New York Senate Passes Supplemental Uninsured & Underinsured Motorist Bill

On June 28, 2017, the New York Senate unanimously passed S.5644B with 62 votes. Under current law, SUM coverage is not automatically included in New Yorkers’ insurance policies, despite being very affordable and providing a critical lifeline for families during some of their most difficult times.

This bill would establish that the amount of supplementary uninsured and underinsured (SUM) coverage to be included in any new auto insurance policy will be the same as the amount of bodily injury coverage chosen by the insured. Furthermore, the insurance agent would be required to inform the insured what SUM coverage is and how much coverage the insured may purchase.

What Is Supplemental Uninsured & Underinsured Coverage?

Supplemental Uninsured and underinsured Motorist (commonly referred to as SUM) coverage protects motor vehicle accident victims when they are involved in a hit and run or hit by a car with little or no insurance. SUM coverage also protects pedestrians who are hit by a car that leaves the scene of the accident or does not have enough coverage.

This means that if the driver who caused the accident is uninsured, you will still have coverage up to the amount of coverage you purchased. Similarly, this also means that if the person who caused the accident is underinsured, you may have additional coverage available up to the amount of your rider. SUM coverage also provides coverage for your household relatives.

The Need for Legal Help After an Automobile Accident

When you are injured in an automobile accident, you need the assistance of an aggressive attorney fighting for your rights and helping you recover the full compensation that you deserve. With an experienced New York car accident attorney on your side, you can be confident that the legal aspects of your case are properly handled so that you can concentrate on getting the best medical treatment possible for your personal injuries.

We Can Help You If Your Are Injured

When you are injured in an automobile accident, you need to hire an experienced New York car accident attorney to protect your legal rights. The attorneys at Gersowitz, Libo & Korek P.C. have more than 40 years of experience and knowledge to aggressively fight for your rights and get you the full extent of monetary compensation that you deserve.

To schedule a complimentary consultation with one of our New York car accident attorneys, please call 1-800-529-9997.