Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have coverage if I rent a car?

Look in Part D, "Coverage for Damage To Your Automobile," of your policy. The Physical Damage coverages, Collision and Other Than Collision (Comprehensive) that are available for a rented private passenger auto are defined there. The broadest coverage, including Physical Damage coverage, that you already have for any other auto covered under the terms and conditions of your policy tells you how much coverage the rented auto will have. The deductibles and coverage limits that apply are shown on the Declarations page of your Personal Automobile Policy.

NOTE: If you do not have Physical Damage coverage on any of your insured autos, you will need to purchase this coverage from the rental car agency. Coverage for a rented (non-owned) auto is provided only while renting the vehicle in the United States, its territories or possessions, Puerto Rico or Canada.

How do I replace a lost ID Card?

Call toll-free 1-800-232-6600. After you have answered the prompts to indicate you are a current Personal Auto insurance policyholder, you will have the option to leave a message requesting a new ID Card. Be sure to have your policy number at hand.

What impact will a claim have on my policy?

NJM's Underwriting Department decides what to do after a claim has been settled and an underwriting review has been conducted. Typically, the review is completed annually prior to the policy renewal. It takes into account the degrees of responsibility of the parties involved in an accident and the payments NJM made on behalf of the policyholder.

The impact of a claim also depends, in part, upon the type of policy you have.

NJM (F) policies do not impose a surcharge (increase premiums) because of an individual claim or motor vehicle event. NJM recognizes that good drivers can have accidents and make claims. However, a review of the policy and the driving history will be conducted to determine whether NJM will continue the policy. When NJM notices a pattern of activity that could jeopardize the continuation of the policy, NJM will warn the policyholder. However, there are times when a serious underwriting concern may cause NJM to terminate the policy without prior notice of this concern.

New Jersey Re-Insurance Company (E) policies are tied to the tier in which the insured is placed. Ultimately, the premium is based on a number of factors, including driving activity over the past 5 years. A claim may affect an "E" policy premium indirectly by changing the tier in which the insured is placed. NJRe policies may be terminated if the driving record warrants placing the insured in the assigned-risk New Jersey Personal Auto Insurance Plan (PAIP).

New Jersey Indemnity Insurance Company (Y) policies are PAIP policies. They use the surcharge system. The higher premium reflects the insured's driving history. Because auto insurance is mandatory in New Jersey and PAIP is the market of last resort, PAIP policies cannot be terminated because of accidents or other driving behaviors.