Were you involved in an automobile accident in Glens Falls? You are certainly not alone. Car accidents happen every day in Warren County. If you or your loved one was hurt in a crash, you may have questions about how Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage works in New York. In this article, our Glens Falls auto accident attorney explains the most notable details that you should understand about no-fault car insurance in New York State.
New York Uses a No-Fault Insurance System: Drivers Must Obtain PIP Coverage
New York is one of a minority of U.S. jurisdictions that has a no-fault car accident standard in place. Every driver in New York has to purchase PIP coverage. As stated by the Department of Financial Services, Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance is a form of “no-fault coverage” that is available “regardless of who is at fault or whether there was any negligence.” Here are four of the most vital things to understand about PIP insurance coverage and auto accident injury cases:
- Your First Claim is a PIP Claim: If you suffered a mild or moderate injury in a car crash in Glens Falls, your only claim is likely a PIP claim brought against your own insurer.
- Fault is Not a Factor: Fault is not a relevant factor in a PIP claim. You can claim PIP coverage regardless of how and why an accident occurred. You do not need to prove someone else was to blame.
- Initial Medical Expenses/Lost Wages: Personal Injury Protection covers the initial medical bills and lost wages after a car accident injury is sustained in New York.
- Notification Requirement: You must notify your insurance company promptly if you are injured in a crash. Failure to tell your insurer about your injuries could invalidate your coverage. Be proactive.
You Can Go Beyond the No-Fault System for Serious Accidents
No fault insurance (PIP coverage) applies to mild and moderate auto accident injury claims in New York. If you were seriously injured in a crash in Glens Falls, you can file a fault-based personal injury lawsuit against the responsible party. Additional compensation—including for pain and suffering and other non-economic damages—may be sought in an at-fault car accident injury lawsuit.
A Car Accident Lawyer in Glens Falls Can Help You Maximize Your Financial Recovery
New York has some of the most complex car accident injury laws in the entire country. If you feel confused, intimidated, or overwhelmed, you are absolutely not the only one. Professional support is available. An experienced Glens Falls, NY car accident lawyer will help you navigate the claims process and get the maximum settlement or verdict.
Schedule a Free Consultation With a Top Glens Falls Car Accident Attorney Today
At Larson & Gallivan Law, we are here to help. If you have specific questions about the no-fault auto accident claims process in New York, please call us at 518-862-8799 or send us a direct message to arrange your no cost, no commitment case review. Our team represents injured victims all around Warren County, including in Glens Falls, Lake George, Warrensburg, and Queensbury.
