Bergen County Uninsured Motorist Claim Lawyer — How Do You Get Paid?
If you are injured by an uninsured driver in Bergen County, your own insurance policy may be your only path to compensation. An uninsured motorist claim lawyer Bergen County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can help you handle this complex process. We handle claims against your insurer to secure payment for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Understanding Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage in New Jersey
New Jersey law requires all auto insurance policies to offer Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage, which protects you if you are injured by a driver with no insurance. This coverage is governed by N.J. Stat. § 17:28-1.1. When you file a UM claim, you are essentially making a claim against your own insurance company, which steps into the shoes of the at-fault, uninsured driver. The process involves proving the other driver was at fault and that your injuries meet your policy’s threshold. A UM claim lawyer Bergen County is essential to handle negotiations with your insurer, who has a financial interest in minimizing your payout.
Last verified: April 2026 | Bergen County Superior Court | New Jersey Legislature.
External Legal Resources
- N.J. Stat. § 17:28-1.1 (official New Jersey Legislature) – The statute governing uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage.
- New Jersey Courts Website – Official resource for court rules and procedures in Bergen County.
The Local Process for a Bergen County UM Claim
Filing a successful uninsured motorist claim in Bergen County requires strict adherence to procedure. You must report the accident to your insurer promptly and provide detailed documentation of your injuries and losses. Insurers often require a sworn statement and may dispute the severity of your injuries. An uninsured driver accident lawyer Bergen County knows that insurers will scrutinize your medical treatment and may request an independent medical examination (IME).
- Report the Accident: Notify your insurance company of the accident immediately, even if the other driver has no insurance.
- Seek Medical Attention: Document all injuries with a healthcare provider. Continuity of treatment is critical.
- Gather Evidence: Collect the police report, witness statements, photos of the scene and damage, and all medical records.
- File the UM Claim: Your attorney will submit a formal demand package to your insurer, outlining liability, injuries, and damages.
- Negotiate or Litigate: If the insurer denies the claim or offers an unfair settlement, your lawyer may file a lawsuit in Bergen County Superior Court.
Potential Recoverable Damages
In Bergen County, a successful uninsured motorist claim can recover compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering if your injuries meet the legal threshold.
| Damage Type | Description | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Medical Expenses | Past and future costs for hospital stays, surgery, therapy, and medication. | Must be documented and related to the accident. |
| Lost Wages | Income lost due to inability to work during recovery. | May include future lost earning capacity. |
| Pain and Suffering | Compensation for physical pain and emotional distress. | Recovery often depends on meeting New Jersey’s “verbal threshold.” |
| Property Damage | Repair or replacement cost for your vehicle. | Typically handled under the collision portion of your policy. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your UM Claim
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to your case. Our firm-wide record includes over 4,739 case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We understand the tactics insurance companies use to limit UM payouts and are prepared to advocate aggressively for you. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to every client’s case.
Case Results and Client Experiences
Our firm has successfully resolved numerous uninsured motorist claims across New Jersey. While results are always case-specific, our attorneys work diligently to maximize compensation for our clients. We have secured settlements that cover full medical treatment, lost wages, and provide meaningful compensation for our clients’ suffering.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Service for Bergen County Residents
If you need an uninsured motorist claim lawyer Bergen County residents trust, our team is ready to assist. We serve clients throughout Bergen County, including near the Bergen County Justice Center in Hackensack and in communities like Englewood, Fort Lee, Paramus, and Teaneck.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Contact: Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003
Address: By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions (UM Claims)
What should I do immediately after a hit-and-run or accident with an uninsured driver?
Yes. Call the police to file a report, seek medical attention, and contact your insurance company to start the claim process. Then, consult with an uninsured motorist claim lawyer Bergen County to protect your rights, as your own insurer will now be evaluating your claim.
Does my insurance rate go up if I file an uninsured motorist claim?
It depends. New Jersey law prohibits insurers from raising rates solely because you filed a UM claim where you were not at fault. However, other factors can affect your premium. An uninsured driver accident lawyer Bergen County can advise you on the potential implications for your specific policy.
How long do I have to file a UM claim or lawsuit in New Jersey?
You generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit, which would include a lawsuit against your own insurer for a denied UM claim. However, your insurance policy will have a much shorter deadline to simply report the claim—often just a few days.
What is New Jersey’s “verbal threshold” and how does it affect my claim?
The “verbal threshold” (or limitation on lawsuit option) in your policy requires you to prove your injury fits a specific legal category (e.g., significant disfigurement, displaced fracture) to recover for pain and suffering. Proving you meet this threshold is a key task for your UM claim lawyer Bergen County.
Can I still recover if I was partially at fault for the accident?
Yes. New Jersey’s comparative negligence law allows you to recover damages even if you are partially at fault, as long as you are not more than 50% responsible. Your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (609)-983-0003 for current guidance.
The same rules apply outside Bergen County, and our page on uninsured motorist claim claims across New Jersey walks through each stage.