Car Insurance in New York State

If you are a car owner in New York State, you are required by law to carry car insurance. But with the many options available, it can be difficult to understand what coverage you need, how much you should pay, and how to choose a car insurance company. In this article, we will provide you with all the information you need to know about car insurance in New York State.

Basics of Car Insurance in New York State

Car insurance in New York State is regulated by the New York State Department of Financial Services. The law requires every driver to have liability insurance, which covers damages and injuries caused to others in an accident you cause. The minimum liability coverage required in New York State is:

Coverage
Minimum Coverage Amount
Bodily Injury Liability (BIL) per person
$25,000
BIL per accident
$50,000
Property Damage Liability (PDL) per accident
$10,000

While these are the minimum requirements, it is often recommended to carry more liability coverage to protect yourself in case of a serious accident. In addition to liability insurance, there are other types of coverage you may want to consider:

Collision Coverage

Collision coverage pays for damages to your car if you are in an accident, regardless of who is at fault. It is not required by law in New York State, but if you have a car loan or lease, your lender may require it.

Comprehensive Coverage

Comprehensive coverage pays for damages to your car from theft, vandalism, or natural disasters. It is not required by law in New York State, but if you have a car loan or lease, your lender may require it.

Personal Injury Protection (PIP)

PIP covers medical expenses and lost wages for you and your passengers if you are injured in a car accident, regardless of who is at fault. PIP is required by law in New York State, and the minimum coverage amount is $50,000 per person.

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage

This coverage pays for damages and injuries if you are in an accident with a driver who does not have enough liability insurance to cover your losses. It is not required by law in New York State, but it is highly recommended.

How to Choose a Car Insurance Company

When choosing a car insurance company, you should consider the following factors:

Coverage Options

Make sure the company offers the coverage options you need, and at a reasonable price. You can compare quotes from different companies to find the best deal.

Financial Stability

You want to choose a company that is financially stable and able to pay out claims. You can check a company’s financial rating with rating agencies such as A.M. Best or Standard & Poor’s.

Customer Service

Read reviews from current and past customers to get a sense of a company’s customer service. You want a company that is responsive and helpful when you need to file a claim.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is car insurance required in New York State?

Yes, every driver in New York State is required to carry liability insurance.

What is the minimum liability coverage required in New York State?

The minimum liability coverage required in New York State is $25,000 per person for bodily injury, $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $10,000 per accident for property damage.

Do I need collision coverage?

Collision coverage is not required by law in New York State, but if you have a car loan or lease, your lender may require it.

What is PIP?

PIP, or Personal Injury Protection, is coverage that pays for medical expenses and lost wages for you and your passengers if you are injured in a car accident, regardless of who is at fault. It is required by law in New York State.

How do I choose a car insurance company?

When choosing a car insurance company, consider factors such as coverage options, financial stability, and customer service. You can compare quotes from different companies to find the best deal.

In conclusion, car insurance in New York State is a legal requirement for drivers. It is important to understand the coverage options and choose a reputable insurance company. By following the information provided in this article, you can make an informed decision and protect yourself on the road.