Understanding Minnesota hit-and-run obligations

Minnesota law requires drivers involved in crashes to stop, provide identifying information, and render reasonable assistance when needed. Leaving the scene can lead to criminal penalties. For victims, promptly reporting to police helps establish that another driver caused the crash and may support insurance coverage such as UM benefits. See Minn. Stat. § 169.09 and Minn. Stat. § 65B.49.

How Minneapolis police investigate hit-and-run crashes

Responding officers may collect debris, paint transfers, and surveillance leads; canvass for witnesses; and issue bulletins if vehicle details are known. Provide any additional information you discover after leaving the scene to the investigating officer or through the Minneapolis Police Department’s non-emergency channels, and note the case number in your claim file.

Insurance considerations specific to hit-and-run events

• Personal Injury Protection (PIP): Pays certain medical and wage-loss benefits regardless of fault (Minn. Stat. § 65B.44).
• Uninsured Motorist (UM): May apply when the at-fault driver is unidentified or uninsured, subject to policy terms and Minnesota law (Minn. Stat. § 65B.49).
• Collision coverage: Can help repair your vehicle when the other driver cannot be held responsible right away.
• Subrogation: If the fleeing driver is later identified, your insurer may seek reimbursement. Keep your insurer informed of any investigative updates.

If the fleeing driver is identified later

Share any new information with police and your insurer. Identification can open additional liability and underinsured motorist avenues, and may impact your ability to pursue pain-and-suffering damages beyond no-fault benefits.

FAQ

Do I have to file a police report for a hit-and-run in Minnesota?

Yes. Prompt reporting helps law enforcement investigate and can be required for insurance benefits. See Minn. Stat. § 169.09.

Will my Minnesota no-fault (PIP) cover medical bills if the other driver fled?

Generally yes, up to your policy limits, regardless of fault. See Minn. Stat. § 65B.44.

What if I cannot identify the other driver?

Your UM coverage may apply if policy conditions are met, including timely notice and potential corroboration. See Minn. Stat. § 65B.49.

Should I give a recorded statement to the adjuster?

Consider waiting until you understand your rights. You can request to provide a written statement or consult an attorney first.

How soon should I talk to a lawyer?

As early as possible to protect evidence, coverage, and deadlines. Schedule a free consultation.

Minnesota legal citations and resources

• Minnesota Statutes § 169.09 (Reporting/Stopping at Scenes of Accidents)
• Minnesota Statutes § 65B.44 (Basic Economic Loss Benefits)
• Minnesota Statutes § 65B.49 (Insurance Policies; UM/UIM Requirements)

Ready to talk?

If you need guidance after a Minneapolis hit-and-run, our team is here to help. Contact us today.

Disclaimer: This blog provides general information about Minnesota hit-and-run crashes and is not legal advice. Laws change and outcomes depend on specific facts. Consult a licensed Minnesota attorney about your situation.