Every state has its own laws deciding who will pay for the damages that occur following an auto accident. While most states assign fault according to who was responsible for causing the collision, New York has implemented a no-fault legal system. If you’ve sustained a car injury, it’s important to understand how your claim for compensation will be handled. Here’s an overview of what you need to know before filing.

A Guide to No-Fault Insurance Laws

What Does No-Fault Mean?

Standard fault claims are made with the negligent party’s insurance company, and liability must be established before damages can be collected. However, when you’re seeking compensation for a car injury in a no-fault state, your claim will be submitted to your insurer and there’s no need to prove who caused the accident. This means your provider will be responsible for paying any out-of-pocket expenses you incur from medical treatment, lost income, and vehicle repairs.

As a result of this law, New York drivers are required to carry a minimum amount of liability insurance, which includes $25,000 for bodily injury per person, $50,000 for bodily injury per accident, $10,000 for property damages, and $50,000 for personal injury protection.

How Does This Impact Insurance Claims?

No-fault insurance claims can be a more efficient way for car injury victims to get compensated. Although, damages still aren’t guaranteed, as insurance companies may decide to deny a claim or try to settle for a lesser amount.

Also, limits are placed on the kind of damages you can receive. For example, compensation for pain and suffering isn’t available in these types of claims. As such, it’s advisable to work with an attorney who is well-versed in no-fault laws and will help you negotiate a reasonable settlement.

Furthermore, if your injury is considered severe or your medical bills exceed a certain threshold, your attorney can assist you in filing a third-party personal injury claim or lawsuit against the driver who was at-fault in the accident.

If you believe you’re entitled to compensation after experiencing a car injury, reach out to The Finkelstein Law Firm in Goshen, NY, to explore your legal options. Their highly skilled team of accident attorneys will guide you through the no-fault claims process from start to finish and advocate on your behalf for all the damages you deserve. For more than 20 years, they’ve provided their clients with effective representation focused on keeping their best interests in mind. Call (845) 294-9003 to schedule a consultation, or visit their website to learn more about their services.