New York Auto Insurance
Is Personal Injury Protection (PIP) Required in New York?
What you need to know about this important coverage — from Koenigsberg & Associates Law Offices.
June 22, 2026
If you're a driver in New York, you must have car insurance. But what kind of coverage do you actually need? Personal Injury Protection (PIP) is one type of coverage required in some states but not others — and New York is one of the states where it's mandatory.
PIP — sometimes called "no-fault" coverage — helps pay for your medical expenses and lost wages after a car accident, regardless of who caused the crash. Even in states where it isn't required, PIP can be a smart addition to your policy.
So, what is PIP, who does it cover, and how do you actually use it after a crash? This guide walks through the answers.
By the Numbers
New York PIP at a glance
Required
PIP is mandatory for all New York drivers under the state's no-fault laws
$50,000
Minimum PIP coverage required on every New York auto policy
No-Fault
Pays your medical bills and lost wages regardless of who caused the crash
1st Party
Coverage applies to you, your passengers, and pedestrians you strike
New York's no-fault system is built around PIP coverage. Knowing how it works — and what it does and doesn't cover — can make a real difference after a crash.
The Basics
What is Personal Injury Protection (PIP)?
PIP is a type of car insurance coverage that helps pay for medical expenses and lost wages if you're injured in a car accident — regardless of who is at fault. That's why it's often called "no-fault" coverage.
PIP is typically built into your auto policy. In some states it's optional; in New York, it's required as part of the state's no-fault insurance laws. Even where it isn't mandatory, it can be a worthwhile addition because it pays out without waiting on a fault determination.
Do you need PIP in New York?
Yes — PIP is required on every New York auto policy.
The minimum coverage you can purchase is $50,000. You can buy higher limits to better match your needs and financial situation — and many drivers do. Higher limits give you more cushion if your medical bills or lost wages exceed the minimum.
What PIP Pays For
What does PIP cover after an accident?
PIP is broader than many drivers realize — but it's not unlimited, and it isn't a substitute for health insurance. Here's a look at the expenses it can help with.
Medical expenses
Hospital bills, doctor visits, diagnostic imaging, prescriptions, and other reasonable and necessary medical treatment after a crash.
Lost wages
A portion of the income you lose if your injuries keep you out of work while you recover.
Rehabilitation
Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other rehab expenses tied to your accident injuries.
Other accident-related costs
Reasonable and necessary expenses connected to your injuries that fall outside ordinary medical bills.
Funeral expenses
If a crash results in a fatality, PIP can also help cover funeral and burial costs for the deceased.
Supplement to health insurance
PIP is designed to pick up expenses your health insurance does not cover — it is not a replacement for health insurance.
To collect PIP benefits, you'll need to file a claim with your insurance company. The insurer will review your claim and determine how much it will pay. Keep in mind: PIP is designed to supplement your health insurance — it pays for expenses your health plan doesn't cover, not the same bills twice.
Who Is Covered
Does PIP cover my passengers — or only me?
In some states, PIP only extends to the policyholder. In New York, it goes considerably further — covering passengers and certain third parties as well. PIP is still a first-party coverage, though, so it doesn't reach across to the other vehicle.
Who your PIP covers
Inside your policy's reach
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The policyholder
If you are driving your own car, PIP applies to your injuries from the moment of the crash.
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Your passengers
Anyone riding in your vehicle at the time of the accident is covered under your PIP policy.
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Pedestrians you strike
If your vehicle hits a pedestrian, your PIP coverage can extend to their injury-related expenses.
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Bicyclists you strike
Cyclists hit by your vehicle may also be covered under your policy's PIP benefits.
PIP also extends to pedestrians and bicyclists hit by a covered vehicle — an important protection given how many New Yorkers travel on foot or by bike.
Who your PIP does not cover
Outside your policy's reach
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Drivers of other vehicles
PIP is a first-party coverage. It does not pay medical bills or lost wages for the driver of the other car involved in the crash.
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Passengers in other vehicles
Anyone riding in another vehicle looks to that vehicle's PIP — not yours — for no-fault benefits.
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Expenses already paid by health insurance
PIP supplements your health insurance. It pays for medical costs your health plan does not cover, not the same bills twice.
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Costs beyond your policy limits
Once you exhaust your PIP limit, additional damages must be pursued through other coverage or a personal injury claim.
Fast Facts
New York PIP coverage at a glance
A quick reference for what every New York driver should know about Personal Injury Protection — what it does, who it covers, and where it stops.
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Required by law for every registered vehicle in New York.
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Minimum coverage starts at $50,000 — higher limits can be purchased.
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Pays out regardless of who caused the accident.
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Extends to the policyholder and any passengers in their vehicle.
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Covers pedestrians and bicyclists struck by the insured vehicle.
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Does not extend to occupants of the other vehicle in a crash.
Next Steps
How to use your PIP coverage after an accident
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Notify your insurance company quickly
Report the accident to your auto insurer as soon as possible. New York requires PIP claim paperwork to be submitted within strict deadlines — missing them can jeopardize your benefits.
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Get medical care immediately
See a doctor right away, even if you feel okay. Prompt care protects your health and creates the medical record your PIP claim is built on.
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Complete and submit the no-fault application
Your insurer will send you a no-fault application (NF-2). Fill it out carefully and return it within the required timeframe.
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Keep records of every expense
Save medical bills, prescription receipts, mileage to appointments, and proof of lost wages. Documentation is what gets you paid.
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Talk to an attorney if your claim is delayed or denied
Insurers sometimes underpay, delay, or deny valid PIP claims. A personal injury attorney can push back and protect your right to benefits.
Your Trusted Legal Team
Questions about PIP or car insurance?
If you have questions about Personal Injury Protection (PIP) or car insurance in general, contact Koenigsberg & Associates Law Offices today. Our experienced car accident lawyers can answer your questions and help you pursue the compensation you deserve.