Insurance laws and requirements can be complicated and vary from state to state. New York auto insurance is no exception to this statement. There are several different types of coverage that fall into the auto insurance category. Some of the coverage types are optional while others are required by state law.
Liability Coverage
Liability coverage is required in nearly every state. car insurance laws in New York require $25,000/$50,000/$10,000 in coverage. These amounts cover bodily injury liability per person/total bodily injury per accident/property damage per accident, respectively.
New York State is unique in that it requires double the bodily injury liability limits in the event the accident results in death, taking the limits to $50,000/$100,000.
Personal Injury Protection
Personal injury protection or PIP is required in NY, as well as several other states. It is an extended type of auto coverage that assists with medical costs and can cover lost wages and other miscellaneous charges.
Medical Coverage
New York is what is referred to as a “no-fault” state. All individuals that have auto insurance are required to have this coverage. This covers the insured’s medical costs, regardless of fault. There is some controversy over this type of coverage as it is generally expensive and is thought to create redundant coverage when the insured also has regular medical insurance.
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage
Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage is optional in some states but, required in NY. This coverage will cover the insured, up to the limits they have purchased, if they are in an accident caused by another driver and that driver is not insured or does not have sufficient insurance to cover the full liability. Another common case that this type of insurance is helpful is in the event of a hit and run.
Other New York Car Insurance Requirements
New York State requires that auto insurance remain in effect while a vehicle is registered, regardless whether or not the vehicle is being used. If a vehicle is not being used, New York State requires that plates are returned to the state to cancel the registration.
New York auto insurance law requires that New York drivers have insurance in the state, out of state insurance is not acceptable. This state also requires that the insurance must be in the same name as the registered owner. Neglecting to follow this requirement will result in a lapse of insurance and the registration will be suspended; the owners?driver’s license will also be suspended if the lapse exceeds 90 days.
By: John Hilaire