In the event of an accident ensure that your Astoria, NY auto insurance policy provides coverage.
If you are riding the passenger seat of your friend’s car when your friend gets into an auto accident, you should know if your injuries are financially covered. The first step of the process is to determine which driver was at fault.
If your driver is at fault…
New York is a no-fault state which allows your driver’s Personal Injury Protection coverage to cover you. If your driver does not have the right auto insurance to cover your medical expenses, you have a couple of options.
- You can use your own health insurance to cover your medical bills.
- You can sue the driver. This situation can get a little heated, especially if the driver is family or a friend. If you as a passenger are not found negligent, you are entitled to compensation from the driver. In this case, lawsuits usually cover medical bills, lost wages, and any deductibles if you opt to use your own insurance.
If the other driver is at fault…
In New York, drivers are required to carry a minimum of $25,000 for third-party bodily injury coverage. This would cover your medical bills if you are injured. If your medical expenses exceed the amount that the driver carries, or if the accident is a hit-and-run, then you can turn to your driver who may have uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. This would cover passengers’ medical expenses and lost wages.
While you may not want to see the driver’s auto insurance terms and conditions before getting into the passenger seat, the most effective way to protect yourself as a passenger is to increase your own insurance. If you don’t have uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, it is highly recommended that you add it to your policy.
To select your auto, business, and home insurance hassle-free, talk to one of our experienced agents at 01 Insurance, located in Astoria, New York.