From congested roadways in Newark to workplace incidents in Camden or slip and falls along the Jersey Shore, accidents in New Jersey happen every day. When they do, victims and families often face medical expenses, emotional distress, and legal confusion about their next steps.
This guide offers essential New Jersey accident victim resources for those affected by injury or fatal accidents. Whether you need medical care, a police report, emotional support, or legal guidance, this page connects you with the tools and services that can help.
Support for Injury Victims After Accidents in New Jersey
Injury accidents can lead to long-term pain, missed work, and overwhelming bills. If your injuries were caused by someone else’s negligence, you may be able to pursue compensation under New Jersey law.
Emergency Medical Care and Rehabilitation
After an accident, get medical attention right away. New Jersey offers excellent trauma and rehab facilities:
- Cooper University Hospital (Camden) – Level I trauma center
- University Hospital (Newark) – Emergency services and surgical care
- Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital (New Brunswick) – Advanced orthopedics and neurology
- Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation (multiple locations) – Specializes in brain, spinal cord, and stroke rehab
You can also find public health resources through the New Jersey Department of Health at https://www.nj.gov/health
Personal Injury Laws in New Jersey
New Jersey follows a modified comparative negligence rule. If you are less than 51% at fault for an accident, you may recover compensation, though it will be reduced based on your share of the blame.
Damages can include:
- Medical bills
- Future treatment costs
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of earning capacity
Most injury lawsuits must be filed within two years of the date of the accident.
Help for Families After Fatal Accidents in New Jersey
When an accident results in a death, surviving family members may face funeral expenses, loss of income, and unbearable grief. But New Jersey law allows eligible parties to seek justice through a wrongful death claim.
Grief Counseling and Emotional Support
New Jersey has many resources to help families cope with sudden loss:
- Imagine, A Center for Coping with Loss (Mountainside & Newark) – Free grief support for children and families
- Center for Hope Hospice & Palliative Care – Offers grief support groups and bereavement services
- Good Grief (Morristown, Princeton) – Grief counseling for youth and adults
- 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline – Call or text 988 for 24/7 support
Filing a Wrongful Death Claim in New Jersey
Under N.J. Stat. § 2A:31-1, wrongful death lawsuits must be filed by the personal representative of the deceased’s estate on behalf of surviving family members. Compensation may cover:
- Funeral and burial costs
- Medical bills related to the fatal injury
- Loss of financial support
- Loss of companionship and guidance
The statute of limitations for wrongful death claims in New Jersey is two years from the date of death.
How to Get a Police Report After an Accident in New Jersey
Crash reports play a critical role in documenting your case and are often required by insurance companies and attorneys.
Requesting an Accident Report in New Jersey
You can get your crash report through:
- New Jersey State Police: For highway and interstate crashes. Visit https://www.njportal.com/NJSP/CrashReports
- Local Police Departments: Contact the records division or visit in person
- Municipal Websites: Many offer online access to crash reports
Be prepared to provide:
- Date and location of the crash
- Names of involved parties
- Case or report number (if known)
- A processing fee (typically $5–$15)
Most reports are available within 5–7 business days.
Financial and Social Support After an Accident in New Jersey
When injuries or deaths lead to financial hardship, New Jersey offers several forms of assistance for families in need.
Public Assistance Programs
The New Jersey Department of Human Services helps families with low income or sudden financial emergencies. Programs include:
- NJ FamilyCare (Medicaid) – Free or low-cost health coverage
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – Monthly grocery benefits
- Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) – Cash aid for families
- Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) – Utility assistance
Apply at https://www.njhelps.org
New Jersey Victims of Crime Compensation Office (VCCO)
If your accident was the result of a criminal act—like a DUI crash, hit-and-run, or assault—you may qualify for financial help from the Victims of Crime Compensation Office.
Covered expenses include:
- Medical treatment
- Counseling
- Funeral and burial costs
- Lost wages
Learn more or apply by calling 877-658-2221.
Frequently Asked Questions About Accidents in New Jersey
How long do I have to file an injury or wrongful death claim?
You have two years from the date of injury or death to file a lawsuit in most cases. Acting quickly protects your right to compensation.
What happens if I was partly at fault?
New Jersey uses comparative fault rules. As long as you’re less than 51% responsible, you can still receive compensation. Your recovery will be reduced based on your share of the fault.
Do I need a police report for an insurance claim?
While not always mandatory, a police report can strengthen your case and is often required by insurers and attorneys.
Who can file a wrongful death claim?
The personal representative of the deceased’s estate files the lawsuit. Surviving family members, like a spouse, children, or dependents, may receive the compensation awarded.
Should I talk to a lawyer after an accident?
Yes. A New Jersey accident attorney can help protect your rights, collect the right evidence, deal with insurance companies, and file your claim on time.
Call a New Jersey Accident Attorney Today
After an accident or sudden loss, it’s hard to know where to turn. Between medical appointments, insurance paperwork, and emotional distress, you may feel overwhelmed. But you don’t have to go through it alone.
A skilled New Jersey accident attorney can:
- Help you obtain your crash report
- Determine if you’re eligible for compensation
- File a claim or lawsuit on your behalf
- Fight for the full recovery you deserve
Don’t wait to get help. Call a New Jersey accident attorney today to get the guidance and support you need to move forward.