Getting Car Insurance in New York
Choosing auto insurance in New York starts with understanding your coverage options, state requirements, and what affects your premium. Whether you're purchasing a new policy or reviewing your current coverage, this guide can help you make informed decisions and explore ways to save.
What are the minimum car insurance requirements in New York?
New York requires drivers to carry certain minimum auto insurance coverages.
| Coverage | What It Covers | Minimum Requirement in New York |
|---|---|---|
|
Bodily Injury Liability
|
Injuries you cause to others in an accident.
|
$25,000 per person
($50,000 for wrongful death)
$50,000 per accident
($100,000 for wrongful death)
|
|
Property Damage Liability
|
Damage you cause to someone else's
vehicle or other property in an accident.
|
$10,000 per accident
|
|
Personal Injury Protection (PIP)
|
Covered medical expenses, lost wages,
and certain other benefits.
|
$50,000 per person
|
|
Uninsured Motorist Bodily Injury
|
Certain injuries caused by uninsured
or hit-and-run drivers.
|
$25,000 per person
$50,000 per accident
|
New York auto insurance policies also include or offer two supplementary coverages:
- Supplementary Uninsured/Underinsured Motorists (SUM) Coverage: Provides additional protection beyond New York's required uninsured motorist coverage, including certain accidents involving underinsured drivers. You may decline SUM coverage or select lower limits using the insurer's required waiver form. Learn more about SUM coverage.
- Supplemental Spousal Liability Coverage: Provides bodily injury liability protection when an insured's spouse is injured or killed due to the insured's negligence. For qualifying policies, this coverage is included when the applicant indicates having a spouse, unless declined in writing. Other policyholders may request it.
Recommended Additional Auto Insurance Coverages in New York
New York requires liability, personal injury protection, and uninsured motorist coverage, but these minimums may not cover every expense after an accident. Optional coverages can provide additional financial protection depending on your needs.
| Coverage | What It Covers |
|---|---|
|
Medical Payments (MedPay)
|
Certain medical and funeral expenses
for you and your passengers after a
covered auto accident, subject to
policy terms and coordination with
New York No-Fault benefits.
|
|
Comprehensive Coverage
|
Damage to or theft of your vehicle
caused by covered events other than
collisions, such as fire, hail, flooding,
vandalism, and falling objects.
|
|
Collision Coverage
|
Damage to your vehicle from a collision
with another vehicle or object, or when
your vehicle overturns, subject to your
policy deductible and limits.
|
|
Rental Reimbursement Coverage
|
Helps pay for a rental vehicle while your
car is being repaired after a covered
claim, subject to your policy's daily
and total reimbursement limits.
|
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How New York's Car Insurance Requirements Influence Rates
New York requires certain insurance coverages that contribute to your overall premium.
- Liability coverage : Required protection for injuries and property damage you cause to others.
- No-Fault (PIP) : Covers eligible medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of fault.
- Uninsured motorist : Higher limits typically increase premiums but provide greater protection.
- Optional coverage: Collision, comprehensive, and rental reimbursement can add to your premium.
New York Car Insurance FAQs
Find answers to common car insurance questions from New York drivers.
Why is car insurance so expensive in New York?
New York car insurance premiums reflect factors such as accident frequency, repair costs, location, and required insurance coverages.
Your driving record, vehicle, and selected coverage also affect how much you pay.
Why did my car insurance go up without an accident?
Your premium can increase even with a clean driving record. Changes in insurer rates, repair costs, claim trends, or available discounts can affect renewals.
Comparing quotes may help you find a more competitive option.
How can I lower my car insurance cost in New York?
Compare insurers, ask about discounts, consider bundling policies, and review your coverage and deductibles.
Eligible drivers may also save by completing a New York DMV-approved accident prevention course.
Is New York a no-fault insurance state?
Yes. New York requires Personal Injury Protection (PIP), also called No-Fault coverage. It helps pay eligible medical expenses and lost wages after an accident, regardless of who caused it.
Basic PIP provides up to $50,000 per eligible person, subject to policy terms.
What does full coverage car insurance mean?
Full coverage is an informal term commonly used for a policy that includes liability, collision, and comprehensive insurance.
It does not mean every possible loss is covered. Actual protection depends on your policy's limits and exclusions.
Can I compare insurance if I already have a policy?
Yes. You can compare auto insurance quotes before your renewal or while your current policy is active.
Before switching, compare coverage and confirm the new policy starts before your existing coverage ends.
Can I bundle auto and home insurance?
Yes. Many insurers offer discounts when you combine auto insurance with a home, condo, or renters policy.
Discount availability varies, so compare the combined cost before switching.
Do I need insurance to register a car in New York?
Yes. You must obtain qualifying New York liability insurance before registering your vehicle. The policy and vehicle registration must be in the same name.
Your insurer must also report the coverage electronically to the DMV.
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Resources for New York Drivers
Explore official New York resources for driving laws, vehicle registration, and insurance requirements.
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