A car accident can instantly change your life, leaving you with injuries, emotional distress, and mounting expenses. In New Jersey, these accidents are especially complex due to the state’s unique insurance laws and legal standards. If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident, it’s crucial to seek legal guidance. At the Law Offices of G. Martin Meyers, P.C., our dedicated car accident lawyers have over 100 years of combined experience helping victims pursue the compensation they deserve.

How Our Car Accident Lawyers Can Help

Navigating the aftermath of a car accident is often overwhelming. From understanding insurance claims to pursuing personal injury lawsuits, every step requires careful consideration and expert knowledge. Our attorneys in Denville, New Jersey, specialize in handling car accident cases and are committed to protecting the rights of accident victims across the state. We understand the nuances of New Jersey’s “choice no-fault” insurance system, comparative negligence laws, and other regulations that could impact your claim. Our goal is to guide you through this challenging time with compassion, respect, and dedication to achieving the best possible outcome for your case. Set up a consultation today to discuss your options.

New Jersey Is a No-Fault Insurance State: What Does That Mean?

New Jersey follows a no-fault insurance system, but with a unique twist known as “choice no-fault.” In a traditional no-fault state, your insurance policy covers your medical expenses, lost wages, and other economic losses, regardless of who caused the accident. This is done through Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage, which is mandatory in New Jersey. However, no-fault insurance generally limits your ability to sue the at-fault driver unless certain conditions are met.

New Jersey’s “choice no-fault” system adds an extra layer of complexity. When purchasing car insurance, you can choose between two types of policies: basic or standard. Each policy type offers different levels of coverage and different rights regarding your ability to file a lawsuit against the driver who caused the accident.

What Is “Choice No-Fault”?

Under New Jersey’s choice no-fault system, drivers have the option to select a basic or standard auto insurance policy. The basic policy provides limited rights to sue the at-fault driver and comes with lower premiums. This option restricts your ability to pursue a personal injury lawsuit except in severe cases such as death, dismemberment, or permanent injury. The standard policy, on the other hand, offers more flexibility, allowing you to choose between a “limited right to sue” and an “unlimited right to sue” option.

If you opt for the limited right to sue, you can only file a lawsuit for specific types of serious injuries, similar to the basic policy. However, if you select the unlimited right to sue option, you have the freedom to pursue a claim for both economic and non-economic damages—such as pain and suffering—without any restrictions, but this choice generally comes with higher premiums. Understanding which option you have and how it impacts your rights is vital when deciding whether to file a lawsuit.

Who Can Sue in New Jersey?

Under the no-fault insurance system, PIP coverage takes care of economic losses such as medical expenses and lost wages. However, to recover non-economic losses, such as pain and suffering, you must file a personal injury lawsuit. Here’s where the difference between basic and standard policies becomes significant:

Basic Policy: Under a basic policy, you can only sue if your injury falls under specific categories, including:

• Loss of a body part

• Significant disfigurement or scarring

• Displaced fracture

• Loss of a fetus

• Permanent injury (defined as an injury that has not healed to normal function and is not expected to do so)

• Death

• Standard Policy: If you have a standard policy and opted for a limited right to sue, you are also restricted to these conditions. However, if you selected the unlimited right to sue, you can pursue legal action for any injury, regardless of severity, including non-economic damages like pain and suffering.

These legal distinctions can be confusing, and the wrong choice can limit your compensation significantly. That’s why consulting with a knowledgeable personal injury attorney is crucial to ensure you fully understand your rights and options.

Statute of Limitations & Comparative Fault in New Jersey

When considering legal action after a car accident, it’s important to be aware of New Jersey’s statute of limitations. You have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Missing this deadline means losing your right to seek compensation.

Additionally, New Jersey operates under a “modified comparative fault” rule, which assesses the degree of fault for each party involved in an accident. For example, if you are found to be 30% at fault for the accident and your total damages amount to $50,000, you can only recover 70% of that amount, or $35,000. However, if you are found to be more than 50% at fault, you cannot recover any compensation. This rule, often referred to as the “51% bar rule,” underscores the importance of having strong legal representation to ensure your liability is minimized and your compensation maximized.

Car Accident Attorneys in Denville, New Jersey

If you or someone you love has been involved in a car accident in Denville or anywhere in New Jersey, you need an experienced legal team on your side. At the Law Offices of G. Martin Meyers, P.C., we are committed to helping car accident victims secure the full compensation they deserve for their injuries and losses. Our attorneys understand the complexities of New Jersey’s no-fault insurance laws, modified comparative fault rules, and the nuances of pursuing a successful personal injury claim.

Steps to Take After a Car Accident in New Jersey

If you’ve been in a car accident, the steps you take immediately afterward can significantly impact your ability to file a claim or lawsuit later. Here are some crucial steps to follow:

1. Seek Medical Attention: Your health and safety should always come first. Even if you believe your injuries are minor, seek medical attention immediately. Some injuries may not be apparent right away but could worsen over time.

2. Document the Accident Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any damage to the vehicles involved. Collect the names and contact information of any witnesses, as well as the insurance details of the other driver(s).

3. File a Police Report: Always call the police to the scene and file an accident report. This report can serve as an important piece of evidence if you decide to file a claim or lawsuit.

4. Notify Your Insurance Company: Report the accident to your insurance provider as soon as possible to initiate your PIP coverage. Be cautious when discussing the details of the accident and avoid admitting fault.

5. Consult with a Car Accident Lawyer: Reach out to a qualified attorney who can help you understand your rights and explore your options for pursuing compensation. The sooner you get legal advice, the better positioned you will be to protect your interests.

Why Choose the Law Offices of G. Martin Meyers, P.C.?

Choosing the right legal representation can make all the difference in the outcome of your car accident case. At the Law Offices of G. Martin Meyers, P.C., we offer:

• Experience and Expertise: With over 100 years of combined experience, our attorneys have the knowledge and skills to handle even the most complex car accident cases.

• Personalized Attention: We understand that every case is unique, and we take the time to listen to your story, understand your needs, and develop a tailored legal strategy.

• Compassionate Advocacy: We are committed to treating every client with respect and compassion while vigorously pursuing the compensation they deserve.

Get the Legal Help You Need Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident in or around Denville, New Jersey, don’t navigate this complex legal process alone. Contact the car accident lawyers at the Law Offices of G. Martin Meyers, P.C. to explore your legal options and fight for the compensation you are entitled to. Our team is here to help you every step of the way.