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Being injured in an accident caused by a driver with no insurance — or with insufficient insurance to cover your injuries — does not mean you are without recourse. New York State has established specific mechanisms to ensure injured victims can still receive compensation, and your own auto insurance policy may provide additional protections you are entitled to use.
The key is acting quickly and having experienced legal counsel handle the proper notices and filings on your behalf. Deadlines in these cases are strict.
Two Paths to Recovery
MVAIC — Uninsured Driver Claims
The New York Motor Vehicle Accident Indemnification Corporation (MVAIC) was established specifically to provide payment to individuals injured by uninsured drivers. As soon as we determine through due diligence that the at-fault driver is uninsured, we file the required Notice to MVAIC on your behalf. Timing is critical — delays can jeopardize your claim.
SUM — Your Own Policy Coverage
To the extent your damages are not sufficiently covered by the at-fault driver's insurance, you may also proceed against your own policy's Supplemental Underinsured Motorist (SUM) coverage. This is insurance you have already paid for — and we fight to make sure you receive it. In many cases, we proceed to arbitration against your insurer to guarantee you receive the full amount you are owed.
We Cover the Costs
We will hire economists and expert medical witnesses when necessary — at our own expense — to prosecute these claims on your behalf. We are only reimbursed for these expenditures if there is a recovery. You pay nothing out of pocket to have our office fight for you.
“Jay gave me reassurance and hope. He helped me understand that there is a life past all of this — and he delivered. I will forever be grateful.”
Ray Levato — Bankruptcy Client • Read All Reviews →
Recent Result
After a SUM (Supplemental Underinsured Motorist) arbitration, we obtained an award of $275,000 for a client with an aggravation of a prior back injury caused by an underinsured driver.
What to Do After an Accident
- Seek medical attention immediately, even if you feel fine. Some injuries present hours or days later.
- Report the accident to police and obtain a police report.
- Gather the other driver's information, including license, registration, and insurance card — or note if they cannot provide insurance.
- Document the scene with photos if it is safe to do so.
- Do not give a recorded statement to any insurance company before speaking with an attorney.
- Contact our office as soon as possible. Notice deadlines in uninsured motorist cases are strict.
Whether you were in a car, on a motorcycle, on a bicycle, or a pedestrian, if you were injured by an uninsured or underinsured driver, call us. We will tell you exactly where you stand.
Related Practice Areas
- All Personal Injury Cases — Construction accidents, scaffold falls, slip and fall, and more.
- Scaffold & Ladder Fall Claims — Injured at a construction site in New York?
- Our Case Results — See the results we have obtained for injury clients.
Ready to Take the First Step?
One phone call can change everything. We will tell you exactly where you stand — no jargon, no pressure, no obligation. Most clients feel better after the very first conversation.
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Uninsured Driver Accident FAQ
What if the uninsured driver fled the scene?
If you were in a hit-and-run accident in New York, you may still be covered under your own Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage. However, New York law requires you to report the accident to police within 24 hours and notify your insurance company promptly. Call us immediately — evidence and witnesses are critical in hit-and-run cases.
How much UM coverage do I have in New York?
New York requires a minimum of $25,000/$50,000 in UM coverage on every auto policy, but many policies carry higher limits. We review your policy, the at-fault driver's coverage (if any), and all available sources of compensation to maximize your recovery.
What is the difference between uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage?
Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage applies when the at-fault driver has no insurance at all. Underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage applies when the at-fault driver has insurance but not enough to cover your full damages. Both types of claims are handled against your own insurance company — which is why having an experienced attorney is critical.