What If You’re In A Car Accident With A Government Vehicles in NJ?

Car accidents can be stressful and complicated, but when a government vehicle is involved, things can get even more complex. In New Jersey, there are specific rules and procedures to follow if you’re involved in a car accident with a government vehicle, such as police cars, fire trucks, or municipal vehicles. These cases are different from regular car accidents because you may be dealing with government agencies that have special legal protections.

As a New Jersey resident involved in an accident with a government vehicle, understanding your rights and options is very important.

What Makes Government Vehicle Accidents Different?

The government has something called “immunity.” This means they’re protected from some lawsuits. But don’t worry – this doesn’t mean you can’t get help if you’re hurt. It just means the rules are a bit different. 

Government vehicles aren’t just police cars. They include:

• Fire trucks
• Ambulances
• Mail trucks
• School buses
• City maintenance vehicles

When it comes to accidents with government vehicles, there are special rules you need to follow. These rules are stricter than for regular car accidents, especially when it comes to how quickly you need to act.

What to Do Right After the Accident?

If you’re in an accident with a government vehicle in NJ, here’s what you should do right away:

1. Stay Calm and Check for Injuries

First things first – take a deep breath and check if you or anyone else is hurt. Safety comes first!

2. Call 911

Even if the accident involves a police car, you should still call 911. This helps create an official record of the accident.

3. Don’t Admit Fault

Be careful what you say. Don’t apologize or say it was your fault, even if you think it might have been. Let the experts figure that out later.

4. Gather Information

Try to collect:

• The name and badge number of the government employee driving
• The department they work for (like police, fire department, etc.)
• Any witness names and phone numbers
• Pictures of the accident scene and damage to both vehicles

5. Seek Medical Attention

Even if you feel okay, see a doctor as soon as possible. Some injuries don’t show up right away, and having a medical record is important for your case.

6. Seek Legal Help

Dealing with government vehicle accidents can be complicated. That’s why it’s a good idea to talk to personal injury lawyers in New Jersey such as those at Rosengard Law Group who have experience with these types of cases. You can reach them at 856-284-6446 and discuss your case. They can guide you through the complex legal process and help protect your rights. For more information, click here to visit their website to learn more about your legal rights in accidents involving government vehicles. 

Additionally, they can guide you through the steps required to pursue compensation. By taking the proper steps, you can protect your rights and increase your chances of receiving the compensation you deserve.

What Are The Special Rules for Government Vehicle Accidents in NJ?

In New Jersey, the Tort Claims Act governs lawsuits against the government. This law has three key aspects. You must file a notice of claim within 90 days of the accident. The law also requires you to show that the government employee was negligent or reckless. 

Additionally, there may be limits on the amount of compensation you can receive, even if your case is successful, and these limits can change. Understanding these rules is essential for dealing with government-related lawsuits in New Jersey.

What Happens If the Government Denies Your Claim?

If the government denies your claim or doesn’t offer enough compensation, you may be able to file a lawsuit. However, you must wait for the six-month investigation period to end before filing a suit. After that, you have two years from the date of the accident to take legal action.

In a car accident involving a government vehicle, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical expenses: The cost of hospital visits, surgeries, medication, and rehabilitation.
• Lost wages: If you had to miss work due to your injuries, you could seek compensation for lost income.
• Property damage: Repairs to your vehicle or replacement if it was totaled in the accident.
• Pain and suffering: In some cases, you may be eligible for compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, or loss of enjoyment of life.

It’s important to remember that under the New Jersey Tort Claims Act, there are limits on how much compensation you can recover from the government. Consulting with an experienced attorney can help you understand these limits and what to expect from your case.

How to Protect Your Rights?

Accidents involving government vehicles require attention to detail. To secure fair compensation:

• Follow All Doctor’s Orders to demonstrate injury severity.
• Keep Good Records of accident-related paperwork.
• Be Cautious on Social Media to avoid jeopardizing your claim.
• Don’t Accept the First Offer without consulting a lawyer.
• Know Your Deadlines, especially the 90-day notice deadline.

By understanding these factors and following these tips, you can better handle the complex process and pursue fair compensation.

Getting into a car accident with a government vehicle in New Jersey involves additional legal challenges compared to a typical accident. The government is protected by sovereign immunity, and strict rules govern how and when you can file a claim. If you’ve been in such an accident, it’s necessary to follow the right steps, including filing a Notice of Claim within 90 days and seeking legal assistance if necessary.