- New York requires minimum levels of uninsured motorist coverage, but it may be wise to purchase coverage beyond the minimum.
- You should purchase additional uninsured motorist coverage in New York to protect yourself from the full financial impact of an accident caused by an uninsured or underinsured driver.
- Our car accident lawyers can help you navigate the process of filing an uninsured motorist claim and improve your chance of recovering full and fair compensation for your injuries and losses.
What Exactly Is Uninsured/ Underinsured Motorist Coverage?
Uninsured/underinsured motorist (UI/UIM) coverage is a type of insurance that financially protects you if you are involved in an accident with someone who does not have adequate insurance to cover your damages. The other driver may have no insurance coverage at all, or they may have insurance with policy limits insufficient to cover your full damages. New York UIM coverage may also apply when the other driver’s identity is unknown, such as in a hit-and-run accident.
FAQs About Uninsured Motorist Coverage
New York UIM coverage can be confusing. To help you understand your options, here are answers to some frequently asked questions about UI/UIM.
1. Does New York Law Require Any Amount of UM?
Yes, New York law requires drivers to purchase UM coverage of at least $25,000 for bodily injury per person ($50,000 if they die) and $50,000 for bodily injury for two or more people ($100,000 if they die). These are the same minimums that apply to auto liability insurance. However, the law does not require UIM coverage for property damage. This coverage is optional but recommended.
2. What Does Uninsured Motorist Coverage Typically Pay For?
As the name suggests, UM coverage pays for damages resulting from an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver. Mandatory bodily injury coverage pays for medical costs and lost wages caused by injuries sustained in an accident. If you purchase optional property damage coverage, it may pay for vehicle repair or replacement costs.
3. Does Uninsured Motorist Insurance Cover Hit and Run Accidents?
Yes, UM normally covers hit and run accidents in New York. If another driver injures you and leaves the scene without identifying themselves, you may seek compensation through your UM policy.
4. How Much Does Uninsured Motorist Coverage Typically Cost?
The cost of UI/UIM insurance in New York depends on the amount of coverage you buy. Some sources estimate that UM bodily injury coverage costs an average of $136 per year, while UM property damage coverage costs an average of $36 per year.
Keep in mind that these are estimates. Your actual premiums will vary depending on your driving history, location, and other factors.
What Happens If You Are Injured by an Uninsured or Underinsured Driver in New York?
If you are injured by an uninsured or underinsured driver in New York, notify your insurance company as soon as possible. Ideally, you will do so after having your case reviewed by the experienced car accident attorneys at our full-service personal injury law firm. This is the best way to protect your right to compensation.
You will also want to gather evidence at the accident scene, including the fleeing driver’s license plate number and witness contact information, if possible. Be sure to seek prompt medical attention for any injuries sustained in the accident.
Let Chopra & Nocerino Handle Your Uninsured Motorist Accident
Contact our skilled personal injury lawyers for help after an accident with an uninsured driver. We have extensive experience handling New York UIM claims and can help you understand your legal options. We have a strong track record of securing high-value case results for our clients.
Call (855) NYC-HURT or contact us online to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation today. Para servir mejor a todos los miembros de nuestra comunidad, ofrecemos servicios en español.
