NJ S531

Allows individuals who selected the "verbal threshold" (limitation on lawsuit) option on their auto insurance to sue for noneconomic damages when injured in an accident caused by a drunk driver, even if their injuries don't meet the verbal threshold requirements

Applies when the at-fault driver is convicted of or pleads guilty to drunk driving (R.S.39:4-50) or refusing a breathalyzer test (C.39:4-50.4a), including violations of similar laws from other jurisdictions

Removes the typical verbal threshold restrictions that normally require injuries like death, dismemberment, significant disfigurement, displaced fractures, loss of a fetus, or permanent injury before suing for noneconomic loss

Takes effect immediately and applies to causes of action that accrue on or after the effective date