Does no-fault cover passengers?

Yes. PIP generally covers drivers, passengers, and pedestrians struck by a vehicle with a valid New York policy, regardless of fault.

What happens if PIP runs out?

Your health insurance takes over. Those ongoing costs may be recoverable in a personal injury lawsuit if your injuries meet the serious injury threshold.

Do motorcyclists have no-fault coverage?

No. Motorcycles are excluded. Riders may sue the at-fault driver directly for all damages without meeting the serious injury threshold.

Car Accident Lawyer | Nanuet, NY | Phillips & Millman, LLP

What Is New York No-Fault Insurance (PIP)?

New York's no-fault system means your own insurer pays your initial medical bills and lost wages regardless of who caused the crash. Every auto policy must carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) with a mandatory minimum of $50,000 per person. PIP covers medical treatment, up to 80% of lost earnings capped at $2,000 per month for up to three years, and up to $25 per day for essential services such as household help. PIP does not cover pain and suffering, vehicle repairs, or property damage.

The $50,000 limit can disappear quickly after a single surgery or extended physical therapy. When PIP runs out, your health insurance typically becomes the primary payer, and those costs may factor into a later lawsuit.

What Does No-Fault Cover in Nanuet, NY?

No-fault pays your economic losses fast, but it does not mean you can never sue. PIP covers medical treatment including emergency care, surgery, imaging, and physical therapy; lost wages up to $2,000 per month for up to three years; essential daily services up to $25 per day for one year; and transportation to and from medical appointments. It does not cover pain and suffering, emotional distress, or property damage. A car accident lawyer in Nanuet, NY, can help determine whether your injuries qualify for additional recovery.

Can You Still Sue After a Rockland County Car Accident?

Filing a no-fault claim does not prevent you from suing the at-fault driver. To pursue pain and suffering damages, your injuries must meet New York's serious injury threshold under Insurance Law Section 5102(d). Qualifying injuries include fractures, significant or permanent limitation of a body function, permanent disfigurement, or death. Effective May 26, 2026, the 90/180-day disability rule was removed as a qualifying category, a meaningful change for Rockland County accident victims. A car accident lawyer in Nanuet, NY, can evaluate whether your injuries clear this threshold.

No-Fault Claim Filing: Key Deadlines

Missing a deadline can cost you your benefits entirely. After any accident on roads like Route 59 or I-87 through Clarkstown, file Form NF-2 (Application for No-Fault Benefits) within 30 days of the accident. Medical providers must submit bills within 45 days of each treatment, and proof of lost wages must be submitted within 90 days of your first missed workday. Learn more about the claims process for Nanuet, NY, and Clarkstown accident victims.

Common No-Fault Myths

"No-fault means no lawsuit" is false. You may still sue if your injuries meet the serious injury threshold. "My insurer is on my side" is also false. Insurers may send you to their own doctor to downplay injuries, so document everything from day one. Finally, the 30-day NF-2 deadline is strict. Late filings are almost always denied.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does no-fault cover passengers?
Yes. PIP generally covers drivers, passengers, and pedestrians struck by a vehicle with a valid New York policy, regardless of fault.
What happens if PIP runs out?
Your health insurance takes over. Those ongoing costs may be recoverable in a personal injury lawsuit if your injuries meet the serious injury threshold.
Do motorcyclists have no-fault coverage?
No. Motorcycles are excluded. Riders may sue the at-fault driver directly for all damages without meeting the serious injury threshold.