Insurance Claim Rights in North Dakota
North Dakota is a no-fault state with generous PIP coverage of at least $30,000 and one of the nation's longest statutes of limitations at 6 years. The state provides strong baseline protection through its no-fault system while still allowing tort claims for serious injuries. North Dakota also follows modified comparative fault for tort actions.
25/50/25
Min. Liability
6 yrs
PI Deadline
6 yrs
PD Deadline
Yes
Diminished Value
Fault System
How North Dakota's No-Fault (PIP) System Works
North Dakota is a no-fault state. After an accident, you first turn to your own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage for medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of who caused the accident. To step outside the no-fault system and sue the at-fault driver for pain and suffering, your injuries must meet specific thresholds defined by state law.
Deadlines
Statute of Limitations in North Dakota
Personal Injury
6 Years
You have 6 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit in North Dakota. Missing this deadline permanently bars your right to seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Property Damage
6 Years
For property damage claims (vehicle repairs, total loss, personal property), North Dakota allows 6 years to file a lawsuit. This includes diminished value claims if applicable. Report damage to your insurer as soon as possible: pip claims should be filed promptly; generous 6-year lawsuit deadline.
Coverage Requirements
Minimum Auto Insurance in North Dakota
North Dakota requires all drivers to carry at least 25/50/25 in liability coverage. These numbers represent the minimum bodily injury per person / bodily injury per accident / property damage limits in thousands of dollars. While these are the legal minimums, higher coverage is strongly recommended.
Bodily Injury / Person
$25,000
Maximum per injured person
Bodily Injury / Accident
$50,000
Maximum per accident total
Property Damage
$25,000
Maximum for property damage
Diminished Value
Diminished Value Claims in North Dakota
North Dakota Allows Diminished Value Claims
After an accident in North Dakota, your vehicle may lose market value even after high-quality repairs — this is called "diminished value." North Dakota allows you to file a diminished value claim against the at-fault driver's insurance to recover the difference between your vehicle's pre-accident and post-repair market value. The amount recoverable depends on the vehicle's age, mileage, damage severity, and repair quality.
Calculate your diminished valueKey Laws
Important Insurance Laws in North Dakota
North Dakota is a no-fault state requiring PIP coverage of at least $30,000 (N.D. Cent. Code § 26.1-41-02).
North Dakota has an exceptionally long 6-year statute of limitations for both personal injury and property damage.
To sue outside the no-fault system, medical expenses must exceed the PIP threshold and injuries must meet a serious injury standard (N.D. Cent. Code § 26.1-41-06).
Resources
North Dakota Department of Insurance
If you have a complaint about your insurance company or need help with a claim dispute in North Dakota, contact the state Department of Insurance. They regulate insurance companies operating in North Dakota and can assist with claim disputes, bad faith complaints, and coverage questions.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions About North Dakota Insurance Claims
How does North Dakota's no-fault system work?
North Dakota requires PIP coverage of at least $30,000, which pays for your medical expenses, lost wages, and other costs regardless of who caused the accident. To step outside the no-fault system and sue, your injuries must meet a serious injury threshold.
What is the statute of limitations in North Dakota?
North Dakota has a very generous 6-year statute of limitations for both personal injury and property damage claims. This is tied with Maine and Minnesota for the longest in the country.
What PIP coverage does North Dakota require?
North Dakota requires PIP coverage of at least $30,000. This covers medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost income, funeral expenses, and essential services replacement, all without regard to fault.
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