Rear End Accident Lawyer in Union County, NJ — What Are Your Rights?
If you were injured in a rear-end collision in Union County, you need a lawyer who understands New Jersey’s modified comparative fault law. A rear-end accident lawyer Union County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can help you seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
New Jersey Rear-End Accident Law
In New Jersey, liability in a rear-end collision is often presumed against the following driver under the doctrine of negligence per se for violating traffic laws like N.J.S.A. 39:4-89 (following too closely). However, recovery is governed by the New Jersey Comparative Negligence Act (N.J.S.A. 2A:15-5.1 et seq.), which bars recovery if you are found more than 50% at fault for the accident.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Union Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
External Legal Resources
For the official statutes and court information, refer to these .gov resources: N.J.S.A. 2A:15-5.1 (New Jersey Comparative Negligence Act) and the Superior Court of New Jersey, Union Vicinage website.
Insider Procedural Edge in Union County
Personal injury cases in Union County are filed in the Law Division of the Superior Court. The court mandates arbitration for cases under $20,000, but this is non-binding. A key local procedural fact is that discovery often includes an Independent Medical Exam (IME) requested by the defense. An experienced rear-end accident lawyer near me Union County can handle this process effectively.
- Seek Immediate Medical Care: Document all injuries, even minor ones, as soon as possible after the accident.
- Report the Accident: File a police report with the local municipality (e.g., Elizabeth, Westfield) where the crash occurred.
- Preserve Evidence: Gather photos, witness contacts, and your vehicle’s damage report. Do not speak to the other driver’s insurance adjuster alone.
- Consult a Lawyer: Contact a rear end accident lawyer Union County to evaluate fault, damages, and the applicable insurance policy (verbal threshold vs. limitation lawsuit).
- File a Claim: Your attorney will file a lawsuit in Superior Court before the two-year statute of limitations expires, initiating discovery and the court’s arbitration track.
Potential Damages and Penalties
In Union County, a rear-end accident can lead to compensation for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and property damage, but your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault under NJ law.
| Damage Type | Description | Common Range / Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Economic Damages | Medical bills, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, future earnings loss. | Varies based on treatment and income. |
| Non-Economic Damages | Pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life. | No statutory cap in NJ for most cases. |
| Property Damage | Vehicle repair or replacement costs, rental car expenses. | Actual cash value of vehicle. |
| Fault Determination | Modified Comparative Negligence | Barred from recovery if 51% or more at fault. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Union County Case
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. We understand the tactics insurance companies use in Union County to minimize payouts. Our approach is direct and focused on protecting your right to full compensation under New Jersey law.
Case Results and Client Focus
While specific case results in Union County are not enumerated here, our firm-wide record includes over 4,739 documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We represent clients across New Jersey, focusing on the details that impact case value, from challenging IME reports to negotiating with insurers.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Representation for Union County Residents
Our New Jersey location serves clients throughout Union County, including Elizabeth, Union Township, Plainfield, Westfield, Scotch Plains, Cranford, Summit, Linden, Rahway, Clark, Roselle, and Springfield. The office is accessible via the NJ Turnpike, Garden State Parkway, Route 22, and I-78.
Contact an affordable rear-end accident lawyer Union County today:
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions: Rear-End Accidents in Union County
Is the driver who rear-ends another always at fault in New Jersey?
No, but they are usually presumed negligent. The front driver may share fault if they brake-checked, had broken taillights, or reversed suddenly. New Jersey’s comparative fault law determines final liability and compensation.
What is the statute of limitations for a rear-end accident injury in NJ?
Two years. You have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit in New Jersey Superior Court, per N.J.S.A. 2A:14-2. Missing this deadline typically bars your claim permanently.
What if I was partially at fault for the rear-end crash?
You can still recover damages if you are 50% or less at fault. However, your total compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. If you are found 51% or more at fault, you cannot recover any compensation.
What damages can I recover after a rear-end accident?
You may recover economic damages (medical bills, lost wages) and non-economic damages (pain and suffering). New Jersey does not have a cap on pain and suffering damages for most personal injury cases.
Should I give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance company?
No. You are not legally required to do so, and it is not in your best interest. Insurance adjusters may use your statement to find reasons to reduce or deny your claim. Consult with a lawyer first.
Internal Resources
For more information, visit our New Jersey Personal Injury Lawyer hub page. We also assist with related matters in Union County like business law and civil litigation. Learn more about our New Jersey law location.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. For the most current guidance on your rear-end accident case in Union County, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Attorney responsible for this advertisement: Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., 44 Apple St 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724.