1What changed in 2026
For Standard Policies issued or renewed on or after January 1, 2026, New Jersey raised the minimum bodily injury liability to $35,000 per person and $70,000 per accident, with $25,000 for property damage. PIP and uninsured / underinsured motorist coverage remain mandatory.
If your policy renewed this year, the new limits are already on it. If it renews later, you will see the change at renewal, usually with a modest premium increase.
2Minimum vs. realistic
A single night in a New Jersey hospital can cost more than the $35,000 per-person limit. If you injure someone and the bills exceed your limits, the difference can come out of your savings, your home equity or your future wages.
That is why we rarely write minimum-limit policies for clients who own a home or have savings. The jump from $35k/$70k to $100k/$300k usually costs far less than people expect.
3Where umbrella coverage fits
An umbrella policy adds $1 million or more of liability above your auto and home limits. For drivers who commute on Route 80, the Turnpike or the Parkway every day, it is one of the cheapest ways to protect everything you have built.
4What to do this week
Three quick moves before your next renewal:
- Check the liability limits on your declarations page, not just the price.
- Ask what the jump to the next liability tier costs. It is often a few dollars a month.
- If you own a home or have savings, price an umbrella at the same time.
Related coverage
Articles are general information, not a policy or legal advice. Coverage, pricing and eligibility depend on the insurer and your issued policy.
