Most injuries to drivers involved in multi-vehicle accidents are the fault of the other driver and, even though you may have adequate insurance coverage, the responsible party may not.
New Jersey law generally requires a driver to have a minimum:
$15,000 for injury or death of 1 person per accident.
$30,000 for injury or death of 2 or more persons per accident.
$5,000 for property damage per accident.
However, New Jersey also now permits the sale of a new “basic” policy which essentially provides no coverage at all if someone is injured.
"Uninsured motorist" means that the person responsible for your injuries is operating a vehicle without any insurance coverage whatsoever. If you have purchased uninsured motorist coverage, you will be able to collect from your insurance company to recoup your damages (both property and personal).
"Underinsured motorist" means that the person responsible for your injuries has opted to purchase only the minimum policy required by law. If you have purchased underinsured motorist coverage, you will be able to collect from your insurance company to recoup your damages (both property and personal) that exceed the responsible party's limits. We can often help you if you are seriously injured and the defendant has minimal coverage or was uninsured.
It is imperative that you carry insurance that includes "uninsured motorist" coverage and "underinsured motorist" coverage.
In the event that you have been hit and injured by someone who carries only the minimum policy required by law, or even worse someone who has no insurance coverage at all, you must protect yourself. We can make a claim for you with the Unsatisfied Claim and Judgment Fund and the NJ PLIGA. Call us.
"We strongly recommend that every person carry a minimum of $300,000 in uninsured/underinsured coverage. This is the insurance you carry that protects YOU, not the other guy - who's more important? The cost is minimal and the benefits to you if you need it can protect you against devastation."
Associate Editor: Ernest Fantini
