It was a typical day in Brooklyn when life suddenly took a painful turn. While stopped at a red light, a local resident was rear-ended by another vehicle. The impact, though unexpected, had lasting effects. Not long after the crash, he began to experience persistent back and neck pain — the kind that interferes with daily routines, sleep, and peace of mind.
Realizing he needed guidance and support, the Brooklyn resident turned to the trusted team at Hill & Moin, LLP. With a reputation for standing by accident victims, Hill & Moin took immediate action. More than just handling the legal side, they made sure to explain everything in a way that was easy to understand — no confusing legal jargon, just clear communication and genuine care. Their approachable and professional manner helped ease the stress of an already difficult time.
Thanks to their dedication and experience, Hill & Moin secured a swift settlement for their client, allowing him to focus on what mattered most: healing and moving forward. With the case resolved, the Brooklyn resident can now look ahead with greater stability and confidence. For him, Hill & Moin, LLP wasn’t just a law firm — they were a crucial part of his recovery.
In the summer of 2019, a Brooklyn woman was involved in a serious motor vehicle accident. Her case presented complex legal challenges, particularly around the circumstances of the collision, issues that are often left for a jury to decide at trial. Despite these hurdles, Hill & Moin LLP took swift and strategic action on her behalf.
Through thorough investigation and skilled legal advocacy, Hill & Moin secured a court order establishing the defendant’s liability well before the case ever reached a jury. This rare pre-trial determination of fault, in a case where each party claimed the other ran a red light, gave the plaintiff a significant advantage and eliminated much of the uncertainty that typically accompanies litigation in cases of this nature.
Thanks to the firm’s early success, the case was settled for nearly the full amount of the $1,000,000 policy limit. Hill & Moin’s reputation for tenacity, legal skill, and personalized care—reflected in their numerous five-star client reviews—was once again demonstrated in this result, allowing their client to receive critical compensation without the added burden of a lengthy trial.
Mr. Howard, a longtime Brooklyn resident, enjoys the simple joys of life—reading his favorite books and spending time crocheting. But one ordinary day took an unexpected turn when, while driving for work, he was struck by another vehicle taking a dangerously wide turn. The crash left him shaken and in need of both medical attention and legal support.
Seeking guidance, Mr. Howard reached out to Hill & Moin, LLP. From the beginning, he felt heard and supported. The team at Hill & Moin ensured he received the necessary medical treatments and met with him regularly to explain the legal process. Their consistent updates and clear communication helped ease the stress of the situation.
“The communication was great and the staff was attentive to my needs,” Mr. Howard shared. With Hill & Moin’s dedication and advocacy, his case ultimately settled for an impressive $1.1 million. Their thorough approach and personal care made a difficult time much more manageable.
Now, with his case behind him, Mr. Howard is looking ahead with optimism. He’s preparing to move to the South, excited to begin a calmer and more peaceful chapter of his life. Reflecting on his experience, he rated Hill & Moin, LLP a perfect 5 out of 5 stars—grateful for the support that helped him move forward.
Ruth Brown, a dedicated bus driver with a passion for traveling, crocheting, and discovering new foods, never expected her routine day at work to take a life-changing turn. While on the job, Ms. Brown’s bus was struck by another vehicle, leaving her shaken and uncertain about what to do next. Determined to understand her legal options, Ms. Brown reached out to the trusted attorneys at Hill & Moin, LLP.
From the moment she stepped into their office, Ms. Brown felt supported. The attorneys carefully walked her through a clear and compassionate game plan for her personal injury case. Ms. Brown appreciated how informative the team was, especially their commitment to keeping her in the loop every step of the way.
Thanks to the dedication and hard work of Hill & Moin, Ms. Brown’s case was successfully settled for $850,000. With her settlement in hand, Ms. Brown is now excitedly considering a new car and embracing the future with confidence. She describes the team at Hill & Moin as feeling “like family” and didn’t hesitate to leave a glowing 5-star review. “I’d recommend Hill & Moin to everyone—I wouldn’t even think twice,” Ms. Brown says.
Her story is a testament to what’s possible when compassionate legal care meets determined advocacy.
If you’ve ever been in a car accident in New York, you probably remember the chaos: the screech of brakes, the sudden jolt, and the scramble to figure out what happens next. In those confusing moments, a term you may hear tossed around—perhaps for the first time—is no-fault insurance. It sounds reassuring. But what does it actually mean? And more importantly, how does it affect you?
At Hill & Moin LLP, we’ve spent decades helping accident victims navigate the maze of insurance claims and personal injury law in New York. No-fault insurance is one of those topics that comes up often—and understandably so. It’s a unique system, and like many things in the legal world, it has its nuances.
Let’s walk through what no-fault insurance really is, how it works in New York, and what you need to watch out for if you’ve been injured in a car accident.
What is No-Fault Insurance?
New York is one of just a handful of states that follows a no-fault insurance system. Essentially, it means that after a car accident, your own insurance company pays for your basic medical expenses, lost wages, and other reasonable costs—regardless of who caused the crash.
Yes, you read that right. Even if the other driver ran a red light, your insurance provider steps in to cover certain expenses. The system is designed to speed up the compensation process and reduce the number of lawsuits clogging up the courts.
But here’s the catch: no-fault doesn’t cover everything, and it doesn’t mean you can’t sue. We’ll get to that in a bit.
What Does No-Fault Insurance Cover?
Under New York’s no-fault law, your insurance company (not the other driver’s) must pay for certain “basic economic losses.” This includes:
Medical bills: doctor visits, hospital stays, surgery, medication, rehabilitation, and more.
Lost wages: up to 80% of your lost earnings, capped at $2,000 per month for up to three years.
Out-of-pocket expenses: transportation to medical appointments, household help, and other reasonable costs related to your injury.
A $2,000 death benefit: in tragic cases where someone dies as a result of the accident.
All of this is subject to a $50,000 limit per person, unless you’ve purchased additional coverage. These benefits are often referred to as Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage.
Importantly, no-fault insurance does not cover damage to your vehicle, pain and suffering, or expenses above the policy limit. Those are addressed separately, often through lawsuits or other insurance claims.
Who is Covered Under No-Fault?
New York’s no-fault law applies to:
Drivers and passengers of insured vehicles
Pedestrians struck by a car
Cyclists, in some cases
It doesn’t apply to:
Motorcyclists (a key exception)
People injured while committing a felony or fleeing police
Accidents outside of New York (with some exceptions)
If you’re unsure whether you’re covered, it’s best to speak with a knowledgeable personal injury attorney—like someone from our team at Hill & Moin—who can review your case and offer clear guidance.
What Happens After an Accident?
After an accident, time is of the essence. New York’s no-fault system has strict deadlines:
You must file a no-fault application within 30 days of the accident. Miss this window, and you could lose your right to benefits.
Medical providers must submit bills within 45 days of treatment.
Lost wage claims must be submitted every 30 days with proof of disability.
These rules can feel overwhelming when you’re already dealing with pain, confusion, and disruption to your daily life. But missing a deadline can jeopardize your claim—and that’s where we often step in to help.
We recommend reviewing our What Makes a Good Case? guide to get a sense of how to preserve your rights early in the process.
Can You Still Sue the At-Fault Driver?
Here’s where things get interesting. While no-fault insurance covers basic economic losses, it doesn’t compensate you for pain and suffering or serious, long-term injuries. For that, you may need to file a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault driver.
But under New York law, you can only sue if your injuries meet the “serious injury threshold”. What does that mean?
The law defines a serious injury as:
A fracture
Significant disfigurement
Permanent limitation of a body organ or member
Significant limitation of use of a body function or system
Full disability for at least 90 of the 180 days following the accident
It’s not always clear whether an injury qualifies. For example, a herniated disc may not sound serious at first, but it can lead to chronic pain and missed work. In cases like these, our team carefully examines the medical evidence to determine whether your injury meets the legal criteria.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
We’ve seen countless cases where well-meaning people unintentionally hurt their own claims. Some common mistakes include:
Waiting too long to see a doctor
Failing to file the no-fault application in time
Downplaying injuries to insurers
Posting about the accident on social media
Insurance companies—yes, even your own—may look for ways to deny or minimize your claim. That’s why it’s so important to document everything, follow medical advice, and speak to an attorney as soon as possible.
A Real-Life Story: Maria’s Case
Maria was a home health aide driving to a client’s apartment in Queens when another car rear-ended her at a stoplight. At first, she felt fine—just a little shaken. She didn’t go to the hospital. But over the next few days, her neck stiffened and the headaches started.
She finally saw a doctor and learned she had a cervical disc injury. By the time she filed her no-fault application, the 30-day deadline had passed. Her lost wages weren’t covered. Worse, her injury worsened, requiring physical therapy and injections.
When Maria came to Hill & Moin, we helped her gather the medical records and documentation needed to pursue a claim against the at-fault driver. Ultimately, she received a settlement that covered her pain and suffering and gave her a financial cushion while she healed.
When to Call an Attorney
If you’ve been in a car accident in New York, don’t try to figure this out alone. Between the tight deadlines, complex definitions, and insurance red tape, it’s easy to feel lost. That’s where we come in.
At Hill & Moin LLP, we take pride in helping real people—like Maria—get the care and compensation they deserve. We treat every case with compassion and tenacity, because we know how much is at stake.
Your story matters. Let us help you tell it—and fight for the outcome you need.
While commuting through downtown Manhattan on a scooter, a Ukrainian man was struck in a crash that dramatically altered his life. A routine ride quickly turned into a significant ordeal when a truck collided with his scooter, causing serious injuries to his hips and legs. The physical pain and long recovery were compounded by uncertainty and the emotional toll of the accident. Amid the chaos, P.V. carefully searched for the dedicated legal support required to move forward.
From the initial contact with Hill & Moin, he experienced capable and compassionate legal assistance. The attorneys approached the case with urgency and care, treating every aspect with the seriousness it warranted. The legal team conducted a thorough investigation, kept P.V. informed throughout the process, and ensured that his concerns and voice were heard during every phase of the legal proceedings. Their work extended beyond paperwork—they prioritized treating P.V. with respect with proper legal translation from the firm’s paralegals. P.V. expressed appreciation for the firm’s superb translation services and unwavering attentiveness—qualities that earned Hill & Moin a five-star rating for client service. While expressing his involvement with Hill & Moin, he stated no changes were necessary for a better experience.
Every step of the way, the bilingual team ensured that P.V. clearly understood his rights, the legal proceedings, and the medical documentation necessary to build a strong case. With the firm’s support, P.V. secured a proper and meaningful settlement. The outcome represents an important step forward towards resolving the pain and suffering incur on that fateful day. P.V. plans to use the settlement funds to continue medical treatment and physical therapy, as lingering health challenges from the accident remain. His goal is to regain full mobility and reclaim the quality of life that was disrupted on that difficult day.
Hill & Moin is proud to have played a role in P.V.’s pursuit of justice and healing. The firm’s attorneys fight for every client with the same commitment and compassion as they would for their own family. His resilience and determination serve as an inspiration to the entire team. Hill & Moin extends sincere gratitude for the trust placed in their services and wishes P.V. continued recovery, strength, and success in all future endeavors.
CK is a loving mother who enjoys cooking and spending quality time with her young son. One morning, on her way to school, her day took a devastating turn when another vehicle suddenly sideswiped her car. The impact left her shocked and injured, requiring immediate medical attention. She was rushed to the emergency room, where she was treated for multiple injuries. The experience was overwhelming, and CK didn’t know where to turn for help.
Thankfully, CK was referred to the experienced attorneys at Hill & Moin, LLP. From the very first conversation, the team made her feel supported and informed. They explained her legal options clearly and kept her updated throughout the entire process. “They were outstanding,” CK shared, emphasizing how much she appreciated their constant communication and dedication. With their help, CK’s case was resolved successfully, and she received a $650,000 settlement.
Now on the road to recovery, CK is looking forward to brighter days ahead. She plans to take her son on a relaxing Caribbean vacation—a much-needed break after such a difficult journey. The settlement has brought her both peace of mind and a sense of justice. Reflecting on her experience, CK is deeply grateful for the support she received. When asked to rate Hill & Moin, she gave them a confident five stars.
Xavier Martinez had a routine scooter ride turn into a nightmare when he was struck by another driver, suffering painful injuries to his leg and knees. The road to recovery was long—but thankfully, he didn’t have to go through it alone. He needed a legal team that would fight for him and ensure he was compensated fairly—not just for his medical bills, but for his pain, suffering, and long-term recovery. The attorneys at Hill & Moin took on the case with urgency and care, digging into the details, communicating regularly with the client, and making sure he felt heard and supported at every step. From the moment he contacted the firm, they made it their mission to support him not just as legal representatives, but as people who truly cared about his well-being.
He later described his experience with them as excellent and gave us a 5 out of 5 rating for our service—a reflection of the hard work, dedication, and compassion our team strives to deliver in every case. Beyond the legal work, what meant the most to Xavier was the courtesy and professionalism of our staff. From the front desk to the legal team, every interaction made a positive impression. He felt respected, informed, and—most importantly—valued.
Thanks to the team’s efforts, we were able to secure a settlement that went beyond what he expected. He told us he plans to use the money to buy a car for his wife and make improvements to their home in the Dominican Republic—a meaningful step forward after an incredibly difficult time.
We are deeply grateful for this client’s trust and proud to have played a role in helping him move forward. His story is a testament to the power of strong legal representation, and the importance of choosing a team that puts people first. When someone places their trust in us after a traumatic event, we take that responsibility seriously. If you or someone you know has been injured in a motorcycle accident, don’t face the aftermath alone. Contact Hill & Moin today. We’ll fight for the compensation you deserve—and the peace of mind you need.
In 2022, an estimated 10.8 percent of New York drivers were uninsured. This staggering fact supports the need for uninsured motorist coverage for the average New York driver. When it comes to car insurance, many drivers focus on basic coverage requirements and overlook the value of additional protections, such as uninsured motorist coverage.
In New York, where motor vehicle accidents are unfortunately common, having this coverage is essential for protecting yourself and your family. Whether you’re involved in an auto accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver, this coverage can ensure that you don’t have to bear the financial burden of medical costs, lost wages, and other expenses that arise from such incidents.
If you’ve been involved in a car accident, don’t hesitate to get help. Contact a New York car accident lawyer at Hill & Moin for a free consultation. Our experienced personal injury attorneys can evaluate your unique case for free and explain how we can assist you.
Underinsured Motorist Coverage vs. Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage helps to cover expenses such as medical costs, lost wages, and property damage when the at-fault driver doesn’t have adequate insurance to cover your losses. While both uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage protects you in the event of an accident, they differ in how they handle the situation.
Uninsured driver coverage applies when the at-fault driver doesn’t have any auto insurance at all. On the other hand, underinsured driver coverage comes into play when the at-fault driver has insurance, but their coverage limits are insufficient to cover your expenses fully. Which type of coverage may come into play depends on the circumstances surrounding your accident.
For example, if you are in a car accident with an underinsured driver who only has the minimum coverage required by New York law, but your medical bills far exceed their coverage limits, underinsured driver coverage can help you recover the remaining costs.
These are both important aspects of your auto insurance policy to ensure you have sufficient protection in the event of an accident involving an uninsured or underinsured motorist.
The Role of Liability Insurance and Bodily Injury Liability Coverage
When it comes to car insurance, liability insurance coverage is a fundamental requirement. In New York, drivers are required to carry liability coverage, which helps cover the costs associated with damage or injuries you cause to others in an accident. Basic liability insurance has its limitations, and you should understand where your coverage ends.
Bodily injury liability coverage, a part of liability insurance, helps cover medical expenses, pain and suffering, and lost wages for the other driver if you’re at fault in a car accident. This part of liability insurance may even cover the other driver’s legal fees if you are considered to be at fault for the accident.
However, liability only covers the costs associated with the other party’s injuries or damages. It doesn’t help with your own medical bills, lost wages, or property damage. That’s where your essential uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage comes in, ensuring that you’re protected if the other driver does not have sufficient insurance coverage.
Why Do You Need Uninsured Motorist Coverage in New York?
In New York, the law mandates that drivers carry a minimum amount of liability car insurance and uninsured motorist coverage. Unfortunately, though, this doesn’t always mean that the at-fault driver will have enough coverage to pay for all the damages resulting from an accident.
Many drivers on the road may have the bare minimum insurance policies, leaving you with a significant financial burden if you’re injured in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver.
Without additional uninsured driver coverage, also known as Supplemental Uninsured Motorist or SUM coverage, you may have to rely solely on your own auto insurance company or personal assets to cover your medical expenses and damages.
This can be particularly problematic if you’re involved in a serious accident that results in high medical costs and lost wages. Even worse, if the at-fault driver doesn’t have insurance, you may struggle to recover compensation for your injuries.
Uninsured motorist coverage is also invaluable in the case of a hit-and-run accident. If the at-fault driver flees the scene, leaving you with no way to identify him or his insurance, uninsured driver coverage can step in to cover your medical bills and other expenses.
In New York, hit-and-run accidents can be common, but UM coverage can provide the peace of mind that comes from knowing that you won’t be left without financial protection.
No-Fault Insurance and Personal Injury Protection
New York is a no-fault insurance state, which means that, regardless of who is at fault in an accident, your own insurance company policy will cover your medical expenses and lost wages up to the policy limits. This no-fault insurance coverage is provided through personal injury protection (PIP) coverage, which is mandatory under New York state law.
While no-fault insurance helps cover immediate medical expenses and lost wages, it may not be enough to cover serious injuries or significant property damage fully. This is where uninsured or underinsured motorist or SUM coverage becomes essential.
If you’re injured in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver, your own insurance policy can help cover expenses that exceed the no-fault coverage, such as medical costs, pain and suffering, and lost wages beyond what PIP provides.
Compassionate Legal Help From Your “Lawyer in the Family”
Uninsured motorist coverage is an essential part of any comprehensive auto insurance policy in New York. With the high number of uninsured and underinsured drivers on the road, it is critical to ensure you have adequate protection in the event of an auto accident.
This coverage can help you recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage caused by an uninsured or underinsured driver. By adding this coverage to your policy, you can have peace of mind knowing that you are financially protected, regardless of the at-fault driver’s insurance situation.
When facing a personal injury or car accident with a long recovery time – we often wish we had done certain things sooner, and talking about uninsured insurance coverage might be one of them. So take action now!
Get personalized advice and Personal Injury Recovery SolutionsⓇ in a free consultation today – just call Hill & Moin at (212) 668-6000. We have been told by clients that having our team is like having “a lawyer in the family” – because we care about you and your rights.
In the spring, while walking in his neighborhood of Great Neck, NY, YZ was struck by a vehicle while proceeding across Middle Neck Road in the crosswalk. The impact caused him to fall to the ground, resulting in injuries to several areas of his body. Concerned for their father’s well-being, YZ’s family reached out to Hill & Moin, LLP to investigate and litigate on his behalf. YZ met with the experienced attorneys at the firm, who worked with him to strategize a plan that would ensure he received the care he needed and the compensation he deserved.
Throughout the entire process, YZ and his family were kept well-informed at every step. YZ was particularly impressed by the kindness and character of the Hill & Moin team, remarking that the experience went as smoothly as possible under the circumstances. The firm’s dedication and support left YZ very satisfied with the outcome of his case.
In the end, YZ was awarded a settlement of $800,000. When asked how he would rate his experience with Hill & Moin, LLP on a scale of 1 to 5, YZ gave them his lucky number—7! With his case behind him and the financial relief secured, YZ is now looking forward to the future with hope, knowing that he can finally move on from this traumatic chapter of his life. He remains grateful to Hill & Moin for the care and dedication they provided throughout his case and the spectacular result.
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