Crashes, insurance and registration in Minnesota

By the end of this topic you can

• You can follow the steps required at a Minnesota crash scene.
• You can say when police must be called.
• You can state the minimum liability coverage required.
• You can explain the penalties for driving uninsured and how to register a vehicle.

What you need to know and understand

• Every driver in a crash must stop as close to the scene as possible without blocking traffic more than needed.
• If anyone is hurt or killed, call 911 or the nearest law enforcement agency quickly.
• You must give reasonable help to anyone injured.
• Give your name, address, date of birth and registration number, and show your license when asked; insurance details must be given within 72 hours if not shared at the scene.
• Minimum liability coverage is $30,000 per person and $60,000 per crash for injuries, and $10,000 for property damage.
• Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage must be at least $25,000 per person and $50,000 per crash.
• Driving an uninsured vehicle can bring a fine of up to $1,000, up to 90 days in jail and loss of your license for up to a year.

At the crash scene

If a crash causes only property damage, the manual says you do not need to call police, but get a disabled vehicle towed quickly. If your car hits a utility pole or power box, stay inside and call 911 unless the car is on fire.

1. Stop. If you can, move out of the driving lane onto the shoulder and turn off the engine.
2. Warn other traffic with hazard lights, flares or a flashlight.
3. Call 911 if anyone is injured or killed.
4. Help the injured as far as you safely can and keep them comfortable.
5. Exchange names, addresses, dates of birth, registration and insurance details, and note other plate numbers.
6. If you hit an unattended vehicle, find the owner or leave a note with your name and address where it will be seen; for other property, tell the owner and report it to police.

Insurance you must carry

Minnesota is a no-fault state. Owners must carry no-fault (personal injury protection) coverage plus liability coverage, and keep proof in the vehicle. Acceptable proof includes the insurer's card, a policy declaration page or an electronic card on your phone. If you cannot show proof when an officer asks, your license and registration can be revoked.

After a revocation for lack of insurance, you must pass the written test, pay a $30 reinstatement fee plus any fines, apply for a new license and file an insurance certificate.

Registering a vehicle

Every Minnesota resident's vehicles used on public roads must be registered with DVS. New residents have 60 days. Take the current title or registration card and your license or ID to a deputy registrar's office. You can renew registration online. Remember that the road test vehicle needs current registration, or a 60-day permit, and proof of insurance.

Common mistakes

• Driving away from a minor crash without leaving details. Always stop and share information.
• Getting out on a busy freeway after a fender bender. Move to safety first if no one is hurt.
• Leaving the insurance card at home. Proof must be in the vehicle.
• Climbing out after hitting a power pole. Stay inside unless there is a fire.

Test yourself: Crashes, insurance and registration in Minnesota

Answer each question, then read the explanation. Questions come in a random order each time.

Go deeper

• Learning to Drive in Minnesota
• Minnesota Hands-Free Law for New Drivers
• Minnesota Permit Test