For your own situation, call 855-RAFFI-25 (855-723-3425) any time, 24/7, for a free consultation.
Frequently asked questions
What is PIP in New Jersey?
Personal injury protection, or PIP, is the part of your own auto policy that pays medical bills after a crash, no matter who caused it. New Jersey is a no-fault state, so your own insurer usually pays for your treatment first. See the guide to PIP and medical bills.
How much PIP coverage do I have?
It depends on what was chosen when the policy was bought. A standard New Jersey policy carries $250,000 in PIP medical coverage per person unless a lower option was picked, and the lowest option is $15,000. Your declarations page shows the amount, any deductible and co-pay, and whether you made your health insurance pay first. More in the medical bills guide.
Who pays my medical bills if I was hit while walking?
In New Jersey, a pedestrian’s PIP generally comes from their own auto policy or from one belonging to a relative they live with. If no one in the household has a policy, the policy on the vehicle that struck them often pays. See pedestrian accidents.
What is the ‘limitation on lawsuit’ option?
Also called the verbal threshold, it is a choice on most New Jersey auto policies. If your policy has it, you can sue the driver who caused the crash for pain and suffering only if your injury fits one of the categories set by law. The ‘no limitation’ option keeps that right for any injury but costs more. See car accidents.
Which injuries meet the lawsuit threshold?
The statute lists six: death, dismemberment, significant disfigurement or scarring, a displaced fracture, loss of a fetus, and a permanent injury, meaning a body part or organ that has not healed and will not heal to normal function. A permanent injury has to be shown with objective medical proof. Read more on the car accident page.
How much time do I have to sue after a crash in New Jersey?
Generally two years from the date of the crash for an injury claim, and six years for damage to your car. Different rules can apply to children, to wrongful death and to claims against public bodies. Details are in NJ car accident deadlines.
What if a government vehicle or a public road caused the crash?
Claims against a New Jersey town, county, state agency or NJ Transit usually need a written notice of claim within 90 days under the Tort Claims Act, and the lawsuit itself still has to be filed within two years. Missing the 90 days can end the claim. See the deadlines guide.
Do I have to report the crash to the police?
New Jersey law requires a report when a crash causes injury, death or property damage over $500. Calling the police from the scene usually takes care of it, and the officer’s report often becomes key evidence. For a step-by-step list, read the after-the-crash checklist.
Should I give the other driver’s insurer a recorded statement?
You don’t have to. The at-fault driver’s insurance company works for that driver, not for you, and what you say on tape can be used to shrink your claim. You can politely decline and refer the adjuster to your lawyer. See recorded statements after a crash.
What if my own insurance company asks for a statement?
Your own policy is different. It usually requires you to cooperate on your PIP claim, which can include a recorded statement or an examination under oath. Refusing your own insurer can put benefits at risk, so get advice on how to handle the request. More in the recorded statement guide.
Can I recover if I was partly at fault?
Often, yes. New Jersey uses comparative fault: you can recover as long as you are not more than 50% at fault, and your award is reduced by your share. If you are more than 50% at fault, you are barred. See car accidents.
Is it worth hiring a lawyer after a New Jersey crash?
Not for every crash. A lawyer tends to matter most when you are hurt, when fault is disputed, when an insurer is pressing you to settle or record a statement, or when a deadline is close. A free consultation can help you decide. Learn more on the car accident page.
How does a contingency fee work?
With a contingency fee, there is no attorney’s fee unless money is recovered for you. If there is no recovery, you may still be responsible for case costs, as explained in your retainer agreement. You may also choose to pay hourly instead. See about Raffi.
Is the consultation free?
Yes. The first consultation is free. Call any time, 24/7, at 855-RAFFI-25 (855-723-3425), or send a message through the contact form.
Does my immigration status affect my claim?
In New Jersey, immigration status generally does not stop an injured person from bringing an injury claim. Insurance questions usually matter more: for example, someone hurt while driving their own uninsured car cannot sue for those injuries under state law. Ask about your situation in a free consultation. See car accidents.
What should I bring to my first meeting?
Bring whatever you have: the police report or its number, your insurance card and declarations page, photos of the scene and the vehicles, the other driver’s details, witness names, medical bills and records, and any letters from insurers. Missing papers can usually be requested later. See evidence for a NJ car accident claim.
What evidence helps a car accident claim?
Photos and video from the scene, the crash report, witness contact details, dashcam or nearby security footage, and steady medical records from the first visit on. Gaps in treatment are often used against injured people. Read car accident evidence in NJ.
Do I have to come to Fort Lee?
No. Fort Lee is the main office, and there are meeting locations across New Jersey, by appointment. Can’t come to the office? Call, and Raffi can come to your home at no charge. See all locations.
Can I get help in Spanish?
Yes. The firm serves clients in English and Spanish. These answers are also available on the Spanish FAQ page.
Who will handle my case?
Raffi has handled personal-injury cases since 1993, including thousands of motor vehicle accident cases, and personally handles each client. Read about Raffi.
Still have a question?
Every crash is different, and these short answers can’t cover yours. Call 855-RAFFI-25 (855-723-3425) or use the contact form, and the firm will talk it through with you.