What is a third-party claim?

A third-party claim is a legal action in which an injured person (the plaintiff) seeks compensation for injury or damage caused by another person (the defendant). In Minnesota, a third-party claim is typically brought when the defendant does not have auto insurance and the plaintiff seeks to recover damages for medical bills, pain and suffering, lost wages, and other damages from the defendant. Most claims resulting from a car accident involve two vehicles, but a third-party claim is also brought when the defendant owns a vehicle, but someone else was driving. The third-party claim is made against the driver, not the vehicle. The basis of any third-party claim is negligence. The plaintiff must prove that the defendant was legally responsible for their injury and damages and that their negligence caused the accident and resulting harm. The plaintiff must also prove that the defendant owes them a “duty of care”, meaning that they had an obligation to take reasonable steps to prevent harm from occurring. If a jury decides that the defendant was negligent and should be held responsible, the plaintiff can collect damages from the defendant. It is important to speak with an experienced Minnesota accident lawyer to understand if a third-party claim is appropriate. Your lawyer will help you understand the legal process and help you obtain the compensation you deserve for all of your losses.

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