NJ Statute of Limitations Car Accident
A statute of limitations is the deadline provided to file a claim or lawsuit. New Jersey’s statute of limitations for car accident claims depends on the purpose of filing, including personal injury, property damage, and wrongful death.
These deadlines are designed to encourage timely legal action and prevent the plaintiff from essentially holding a case over a defendant’s head indefinitely. Below, we will examine the specific timelines for car accident claims in New Jersey, exceptions to these rules, and the importance of collaborating with an attorney. If you have any further questions, please call us today at 800-726-6326, ext. 123.
Expertise
Samuel Meirowitz is “Top 100 Trial Lawyer” and an accomplished personal injury lawyer, trial attorney and relentless advocate for his clients. Previously, he served the State of New York for four years as a prosecutor in the Bronx District Attorney’s office. Mr. Meirowitz is admitted to practice law in New York and Florida State Courts.
Content written by Samuel Meirowitz
Samuel Meirowitz is “Top 100 Trial Lawyer” and an accomplished personal injury lawyer, trial attorney and relentless advocate for his clients. Previously, he served the State of New York for four years as a prosecutor in the Bronx District Attorney’s office. Mr. Meirowitz is admitted to practice law in New York and Florida State Courts.
Experienced Personal Injury Attorney
Quick Links
- The Statute of Limitations for Car Accidents in New Jersey
- Exceptions and Special Circumstances
- Why the Statute of Limitations Matters After a Car Accident
- Why Choose Meirowitz & Wasserberg for Your Car Accident Claims
- Meirowitz & Wasserberg Recent Car Accident Settlements
- What Clients Say About Us
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Consult a Car Accident Lawyer
The Statute of Limitations for Car Accidents in New Jersey
In New Jersey, a plaintiff generally has two years from the date of an accident to file a personal injury claim. If they are filing for property damage, they have six years to do so. However, if a car crash results in wrongful death, the deadline stays at two years beginning on the date of death.
Exceptions and Special Circumstances
While the statute of limitations is strict, there are still situations where it may be tolled or extended.
Claims Involving Minors
If the injured party is under 18 at the time of the accident, the two-year statute of limitations typically does not begin until they turn 18.
Discovery Rule in Car Accident Cases
The discovery rule may apply in certain instances, such as when an injury is not immediately apparent or reasonably discoverable. The countdown may start from the date the injury was, or should have been, discovered.
Claims Against Government Entities
If the defendant is a government entity, there are additional or shorter deadlines to give notice of the claim. For example, in some cases, a notice must be filed within 90 days of the injury.
Why the Statute of Limitations Matters After a Car Accident
Missing the deadline to file a claim can result in the dismissal of your case and compensation rights. Legal guidance helps preserve your claim and protect your rights. Our seasoned attorneys have extensive experience handling car accident cases and can handle yours with dedication. Call today for more information.
Why Choose Meirowitz & Wasserberg for Your Car Accident Claims
Our dedicated and experienced personal injury attorneys can assist you in navigating the statute of limitations, filing your lawsuit, and ensuring your case is managed effectively. We have taken on numerous auto collision cases for our clients and seen favorable results. When you choose to work with us, you secure a team with the following benefits:
- Ensuring Deadlines Are Met – Our lawyers ensure all filings are completed on time, avoiding the risk of losing the right to seek compensation.
- Handling Complex Cases – We can handle complex cases involving exceptions, multiple parties, or government entities, ensuring all aspects are addressed.
Meirowitz & Wasserberg Recent Car Accident Settlements
Our team has secured hundreds of thousands of dollars in settlements and verdicts for injured parties across the state. Review some of our case results below:
- $1,175,000 – A client was involved in a three-car collision, leading to a ruptured aorta and spinal paralysis.
- $600,000 – Jury verdict in Nassau County Supreme Court for a client who sustained a neck injury and post-concussion syndrome after a motor vehicle accident. The settlement offer before jury selection was only $25,000.
- $305,000 – A client’s vehicle was hit by a rented passenger car that ran a stop sign in Erie County, resulting in herniated discs, spinal stenosis, neck and back pain, and an inability to walk.
- $300,000 – A client was involved in a rear-end collision that required shoulder surgery. The client was in a small SUV rear-ended by a commercial vehicle on the LIE in Queens.
- $250,000 – A client was hit by a car while riding a bicycle in the bike lane, which caused loss of consciousness and herniation of the cervical and lumbar spine.
What Clients Say About Us
We are proud to speak on behalf of our dedicated attorneys, but do not just take our word for it. Check out the testimonials of our past clients and their experiences with us:
“Meirowitz and Wasserberg were life savers. When my accident happened the last thing I wanted to do was talk to Lawyers. They made it easy and direct, their professionalism was greatly appropriated and they made sure I knew exactly what was happening the entire time. I know I will be recommending them to all of my friends going forward. ”
“I highly recommend Meirowitz and Wasserberg for anyone seeking a knowledgeable truck accident attorney in the Bronx. They are compassionate and skilled. ”
“Meirowitz and Wasserberg's team of lawyers provided invaluable assistance following my car accident in Morris Park. Their expertise and dedication made a significant impact on my case, handling every aspect with ease and ensuring a straightforward process. I am incredibly grateful for discovering their firm and the support they provided throughout this challenging time .”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Filing after the applicable deadline for your case can result in losing the right to compensation. If you are unsure of which statute of limitations applies to your claim, contact an attorney today for guidance.
No, filing an insurance claim is separate from filing a lawsuit, and it does not stop the statute of limitations from running.
New Jersey’s discovery rule may allow the statute of limitations to start when you reasonably discover the injury, but you must still act without delay.
Yes, you may still file a lawsuit, and if the driver cannot be found, you might pursue compensation through your own uninsured motorist coverage.
Consult a Car Accident Lawyer
Understanding the statute of limitations is a crucial aspect of your car accident claim. If you are unsure whether you have a case, do not hesitate to reach out for legal support today. Our skilled attorneys at Meirowitz & Wasserberg can review the details of your accident and begin the process of filing a claim for compensation. Contact our law office today to schedule a free, initial consultation.
AVAILABLE 24/7
Get Your Free Case ReviewWorkers Compensation Settlements
$373,644
Toxic Exposure
$233,000
Slip & Fall
$205,000
Construction Slip & Fall
$212,000
9/11 Toxic Exposure
The lawyers at Meirowitz and Wasserberg are very professional and stay true to their word. I got immediate help that was needed when I got into a severe construction accident that injured both my rotator cuffs. This firm knows and wants the best for you.
Daniel Choi