Thousands of people rely on New Jersey Transit daily to get them around. Riders on buses and trains expect these modes of travel will bring them safely to their destinations.
However, accidents can occur for various reasons, leading to injury or loss of life. In such cases, injured persons want to know who covers the bill.
Personal Injury Protection claims
Individuals who hold a car insurance policy may have coverage through their own insurer. New Jersey is a no-fault auto insurance state, and all drivers must have personal injury protection. This means that people with coverage must first file a claim with their own insurers, even as passengers in an accident.
PIP covers injuries and other damages, such as loss of income and child care expenses. If the injured person dies due to injuries from an accident, PIP can also cover funeral costs. However, the hurt individual has to prove the extent of damages to the insurer, which can require substantial legwork.
Claims against NJ Transit or another negligent party
In various instances, an injured person can file a claim against whoever is at fault for the damages. For example, PIP may not cover all damages because the minimum coverage is only $15,000. Also, a person may not own a vehicle and have the requisite car insurance.
If NJ Transit is responsible due to negligence or wrongdoing, the injured party must file a tort claim with NJ Transit. However, unlike other personal injury cases, claimants only have 90 days to file. If another institution or party is responsible, the injured person has two years to file a suit.
An accident on NJ Transit can have terrible consequences. A careful review of the facts can highlight who is responsible for paying for an injured party’s damages.
