Uninsured Motorist & Hit-and-Run Claims in New York City: Will Filing Raise Your Insurance Rates?

Being hit by a driver who flees the scene, or one who carries no or too little insurance, creates enormous financial stress. In New York City, accident victims often need to file an Uninsured Motorist (UM) or Supplementary Underinsured Motorist (SUM/UIM) claim.

One of the most common questions we hear is:

“If I file an uninsured motorist claim in New York, will my insurance premiums go up?”

The answer is reassuring: if you were not at fault, New York law prohibits insurers from raising your rates solely because you filed a UM, SUM, or hit-and-run claim.

Auto Insurance Requirements in New York City

Every driver in NYC is required to carry certain minimum coverages under New York law:

• Liability insurance: $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $10,000 for property damage.
• Personal Injury Protection (PIP): At least $50,000 for medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of fault.
• Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage: At least $25,000 / $50,000 for bodily injury caused by uninsured or hit-and-run drivers.

Most policies also include Supplementary Underinsured Motorist (SUM) coverage, which can match your liability limits unless waived in writing. SUM coverage helps when the at-fault driver has insurance, but not enough to cover your damages.

Note: In New York, UM coverage only applies to bodily injury – not vehicle repairs. For car damage after a hit-and-run, you typically need collision coverage.

Will a UM or Hit-and-Run Claim Raise My Insurance Rates in NYC?

No, not if you were not at fault. Under New York Insurance Law § 2335, your insurance company cannot raise premiums, cancel, or refuse renewal simply because you filed a UM or SUM claim.

Protected Situations:

• Your car was legally parked and struck.
• Property damage under $2,000 cannot be used to raise premiums.
• Another driver was ticketed or clearly at fault while you were not.

When Rates Can Increase:

Although a UM claim itself should not trigger a rate hike, insurers may still adjust premiums for:

• Multiple claims within a short period.
• Accidents where you were found at fault.
• Driving violations or higher risk factors (vehicle type, neighborhood, driving record).

A single uninsured motorist claim in New York City will not, by itself, cause your rates to rise.

Why UM and SUM Coverage Is Critical in New York City

Despite strict insurance laws, many New Yorkers still drive without coverage-or with only the bare minimum. Without UM or SUM protection, victims of hit-and-runs or uninsured drivers may be left paying out of pocket for:

• Hospital bills
• Ongoing medical treatment
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering

Adding SUM coverage to your policy is typically inexpensive and provides essential protection after a serious crash in NYC.

Why You Need a New York City Car Accident Lawyer

Insurance companies often look for ways to deny or minimize UM claims. An experienced NYC uninsured motorist lawyer can:

• Investigate the hit-and-run or uninsured driver crash.
• Make sure all notice and reporting requirements are met.
• Maximize your recovery from PIP, UM, and SUM coverage.
• Handle arbitration, negotiation, or litigation with insurers.
• Pursue full compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering.

FAQ: Uninsured Motorist & Hit-and-Run Claims in NYC

Will my insurance go up if I file a UM claim in New York?
No – New York law prevents insurers from raising rates solely because of a UM or SUM claim when you were not at fault.

Does UM coverage in New York pay for car damage?
No. UM coverage applies only to bodily injury. Vehicle repairs typically require collision coverage.

What if I don’t have UM coverage?
UM coverage is mandatory in New York, but if you lack SUM/UIM coverage, you may have limited options. You can sue the at-fault driver (if identified) or seek coverage under another household member’s or employer’s policy.

Do I need a lawyer for a UM or hit-and-run claim in NYC?
Yes. These cases involve strict deadlines and disputes with insurers. A lawyer ensures your rights are protected and maximizes your compensation.

Why Choose Greenstein & Pittari, LLP?

At Greenstein & Pittari, LLP, we focus exclusively on personal injury law in New York City. We have offices in Harlem, Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island, Yonkers, and Nassau County for your convenience.

• Our Fee Guarantee: No fee unless we win your case.
• Local NYC attorneys with decades of experience.
• Bilingual services available.
• Top-rated lawyers by Best Lawyers and Super Lawyers.
• Hundreds of positive reviews from New Yorkers we’ve helped.

Call 1-800-VICTIM2 (1-800-842-8462) today for a free consultation. The call is free, the consultation is free, and you pay nothing unless we win.

Greenstein & Pittari, LLP – Don’t Be a Victim Twice.