Understanding No Fault Applications after a New York Car Accident
When it comes to car insurance, New York is a so-called No-Fault state. In a no-fault state, victims of car or truck accidents are first required to seek compensation for their claims through the personal injury protection coverage available under an insurance policy, regardless of who is at fault for the accident. No-fault benefits are not available where an injured driver was found to be driving drunk when the accident occurred. Under the no-fault system, victims are not permitted to sue for money damages after an accident unless certain severe conditions are present.
How do I request no-fault benefits?
Immediately after an accident, contact the company that provided insurance coverage for the vehicle you were in, or, if you were a bicyclist or pedestrian, the insurer of the vehicle that hit you. Let them know that you were involved in an accident, and either that you already have incurred medical bills or anticipate that you will. Ask to receive a no-fault application.
You will then have 30 days to file your no-fault application, and it is critical that you meet this deadline. You could lose the right to collect certain benefits by submitting a late claim. Before submitting your application, be sure to make copies of all documents you submit.
How long will it take to process my claim?
Under New York State law, your insurer has 30 days to approve or deny your claim for no-fault coverage. Within ten days of receiving your no-fault application, they may request additional verification of your claim. The insurer will have 30 days from the date they receive that additional verification to approve or deny your claim.
What sorts of compensation are available under no-fault coverage?
No-fault benefits include reimbursement for:
- Medical bills
- Travel to and from doctors’ appointments
- Prescription drugs
- Lost earnings
- Household help
No-fault benefits not always easy to obtain
While the no-fault system was designed to make it simpler for victims to receive compensation after an accident, this doesn’t always occur. This is why it is still helpful to have an attorney’s assistance in seeking benefits through the no-fault system. At Dupée & Monroe, we have a team of experienced attorneys who can help you apply for the benefits you need after an accident, helping to ensure that your application meets the insurance company’s requirements and strict time limits. Contact our Goshen offices today for a no-cost consultation on your accident claim.
Get Help Obtaining Benefits after a Hudson Valley Car Accident
For assistance in getting the compensation you need after a New York car accident, contact the seasoned, experienced, and effective Goshen personal injury lawyers at Dupée & Monroe for a consultation, at 845-294-8900.
