What Out-of-Pocket Expenses Can I Claim After a Car Accident?

Out-of-pocket expenses are costs you've had to cover as a direct result of a car accident. These expenses are not automatically covered by insurance, which can make them feel like an unexpected financial burden.

Common out-of-pocket expenses include:

• Medical co-pays and deductibles

• Transportation costs

• Household help

• Damaged personal property

• Medications and medical equipment

When determining what out-of-pocket expenses you can claim, the key factors are that the costs must be reasonable and directly related to the accident.

New Jersey's No-Fault System & PIP Coverage

New Jersey follows a no-fault system, meaning your own insurance covers medical expenses and some economic losses regardless of who caused the accident. Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage typically includes medical costs, lost wages, and essential services such as household help. However, it may not cover all out-of-pocket expenses, leaving room for additional claims. The relevant New Jersey statute can be reviewed in this link.

Examples of Out-of-Pocket Costs You Can Claim

Car accidents can lead to numerous unexpected expenses. Below are some common out-of-pocket costs that accident victims often overlook:

• Emergency towing and storage fees. If your car is undrivable after the crash, you likely paid for towing and storage. These fees can accumulate quickly, especially if your vehicle remains in a lot for an extended period.

• Rental car costs. While your car is being repaired, renting a vehicle for transportation is an expense directly tied to the accident. Save all rental agreements and receipts to include in your claim.

• Hotel stays and meals. If your accident occurs far from home, you may need a hotel while waiting for repairs or alternative transportation. The cost of meals during this time may also be reimbursable.

• Childcare or household help. If your injuries prevent you from caring for your children or handling household chores, you may be able to claim the cost of hiring help.

• Medical-related equipment and supplies. Doctor-prescribed items such as crutches, wheelchairs, or slings are valid expenses. Even smaller costs, like bandages or ice packs, may be included if necessary for recovery.

• Replacing damaged personal items. Items such as phones, glasses, car seats, or laptops damaged in the crash may be eligible for reimbursement. These smaller losses can add up quickly, so it's important to track them.

Keeping receipts, notes, and invoices is essential, as they are key to recovering compensation for out-of-pocket expenses.

Filing for Additional Compensation in New Jersey

If your damages exceed PIP limits or involve non-economic losses such as pain and suffering, you may have the right to pursue a claim against the at-fault driver. Out-of-pocket expenses that fall outside of PIP coverage, such as rental car costs or property damage, may be recoverable through a liability claim.

How to Recover Out-of-Pocket Expenses After a Car Accident

Recovering out-of-pocket expenses starts with thorough documentation. To include these costs in your claim, you must prove they were a direct result of the accident.

Here's how to stay organized:

• Save receipts and records. Keep all invoices, bills, and receipts for prescriptions, rental cars, and household help.

• Track travel costs. Log rideshare fares, gas receipts, or public transit expenses related to medical appointments.

• Link expenses to the accident. Provide documentation that connects each cost to the accident, such as rental car receipts that align with repair timelines.

Ensuring Full Compensation for Your Out-of-Pocket Expenses

Unexpected costs after a car accident can add up quickly, making it easy to overlook expenses you're entitled to recover. At Khorozian Law Group, we make sure every accident-related cost is documented and included in your claim.

Here's how we can help:

• Identifying all eligible expenses. We'll review your case to ensure every out-of-pocket cost, from medical co-pays to rental fees, is accounted for.

• Gathering documentation. Our team will help you collect and organize receipts, invoices, and other records to support your claim.

• Negotiating with insurance companies. We handle all discussions with insurers to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Even small expenses can add up over time, leaving you with costs that shouldn't be your responsibility. We'll ensure nothing is overlooked.

Contact Khorozian Law Group Today

At Khorozian Law Group, we understand how the unexpected costs of a car accident can impact your financial well-being. Our experienced legal team will work to identify all eligible expenses and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Call us today at (201) 944-9200 or contact us online for a free consultation.

Let us help you recover every dollar you've spent due to someone else's negligence.