Most drivers have rolled through a stop sign at least once. While it might seem harmless, this traffic violation leads to thousands of serious crashes each year in Minnesota. Understanding who bears responsibility after a stop sign crash helps victims protect their legal rights and seek fair compensation.

If you sustained injuries from a collision caused by a negligent driver running a stop sign, we encourage you to contact our experienced car crash lawyers in Minneapolis for legal help. These crashes can lead to serious injuries that may impact you financially, physically and emotionally for years to come. We can help you pursue compensation for your medical costs and other losses to ensure your future is protected.

Call for a FREE case review today. Call:  (612) TSR-TIME.

What Are Minnesota Stop Sign Laws?

Minnesota law requires drivers to come to a complete stop at stop signs. This means the vehicle must cease all forward motion before proceeding. The law also requires drivers yield to pedestrians and check for cross traffic before continuing through the intersection.

Drivers who run stop signs face more than just traffic citations. When their actions cause crashes, they become legally liable for damages and injuries. Depending on the circumstances, multiple parties may share fault in these types of collisions.

Who Are the Potential Liable Parties After a Stop Sign Crash?

There can be multiple parties who contribute to a crash. However, in most stop-sign crashes, the driver who ran the stop sign is typically liable.

Liable parties for a stop-sign crash may include:

The Driver Who Ran the Stop Sign

• Bears primary responsibility in most cases
• Must prove they exercised reasonable care
• Insurance typically covers damages up to policy limits
• May face additional penalties for traffic violations
• Could face charges in some cases, such as a hit-and-run resulting in severe or fatal injuries

Other Drivers

• May share fault if speeding or distracted
• Could be liable if they also violated traffic laws that led to the crash
• Must prove they acted with reasonable caution
• May need to file claims with multiple insurers
• Should document other drivers’ actions carefully

How Does Minnesota Law Affect Liability?

Minnesota follows a modified comparative negligence system. This means multiple parties can share fault for a collision.

Victims who are deemed partially liable for a crash may still seek compensation for their damages as long as they are 50 percent or less at fault for the crash.

The law reduces compensation based on each party’s percentage of fault. For example, if a victim is 20 percent at fault, they receive 80 percent of the total damages awarded. This system makes determining liability crucial for fair compensation.

If you are found to be 51 percent or more liable, you are barred from seeking compensation from the other party.

What Evidence Can Be Used to Prove Liability?

The burden of proving negligence falls to injured victims or to the attorneys representing them.  We strongly recommend working with a knowledgeable car crash legal team, such as TSR Injury Law. We know what evidence is needed to establish fault after a stop sign crash and how to get it.

Important documentation that can help to build a strong claim against the at-fault party includes:

• Police reports
• Witness statements
• Traffic camera footage
• Vehicle damage photos
• Skid mark measurements
• Medical records related to your crash
• Testimonies from medical experts or accident reconstruction specialists
• Cellphone records
• Weather conditions
• Maintenance records

What Types of Compensation Am I Entitled To?

Minnesota law allows victims to seek compensation for certain losses directly caused by the crash. By filing a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault party, crash victims may be able to recover compensation for these and other damages:

• Medical expenses: These are medical costs directly related to the crash that caused the injuries, including surgeries, hospital stays, diagnostic testing, physical therapy, chiropractic and more.
• Lost wages: Victims may recover lost wages if they are unable to work while recovering from injuries caused by the crash.
• Property damage: Losses may include the repair or replacement of a vehicle or other personal belongings damaged in the crash.
• Pain and suffering: Non-economic damages, such as anxiety, PTSD, stress, and disfigurement
• Future care costs: Estimated care costs you could encounter for additional medical treatment
• And more

How Can I Prevent Stop Sign Crashes in the Future?

Drivers can significantly reduce the risk of collisions at a stop sign by adopting safe driving practices. Here are some key strategies:

• Adhere to Stop Signs: Ensure you fully stop at all stop signs. A rolling stop increases the risk of missing oncoming traffic.
• Look Both Ways Twice: Before proceeding, check for vehicles and pedestrians in both directions, even if the intersection seems clear.
• Remove Distractions: Avoid distractions, such as texting or adjusting the radio, while driving. Focus your attention fully on the road.
• Consider Conditions: Adjust driving based on weather, traffic and road conditions. Rain, snow, and ice can impact stopping distances and visibility.
• Maintain Proper Speed: Obey posted speed limits, adjusting your speed when appropriate. Slower speeds allow for better reaction times.
• Yield Appropriately: Yield to vehicles and pedestrians that have the right of way. Be aware of your surroundings.
• Stay Alert: Keep your attention on the road, especially in busy areas. Avoid fatigue and take breaks if necessary.
• Follow Road Rules: Abide by all traffic laws and signals. Understanding and respecting these rules helps maintain safe driving habits.

Contact a Knowledgeable Attorney Today

If you have been involved in a collision due to someone running a stop sign, it is crucial to learn about your rights and legal options.

At TSR Injury Law, our legal team is committed to fighting for the compensation you deserve. With our experienced team by your side, you will receive personalized attention every step of the way. We are here to advocate for you and ensure your voice is heard.

Contact our law offices today to take the first step toward recovery. Your initial consultation is FREE, and there are no upfront costs or fees to pay.

Experienced Lawyers. Proven Results: (612) TSR-TIME.