What If A Car Crash Victim Dies During the Claim in New Jersey?

Car accidents can be tragic, and sometimes they result in the unthinkable: the death of a victim during an ongoing claim in New Jersey.

Understanding the legal implications in such scenarios is crucial for both victims’ families and at-fault drivers.

In New Jersey, car accidents are unfortunately a common occurrence, and their consequences can be severe.

When these accidents result in fatalities, especially during an ongoing claim, it raises complex legal questions.

This article explores what happens in such situations, from potential jail time for at-fault drivers to the rights of the victim’s family.

Can You Go to Jail for Accidentally Killing Someone in a Car Accident in NJ?

In New Jersey, if someone dies in a car accident you’re involved in, you might wonder if you could go to jail. The answer depends on how the accident happened.

1. Negligence or Recklessness: If you were driving carelessly, like texting while driving on the New Jersey Turnpike, you might face charges.
2. Serious Charges for Risky Behavior: If the accident was due to something more dangerous, like drunk driving near Newark’s busy streets, the law is stricter. This could lead to serious charges and possibly jail time.
3. Accidental vs. Intentional: Accidents happen, but if you didn’t mean to cause the crash, the law considers this. It’s different from causing a crash on purpose.
4. New Jersey Laws: Under New Jersey Statutes 2C:11-5, if you’re driving recklessly and someone dies, it can be considered “vehicular homicide,” which is a serious crime.

When Someone Dies Due to Car Accidents, Does Their Family Get Money?

When a tragic car accident in New Jersey leads to someone’s death, their family might wonder if they can receive money for their loss. Here’s a simple explanation:

1. Insurance Claims: The family can claim money from the insurance of the person who caused the accident. This money helps cover expenses like medical bills or funeral costs.
2. Wrongful Death Lawsuit: If the accident was someone else’s fault, the family could file a lawsuit. This lawsuit can ask for money to help with lost income, especially if the person who died was a main earner in the family.
3. How Much and Who Gets It?: The amount of money can vary. It depends on the situation and how the accident happened. Usually, close family members like spouses or children can claim this money.

At-Fault Drivers Dying in New Jersey

When an at-fault driver in a car accident dies in New Jersey, it raises specific legal questions.

Here’s a straightforward explanation of what happens in such cases:

1. Claims Against the Estate: When pursuing claims against an estate, the process involves legally seeking compensation from the deceased driver’s assets. This shift means the victim or their family can continue to claim damages, including medical expenses and lost income, through a legal process that may involve probate courts. It’s essential to understand that this approach requires navigating complex estate laws, underscoring the importance of skilled legal guidance.
2. Insurance Coverage Continues: The deceased driver’s car insurance policy remains active regarding the accident. This policy can provide compensation to the victims.
3. New Jersey Roads Context: On busy roads like the New Jersey Turnpike or local streets in cities like Newark, accidents can unfortunately happen.

What Happens in Hit-and-Run Accidents in New Jersey?

In New Jersey, hit-and-run accidents are taken very seriously. These are accidents where a driver hits someone or something and then leaves without stopping to help or report the accident. Here’s what happens in such cases:

1. Legal Consequences: Leaving the scene of an accident, especially one involving injury or death, can lead to severe legal penalties. Under New Jersey Statute 2C:12-1.1, a hit-and-run driver can face fines, loss of driving privileges, and even jail time.
2. Investigation Process: Police actively investigate these incidents. They might look at traffic cameras, especially in busy areas like the New Jersey Turnpike or near workplaces in cities like Newark or Jersey City.
3. Victims’ Actions: If you’re a victim, report the accident to the police right away. Try to remember and describe the other vehicle and driver. This information can help in finding the person responsible.
4. Insurance Claims: Victims can file a claim with their insurance company under uninsured motorist coverage. This helps cover costs for damages or injuries when the at-fault driver is not identified.

Who Can Bring a Wrongful Death Accident Claim in New Jersey?

In New Jersey, when a tragic car accident leads to someone’s death, certain people are legally allowed to bring a wrongful death claim.

This is important for families seeking justice and compensation for their loss.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in New Jersey?

1. Immediate Family Members: This typically includes the spouse, children, and parents of the deceased person.
   • Example: If a person dies in a car crash on the New Jersey Turnpike, their spouse or children can file the claim.
2. Financial Dependents: Sometimes, other relatives who depended on the deceased for financial support can also file.
   • Example: A sibling who was financially supported by the deceased while working in Newark might be eligible.
3. Estate Representatives: The executor or administrator of the deceased person’s estate can file on behalf of the beneficiaries.
4. Time Limit: Claims must be filed within two years of the death, as per the statute of limitations (N.J.S.A. 2A:31-3).

New Jersey Law about Death Victims

In New Jersey, laws regarding death victims, especially in car accidents, are designed to protect the rights of the deceased and their families. Here’s a simple breakdown of these laws:

Wrongful Death Statute (N.J.S.A. 2A:31-1 to 2A:31-6)

This law helps families of those who died in accidents, like a car crash on the New Jersey Turnpike or a workplace incident in Newark, to seek compensation.

Key Aspects of the Law

1. Who Can File a Claim: Usually, it’s the close family members like spouses, children, or parents of the deceased.
2. Compensation: Families can get money for lost income, emotional distress, and funeral costs.
3. Time Limit: Claims must be filed within two years of the person’s death.

See also: How a Wrongful Death Lawsuit Works in New Jersey

How Family Members File a Claim After Someone’s Death Due to Car Accidents in New Jersey?

When a family member dies in a car accident in New Jersey, filing a claim can be an important step in seeking justice and compensation.

Here’s a simple guide on how to do it:

1. Contact a Lawyer: It’s a good idea to talk to a lawyer who knows about car accident claims in New Jersey. They can guide you through the process.
2. Gather Evidence: Collect important information like the police report from the accident, which you can get from local police stations, say, in Newark or Jersey City. Also, gather any photos of the accident scene and medical records.
3. File the Claim: Your lawyer will help you file a claim against the person who caused the accident. This might be done through their insurance company or in court.

Seek Experienced Lawyers in New Jersey

In New Jersey, finding an experienced lawyer is crucial, especially when dealing with complex legal matters like wrongful death claims.

Here’s why seeking experienced legal assistance in New Jersey matters:

New Jersey Law

New Jersey has unique laws, like the ‘No Fault’ insurance law (N.J.S.A. 39:6A-1 to 39:6A-35).

For expert lawyer assistance in New Jersey, consider reaching out to Rosengard Law Group, known for its experience and understanding of local laws and roadways.

They offer expert lawyer services in personal injury and car accident cases, providing dedicated legal representation and guidance throughout New Jersey.

Roadways and Accidents

Lawyers in New Jersey are aware of high-risk areas for accidents, such as the congested routes of the New Jersey Turnpike or Garden State Parkway. They use this knowledge to strengthen your case.

Choosing a Lawyer in New Jersey

1. Look for Specialization: Choose a lawyer who specializes in your type of case.
2. Check Past Success: Look at their track record in similar cases.
3. Local Experience: Ensure they have experience in New Jersey courts and with state laws.

FAQs

Which Steps Should I Take if I Am Involved in Traffic Accidents Due to Negligence?

If you are involved in a traffic accident due to negligence, immediately report the accident to the police and seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor.

Then, document the accident scene with photos and gather contact information from any witnesses.

Which Types of Issues Should I Face During My Insurance Claim in New Jersey?

During an insurance claim in New Jersey, you may face issues such as delays in claim processing, disputes over who is at fault, and offers of compensation that may not fully cover all your expenses and losses.

Conclusion

Navigating the aftermath of a car accident in New Jersey, especially when a death occurs, can be complex and emotionally challenging.

Understanding your legal rights and the steps to take is crucial in these situations.

Seeking the guidance of experienced legal professionals can provide clarity and support through this difficult time.

This article provides general information and should not replace professional legal advice.