Two people died in a tragic crash on Highway 59 in Becker County, Minnesota, just north of Detroit Lakes.
A Chevy Tahoe was traveling southbound on Highway 59. A Dodge Caravan was traveling northbound. “One of the vehicles crossed the center line and struck the other vehicle head on,” according to the Minnesota State Patrol. Both drivers died as a result of injuries sustained in the crash. The driver of the Chevy Tahoe was a 74-year-old man from Fargo, North Dakota. The driver of the Dodge Caravan was a 58-year-old man from Detroit Lakes, Minnesota.
One of these families has a wrongful death claim.
What Happens When Both Drivers Die in a Crash?
The state patrol did not specify which driver crossed the center line, so we do not know which driver was at fault. One was at fault, though, and the family of the other deceased driver has the right to sue the estate of the at-fault driver for wrongful death compensation. These kinds of cases are extremely emotional, with both families grieving. The bottom line is that the family whose loved one was innocent should not have to carry the financial burden of wrongly losing a loved one. It is good to remember that, although the case would be against the estate, that the insurance company would be paying out any money won in a settlement. Also, a limited amount of money may be recoverable under Minnesota no-fault laws.
Our law firm has handled cases like this, and we welcome anyone with questions to call us at 612-338-0202.
What Happens When a Person from North Dakota is Killed in Minnesota?
The family of the person from North Dakota can file a lawsuit in Minnesota, North Dakota, or the state where the at-fault driver resided. This is a decision that an attorney should make because it can have a huge impact on the amount of money recovered.