A collision with an 18 wheeler can change everything in a moment. In Bloomington, heavy truck traffic moves through neighborhoods, industrial corridors, and interstate routes, increasing the risk of severe, life-altering injuries. While you focus on your health, the trucking company and multiple insurers may already be building their defense. Metro Law Offices helps injured people in Minnesota handle the process with clear guidance and steady support, from preserving evidence to pursuing fair compensation. If you or a loved one was hurt in a truck crash, call 651-615-3322 to speak with our team about your options and next steps.
Bloomington’s proximity to I-494, Highway 77, Lyndale Avenue, and major distribution centers means 18 wheelers are a daily reality. After a wreck, fast action can help protect vital proof such as dashcam video, black box data, and driver logs. Trucking companies often move quickly; we work to keep you ahead by coordinating medical documentation and managing insurer communications. Our firm serves injured people throughout Minnesota and understands the local courts and claims landscape. If getting answers feels overwhelming, we will explain your rights in plain language and outline a strategy tailored to your situation, with no upfront fees to get started.
Truck cases are different from typical car accidents. They often involve federal safety rules, commercial insurance layers, and rapid-response teams for the carrier. A lawyer focused on truck injury claims can help level the playing field by sending preservation notices, collecting electronic data, and identifying every accountable party, from the driver to the motor carrier and potentially a broker or shipper. You gain a guide who manages deadlines, negotiations, and litigation if needed, while you focus on healing. The goal is to pursue full and fair compensation and help you avoid missteps that insurers may use to limit your recovery.
Metro Law Offices is a Personal Injury Injury Law Firm serving Bloomington, Hennepin County, and communities across Minnesota. We handle serious injury cases arising from commercial truck crashes, guiding clients through investigation, insurance negotiations, and if needed, trial. Our team emphasizes accessibility and communication, keeping you updated and answering questions as your case progresses. We know how to coordinate medical records, analyze black box downloads, and work with qualified professionals to present damages clearly. Every case receives careful attention with the aim of reducing stress and building a strong claim grounded in facts, documentation, and Minnesota law.
Representation in an 18 wheeler case means having an advocate to investigate the crash, secure evidence, and pursue compensation from all responsible parties. We communicate with insurers so you do not have to, prepare detailed demand packages, and file a lawsuit if appropriate. From early medical coordination to settlement negotiations, our focus is on your recovery and future. In Bloomington and greater Hennepin County, cases may proceed in local courts, and we prepare each matter as if it could be presented to a jury. That preparation can encourage fair resolutions while keeping your options open.
Compensation in truck cases may include medical bills, lost wages, reduced earning capacity, and non-economic damages tied to pain, limitations, and loss of enjoyment. Minnesota law recognizes that serious injuries affect more than a paycheck. We gather records, bills, and opinions from treating providers to document the full scope of harm. Insurers may dispute causation or the extent of your injuries; we address those challenges with consistent treatment documentation, clear timelines, and, when helpful, supportive testimony. If liability is shared, Minnesota’s comparative fault rules still allow recovery in many situations, though any award may reflect your share of responsibility.
An 18 wheeler case typically involves a commercial tractor-trailer where negligence contributed to injury. That negligence may arise from driver conduct, such as speeding, distraction, or fatigue, or from systemic issues like inadequate maintenance, improper cargo loading, or unsafe dispatch pressures. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration rules govern many aspects of operations, and violations can support claims. Evidence can include electronic control module data, hours-of-service logs, inspection records, GPS traces, and company safety policies. When these factors intersect on Bloomington roads, the resulting crashes often cause severe harm, making a thorough investigation essential to understand how and why it happened.
Strong truck claims rest on clear liability, well-documented damages, and timely action. We work to identify all sources of responsibility, including the driver, motor carrier, maintenance vendors, or others linked to the load. Gathering proof may involve scene photographs, skid measurements, ECM downloads, dashcam footage, witness interviews, dispatch records, and medical documentation that ties injuries to the crash. We then present a detailed demand and negotiate with the insurer. If settlement is not fair, we file suit and continue building the case through discovery. Throughout, we keep you informed so decisions are made with confidence and clarity.
Truck crash cases involve technical language that can feel overwhelming at first. Understanding a few core terms makes the process more manageable and helps you follow each step. From federal safety standards to electronic data stored in the truck, these concepts often shape liability and the value of a claim. Our team explains how each term applies to your case and why it matters for negotiations or litigation. With a shared vocabulary, we can communicate efficiently, set realistic expectations, and respond quickly when insurers raise arguments or request additional documentation during the claim.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration sets nationwide safety rules for commercial trucking. These regulations cover driver qualifications, vehicle maintenance, drug and alcohol testing, hours-of-service limits, and more. When a truck crash occurs, we review whether the carrier complied with the relevant rules and whether any violations contributed to the collision. Compliance does not automatically resolve a case, but gaps can be highly relevant to liability. In a Bloomington claim, FMCSA standards often intersect with Minnesota law and local practices, creating a framework to evaluate safety practices and to argue for accountability when preventable risks were ignored.
Most modern tractors record operational data through an electronic control module or event data recorder. This “black box” can capture speed, brake application, throttle position, and fault codes shortly before and after impact. In truck litigation, timely preservation of this information is important because it may be overwritten or lost during routine operations. We send preservation notices and, when appropriate, request a download performed by a qualified technician. Combined with scene evidence and witness statements, EDR data can corroborate timelines, show pre-impact behavior, and help address disputes about how the crash unfolded on Bloomington roads or nearby interstates.
Hours of Service rules govern how long a truck driver may operate before taking required breaks and rest. These limits aim to reduce fatigue, a known factor in serious collisions. In a claim, logs, electronic logging device records, fuel receipts, and dispatch documents can help test whether rest periods were followed. If a schedule pushed a driver past safe limits, that pressure can be relevant to negligence. We examine whether the carrier monitored compliance and whether any violations coincided with the crash. In Bloomington cases, HOS analysis often ties into route planning, delivery windows, and traffic conditions.
Comparative fault addresses situations where more than one party shares responsibility for a crash. Under Minnesota law, your recovery may be reduced by your percentage of fault, and certain thresholds can affect whether compensation is available. Insurers often emphasize comparative fault to limit payouts, so documenting the other party’s conduct is important. We gather evidence that clarifies how the collision occurred and respond to arguments aimed at shifting blame. Even if you believe you made a mistake, you may still have a viable claim. We will assess the facts and explain how comparative fault could influence your outcome.
Managing a commercial truck claim on your own can be challenging. Multiple insurers may be involved, each with different policy terms and adjusters. Key evidence must be preserved quickly, and statements given early can impact the case later. Hiring counsel brings structure, investigation resources, and knowledge of the tactics often used to minimize payouts. It also frees you to focus on treatment while deadlines, filings, and negotiations are handled. Some straightforward property damage claims can resolve without a lawyer, but significant injuries or liability disputes typically benefit from guidance to protect your rights and the value of your case.
If you suffered minor, fully resolved injuries, liability is undisputed, and medical bills are modest, a limited approach may serve you well. In these situations, gathering medical records, bills, and a concise summary of your symptoms can be enough to prompt a fair offer. You should still be careful with recorded statements and releases. Ensuring the vehicle damage is documented and that no delayed-onset injuries are overlooked is important. If your recovery stalls or new symptoms arise, the approach should be reevaluated. When in doubt, a quick call can help you decide whether additional support would add value.
Sometimes the main concern is repairing or replacing your vehicle, and injuries are either absent or minor. In that scenario, promptly reporting the loss, securing photographs, and getting multiple repair estimates can keep things moving. Be cautious about signing broad releases that might affect future injury claims if pain develops later. Keep rental car receipts and maintain clear communication with the adjuster. If the property claim becomes adversarial or the insurer delays, that may be a sign to seek help. The goal is to avoid unnecessary disputes and resolve the damage claim while preserving your rights regarding injuries.
Serious injuries often require lengthy treatment, time away from work, and planning for future needs. A comprehensive approach coordinates medical documentation, tracks wage loss, and assesses how limitations affect daily life. We work with treating providers to explain diagnoses and the likely trajectory of recovery. When appropriate, we consult professionals who can help quantify future care and vocational impacts. These cases frequently involve higher policy limits and more aggressive defense strategies. Building a complete, persuasive damages picture and preserving technical evidence can make a meaningful difference in negotiations and at trial if the case must be presented to a jury.
When the trucking company contests fault, or when brokers, shippers, and maintenance vendors may share responsibility, a broader strategy is helpful. We move quickly to secure EDR data, logs, dispatch notes, and safety policies. We interview witnesses, analyze scene evidence, and evaluate potential spoliation issues. Identifying every accountable party can expand available insurance and improve the chances of a full recovery. Complex liability also raises comparative fault arguments; we address those early with clear timelines and technical proof. With multiple defendants, managing communications and deadlines becomes more demanding, making coordinated legal action an important part of protecting your claim.
A thorough strategy brings structure to a chaotic time. It helps preserve key evidence before it disappears, delivers a clear narrative of what happened, and ties your medical story to the crash with organized records and opinions. By addressing liability and damages together, we reduce gaps that insurers might use to discount your claim. Careful preparation also sets the case up for strong negotiations and, if needed, litigation. Even when settlement is the goal, demonstrating readiness can encourage fair offers. Most importantly, a comprehensive plan lets you focus on recovery while we manage the legwork and legal details.
Comprehensive representation also aims to identify all coverage available, including primary, excess, and other commercial policies that may apply. Trucking claims often involve layered insurance and contract relationships that are not immediately obvious. We examine bills of lading, carrier filings, and agreements that could influence coverage. By mapping out the full picture, we work to prevent leaving compensation on the table. Throughout, we keep communication straightforward, explain each decision point, and provide realistic timelines based on Minnesota courts and insurer practices. The result is a predictable process centered on your goals and long-term well-being.
Early preservation can shape the entire case. We send letters demanding that the trucking company retain black box data, driver logs, inspection reports, and dispatch communications. When appropriate, we request vehicle and scene inspections, including photographs and measurements that may later be hard to reproduce. Medical documentation begins right away so your symptoms are recorded and linked to the collision. By building a complete evidentiary record, we can answer insurer challenges with facts rather than speculation. This approach reduces the risk of missing proof that could strengthen liability or damages and keeps the case ready for negotiation or litigation.
Commercial trucking often involves multiple policies, including primary liability, excess layers, cargo policies, and sometimes coverage tied to brokers or shippers. We analyze contracts and filings to identify every potential source of recovery. When appropriate, we coordinate claims to avoid coverage gaps or unintended releases. Understanding the order of coverage and the defenses each insurer may raise supports a stronger negotiating position. This coordination matters in serious injury cases where medical bills and lost income can be significant. Our goal is to pursue every avenue the law allows so your compensation reflects both current losses and future needs.
Your health comes first. Get evaluated promptly, even if you feel okay at the scene. Adrenaline can mask pain, and documentation from the first hours helps connect injuries to the crash. Tell providers about every symptom, no matter how small. Follow through with recommended care and keep copies of bills, discharge instructions, and referrals. Use a journal to track pain levels, sleep disruptions, missed work, and activities you can no longer do. These notes support your claim and help your medical team adjust treatment. Consistent care not only aids recovery, it creates a clear record of your injury timeline.
The trucking company may begin its investigation right away. A quick call to Metro Law Offices helps you get ahead of tight deadlines and evidence issues. We can send preservation letters, coordinate vehicle inspections, and handle insurer communications so you can focus on recovery. We also explain medical billing, subrogation, and how health insurance interacts with your claim. Early guidance can prevent common pitfalls like broad releases or premature settlements that undervalue future care. Reach us at 651-615-3322 for a free consultation. We will listen to your story, outline options, and help you chart the path forward.
Commercial truck cases often involve layers of insurance, federal safety rules, and fast-moving defense teams. If you are dealing with significant injuries, time away from work, or questions about liability, legal help can bring order to a complex process. A lawyer coordinates evidence, manages adjusters, and protects you from tactics that can reduce your claim’s value. We also evaluate future needs, not just current bills, so settlement talks reflect the full impact of the crash. With guidance, you can avoid delays, missed deadlines, and statements that might be used against you later.
Local knowledge matters in Bloomington. Understanding traffic patterns on I-494 and Highway 77, the practices of nearby distribution hubs, and how Hennepin County courts handle scheduling can help set expectations. Our team meets you where you are, explaining each step in plain language and checking in regularly. We prepare every case as if it could be presented to a jury, which supports fair negotiations. If litigation becomes necessary, you will already have a foundation in place. The aim is straightforward: reduce stress, protect your rights, and pursue the compensation you need to move forward.
Many Bloomington residents reach out after a crash on I-494 or Highway 77, where heavy truck traffic and lane changes can create dangerous conditions. Others are hurt on city streets near industrial areas, where frequent deliveries and tight schedules increase risk. Calls often involve disputed liability, low early offers from insurers, or confusion about how health insurance and liens interact with a claim. People also seek help when EDR data or driver logs need to be preserved quickly. In each case, the common thread is uncertainty. We step in to stabilize the process and protect your interests from day one.
High speeds and heavy traffic on I-494 and Highway 77 leave little margin for error when an 18 wheeler changes lanes, brakes suddenly, or drifts due to fatigue. After a crash, emergency care and a careful medical follow-up should be your first priorities. Once safe, collecting photos, witness information, and the officer’s card can be helpful. Dashcam footage from you or others nearby may also exist. We work to locate and preserve this material, request EDR downloads, and open claims with the appropriate insurers. Early guidance helps align your medical timeline with the claim and reduces uncertainty.
Fatigue and distraction are recurring themes in trucking collisions. Proving them requires more than suspicion. We examine hours-of-service compliance, dispatch pressures, phone records when available, and delivery windows that may encourage unsafe pacing. In Bloomington, short-haul and last-mile routes can create different fatigue patterns than long interstate hauls; both deserve scrutiny. If the driver’s conduct violated company policy or federal guidance, that context can support liability. Meanwhile, your medical documentation tells the story of how the crash affected your life. Together, these threads build a compelling account of what happened and why the defendants should be held accountable.
Trucking claims often involve multiple policies that may point fingers at each other. Coverage questions can arise around primary and excess layers, owner-operator agreements, and cargo policies. We sort through contracts, bills of lading, and certificates of insurance to clarify who owes what. While coverage is sorted, your medical care continues; we help manage liens and subrogation, keeping your claim organized. If an insurer delays or denies, we respond with documentation and, when appropriate, litigation to protect your rights. The objective is to resolve disputes efficiently so compensation reflects the full harm you have endured.
We focus on clear communication, careful preparation, and steady advocacy from day one. You will have a direct line to our team, regular updates, and guidance on medical care, billing, and documentation. We understand how trucking companies defend these cases and meet them with timely preservation efforts, thorough investigation, and organized demands. Our approach blends practical problem-solving with readiness for litigation when needed. We tailor strategy to your goals, whether that means resolving efficiently or preparing a case for trial in Hennepin County when negotiations are not productive.
Local insight matters. From rush-hour patterns on I-494 to delivery routes near American Boulevard, we know the roads and conditions that often appear in Bloomington cases. That familiarity helps us spot details others might miss and set realistic timelines for resolution. We also coordinate with your healthcare providers, making sure the medical record accurately reflects your symptoms and limitations. Insurers watch for gaps in treatment; we help you avoid them. Our aim is to build a clear, compelling claim that reflects not just bills and repairs, but the real impact on your life and future.
We handle truck injury claims on a contingency fee, which means you do not pay upfront attorney’s fees. We advance case costs as appropriate and recover them from the resolution, subject to your approval as required by Minnesota rules. That structure aligns our interests with yours and allows you to pursue your claim without additional financial strain. From start to finish, we are transparent about fees, expenses, and expected timelines. When decisions must be made, we present options, explain tradeoffs, and support you in choosing the path that feels right for you and your family.
We start with a conversation about your goals, questions, and concerns. Then we move quickly to preserve evidence, open claims, and coordinate your medical documentation. As treatment progresses, we gather records and bills, consult with providers, and build a detailed demand outlining liability and damages. If a fair settlement is not offered, we file suit and continue developing the case through discovery, depositions, and motion practice. At each step, you will know what comes next, the timeline we anticipate, and the options available. Our process is designed to be thorough, transparent, and centered on your recovery.
Early action shapes the case. We send preservation letters to the carrier, request EDR downloads, collect photographs and video, and interview witnesses while memories are fresh. We obtain police reports and, when needed, consult reconstruction resources. This phase also includes opening claims with all known insurers and confirming available coverage. Because 18 wheeler collisions often involve multiple entities, we map relationships between the driver, motor carrier, and any broker or shipper. The objective is to secure the facts, identify every responsible party, and protect against loss of data that could be vital to your claim.
We begin by listening to your story, reviewing the crash circumstances, injuries, and medical needs. We explain the claims timeline, what documents we need, and how to communicate with insurers. If you need help coordinating care, we can offer guidance on providers and billing. We also discuss fee structures and case costs so there are no surprises. After this meeting, we create a plan for preservation, investigation, and documentation. You will leave with clear next steps and the confidence that your claim is being organized from the outset with an eye on both liability and damages.
We secure photographs, video, and measurements from the scene when available, along with vehicle inspections and downloads of black box data. We obtain police reports, 911 audio when helpful, and contact information for witnesses and officers. We request driver qualification files, logs, inspection and maintenance records, dispatch notes, and company safety policies. If nearby businesses may have surveillance video, we move quickly to preserve it. All of this is organized into a case file that supports liability and rebuts common defenses. The stronger the documentation, the more powerfully we can tell your story during negotiations or litigation.
Your recovery drives the damages side of the case. We obtain complete medical records and bills, confirm diagnoses, and track progress. If you miss work, we gather wage documentation and, when needed, obtain employer statements. For lasting limitations, we consider opinions from treating providers and vocational resources to explain how the injuries affect your future. We also address liens and subrogation so you understand how health insurance may be reimbursed from a settlement. The result is a clear, well-supported picture of both economic and non-economic harm tied to the truck collision.
We request complete records and itemized bills from all providers to prevent gaps that insurers can exploit. We track imaging, referrals, and progress notes so your medical story is accurate and consistent. If transportation, childcare, or work adjustments are needed due to injury, we note those impacts as well. We communicate with providers about future care, anticipated costs, and whether additional opinions would help explain your prognosis. Throughout, we keep you informed so you can make treatment decisions based on health, not just the claim. This thorough approach strengthens negotiations and prepares the case for court if necessary.
We quantify wage loss, out-of-pocket expenses, and future costs based on medical recommendations and expected recovery timelines. When injuries limit your career path or earning capacity, we work to document those changes with employer input and, when appropriate, professional analysis. Non-economic damages are also considered, reflecting pain, limitations, and the loss of day-to-day activities you value. By presenting a full and organized damages profile, we give insurers a clear basis for negotiation and set the case up for persuasive presentation in court if settlement does not reflect the true scope of your loss.
Once liability and damages are documented, we prepare a comprehensive demand that explains the facts, applies Minnesota law, and details your losses. We negotiate with insurers and evaluate offers with you, weighing the benefits of resolution against the risks and timelines of litigation. If a fair settlement is not offered, we file suit and pursue discovery, depositions, and motion practice. We continue negotiating throughout, and if trial becomes necessary, we are ready to present your case to a Hennepin County jury. At each stage, you make informed choices based on transparent advice and clear information.
We assemble a demand package that weaves together liability proof, medical records, bills, wage documentation, and a clear discussion of non-economic harm. We anticipate defenses and address them directly. During negotiations, we keep you updated on offers, counteroffers, and strategy, explaining the likely timelines and outcomes associated with each path. Our goal is a resolution that reflects the full scope of your losses. When negotiations reach an impasse, we present the next steps for litigation, including expected milestones and how your participation will be needed to move the case forward efficiently.
If litigation is necessary, we draft and file the complaint in the appropriate court, serve defendants, and move into discovery. We take and defend depositions, request documents, and, when needed, file motions to compel. We prepare you for each appearance and event so you feel comfortable and informed. As the case progresses, we may engage mediation or continue direct negotiations. Trial preparation includes exhibits, witness outlines, and a narrative that clearly explains fault and damages. Throughout, we balance the risks and benefits of each decision with your goals, working toward a fair and lasting resolution.
Safety first. Call 911, accept medical evaluation, and follow the advice of first responders. If you can, photograph vehicles, road conditions, skid marks, and your injuries. Collect names and contact details for witnesses and the responding officer. Avoid discussing fault at the scene. Seek medical care even if symptoms are mild, as issues can develop over time. Save all paperwork, including discharge instructions and towing receipts. As soon as possible, consider speaking with a lawyer. The trucking company may begin its investigation right away. An attorney can send preservation letters for black box data, driver logs, and surveillance footage, and handle insurer communications while you focus on recovery.
Minnesota law sets deadlines for injury claims, and some truck-related claims can involve additional notice requirements. The specific timeline depends on the facts, the parties involved, and the type of damages sought. Because evidence can fade and critical data may be overwritten, it is wise to act promptly even if you believe you have time. Early action protects your rights. We recommend contacting a lawyer quickly to confirm the applicable deadline for your situation. During a free consultation, we can review the crash details, discuss your treatment, and outline a plan for evidence preservation. Knowing the timeline reduces stress and helps prevent last-minute problems.
Potentially liable parties can include the truck driver, the motor carrier, the tractor or trailer owner, maintenance vendors, and companies responsible for loading. In some cases, a broker or shipper’s actions may also be relevant. Liability depends on the facts, including who controlled dispatch, safety policies, and the condition of the vehicle and cargo. We investigate the relationships among these entities, request documents, and analyze electronic data for clues about unsafe practices. By mapping how the load moved from origin to destination, we identify where errors occurred. This approach can reveal additional insurance coverage and build a stronger claim on your behalf.
Compensation may include medical expenses, wage loss, reduced earning capacity, and property damage. Minnesota also allows recovery for non-economic harm such as pain, limitations, and loss of enjoyment of life. The goal is to account for both current and future needs tied to the crash, supported by medical records, provider opinions, and documentation of how your life has changed. We compile bills, treatment notes, imaging, and wage information, then work with your providers to clarify prognosis and future care. A thorough damages package helps insurers evaluate the claim accurately and supports negotiations or litigation aimed at securing a fair outcome.
Even if the insurer seems cooperative, their job is to minimize payouts. Recorded statements and early releases can affect your claim. Before speaking on the record or signing documents, consider getting legal guidance. A lawyer can handle communications, prevent missteps, and position your case for a fair resolution. We review correspondence, explain your options, and manage deadlines so you can focus on treatment. If a quick settlement is on the table, we assess whether it covers future care or wage loss. Our aim is to help you make informed choices based on a clear view of liability and damages.
Fault is determined by evidence, including police reports, witness accounts, scene photographs, black box data, and company records. We compare this information to Minnesota law and federal safety rules to understand how duty, breach, causation, and damages fit together. When disputes arise, additional investigation and, if needed, reconstruction resources can clarify the sequence of events. Comparative fault may also be considered, which means multiple parties can share responsibility. Insurers often argue over percentages to reduce payouts. We counter with documentation that supports your version of events and highlights the other party’s unsafe conduct, aiming to protect the value of your claim.
You may still recover compensation even if you share some responsibility, depending on how fault is allocated under Minnesota law. Your recovery could be reduced by your percentage of fault. Insurers sometimes overstate a claimant’s share to limit payments, so developing strong liability proof is important. We investigate promptly, obtain electronic data, and secure witness statements to build a clear picture. Then we present your medical documentation to connect injuries to the crash. With both liability and damages organized, we work to overcome comparative fault arguments and pursue a result that fairly reflects the facts and your losses.
Metro Law Offices handles truck injury claims on a contingency fee. You pay no upfront attorney’s fees, and our compensation is tied to the outcome. We advance case costs as appropriate and recover them from the resolution, subject to your approval under Minnesota rules. We are transparent about fees and expenses from the start. During your free consultation, we explain the fee agreement, typical costs in truck cases, and how billing and liens are handled at settlement. Our goal is to remove financial barriers to pursuing your claim so you can focus on healing while we navigate the legal process.
Most claims settle, but preparing as if the case could go to court often improves negotiation leverage. We present a comprehensive demand with liability proof and a detailed damages analysis, then engage in productive discussions with insurers. If a fair offer is made, settlement can provide closure without the time and stress of litigation. If negotiations stall, we file suit and continue to build the case. Many lawsuits still resolve before trial through mediation or later negotiations. We will discuss the pros and cons at each stage so you can choose the path that aligns with your goals and comfort level.
Key evidence can include EDR black box data, driver logs, dispatch records, maintenance and inspection files, company safety policies, scene photographs, and witness statements. Medical records that consistently document your symptoms and treatment are equally important, as they connect the crash to your injuries and demonstrate impact over time. We move quickly to preserve data that might be lost and organize proof into a clear story. When appropriate, we coordinate inspections and consult with professionals who can explain technical issues. Thorough documentation supports fair negotiations and provides a solid foundation if the case proceeds to trial in Hennepin County.
