Underinsured Motorist Claim Lawyer in Bergen County, NJ
An underinsured motorist (UIM) claim in Bergen County arises when an at-fault driver’s insurance is insufficient to cover your injury damages. New Jersey law, specifically N.J.S.A. 17:28-1.1, mandates UIM coverage but handling the claim process requires precise legal steps. As your Underinsured Motorist Claim Lawyer Bergen County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New Jersey Underinsured Motorist (UIM) Law
New Jersey’s underinsured motorist statute is designed to protect drivers when the at-fault party carries less insurance than needed to cover the victim’s losses. The law requires insurers to offer UIM coverage, which you can then choose to purchase. This coverage becomes crucial in accidents with severe injuries where the other driver’s policy limits are quickly exhausted. A UIM claim lawyer Bergen County can explain how your policy’s UIM limits interact with the at-fault driver’s liability limits to determine available recovery.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Bergen Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
External Legal Resources
For the official text of New Jersey’s insurance laws, refer to the New Jersey Statutes Annotated (N.J.S.A.) Title 17. For court-specific procedures and forms, the Superior Court of New Jersey, Bergen Vicinage website provides essential information.
handling a UIM Claim in Bergen County
Filing a successful underinsured motorist claim in Bergen County involves a specific, often contentious, process with your own insurance company. Insurers frequently dispute the severity of injuries or the value of a claim to avoid a payout. An experienced underinsured driver accident lawyer Bergen County understands these tactics. The key local procedural fact is that UIM claims in New Jersey are subject to arbitration, but the outcome can be appealed for a trial in the Law Division of the Superior Court in Hackensack.
- Exhaust the At-Fault Policy: First, settle with the at-fault driver’s insurance company for their full policy limits, obtaining a signed release that preserves your UIM claim.
- Formal UIM Demand: Your attorney submits a formal written demand to your own insurer, outlining your damages and the deficiency.
- Arbitration or Litigation: If the insurer disputes the claim value, the case typically proceeds to binding arbitration. If dissatisfied with the award, either party can demand a trial.
- Superior Court Trial: An appealed UIM claim is tried before a judge or jury in the Bergen County Superior Court, Law Division, just like any other personal injury lawsuit.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your UIM Claim
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to complex insurance disputes. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We understand that an underinsured motorist claim is a lawsuit against your own insurer, requiring a strategic and assertive approach to secure the compensation you paid for with your premiums.
Representation in Bergen County
Our firm is positioned to represent clients throughout Bergen County. We handle the intricate details of UIM claims, from the initial demand letter through arbitration or trial at the Superior Court in Hackensack.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contact Our Bergen County Underinsured Motorist Claim Lawyers
If you’ve been injured by an underinsured driver in Bergen County, contact our UIM claim lawyer Bergen County team for a case review. Our New Jersey location serves clients in Hackensack, Fort Lee, Teaneck, Paramus, Englewood, and all surrounding communities.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — New Jersey
44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions: UIM Claims in Bergen County
What is the difference between uninsured (UM) and underinsured (UIM) motorist coverage in NJ?
Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage applies when the at-fault driver has no insurance. Underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage applies when the at-fault driver has insurance, but their policy limits are too low to cover your total damages. Both are crucial protections mandated by New Jersey law.
Do I need a lawyer for an underinsured motorist claim?
Yes. A UIM claim is a lawsuit against your own insurance company. They have legal teams aiming to minimize payouts. An experienced underinsured driver accident lawyer Bergen County negotiates and litigates to secure the full value of your claim, handling complex policy language and arbitration procedures.
How long do I have to file a UIM claim in New Jersey?
It depends. The statute of limitations for personal injury in NJ is two years from the date of the accident. However, your insurance policy may have shorter notification requirements. You should report the accident and potential UIM claim to your insurer immediately and consult an attorney to protect all deadlines.
Can my insurance company deny my UIM claim?
Yes. Insurers often deny UIM claims by arguing your injuries aren’t severe enough, the at-fault driver wasn’t truly underinsured, or you failed to follow policy procedures. A UIM claim lawyer Bergen County can challenge these denials, gather necessary evidence, and fight for your right to compensation through arbitration or court.
Where is a UIM claim filed in Bergen County?
UIM claims begin with a demand to your insurer. If disputed, they typically go to binding arbitration. If the arbitration award is appealed, the case proceeds to a trial in the Law Division of the Superior Court of New Jersey, Bergen Vicinage, located at 10 Main Street in Hackensack.
Related Practice Areas: If you have other legal needs, our firm also handles business law, civil litigation, and DUI defense in Bergen County. For more on personal injury statewide, see our New Jersey Personal Injury Lawyer hub. We also serve clients in neighboring areas like Union County.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding your underinsured motorist claim.