Union City Car Accident Lawyer | SRIS, P.C.
Union City Car Accident Lawyer — What Are Your Rights After a Crash?
If you were injured in a car accident in Union City, New Jersey, you have the right to seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering under the NJ Comparative Negligence Act. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides experienced legal representation to handle the claims process and protect your rights. Our firm, founded in 1997, offers 24/7 consultations to discuss your case.
New Jersey Car Accident Law and Your Rights
New Jersey operates under a modified comparative negligence system, governed by N.J.S.A. 2A:15-5.1. This law allows an injured person to recover damages only if they are found to be 50% or less at fault for the accident. Your recovery is then reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are awarded $100,000 but found 20% at fault, you would receive $80,000. If you are found 51% or more at fault, you are barred from recovering any compensation. Understanding this statute is critical, as insurance companies will aggressively seek to assign you a higher percentage of fault to minimize their payout.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Union Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, refer to the New Jersey Comparative Negligence Act (N.J.S.A. 2A:15-5.1). For court procedures and forms, visit the Superior Court of New Jersey, Union Vicinage website.
The Local Process for a Union City Car Accident Case
Car accident lawsuits in Union City are filed in the Law Division of the Superior Court in Elizabeth. The process begins with discovery, where both sides exchange evidence. Insurance companies often require an Independent Medical Examination (IME) by a doctor of their choosing. For cases where the claimed damages are under $20,000, New Jersey mandates non-binding arbitration. If the arbitration award is rejected by either party, the case proceeds to a jury trial.
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Your health is the priority, and medical records create a vital link between the accident and your injuries.
- Report the Accident: File a police report and notify your own insurance company as required by your policy.
- Preserve Evidence: Gather photos, witness contact information, and a copy of the police report. Do not discuss fault with the other driver’s insurer.
- Consult a Union City Car Accident Attorney: An attorney can handle all communications with insurance companies and begin investigating liability.
- File a Lawsuit Before the Deadline: New Jersey has a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims from the date of the accident.
Potential Compensation in a Car Accident Case
In Union City, a car accident claim can seek compensation for economic damages like medical bills and lost wages, as well as non-economic damages for pain and suffering, with no statutory cap on these amounts in New Jersey.
| Damage Type | Examples | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Economic Damages | Hospital bills, surgery costs, rehabilitation, lost income, future earning capacity loss, property damage. | Must be documented with bills, receipts, and experienced testimony. |
| Non-Economic Damages | Pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, loss of consortium. | No fixed formula; value is argued based on the severity and impact of injuries. |
| Punitive Damages | Rarely awarded; intended to punish egregious conduct like drunk driving. | Require proof of willful and wanton disregard for safety. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Union City Car Accident Case
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. With over 120 years of combined attorney experience and a track record of thousands of cases, our firm brings a depth of knowledge to personal injury litigation. Our approach is grounded in thorough investigation and strategic preparation, recognizing that insurance companies are adept at minimizing claims. We focus on building a compelling case for full and fair compensation from the outset.
Our Commitment to Client Advocacy
Our firm is committed to providing assertive representation for injured individuals in Union City. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial strain a serious accident can cause. Our role is to handle the legal details so you can focus on recovery. We prepare every case as if it will go to trial, which is often the key to achieving a favorable settlement.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Presence and Accessibility
Our New Jersey location serves clients throughout Union County, including those in Union City. We represent clients at the Union County Courthouse in Elizabeth. Our firm is accessible via major routes like the NJ Turnpike and Route 1&9. We serve the communities of Elizabeth, Union Township, Plainfield, Westfield, Scotch Plains, Cranford, Summit, Linden, Rahway, Clark, Roselle, and Springfield.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003 | Local: (732) 758-8688
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Union City Car Accident Lawyer FAQ
What is the statute of limitations for a car accident in New Jersey?
Two years. You have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit in New Jersey. Missing this absolute deadline will almost certainly bar your claim forever, regardless of its merits.
What should I do immediately after a car accident in Union City?
First, check for injuries and call 911. Exchange insurance information with the other driver but do not admit fault. Take photos of the vehicles, the scene, and any visible injuries. Get contact information from witnesses. Report the accident to the police and your own insurance company. Then, consult a Union City car accident attorney before speaking to the other driver’s insurer.
How is fault determined in a New Jersey car accident case?
It depends. Fault is determined by evidence such as the police report, witness statements, traffic camera footage, and accident reconstruction. New Jersey uses a modified comparative negligence rule. You can recover damages if you are 50% or less at fault, but your award is reduced by your percentage of responsibility.
What if the driver who hit me doesn’t have insurance?
You may file a claim under your own policy’s Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage. New Jersey requires all auto insurance policies to include UM coverage unless you specifically rejected it in writing. A Union City car accident attorney can help you handle this claim with your own insurer.
How long does a typical car accident case take to resolve?
It depends on complexity. A clear case with clear liability and resolved injuries may settle in several months. Cases involving disputed fault, severe injuries, or multiple parties can take 12-24 months or longer, especially if litigation and discovery are necessary.
Related Legal Resources
If you need assistance with other matters, our firm also handles business law in Union County and civil litigation in Union County. For more information on personal injury law statewide, visit our New Jersey Personal Injury Lawyer hub page. We also serve clients in neighboring areas like Bergen County and Burlington County.
Page last verified and updated: 2026-04. Laws change. For current guidance, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Under N.J. Stat. § 14A:1-1, state law governs this practice area.