New Jersey law governing car accidents follows the principle of comparative negligence. If you were more than 50 percent at fault for the accident, you may not pursue a compensation claim. If the other driver caused the crash entirely, they are liable for your losses, including medical bills, lost wages, and vehicle damage. If you were partially at fault, then the number of damages you are awarded will be reduced by the amount of fault. For instance, if you were 20 percent responsible for the accident, your total award is reduced by 20 percent.