- September 15, 2023
- Thomas Tona
- Categories: Podcast
No-fault insurance can be a complicated and befuddling concept, especially when it comes to car accidents in New York State. This comprehensive guide aims to simplify the process and provide a clear understanding of how no-fault insurance works, what it covers, and what steps to take after a car accident. By understanding this insurance mechanism, you can ensure that you maximize your coverage.
Understanding New York’s No-Fault Insurance for Car Accidents
In New York, every automobile policy carries a coverage known as personal injury protection insurance, informally termed as no-fault insurance. It is called so because it applies regardless of who caused the accident or who is at fault. It is designed to cover basic economic loss up to $50,000, primarily medical treatment for injuries sustained in an auto accident and lost wages.
Important Steps to Follow After a Car Accident
1. File a No-Fault Application: After an accident, it is crucial to file a no-fault application within 30 days with your auto insurance company. This application ensures that the insurance company will cover your medical bills and lost wages.
2. Inform Healthcare Providers: Always inform your healthcare providers that your injuries are related to an accident and that you are under a no-fault insurance scheme.
3. Submit Bills and Claims Timely: All medical bills should be submitted to the no-fault carrier within 45 days, while lost wage claims must be submitted within 90 days. These are strict timelines set by the statute.
Understanding the No-Fault Exam
The no-fault exam is an important part of the process, designed to assess whether you still require treatment and if the insurance should continue paying for said treatment. However, remember that these exams are paid for by the insurance company, and thus, it’s important to answer truthfully and not minimize or exaggerate injuries. Always ask your treating doctors what to expect at the no-fault exam.
Dealing with Multiple Accidents
If a person has two accidents covered under no-fault insurance, a separate no-fault claim must be set up with the insurance carrier within 24 hours of the second accident. It’s then up to your doctors to distinguish the injuries from the first accident to the second accident.
The Role of Other Insurances
In an auto accident in New York, health insurance or any other form of insurance should not be used other than workers’ comp insurance and no-fault insurance. Private health insurance will not come into play unless and until no fault is exhausted.
Understanding the complexities of no-fault insurance after car accidents in New York can be overwhelming. However, by taking the time to understand the process and the crucial steps to take following a car accident, you can ensure that you maximize your coverage. Always remember honesty during assessments, timely filing of applications and claims, and distinguishing injuries in the event of multiple accidents are key to successfully navigating the world of no-fault insurance.If you want to learn more about Lead Counsel, check out https://tonalaw.com/podcast/lc023
