Car accidents can lead to serious injuries and unexpected financial burdens, but what happens if the at-fault driver is uninsured or cannot be identified? In New York, the Motor Vehicle Accident Indemnification Corporation (MVAIC) exists to help victims in these situations. Established in 1958, MVAIC provides financial assistance to individuals injured in accidents involving uninsured or hit-and-run drivers when no other insurance coverage is available.
Understanding how MVAIC works, who qualifies, and how to file a claim is crucial for accident victims who may otherwise have no means of recovery.
Who Is Eligible to Receive MVAIC Benefits?
To qualify for benefits through MVAIC, you must meet specific eligibility requirements:
- The accident must have occurred in New York State
- You must have been a New York resident at the time of the accident (with limited exceptions)
- No other insurance coverage must be available to you (i.e., you or a household member do not own an insured vehicle)
- You were not the owner of the uninsured vehicle involved in the accident
- You were not the spouse of the uninsured vehicle’s owner
MVAIC serves as a safety net for victims of uninsured or hit-and-run accidents. Situations where you may be eligible for MVAIC include:
- You were a pedestrian hit by an unidentified or uninsured vehicle
- You were a bicyclist struck by a hit-and-run or uninsured driver
- You were a passenger in a vehicle that was uninsured at the time of the accident
If your situation falls under one of these scenarios, MVAIC could provide critical compensation to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages to help you recover after the accident.
How Do I File a Claim with MVAIC?
Filing a claim with MVAIC requires following strict deadlines and procedures. Here’s an overview of the necessary steps:
- Report the accident: if the accident involved a hit-and-run driver, it must be reported to the police within 24 hours or as soon as reasonably possible.
- Submit a notice of intention to make a claim:
- For hit-and-run accidents, this must be filed within 90 days of the accident.
- For uninsured vehicle claims, it must be submitted within 180 days of the accident.
- Complete a no-fault application: this form must be submitted within 30 days of the accident to claim medical and other benefits.
- Provide a household affidavit: this verifies that there is no other available insurance coverage.
What Coverage Does MVAIC Provide for Victims?
MVAIC provides compensation up to the statutory minimum required under New York law, including:
- No-Fault Coverage – up to $50,000 for medical expenses, lost wages, and other costs you incurred as a result of the accident.
- Bodily Injury Liability Coverage – up to $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for injuries caused by an uninsured driver.
How an Attorney Can Help With Your MVAIC Claim
The process of filing a claim with MVAIC can be complex, and missing a deadline or failing to submit the proper documentation could jeopardize your claim. A skilled car accident attorney can assist you with:
- Determining your eligibility
- Submitting forms and applications on time
- Gathering evidence and medical records
- Handling disputes and other challenges that may arise during the claims process
If you or a loved one have been injured in an accident involving an uninsured or hit-and-run driver in New York, you may have options for compensation through MVAIC. Call Towey Law PLLC to learn more about your options. Schedule a free consultation with us now.