New Jersey is unique in many ways—like having the longest boardwalk in the country, and more diners (525) than any other state. But in terms of car insurance, one thing that makes New Jersey unique among states is its verbal threshold.
The New Jersey no-fault insurance system offers drivers a chance to lower their insurance premiums—but with a price. Insurance companies offer drivers in New Jersey the option of carrying insurance with a verbal threshold or a zero threshold.
The zero threshold option allows an injured driver to have an easier time getting indemnified for non-economic damages such as pain and suffering. This greater flexibility in terms of compensation for damages after an accident comes with the price tag of a higher premium.
By contrast, the verbal threshold insurance option carries a less expensive monthly premium, but it also limits the indemnity options for an injured party. In fact, unless you can prove that an accident resulted in (1) death, (2) dismemberment, (3) significant disfigurement or significant scarring, (4) displaced fractures, (5) fetal loss; or (6) permanent injury, you won’t really have much recourse to recovering anything beyond economic damages (that is, the value of the vehicle).
Most drivers will not spend adequate time contemplating the full scope of restrictions that a verbal threshold insurance policy places on their rights post-accident. The no threshold option, while providing better insurance, is less appealing because of the monthly premium. If you’re unsure of what you can cover through insurance, you should consult with a Haddonfeild, NJ personal injury lawyer like those on the team of Siciliano & Associates.
But regardless of the insurance policy you selected, you still have rights and might be entitled to compensation that you are overlooking. Consulting with a personal injury attorney in Haddonfield could be all it takes to make sure you receive the indemnity that you deserve.