Levine & Slavit | June 5, 2026
Being injured in a car accident is stressful enough. Finding out the driver who caused the crash has no insurance can make the situation feel even more overwhelming. Many people assume they have no way to recover compensation in that situation, but New Yorkers may have important rights and options depending on their insurance coverage and circumstances.
If you’ve been injured by an uninsured driver in New York City, understanding your available coverage is one of the first and most important steps. The answer often depends on whether you or someone in your household has an auto insurance policy.
Supplemental Uninsured Motorist Coverage in New York
New York provides protection through supplemental uninsured motorist coverage, often called SUM coverage. If the at-fault driver has no insurance or the accident involves a hit-and-run vehicle, you may be able to file a claim through your own insurance policy instead of pursuing the uninsured driver directly.
If you own a vehicle or live in a household with someone who has an auto insurance policy, it’s important to review that policy carefully. The amount of supplemental uninsured motorist coverage available can make a significant difference after a serious injury. While New York requires a minimum amount of coverage, policyholders often have the option to increase that protection to match their liability limits.
What If You Don’t Have Auto Insurance?
Not everyone owns a vehicle or has access to an auto insurance policy through their household. In those situations, New York has another potential source of assistance.
The Motor Vehicle Accident Indemnification Corporation (MVAIC) is a New York State entity that may provide benefits when you’re injured by an uninsured driver and no applicable insurance coverage is available. Whether someone qualifies depends on their individual circumstances, making it important to understand how the process works before assuming no recovery is possible.
The Truth About Uninsured Driver Accidents
One of the biggest misconceptions is that an uninsured driver automatically means you cannot recover compensation. In reality, New York has systems in place that may help injured people pursue financial recovery through their own insurance coverage or, in certain situations, through MVAIC.
Another common mistake is overlooking supplemental uninsured motorist coverage until after an accident occurs. Reviewing your policy before you need it can help you better understand the protection you have in place.
How an Attorney Can Help
Navigating an uninsured motorist claim can be more complicated than many people expect. An experienced personal injury attorney can help determine which insurance coverage may apply, explain your legal options, and guide you through the claims process while working to protect your interests.
For more than 60 years, Levine & Slavit, PLLC has represented injured New Yorkers. The firm’s attorneys understand the challenges accident victims face and can help evaluate whether supplemental uninsured motorist coverage or other potential avenues of recovery may be available based on your specific situation.
Take Action Today: Protect Your Right to Compensation
If you’ve been injured by an uninsured driver in New York, NY, don’t assume you have no options. Understanding your insurance coverage and your legal rights can make a meaningful difference after an accident.
If you have questions about your case or need guidance after a collision involving an uninsured motorist, contact Levine & Slavit, PLLC in New York, NY. An experienced attorney can review your circumstances, explain your available options, and help you pursue the compensation you may be entitled to under New York law.