An attorney can help you identify all potential sources of compensation
Car accidents in New Jersey can lead to severe injuries that have lasting consequences. Crash victims may have to cope with painful and debilitating injuries, miss time from work, and face mounting medical bills, adding stress to an already overwhelming situation. Fortunately, there are options to address these concerns, and a car accident lawyer can help you navigate this complex process.
From understanding the intricate state laws to dealing with insurance companies, an attorney can prove invaluable in securing the compensation you deserve. Whether you're in Essex County, Middlesex County, or anywhere in the Garden State, having an experienced New Jersey car accident lawyer by your side can make all the difference in the outcome of your claim.
Does New Jersey have a fault or no-fault car insurance system?
Unlike most states, New Jersey operates under a no-fault car insurance system. However, it's essential to clarify that the term "no-fault" can be somewhat misleading.
In essence, no-fault laws in New Jersey dictate that your own insurance company will cover medical expenses resulting from car accidents, regardless of who is at fault for the accident. This rule applies even if you are a passenger in another person's vehicle; your insurance provider remains responsible for your medical bills, up to the limits specified in your policy.
The linchpin of this system is Personal Injury Protection (PIP), sometimes referred to as no-fault coverage. PIP goes beyond merely covering medical treatment costs; it encompasses expenses related to your injury sustained in a car accident, including medical equipment, lost income, and essential services you need while recovering.
Understanding PIP coverage health care primary option
In the realm of New Jersey PIP coverage exists an option known as "Health Care Primary." This choice comes into play if you have health insurance (with some exceptions). Opting for Health Care Primary for your PIP coverage designates your health insurance provider as the primary source of medical coverage for injuries resulting from a car accident.
Beyond the Health Care Primary option, New Jersey residents evaluating their coverage also face decisions regarding tort options. Two primary choices are available: full tort and limited tort.
Limited Tort
Opting for limited tort places restrictions on your ability to sue an at-fault driver for non-economic damages like pain and suffering. The exception is when the injury is permanent or results in disfigurement.
Full Tort
Selecting full tort maintains your unrestricted right to pursue legal action without limitations.
New Jersey's Car Insurance Requirements
New Jersey mandates a basic auto insurance policy that includes:
- Personal Injury Protection (PIP): Minimum: $15,000 per person
- Property Damage Liability: Minimum: $5,000 per accident
The standard insurance policy in New Jersey provides increased coverage compared to the basic policy. It includes:
- Personal Injury Protection (PIP): Minimum: $15,000 per person
- Bodily Injury Liability: Minimum: $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident
- Property Damage Liability: Minimum: $25,000 per accident
Drivers can opt for higher coverage limits to enhance their protection. Additionally, New Jersey allows the inclusion of supplementary options, such as uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.
Considering that many car accidents result in damages surpassing the minimum requirements, investing in higher policy limits is generally advisable. Failing to do so might leave you financially responsible for expenses exceeding your coverage limits.
Navigating car accident medical bills beyond insurance
For crash victims in Essex County, Middlesex County, or anywhere else in New Jersey, insurance is typically the primary source of compensation when trying to pay for medical bills after a car accident. However, certain situations may expose the limitations of this coverage.
PIP insurance often comes with predefined caps. While it can accommodate medical bills for minor accidents, severe injuries or elaborate treatments may surpass these limits, leaving the victim financially strained.
Under such circumstances, having an experienced New Jersey car accident lawyer by your side becomes invaluable. A lawyer can help you explore alternatives when insurance coverage falls short. They can evaluate the extent of your injuries, the medical expenses involved, and the circumstances of your accident to determine if pursuing a lawsuit is a viable option. The key is to talk to an attorney as soon as possible so you don’t miss important legal deadlines.
Explore your potential legal options. Contact a New Jersey car accident attorney
Navigating the complex process of securing compensation for your medical bills following a car accident in New Jersey can feel insurmountable, but a car accident lawyer can help.
With years of experience successfully advocating for individuals injured in car accidents across Essex County and Middlesex County, our verified attorneys have the knowledge and experience to handle every aspect of your claim.
Contact a Law.com Premier Attorney in your area today to put yourself in a position to secure the best possible outcome for your case.
