As a passenger in a car, you are vulnerable to the decisions of the person driving your vehicle and others driving on the road with it. When you sustain a severe injury from a car crash while riding as a passenger, you may not be at fault, but you must deal with the consequences.
These are your options for filing a personal injury claim in New York state.
Claim under the auto insurance policy of your vehicle’s driver
New York is a no-fault state where drivers must carry a Personal Injury Protection insurance policy with a minimum coverage amount of $50,000. PIP covers medical expenses and lost wages for drivers and passengers up to the policy amount. Unfortunately, you may need to split the coverage amount among other passengers or a driver with whom you share a policy. Also, you may not receive damages for pain and suffering.
The auto insurance policy of the other driver
Expenses for severe injuries exceeding the minimum PIP threshold may entitle you to go beyond no-fault rules to file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance provider. Under these circumstances, you may also receive pain and suffering damages.
Your auto insurance policy
Medical Payments coverage is an optional car insurance category that is inexpensive, does not require a deductible and can help you make immediate payments towards your accident-related medical bills. You can access Med-Pay benefits through your car insurance provider or that of your vehicle’s driver. Remember that coverage is for medical expenses only and does not exceed $10,000.
When you are hurt while riding as a passenger in someone else’s car in New York, your can turn to various resources for help paying your bills and getting the damages you deserve.