My 12-year-old son was injured while riding in a school bus when another bus from the same transportation company rear-ended it. He suffered mild whiplash and was taken to the hospital by ambulance.
Now, both the school and the hospital are requesting my vehicle insurance information to handle a personal injury claim. The bus company has told me that since New Jersey is a no-fault state, this is the procedure.
I want to clarify that neither of our vehicles were involved, and we were not driving at the time. Is this the right process? Should I be concerned about a potential increase in my premiums as a result? Any advice would be greatly appreciated!
I’m sorry to hear about your son’s accident; that sounds really stressful. In New Jersey, as a no-fault insurance state, the process can be a bit complicated. Typically, insurance claims for accidents involving personal injury may go through your auto insurance policy, even if you were not driving or in a vehicle at the time of the incident.
Since this involves a school vehicle, it may also be worth checking if the school transportation company has specific liability insurance that could cover the injuries your son sustained. You should contact your insurance company to discuss the situation and inquire about what your coverage entails in this case.
Additionally, it may be a good idea to consult with a personal injury attorney who specializes in such cases. They can provide guidance on whether there’s a valid claim against the transportation company and help you understand the implications for your insurance.
While it’s understandable to be concerned about a potential premium increase, your insurance should cover necessary medical expenses for injuries sustained, especially in a no-fault state. Make sure to get all the information you can before proceeding, and ensure that you’re protecting your son’s rights and well-being.