What Does No-Fault Mean in Auto Insurance Policies?

States like New York operate with unique stipulations imposed on auto insurance requirements, predominantly attributed to New York being a no-fault state. The term’ no-fault’ may stir confusion if you’ve recently moved to New York or are procuring an auto insurance policy. What does ‘no-fault’ entail? What is personal injury protection? This article elucidates the concept of no-fault insurance in New York. It outlines how Kinowski Agency Inc., based in Amsterdam, NY, simplifies the process of finding the ideal protection for you and your vehicle.

What Exactly Is No-Fault Insurance?

No-fault insurance refers to a type of insurance policy wherein you, your property, or someone else and their property receives coverage, irrespective of who was the culprit behind the accident. This varies from most states that only maintain liability coverage, which assists in covering injuries or property damage inflicted upon those you collide with, assuming you’re at fault. New York adopted no-fault insurance to expedite processing claims, enabling everyone to obtain coverage without having to underline who initiated the accident.

Procuring Auto Insurance in New York With Kinowski Agency Inc.

Obtaining the right auto insurance and Personal Injury Protection (PIP) is fundamental to legally driving in New York and safeguarding you, your vehicle, and your passengers. However, finding the apt policy can be arduous, primarily if you’re unsure about the degree of coverage required before you take to the road. Here at Kinowski Agency Inc., we make the process stress-free. Get in touch with us to learn more about our support or compare quotes with us today.

What if I’m in an accident with someone who has no insurance?

It can be disheartening to be in an auto accident, and the other party responsible for the wreck either flees the scene or doesn’t have auto insurance.  This happens far too often: you, the victim in the incident, pay for medical expenses with your own insurance and on your own dime.  After the process, many, like you, don’t have the time or finances to take the guilty party to court to seek payment for your expense.

In this unfortunate incident, the best way to protect you and your family is to talk to your agent at Kinowski Agency Inc. in Amsterdam, NY about uninsured motorist coverage. 

What You Need To Know

In New York, you can purchase insured motorist coverage with a minimum of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident. Of course, the more coverage you select, the more protection you can provide for yourself and your family.  However, your uninsured motorist coverage cannot exceed the liability coverage you have for bodily injury. 

Regarding property damage caused to your vehicle by an uninsured driver, uninsured motorist coverage is unavailable in New York.  So, instead, you may want to talk to your agent at Kinowski Agency Inc. in Amsterdam, NY about collision coverage.  With collision coverage, you can receive payment to repair or replace your vehicle after an accident, no matter who’s at fault.  It also covers you if your car has been involved in a hit-and-run while parked.

Consult With Us

If you have more questions or need additional information concerning uninsured motorist coverage in New York, we’d be glad to help.  Contact us today at the Kinowski Agency Inc. in Amsterdam, NY to guide you to the best coverage options for your and your family’s safety.

Safe driving tips for new drivers

As a new driver, it’s important to understand the importance of safe driving. Even if you have had your license for a while, it never hurts to brush up on some safety tips. Here are some helpful tips from us at Kinowski Agency Inc. to ensure that you stay safe on the road here in the Amsterdam, NY area, or anywhere: 

Safe driving tips for new drivers

1. Follow all traffic laws and speed limits:

Obeying the law will help you avoid dangerous situations and potential tickets. Always pay attention to posted signs and obey all speed limits – no matter how tempting it may be to speed. 

2. Avoid distractions:

Put away your phone, don’t eat or drink while driving and focus solely on the task at hand: safely navigating through traffic. 

3. Always wear your seatbelt:

It only takes a few seconds and can save your life in an accident. Make sure everyone in the car is buckled up before you start driving. 

4. Never drive tired or under the influence of alcohol/drugs:

Driving tired or under the influence puts yourself and others around you at risk for serious injury or death in a crash. When in doubt, call a friend or take public transportation instead of getting behind the wheel impaired or overtired. 

5. Maintain your vehicle regularly:

Regularly check tire pressure and engine oil levels as well as brake pads, windshield wipers, and other vital parts of your vehicle so that any potential problems can be caught early on before they become more serious issues down the line. 

Don’t Be Without Auto Insurance

For more tips, give us at the Kinowski Agency Inc. a call today. We are proud to serve the Amsterdam, NY area and would be happy to help you find a policy that suits your needs. 

What Are Some Common Auto Insurance Myths?

Many people have certain misconceptions when it comes to their auto insurance. Whether you are shopping for new coverage or trying to save a few bucks, it can be helpful to know a couple. 

Understanding common myths and how they can affect your coverage could be the key to finding the best rate. For professional guidance in Amsterdam, NY and surrounding areas, contact Kinowski Agency Inc. 

Common Auto Insurance Myths 

Most people assume that the more expensive your policy, the more likely it is that you’ll be covered in the event of an accident. Many of these myths have been around for years, so it can be easy to think that they are true. 

One of the most common myths is that you need to drive 10,000 kilometres per year to maintain your car insurance. While this number is often printed on your policy, it is actually only a recommendation. 

There’s also a common misconception that you don’t need to purchase car insurance when you have a car. While there may be some liability coverage that your car might have, you still need to purchase liability insurance if you have a car. 

Another common myth is that you need to maintain a certain level of coverage to keep your car insurance valid. There are no laws mandating any specific level of coverage; however, it is always a good idea to have the most coverage that you can afford. Other myths include: 

  • The lower your deductible, the lower your premiums.
  • If you have been paying for years with no accidents or tickets, you can get away with canceling your policy 
  • Buying basic liability coverage will protect you in almost any accident.
  • You can get cheaper car insurance by switching to a different company or agent. 

Contact Us Today

There are a number of common myths related to auto insurance that could be holding you back from signing up with the right company. Seek advice from Kinowski Agency Inc., a company serving the greater Amsterdam, NY community.