New York Auto Insurance

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Auto Insurance Information by State

Get all of the information you need to make a decision on auto insurance coverage. Learn more about your state's insurance laws, types of insurance and how to save money.

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With nearly two million registered vehicles in the five boroughs and the highest average commute time in the nation, New York City can be a driver's worst nightmare. New York City is the largest city in the United States, and as a result has larger numbers of automobile related incidents:

  • 76,487 auto accidents in 2008
  • 29,755 vehicle thefts in 2009
  • Average commute time of 34.5 minutes
  • 5% of drivers are uninsured

Comprehensive New York auto insurance is a necessity. In order to properly register your automobile in New York City, minimum standard auto insurance must be purchased from a New York State Insurance Department licensed insurer. New York has some of the strictest auto insurance requirements in the country, and as a result, only five percent of New York drivers are uninsured. The minimum requirements in order to register an automobile and receive license plates include the following:

  • Personal Injury Protection (PIP)
  • Liability Insurance
  • Uninsured Motorist Coverage

Personal injury protection insurance is designed to pay for any economic losses (health expenses, lost earnings, and expenses related to injuries sustained) regardless of fault or negligence. PIP is a no-fault insurance does not cover vehicle damage but does provide economic loss protection for the victim(s) and relatives affected by the accident. PIP also covers any injured pedestrians.

Drivers need two types of liability insurance in New York: bodily injury and property damage. This liability coverage protects you from claims made by a third party(ies) alleging negligence or fault on your part. Bodily injury liability insurance, at a minimum, also provides legal defense against such third party claims.

Uninsured motorist coverage provides protection in the event of negligent actions on the part of an uninsured or hit and run motorist. Many policies provide this protection only within New York State, and an additional small charge this coverage can be extended to out-of-state accidents.

It is important to remember to shop for low prices as well as quality service. For a ranking of the insurance companies with the highest number of complaints in New York, see the 2010 Automobile Complaint Rankings at The New York State Insurance Web Site. Always carry proof of insurance in your insured vehicle. New York auto insurers are required to file information on insured drivers with the Department of Motor Vehicles, which then tracks coverage on registered vehicles. Failure to maintain or renew liability coverage for your car can result in suspension of registration and/or license or other penalties. SmartAutoInsurance.com is dedicated to finding reliable and quality New York automobile insurance quotes.

Principal Department of Motor Vehicles Locations are listed here:

  • 696 East Fordham Rd., Bronx, NY 10468
  • 625 Atlantic Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11217
  • 11 Greenwich St., New York, NY 10004
  • 159 E. 125th St., New York, NY 10035
  • 1293 Broadway, New York, NY 10001
  • 168 91st Ave., Jamaica, NY 11432
  • 30 Whitestone Expy., Flushing, NY 11354
  • 1775 South Ave., Staten Island, NY 10314

The phone number for the New York City DMV is (212) 645-5550.