Vehicle collisions happen every day, and no matter how safely and cautiously you drive, you are still at risk of crashes caused by the negligence of someone else. Luckily, most are minor, but more serious incidents can also happen.
Knowing the proper steps to take in the aftermath of any traffic incident is crucial for protecting your rights and obtaining compensation. Contact Fredson Statmore Bitterman, LLC to speak with a diligent Paramus car accident lawyer if you need help with a case. Our experienced personal injury attorneys could answer your questions and guide you on how to proceed.
What Are The State’s Car Crash Laws?
State insurance laws follow a no-fault system for car crashes to accelerate the initial claims process and reduce the number of cases that go to court. That means after a collision, you file a claim under your own auto insurance policy, regardless of who was at fault. The coverage is called Personal Injury Protection (PIP).
According to the New Jersey Statutes § 39:6A-4, PIP covers your medical care and other related costs, regardless of fault. However, that applies only to minor wrecks. When accidents, injuries, and other losses are more significant, fault still applies to non-medical damages.
In those cases, it is necessary to gather evidence to establish the other driver’s liability. All motorists in the state must carry minimum insurance. Failing to do so can result in violations, including fines, driver’s license suspension, or criminal charges.
Insurance Coverage Requirements
All drivers in the state with registered vehicles must carry and maintain at least the minimum coverage requirements. You can choose between basic, lower limit, or standard, higher option policies. Minimum coverage includes the following:
- PIP of at least $15,000 per person involved, per accident, for medical bills and lost wages
- Bodily injury liability of at least $25,000 for each person, with a minimum of $50,000 per accident
- $25,000 per accident for property damage liability
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist coverage that matches at least your policy’s liability minimums
You have two years to file a case under the vehicle collision statute of limitations, and you will need to establish the fault of another driver. That requires building a case and providing evidence, such as medical records, police officer reports, and witness statements. A seasoned Paramus car wreck attorney can handle communication and negotiations with your insurance company to protect your rights and interests.
Suing Thresholds
Under the no-fault system, PIP coverage handles the initial costs, but you can pursue legal action against the at-fault party for additional damages, such as pain and suffering. However, with limited right to sue, your injuries must meet at least the minimum threshold, such as a serious bodily injury with significant scarring or disabilities. There is also an option to choose unlimited right to sue, but it requires higher premiums.
Reporting
State traffic laws require immediate actions following a crash to ensure everyone’s safety and to exchange information. The law requires motorists to stop and assist at the scene and to provide aid to injured parties if necessary. After checking everyone’s injuries, you must exchange contact information, vehicle details, and insurance details.
If there are bodily injuries, fatalities, or more than $500 in property damage, you must call and report the incident to the local authorities. During a free consultation, our skilled car crash attorneys in Paramus can answer all your specific questions about traffic and insurance laws and help you obtain a settlement for your damages.
Call Today To Speak With an Experienced Car Accident Attorney in Paramus
State insurance laws aim to keep the settlement process straightforward and prompt in the aftermath of crashes on state roadways. However, when accidents are more serious and result in injuries and other losses, filing a claim for damages may be necessary.
Contact a hard-working Paramus car accident lawyer from Fredson Statmore Bitterman, LLC to schedule a free consultation. We can begin preparing and filing a claim right away in compliance with the statute of limitations.
