This bill amends current law to make victims of motor vehicle accidents eligible for compensation from the Victims of Crime Compensation Office (VCCO) under specific circumstances, particularly in cases involving a fatality or when a victim is removed from the scene by an ambulance. The bill deletes the previous provision that excluded compensation for motor vehicle accidents where the driver left the scene, thereby expanding the eligibility criteria for compensation.

Additionally, the bill establishes the Traffic Crash Victims Bill of Rights, which outlines several rights for traffic crash victims and their families. These rights include access to police reports and evidence related to the crash, notification of court proceedings, the ability to provide impact statements, reasonable leave from work to participate in hearings, protection from intimidation by the other driver, and eligibility for compensation under the Criminal Injuries Compensation Act. The bill aims to enhance the support and protections available to victims of traffic accidents in New Jersey.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 52:4B-11