New Jersey Insurance Regulations
Consumer rights and insurance laws in New Jersey
Overview
New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance oversees one of the most complex auto insurance systems. As a choice no-fault state, drivers select between the verbal threshold (limited lawsuit option) and zero threshold (full lawsuit option), significantly impacting their claim rights.
Key Insurance Regulations in New Jersey
- Choice no-fault state — verbal threshold or zero threshold options
- Modified comparative fault — barred at 51% or more fault for tort claims
- 2-year statute of limitations for personal injury; 6 years for vehicle property damage (N.J.S.A. 2A:14-1(a))
- Mandatory auto insurance: 15/30/5 minimum liability with PIP
Filing an Insurance Complaint in New Jersey
If you believe your insurance company has acted unfairly or violated New Jersey insurance laws, you can file a complaint with the New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance. The department investigates consumer complaints and can take enforcement action against insurers that violate state regulations.
Before filing a complaint, make sure you have documented all communication with your insurance company, including claim numbers, dates, and the names of representatives you've spoken with. The New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance typically responds to complaints within 30 days.
New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance
Insurance Commissioner: Justin Zimmerman
Phone: (609) 292-7272
Website: https://www.nj.gov/dobi/
File a Complaint: Consumer Complaint Portal
Diminished value claims in New Jersey
Yes, against the at-fault driver, but not usually under your own policy. New Jersey's Appellate Division held in Kieffer v. High Point Insurance Co. (2011) that collision policies excluding diminution in value do not have to pay it, while noting that third-party claims against the driver who caused the damage rest on ordinary tort principles. You have six years to sue for tortious injury to personal property (N.J.S.A. 2A:14-1), and you recover only if your negligence was not greater than the other driver's (N.J.S.A. 2A:15-5.1).
Read the New Jersey diminished value guideInsurance Claim Guides for New Jersey
Browse our detailed insurance claim guides tailored specifically to New Jersey laws and regulations.
Other State Insurance Regulations
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