US-New YorkHow long do I have to file a no-fault insurance claim after an accident?
You must file a no-fault insurance claim within 30 days of the accident in New York.
What the Law Says
New York’s No-Fault Insurance Law sets strict deadlines for filing claims and submitting required documentation. Missing these deadlines can result in denial of benefits—even if the injury is serious.
Under New York law, you must notify your no-fault insurer of the accident within 30 days to preserve your right to benefits. This is not just a recommendation—it’s a legal requirement.
You must also submit written proof of claim (including medical records, bills, and wage statements) within 180 days of the date services were rendered—or risk losing reimbursement for those services.
No-fault benefits cover up to $50,000 per person for medical expenses, lost wages (80% up to $2,000/month), and other reasonable expenses—subject to timely compliance with all statutory deadlines.
Statutory TextThe owner or operator of a motor vehicle… shall, within thirty days after the accident, give notice thereof to the insurer.
— N.Y. Ins. Law § 5103(a)(1) — Notice of claim
Statutory TextWritten proof of such loss shall be furnished to the insurer within one hundred eighty days after the date of the loss.
— N.Y. Ins. Law § 5103(a)(2) — Proof of claim
What Courts Have Said
New York courts consistently enforce the 30-day notice and 180-day proof-of-loss deadlines strictly—even when delays are minor or unintentional.
Claim denied because notice was filed 33 days post-accident; court held the 30-day rule is mandatory, not directory.
Insurer properly denied benefits where proof of medical treatment was submitted 182 days after service—not within the 180-day statutory window.
What to Do
Notify your insurer by phone or online within 48 hours—and follow up in writing within 30 days.
Submit all medical bills, treatment records, and wage verification to your insurer within 180 days of each service or loss.
Keep copies of every notice, letter, email, and receipt related to your claim.
If your claim is denied for late filing, consult a lawyer immediately—you may still have limited options, including seeking a waiver based on 'reasonable justification' (though courts rarely grant it).
Sources
Not legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: 2026-06-08.