Injured in a Car or Pedestrian Accident in Woodbridge or Edison, NJ?
If you’ve been injured in a car crash or hit while walking in Woodbridge or Edison, New Jersey, you’re likely facing serious questions: Who’s responsible? Who’s paying my medical bills? Should I speak to the insurance company? These aren’t just legal questions—they affect your daily life, your health, and your financial future.
Below, Beninato & Matrafajlo Law explains what your rights are under New Jersey law, what to do next, and how a personal injury attorney can help if someone else’s careless driving caused your injuries.
Accidents Are Common in Edison and Woodbridge—And Often Serious
In a growing area like Middlesex County, traffic congestion is a fact of life. Unfortunately, so are crashes. In Edison, recent incidents show just how dangerous the roads can be. In May 2025, an 81-year-old pedestrian was struck and killed in a shopping center parking lot in broad daylight. That same month, An 83-year-old woman died after her mobility scooter was hit by a car while crossing Route 27. Poor lighting and rain contributed to the driver not seeing her.
Woodbridge also sees many car accidents, particularly on major roads like Route 1, Route 9, and the Garden State Parkway, along with busy stretches near Metropark Station. These areas often involve high speeds, merging traffic, and limited visibility—factors that contribute to multi-car crashes and serious injuries. If your injury happened in one of these high-risk zones, you’re not alone.
What New Jersey Law Says About Car and Pedestrian Injuries
New Jersey uses a “no-fault” system for car accidents, which means your own auto insurance covers your medical bills and lost wages, no matter who caused the crash. This is known as Personal Injury Protection (PIP), and it’s required by law under N.J.S.A. § 39:6A-4.
But no-fault benefits only go so far. They don’t cover pain and suffering, and they may not fully cover your lost income or future medical costs. If your injuries are serious enough, you may be allowed to file a claim against the person who caused the crash.
Under N.J.S.A. § 39:6A-8, you can step outside the no-fault system and sue the at-fault driver if your injuries meet one of these conditions:
- You suffered a significant or permanent injury
- You have a displaced fracture
- You lost a body part or suffered disfigurement
- You’ve lost the use of a body system or function
- A loved one died because of the accident
If your injuries fall into one of these categories, you have the right to seek compensation from the person or company responsible.
What Caused the Crash Matters—And So Does Proving It
If the crash was caused by another driver’s carelessness or a hazardous road condition, you may be able to hold that party responsible. Some of the most common contributing factors in Edison and Woodbridge include:
- Distracted driving, such as texting
- Speeding through intersections or merging without signaling
- Drivers failing to yield to pedestrians
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Poor road maintenance or defective traffic lights
Establishing what caused the crash isn’t always straightforward. An Edison / Woodbridge car accident lawyer will gather evidence, including police reports, video footage, and witness accounts, to figure out exactly what happened and who is legally responsible.
What You Should Do After an Accident
After an accident, your first priority should always be your health. But once you’ve gotten medical attention, here are some steps that will help protect your legal rights:
- Make sure the crash is reported to the police. Get a copy of the report if you can.
- Take photos of the scene, your injuries, and the vehicles involved.
- Get names and contact information for any witnesses.
- Don’t speak to the other driver’s insurance company until you talk to a lawyer.
Even if you feel okay, some injuries—like concussions or soft tissue damage—may not show up right away. Seeing a doctor documents your condition and strengthens your case if you choose to pursue legal action.
What Compensation Can Include Under NJ Law
If you meet the threshold to sue under N.J.S.A. § 39:6A-8, your compensation may include more than just your current medical bills. You may be able to recover money for:
- Ongoing medical treatment and future medical treatment
- Lost income and reduced earning ability
- Physical and emotional pain
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Scarring or disfigurement
- Costs for in-home care or modifications to your home
- In fatal cases, wrongful death damages for surviving family members
Each case is different. The value of your claim depends on your specific injuries, how they’ve affected your life, and whether the other side is willing to settle or needs to be taken to court.
How a Personal Injury Lawyer Helps You
You don’t need to handle this alone—and you shouldn’t. Insurance companies are often focused on minimizing payouts. That can mean delays, low offers, or trying to blame you for the crash. A lawyer who understands New Jersey accident law can level the playing field.
Attorney Dan T. Matrafajlo has been representing injury victims in Edison, Woodbridge, and across New Jersey for years. He and his team help clients by:
- Investigating the crash and gathering evidence quickly
- Handling all insurance communications and negotiations
- Coordinating with doctors and expert witnesses
- Preparing your case for court, if a fair settlement isn’t offered
There’s no upfront cost to work with Dan. He works on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless he wins your case.
There’s a Time Limit to File—Don’t Wait Too Long
Under N.J.S.A. § 2A:14-2, you typically have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit in New Jersey. If you wait too long, the court can dismiss your case—even if your injuries are severe.
There are even shorter deadlines if a government vehicle or agency was involved. In those situations, you may need to file a notice of claim within 90 days, or you lose the right to sue. Acting quickly gives your lawyer time to investigate and protect your rights.
Woodbridge / Edison Car Accident Lawyers
If you were injured in a crash in Woodbridge or Edison, you’re dealing with more than just physical recovery. You may be missing work, facing large medical bills, or trying to help a family member who was hurt. These are tough situations—but the law is on your side when someone else caused the harm.
At Beninato & Matrafajlo Law, our experienced car and pedestrian accident lawyers focus on helping injured people get their lives back on track. Attorney Dan T. Matrafajlo offers honest guidance, strong legal representation, and personal attention to every case.
Contact Beninato & Matrafajlo Law by calling (908) 355-7100 or contacting us online for a free consultation. There’s no obligation, and we’re here to help you understand your rights and options.
