Does car insurance cover snow accidents? The winter season in New Jersey has been intense this year, especially over the past couple of weeks. With snow and ice continuing to mount, more and more New Jersey residents are asking whether or not their insurance carrier will cover them in the event of a snow-related car accident. In today’s blog, we take a look at how insurance works in a no-fault state such as New Jersey, how long you have to file a claim and whether or not you’re covered in the event of a snow-related car accident in the future.
Read more: Will My Insurance Premium Go Up If I File A Claim?
What Does No-Fault Mean in New Jersey?
In a “no-fault” state, injured car accident victims will turn to their own personal injury protection as opposed to the other driver’s. Personal injury protection – also known as PIP – will pay for an injured driver’s medical bills and other related costs, regardless of who is considered to be at-fault for the accident.
Under New Jersey law, your PIP coverage will cover:
- Ambulatory services
- Medical treatment
- Rehabilitative care
- Lost wages if you’re unable to return to work ($100 a week for a maximum of $5,200)
- Diagnostic tests such as MRIs, X-Rays, etc.
- Surgery and other hospital-related expenses
- Funeral costs (next of kin is entitled to up to a $1,000 for funeral expenses)
- Essential services such as housework and childcare (daily payout of $12 up to $4,380)
Because New Jersey is a no-fault state, you will still be able to turn to your own personal injury protection in the event that you are struck by another driver who was unable to stop due to the snow and/or exhibiting reckless driving behavior such as being intoxicated or distracted behind the wheel.
Read more: Overview Of The Different Types Of Car Insurance
How to Prevent a Snow-Related Car Accident
First and foremost, be sure to always check the weather forecast before heading to your destination as a precautionary measure. In addition to checking the weather so you know how to better prepare, you should also do the following:
- Learn how to handle a skid (life your foot off the accelerator and turn your wheel in the direction you want to go)
- Don’t tailgate (remember to always leave a safe-following distance between you and other vehicles since the snow and ice can make it more difficult to come to a stop)
- Make sure your tires are in good condition
- Don’t speed (remember, local speed limits are not designed for weather conditions such as rain, sleet or snow)
- Don’t drink and drive or use your cell phone while driving
While the snow looks like it might be here to stay, we hope you find peace of mind knowing that you do have options in the event of a motor vehicle accident. Remember, to always practice safe driving habits when you’re on the road; if you’re injured in a car accident this winter season, the personal injury lawyers at the Law Offices of Andres, Berger & Tran, P.C. are here to help. Give us a call today: (856) 795-1444.
Contact A Haddonfield Personal Injury Lawyer To Discuss Your Car Accident Case In New Jersey
Did you or a loved one sustain serious injuries due to a car accident in New Jersey? Don’t let the medical bills pile up while you wait for the negligent party or their insurance company to do the right thing. Right now, you need an aggressive personal injury attorney on your side, fighting to get you the compensation you need, want, and deserve. The skilled personal injury attorneys at the Law Offices of Andres, Berger & Tran P.C. represent clients injured because of car accidents in Camden, Cherry Hill, Gloucester Township, Winslow, and throughout New Jersey. Call (856) 795-1444 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation about your case. We have an office conveniently located at 264 Kings Hwy. E. Haddonfield, NJ 08033.
The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.
