What are "No-Fault Benefits"?

March 29, 2011  |  Adriel B. Villarreal

If you have been injured in a motor vehicle accident you are entitled to benefits through your insurance company. These benefits are called “No-Fault Benefits” or “Personal Injury Protection Benefits.” As the insured of your policy you may be entitled to them regardless of who was at fault in the automobile accident. Minnesota Statutes provide that all motor vehicle owners must have no-fault coverage for any vehicles operated in Minnesota. These no-fault benefits are available to the insured even if the accident occurs in a state other than Minnesota.
Basic No-Fault Benefits consist of the following:

• $20,000.00 in medical benefits. Medical benefits may include doctor’s examinations/treatment, mileage reimbursement due to medical visits, interpretation services, prescription reimbursement, etc.
• $20,000.00 in income loss, replacement services, funeral expenses, and survivor’s losses. Replacement services may be claimed if your doctor recommends that you do not perform household duties due to your injuries.

As no-fault benefits are available due to an injury, the insurance company can decide to investigate if the insured is entitled to any or additional benefits. This process will begin with the scheduling of a medical examination by an independent medical provider, hired by your insurance company. According to the doctor’s opinion the insurance company may deny payment of additional or past medical bills or benefits. If no-fault benefits are denied, you have the right to dispute the insurance company’s decision by filing for a no-fault arbitration if the claim is in the amount of $10,000.00 or less. We recommend hiring an attorney to help you with this process.
There are circumstances in which it is uncertain if benefits are available or which insurance company should provide the benefits. Also, if you are denied benefits or have questions regarding your rights, eligibility, or compensation we urge you to contact an attorney to ensure that you receive the right benefits. The Personal Injury attorneys at Barna, Guzy & Steffen, Ltd. have extensive experience in this field and they are ready to answer any questions you may have.
The information above does not constitute legal advice. Please contact Barna, Guzy & Steffen, Ltd. or any other attorney of your choosing to fully discuss whether you may claim or are entitled to No-Fault Benefits in Minnesota.