Car Accident Lawyer Bergen County — What Are Your Rights After a Crash?
If you were injured in a car accident in Bergen County, you need a lawyer who understands New Jersey’s modified comparative fault laws and the local court system. A Bergen County car accident lawyer from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can help you seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
New Jersey Car Accident Law and Your Rights
In New Jersey, car accident claims are governed by the New Jersey Comparative Negligence Act (N.J.S.A. 2A:15-5.1 et seq.). This law allows you to recover damages as long as you are not more than 50% at fault for the crash. However, your total compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are found 20% at fault, your recovery is reduced by 20%. This makes a thorough investigation and strong legal argument critical to maximizing your recovery.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Bergen Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
External Legal Resources
Understanding the official statutes and court procedures is important. You can review the New Jersey Comparative Negligence Act (N.J.S.A. 2A:15-5.1) on the state legislature’s website. For local court information, visit the Superior Court of NJ, Bergen Vicinage website.
handling a Bergen County Car Accident Claim
Car accident cases in Bergen County are filed in the Superior Court Law Division in Hackensack. The process begins with filing a complaint, followed by a discovery period where both sides exchange evidence. This includes medical records, police reports, and witness statements. New Jersey law also allows for the defense to request an Independent Medical Examination (IME). For cases under $20,000, the court may require non-binding arbitration before a trial can be scheduled.
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Your health is the priority. This also creates a medical record linking your injuries to the accident.
- Report the Accident: File a police report. Obtain the report number and the officer’s name.
- Gather Evidence: Take photos of the scene, vehicle damage, your injuries, and get contact information for any witnesses.
- Notify Your Insurer: Report the accident to your own auto insurance company as required by your policy.
- Consult a Car Accident Lawyer: Before giving any recorded statements to the other driver’s insurance company, speak with an attorney to protect your rights.
- File Your Claim: Your attorney will prepare and file the necessary legal documents with the Superior Court before the two-year statute of limitations expires.
Potential Compensation in a Car Accident Case
In Bergen County, a car accident can lead to compensation for medical expenses, lost income, property damage, and pain and suffering, but your recovery may be reduced if you are found partially at fault.
| Damage Type | Description | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Economic Damages | Tangible financial losses with receipts. | Hospital bills, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, vehicle repair. |
| Non-Economic Damages | Intangible losses without a fixed dollar value. | Pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life. |
| Punitive Damages | Rare; intended to punish extreme negligence. | May apply in cases of drunk driving or intentional misconduct. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Bergen County Case
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our firm brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. We understand the procedures of the Bergen County Superior Court and the nuances of New Jersey’s auto insurance and negligence laws. Our approach is focused on building a strong, evidence-based case to advocate for the full compensation you deserve.
Our Commitment to Client Results
While specific case results in Bergen County are not published, our firm-wide commitment is to vigorous representation. Across our practice areas in VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC, we have handled over 4,739 documented case results.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Car Accident Lawyer Near Bergen County, NJ
Our New Jersey location serves clients throughout Bergen County, including Hackensack, Fort Lee, Teaneck, Paramus, and Englewood. We are accessible via I-80, the NJ Turnpike, and Route 17.
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 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Car Accidents in Bergen County
What should I do immediately after a car accident in Bergen County?
First, check for injuries and call 911. Exchange information with the other driver, take photos, and get witness contacts. Report the accident to police and seek medical attention, even if you feel fine, as some injuries appear later.
How long do I have to file a car accident lawsuit in New Jersey?
Two years. The statute of limitations for personal injury from a car accident in NJ is two years from the date of the crash under N.J.S.A. 2A:14-2. Missing this deadline typically bars your claim forever.
What if I was partially at fault for the Bergen County car accident?
You can still recover damages under New Jersey’s modified comparative fault rule, as long as you are 50% or less at fault. Your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. A skilled auto accident injury claim lawyer Bergen County can work to minimize your assigned fault.
Do I need a lawyer for a minor car accident?
It depends. Even minor accidents can lead to unexpected medical issues or disputes over fault with insurance companies. A consultation with a motor vehicle collision lawyer Bergen County can help you understand if your case warrants legal action.
What compensation can I seek after a car accident?
You may seek economic damages (medical bills, lost wages, car repair) and non-economic damages (pain and suffering). In rare cases of egregious conduct, punitive damages may be available.
Related Practice Areas: If you were injured in a truck accident in Bergen County, or need help with a business matter, our firm can assist.
Other Locations: We also serve clients in neighboring areas like Middlesex County and Union County.
State Overview: For more on New Jersey personal injury law, visit our New Jersey Personal Injury Lawyer hub page.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for the most current guidance regarding your car accident case.
Attorney responsible for this advertisement: Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., 44 Apple St 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724.