New Jersey is one of many states in the U.S. that implements no-fault laws regarding motor vehicle accidents. After being involved in a car crash, it is imperative that you fully understand your legal rights regarding compensation and insurance claims. If you’re wondering whether property damage is covered under the state’s no-fault laws, continue reading here for more information. Reach out to a knowledgeable Sussex County auto accident lawyer to secure skilled legal advice and representation in your case.
What Are NJ’s No-Fault Laws?
New Jersey operates under a no-fault system when it comes to auto accidents. This means that all NJ drivers are required to purchase the state’s no-fault insurance coverage, known as PIP. PIP (personal injury protection) covers your medical expenses, lost wages, essential services, and other injury-related damages after an accident, regardless of who caused the collision.
After a car accident, each party is required to seek compensation for their injuries and related expenses through their own insurance provider. This system is designed to reduce the need for lawsuits and allow claims to be resolved and paid out without having to first determine fault.
Is Property Damage Covered Under No-Fault Laws in NJ?
Under New Jersey’s no-fault laws, no, property damage is not covered. PIP only provides reimbursement for losses related to injuries sustained in a collision. This can include medical expenses like hospital stays, doctor visits, surgeries, medication, physical therapy, and rehabilitation. It also extends to related costs such as lost wages from time taken off work to recover and the cost to hire in-home care.
Because property damage is unrelated to a driver’s physical injuries, it is not covered under PIP. This means that in order to recover compensation for damage to your vehicle and other property, you must seek an alternate route.
How Can I Recover Compensation for Property Damage?
Despite the state’s no-fault system, you can file a fault-based claim for property damage after an accident. You can do so by working with a skilled attorney to file a property damage claim with the at-fault driver’s liability insurance. Their provider should approve and pay the claim, given that there is evidence of the driver’s fault.
You can also recover compensation for your property damage through your own insurance provider if you opted into collision coverage. Collision coverage is an optional insurance that reimburses drivers for damage sustained to their car after a collision with another vehicle or object, regardless of who caused the damage.
If neither of these options is feasible or works out, you can also sue the at-fault driver. You can file a lawsuit against them by gathering evidence proving their negligence and liability. Being represented by a skilled lawyer is always important after a car accident, but especially when pursuing a lawsuit. Reach out to an attorney at Laddey Clark & Ryan, LLP to set up a consultation today.
