New Jersey Traffic Accident Attorneys
If you have been injured in a traffic accident New Jersey, it is very important that you talk to an experienced New Jersey personal injury lawyer, even if you live in another state and have a lawyer there. New Jersey has some unusual laws regarding traffic accident cases, and you need an attorney who is well versed in New Jersey law so that you can recover the full compensation that you need and deserve.
“No Pay No Play”
New Jersey is one of a few states that bars uninsured drivers from suing for their injuries. If you were driving and did not have the legally required insurance you have no legal right to compensation for your injuries, even if the other driver was at fault. This does not bar passengers from recovering compensation for their injuries.
The purpose of this law, referred to as “no pay no play”, is to lower insurance premiums by preventing drivers who do not pay into insurance from being eligible for payment from the insurance companies.
Choice No-Fault
New Jersey drivers can choose traditional liability insurance or no-fault insurance. Those who choose no-fault insurance turn to their own insurance company when they are injured in accidents, no matter who was at fault for the accident. You do not have to prove fault to collect no-fault benefits, but the compensation you receive is very limited and does not include non-economic damages.
When you choose no-fault insurance you give up the right to sue the at-fault driver unless your injuries include one or more of the following conditions:
- Dismemberment
- Significant disfigurement
- Significant scarring
- Displaced fracture
- Permanent injury
- Loss of a fetus
If you choose traditional coverage you have the right to sue the at-fault driver for full compensation including non-economic damages such as pain and suffering.
New Jersey Traffic Accident Liability
In New Jersey, negligent drivers can be held liable for the harm that they cause, and under certain circumstances others can also be held responsible. Examples include:
- Auto maker, dealership, and others along the supply chain in a defective vehicle case
- Trucking company, in a commercial truck accident
- Parents who allow an unlicensed child to drive
- Employer who allows a known dangerous driver to use its vehicle
- Bar or social host who provides alcohol to a minor or overserves an adult
If you lost a loved one or were injured in a motor vehicle accident in New Jersey, please review the attorneys listed in our directory to find an experienced New Jersey traffic accident lawyer who can help you.