US-New YorkWhat no-fault benefits am I entitled to after a car accident?
After a car accident in New York, you’re entitled to up to $50,000 in no-fault benefits covering medical expenses, lost wages (up to 80% of earnings, max $2,000/month), and other reasonable expenses — regardless of who caused the crash.
What the Law Says
New York’s no-fault insurance law guarantees prompt payment for certain accident-related losses — without needing to prove fault. These benefits are mandatory for all auto policies sold in the state.
Under New York law, every motor vehicle insurance policy must include no-fault coverage that pays for your basic economic losses resulting from a motor vehicle accident. This includes medical expenses, lost earnings, and other reasonable and necessary expenses — up to a total of $50,000 per person.
You must notify your insurer of the accident within 30 days and submit written proof of claim (including medical records and wage statements) within the same timeframe. Failure to meet these deadlines may result in denial of benefits.
Lost earnings are reimbursed at 80% of your average weekly wage, up to a maximum of $2,000 per month — even if you’re self-employed or work part-time. Additional 'other reasonable expenses' (e.g., transportation to medical appointments, household help) are covered up to $25 per day for up to one year.
Statutory Text‘Basic economic loss’ means the sum of: (a) up to fifty thousand dollars… for (i) medical expenses… (ii) loss of earnings… (iii) other reasonable and necessary expenses…
— N.Y. Ins. Law § 5102(a) — Definition of basic economic loss
Statutory TextNo-fault benefits shall be paid not later than thirty days after the insurer receives proof of claim…
— N.Y. Ins. Law § 5106(a) — Time for payment
Statutory TextThe owner or operator of a motor vehicle… shall give notice of the accident to his insurer within thirty days…
— N.Y. Ins. Law § 5103(a)(1) — Notice requirement
What to Do
Notify your no-fault insurer in writing within 30 days of the accident — include date, location, and names of involved parties.
Submit completed NF-2 (Application for Benefits) and NF-3 (Attending Physician’s Report) forms within 30 days.
Keep receipts for all medical care, prescriptions, mileage, and out-of-pocket expenses related to recovery.
If your claim is denied or delayed beyond 30 days, file for arbitration with the American Arbitration Association (AAA) or sue in civil court.
Consult a lawyer if you suffer serious injury (e.g., fracture, significant disfigurement, permanent limitation) — you may qualify to sue for pain and suffering outside no-fault.
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.