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763.780.8500 Toll Free: 800.422.3486 info@bgs.com

200 Coon Rapids Blvd. NW, #400
Coon Rapids, MN 55433

We Fight for Your Right to Fair Compensation.

When you’ve been injured, you can’t afford to wait. From the moment we take your case, we work tirelessly to lift the legal and financial burden off your shoulders. We prioritize your recovery, allowing you to focus on getting better while we focus on securing justice and compensation for your personal injury.

Specialized Legal Help for Every Major Injury Type.

Whether you have experienced a minor injury or a catastrophic one, you need a knowledgeable and capable attorney to help you. Our personal injury attorneys can take on the complexities of every major personal injury category, ensuring your case is in good hands.

Vehicle Accident Injuries

We thoroughly investigate complex traffic incidents, from distracted drivers to multi-vehicle pileups. We know how to take on the largest auto insurers and commercial trucking companies to prove fault and maximize your damages for property loss, medical costs, and pain.

Dealing with totaled vehicles and catastrophic injuries

Proven success against commercial trucking insurers

Slip & Fall / Premises Liability

Property owners have a legal obligation to maintain a safe environment. If you were injured due to poor maintenance, hidden hazards, or neglect, we will aggressively pursue the compensation you deserve from the responsible parties and their powerful liability insurers.

Holding property owners accountable for negligence

Injuries from unsafe conditions (icy sidewalks, poor lighting)

Injuries from dog bites

Wrongful Death & Catastrophic Injuries

When negligence causes life-altering injuries or the tragic loss of a loved one, you deserve an advocate committed to your recovery. We handle sensitive cases with compassion and resolve, fighting to secure comprehensive compensation that covers long-term care, future earning loss, and emotional distress.

Fighting for families after an unthinkable loss

Maximize settlements for brain & spinal cord injuries

This is just a brief overview of the personal injury cases BGS has experience successfully handling for Minnesotans. If you have any questions about whether you are eligible for a personal injury claim, share your story with us by calling (763) 780-8500 or filling out the contact form.

Contact Us Today For A Free Consultation

Don’t wait. Contact the experienced personal injury attorneys at Barna, Guzy & Steffen today for a free consultation. We will review your case, answer your questions, and discuss your legal options. Call us at 763.780.8500 or fill out our online contact form.

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  • Providing Innovative Legal Services Since 1938

    Lawyer there was very helpfully even without hiring her. Thank you

    – Malek K
  • Providing Innovative Legal Services Since 1938

    Great people.

    – Ridion W
  • Providing Innovative Legal Services Since 1938

    Divorce is not easy and a custody battle is the worst, I have had the opportunity to work with Lindsay Fischbach and she has been such an amazing help! I can't wait for this all to be over ,but she has helped me tremendously with the ongoing Battle, she is always willing to help even if she is out of the office, checks her emails on the weekend and responds in a timely manor .I highly recommend Lindsay and BGS
    Thank you

    – Jackie K
  • Providing Innovative Legal Services Since 1938

    I have the utmost respect for Elizabeth Schading, Esq (Liz). Liz did a wonderful job working with me and is extremely competent, very knowledgeable in her field and she is very nice. Liz is one of the best attorneys I have ever met and is at the top of my most 'admired person' list. I have enjoyed our discussions, where her advice will ultimately make me a better person.

    – Daniel C
  • Providing Innovative Legal Services Since 1938

    Friendly, reliable, knowledgeable and trustworthy.

    – Gary C
  • Providing Innovative Legal Services Since 1938

    I recommend BGS to anyone who is looking to get fast and the best results for their legal matters. They are very knowledgeable and trustworthy. They went above and beyond my expectations for my case. Unlike other law firms, I didn't feel rushed and uncomfortable. They took their time to answer all my questions and address all my concerns. Amazing customer service! They are definitely top notch attorneys! I highly recommend this law office to anyone.

    – Susan N
  • Providing Innovative Legal Services Since 1938

    I am very pleased with the professionalism of Barna, Guzy and Steffen. They helped me settle an employment issue and were very prompt and competitive. I strongly recommend them if you are looking for professional, honesty and friendly service. And their staff is awesome!

    – Jenifer S

How to Get Started With a Personal Injury Claim
IT ONLY TAKES 3 QUICK STEPS TO GET STARTED WITH A CLAIM

  • 1

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    Fill Out Our Online Form

    Act quickly and provide the requested info, as you may only have a limited time to file.

  • 2

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    Free Case Review

    We will reach out to schedule a free, no-obligation  consultation to discuss your case.

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    We Devise a Strategy

    Our team of experienced lawers will craft a strong legal strategy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Do After an Auto Accident?

After an auto accident, staying calm is crucial. Gather information: identify witnesses and exchange insurance and contact details with the other driver. Call the police to report the accident accurately. If safe, document the scene with photos of damage and debris.

Even without visible injuries, seek medical attention, as some injuries take time to appear. Notify your insurance company promptly. Avoid discussing the accident with the other driver’s insurer. You are not obligated to provide a statement.

Who Should I Talk to After an Auto Accident?

No matter how much time has passed since the crash, you should avoid discussing the accident with the other driver’s insurance company. Their representatives, known as adjusters, may seem helpful, but their primary job is to gather information that can be used to minimize your claim or dispute your injuries.

You are required to report the accident to your own insurance company and cooperate with their investigation, as outlined in your policy. However, even your own insurer will prioritize its financial interests over yours. For this reason, it’s wise to consult with a lawyer before speaking to any insurance company

Should I See a Doctor for Head, Neck or Back Pain After an Accident?

Yes, even minor head, neck or back pain after an accident could indicate a more serious injury. Traumatic brain injuries, such as concussions, are common in car accidents and may not show immediate symptoms. Seeking medical attention right away can help prevent further damage and provide an accurate assessment of your condition.

How Can I Hold Someone Responsible for My Loved One’s Death?

Filing a wrongful death lawsuit is often the most effective way to seek justice. A successful claim can provide financial support for medical expenses, funeral costs, loss of companionship, and other family hardships.

It also holds negligent individuals—and, in some cases, corporations—accountable for their actions, ensuring your family’s financial stability during this difficult time.

What Should I Do if I Was a Passenger in a Car Accident?

As a passenger, you have the right to seek compensation just like the driver. This typically means filing a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance—sometimes involving a friend or family member. While this can feel uncomfortable, it’s important to remember that insurance is there to cover these situations.

Do I Need to Hire a Lawyer?

Hiring a lawyer is crucial to securing a settlement that covers both immediate and long-term accident-related expenses. Navigating the claims process alone can be overwhelming, especially against insurance companies with teams of adjusters and attorneys working to minimize payouts.

Without legal representation, you risk a significant disadvantage. A lawyer levels the playing field, handling negotiations, legal complexities, and paperwork so you can focus on recovery. Their expertise increases your chances of obtaining the full compensation you deserve.

How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Lawyer?

Most personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, typically charging one-third of the recovery. This means you pay nothing upfront, and attorney fees come from your settlement or verdict. If you don’t win, you owe nothing.

In addition to legal fees, cases may involve costs like medical record fees and court filings. Most law firms cover these upfront and are reimbursed only if your case is successful.

Hiring a personal injury attorney involves no upfront costs, and you only pay if you win.

When Should I Contact a Lawyer?

If you’ve been injured, reaching out to a lawyer as soon as possible is almost always in your best interest. The sooner you get legal representation, the better your chances of preserving crucial evidence and building a strong case.

By contacting a lawyer early, you ensure that your case is thoroughly investigated, giving you the best possible chance of securing the compensation you deserve.

What Are My Rights If an Auto Accident Wasn’t My Fault?

No-Fault Insurance

If you were not at fault, you still have rights under your no-fault insurance policy. This coverage ensures that your medical bills are paid and your lost wages are reimbursed, regardless of who caused the accident. If your insurance company wrongfully denies your claim, you may have grounds for a lawsuit for “bad faith” insurance practices, which can lead to significant financial compensation.

However, no-fault insurance does not cover pain and suffering, disability, or other long-term losses. To recover compensation for those damages, you must file a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance.

Bodily Injury Claim

You have the right to file a bodily injury claim, also known as a personal injury claim, against the driver responsible for the accident. This claim allows you to seek compensation for pain and suffering, disability, disfigurement, emotional distress, loss of earning capacity, and other damages. These costs are typically paid by the at-fault driver’s insurance company.

What Happens if I’m Partially at Fault for a Vehicle Collision?

Even if you share fault in an accident, you may still recover compensation if the other driver is more at fault. In clear cases like rear-end collisions, liability is straightforward, but disputes over right-of-way can complicate fault determination.

Since fault impacts your settlement, an experienced attorney can help ensure you receive fair compensation.

What If the Insurance Company Requires Me to See Their Doctor?

If your insurance company is requesting that you be examined by their doctor, you are being subjected to what is known as an adverse examination. It’s called "adverse" because you have no say in choosing the doctor, the doctor is paid by the insurance company, and the purpose of the exam is not to aid your recovery—but rather to assess your claim from the insurer’s perspective.

In most cases, this doctor is likely to disagree with your treating physician and may downplay or dispute your injuries.

However, your insurance policy and state law require you to cooperate with your no-fault insurance provider. If you refuse to attend the exam, the insurer has the right to cut off your benefits—meaning you could lose coverage for medical bills, wage loss, and other expenses.

Legal guidance is essential to protecting your rights in this situation.

How Long Will It Take to Receive a Settlement?

A personal injury case typically takes 12 to 24 months to resolve, but the timeline varies based on several factors. One major factor is medical treatment—doctors often take at least a year to issue a final injury report, which is crucial for settlement negotiations. Settling too soon could overlook long-term medical needs.

A skilled attorney works to keep your case moving efficiently while ensuring you receive fair compensation.

How Much Compensation Will I Receive?

The amount of compensation awarded in an injury case depends on several factors, including the severity of your injuries, the available insurance coverage, and the state where the lawsuit is filed. Your attorney will conduct a thorough investigation to assess these factors and determine the value of your case.

Will I Have to Go to Trial to Receive a Settlement?

In most cases, going to trial is not necessary. The vast majority of personal injury claims—about 95%—are settled out of court through negotiations with the insurance company.

However, if you are not satisfied with the settlement offer, you have the right to take your case to trial. You are never obligated to accept an insurance company’s offer, and if negotiations don’t lead to a fair resolution, you can choose to let a jury determine the value of your case.

Can I Ask for More After My Auto Accident Case Is Settled?

Once you settle your case with the at-fault driver’s insurance company, you typically cannot go back and request additional compensation if your injuries worsen or you require further treatment.

When you’re injured in a crash, there are actually two separate claims. The first is against the at-fault driver’s insurance for pain and suffering, while the second is with your own no-fault insurance for medical bills, lost wages, and other financial losses.

Settling the pain and suffering claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance does not impact your ability to continue making claims under your no-fault policy.

Is Filing a Lawsuit the Right Choice for Me?

Deciding to seek compensation after an injury is a personal choice, without a right or wrong answer. We respect your right to make it.

Pursuing a claim helps restore what was lost—health, income, or time with loved ones—ensuring you don’t bear the financial burden of someone else’s negligence.

State and federal laws protect your right to recover damages, and many cases settle without a lawsuit.

Our attorneys begin with a demand letter seeking fair compensation, and we have secured multi-million-dollar settlements without going to court. If needed, we are fully prepared to take your case to trial to fight for what you deserve.

How Does No-Fault Insurance Apply to Me in an Auto Accident?

In Minnesota, all vehicles must have no-fault insurance, covering medical bills (up to $20,000) and wage loss (up to $20,000), plus expenses like job retraining and funeral costs.

No-fault coverage applies regardless of who caused the accident and follows you wherever you go. If you own a vehicle or live with a family member who does, you may be covered under their policy.

What If My No-Fault Insurer Refuses to Pay?

Many people discover after an accident that their insurance company isn’t as helpful or humorous as its commercials suggest.

Studies show that nearly half of all claims submitted to insurers are denied, even when they are legitimate. In many cases, injured individuals are unaware of the benefits they are entitled to, and insurance companies rarely volunteer that information.

If your insurer refuses to pay for something it should cover, start by reviewing your policy to understand what is included. If you’re unsure about your rights or believe you are being unfairly denied, seeking legal guidance can help.