New York Auto Insurance - (NY)

Drivers across the country must obey the auto insurance laws of their individual states. Depending on where you live, you could face very different requirements when it comes to the way you document your insurance coverage, the minimum liability coverage you must carry and the method your state uses to determine whether your insurance is current. But no matter what state you live in, you should seek coverage that provides you peace of mind as well as coverage that exceeds your state’s minimum standards. Remember to consider your state’s laws as a starting point: Securing auto insurance that surpasses the law will provide you with the best coverage possible.

New York Auto Insurance Laws

In New York, auto insurance comes before car registration. Before you even think about purchasing a car and registering it with the state, you must get liability insurance. The state won’t issue license plates until you provide proof of insurance.

The coverage required sets a minimum standard. It’s strongly recommended that you obtain coverage that exceeds the law. In New York, your minimum liability insurance must cover at least $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for injury, and $50,000 per person and $100,000 per accident for death.

Uninsured motorist coverage also is required to meet the same threshold as liability insurance: at least $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for injury, and $50,000 per person and $100,000 per accident for death.

You also must have at least $10,000 for property damage liability and $50,000 for basic no-fault insurance.

You are required to carry proof of insurance in your car at all times. Your insurance company will issue you an insurance identification card. In addition, the state will monitor your coverage electronically through your insurance company. If your policy lapses, your insurance company is obligated to notify the state. Be sure to keep your coverage current to avoid fees or penalties.

New York’s department of motor vehicles could suspend your registration if you fail to obtain insurance or provide proof of insurance. Penalties increase by the number of days you are in violation of the law.

Tips for auto insurance consumers

One of the best ways to make sure you’re paying the right amount for your insurance is to receive several competitive quotes from different companies. This way, you can compare not only coverage but also premiums. Be sure to look over the proposed policies and ask questions before deciding on an insurance company.

If you have a teenager, be sure to find out how he/she will affect your policy upon reaching driving age. Depending on your policy, insurance company and state, your child might automatically be added to your policy.

Homeowners should inquire whether combining their auto and home insurance policies can result in an overall premium discount. Some insurance companies give multiple-policy discounts.

Department Of New York (NY) State Government That Regulates Car Insurance:
Web Site: www.ins.state.ny.us/nyins.htm

How To Contact Directly:
New York Dept. of Insurance
25 Beaver St.
New York, NY 10004
Phone: 1-212-480-6400

New York (NY) Mandatory Auto Insurance Minimums

• Liability: 25/50/10 = Bodily Injury Individual/Bodily Injury Total Per Accident/Property Damage
• Other Mandatory Insurance: Personal Injury Protection, Uninsured Motorist, Wrongful Death Policy — No-FaultState
• Regulations Regarding Proof of Insurance: Proof Required - When Obtaining Registration, If Involved In An Accident, If Stopped By Authorities When Driving
• Penalties For Not Carrying Mandatory Insurance: First Offense = Fine of up to $1500 or Jail Term of up to 15 Days

How To File A Complaint About An Insurer: