Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage in New Jersey: What You Need to Know
- Goldman Law Firm
- Jan 29
- 3 min read
If you are involved in a car accident in New Jersey, understanding your insurance coverage is crucial. The state requires all automobiles registered or principally garaged in New Jersey to carry liability insurance with a minimum coverage of $15,000. However, if a driver fails to maintain the required insurance, it can create significant challenges for victims seeking compensation.
The Risks of Uninsured Drivers in New Jersey
Uninsured drivers put more than just themselves at risk. If an uninsured driver causes injury to you or your family members, pursuing a lawsuit against them may be futile if they lack sufficient assets to cover your damages. Fortunately, your own auto insurance policy includes uninsured motorist (UM) coverage, which provides financial protection in these scenarios.
What is Uninsured Motorist Coverage?
Uninsured motorist coverage is designed to compensate you when you are involved in an accident with a driver who lacks insurance or if you are a victim of a hit-and-run accident where the at-fault driver cannot be identified.
New Jersey law requires auto insurance companies to offer uninsured motorist coverage.
Under this protection, your own insurance company essentially steps into the shoes of the at-fault driver’s insurance provider, compensating you for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages, up to the limits of your UM policy.
Before filing an uninsured motorist claim, it is wise to consult with a New Jersey car accident attorney. Insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts, and having legal representation ensures that your rights and interests are fully protected.
Understanding Underinsured Motorist Coverage in NJ
In some cases, the at-fault driver may have insurance, but their coverage is insufficient to fully compensate you for your injuries. This is where underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage becomes critical.
For example, if you are injured in an accident and the at-fault driver only carries the state-minimum liability policy of $15,000, but your damages amount to $75,000, you may be left with a significant financial shortfall. However, if you have underinsured motorist coverage of $100,000, you could recover the additional $50,000 from your own insurance provider. Keep in mind that your total compensation cannot exceed the face value of your UIM coverage.
Collecting Benefits and Protecting Your Rights
To successfully claim uninsured or underinsured motorist benefits, you must:
Prove fault from the other driver;
Demonstrate the extent of your injuries with medical records, bills, and expert reports;
Negotiate a fair settlement with your insurance company or proceed to arbitration if necessary.
Why You Need a New Jersey Car Accident Lawyer and Should Hire The Goldman Law Firm
Navigating an uninsured or underinsured motorist claim can be complex. Insurance companies may attempt to reduce your compensation or deny your claim outright. That’s why working with an experienced New Jersey car accident attorney is essential to securing the full benefits you deserve.
At the Goldman Law Firm, we specialize in handling uninsured and underinsured motorist claims in New Jersey. We will gather all necessary documentation, build a strong case, and aggressively negotiate on your behalf to ensure maximum compensation. If your insurance provider refuses a fair settlement, we are prepared to take your case to arbitration.
Don’t leave your financial future to chance. If you’ve been injured in an accident involving an uninsured or underinsured driver, contact us today for a free consultation.
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