Some motorists in New York decide to drive without first obtaining adequate insurance. A recent study even reveals that the number of uninsured motor vehicle operators is slowly rising. Current statistics suggest that approximately 5% of motor vehicle drivers in New York lack insurance. For this reason, drivers in New York need to make certain that they have an adequate amount of uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage. Despite this, many drivers are unsure of the role that this type of coverage plays in New York. The following is an examination of uninsured and underinsured motorist insurance coverage and why New York drivers should be sure to have it.
What is Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage?
Uninsured motorist insurance covers motor vehicle accidents in which the responsible drivers lacks insurance, the responsible vehicle is not registered, or the responsible driver left the scene of the accident and now can not be identified. Slightly different, underinsured motorist coverage applies to accidents in which the responsible driver does not have an adequate amount of insurance coverage for all of the damages that result.
New York Insurance Requirements
New York law requires all drivers to have certain types of insurance coverage in certain amounts, which include:
- $25,000 for injuries to one individual as well as $50,000 for the death of one individual in a motor vehicle accident
- $50,000 for injuries to multiple individuals and $100,000 for the deaths of multiple individuals in one vehicle accident
- $10,000 for property damage in one car accident
Drivers who are uninsured or who carry only a minimum amount of insurance coverage are often limited in their ability to pursue compensation for emotional suffering unless they are able to access uninsured or underinsured coverage.
Advice on Obtaining Compensation After a Car Accident
In making an uninsured motorist claim, a person will be required to establish proof of physical contact as well as evidence that injuries or property damage resulted from this contact. Unfortunately, many accident victims are left unable to receive compensation for life-altering injuries because they do not have the proper underinsured or uninsured motorist coverage.
It is critical to make certain that your motor vehicle coverage meets these limits. If you are involved in a motor vehicle accident with a driver who does not have insurance, it will not matter how high your liability limits are. If you have inadequate underinsured and uninsured coverage, there is a risk that you might receive less compensation than you need to cover your damages.
Speak with an Experienced Accident Attorney Today
If you or a loved one has questions or concerns about whether your underinsured or uninsured coverage is adequate, you should not hesitate to speak with an experienced Long Island personal injury attorney. If you have been involved in a car accident in Long Island, contact the Long Island accident attorneys at Law Office of Cohen & Jaffe, LLP today to schedule an initial free case evaluation.
