Does Car Insurance Cover Accidents on Private Property in NY?

According to the New York Department of Motor Vehicles, more than 300,000 car accidents take place in New York each year. The vast majority of these crashes occur on the nearly 115,000 miles of public roads in the state.

Auto insurance companies cover accidents that happen on these public roads. But does car insurance cover accidents on private property, too?

If you were in a motor vehicle collision on private property recently, find the answer to this question. It can make dealing with the aftermath of accidents occurring on private property in New York easier.

What Is Considered Private Property in New York?

Cornell Law School’s Legal Information Institute defines private property as any property that isn’t owned by the government. A car accident that happens on private property might take place in:

• The parking lot at a shopping mall.
• A road that runs to the parking lot at an amusement park.
• A homeowner’s driveway.

Car accidents that take place on highways, busy roads, and even short side streets near your home in New York are public roads.

Does Car Insurance Cover Accidents on Private Property in New York?

When you’re wondering, “Does car insurance cover accidents on private property in New York?” begin by reading through the terms and conditions of your auto insurance policy.

If you only have a bare-bones policy that provides minimum coverage, your car insurance may cover damage done to private property but not damage done to your vehicle. It can also cover medical bills for others.

If you have coverage, it should cover damage done to private property as well as your vehicle. It should also cover medical bills for you and others.

Here are several examples of when a private property owner may be to blame for a car accident:

• Poor road conditions.
• Lack of road signage.
• Unsafe road obstacles.

Following a car accident on private property, consider reaching out to a reputable car accident lawyer for assistance. They can analyze your case and let you know which insurance company should cover your crash. They can also break down personal injury laws and explain concepts like property damage liability.

What Should You Do After a Car Accident on Private Property in New York?

Taking the right steps following a car crash on private property in New York can help you immensely in your car accident case. If you take legal action against a private property owner, it’ll help to have as much evidence as you can gather.

If possible, secure a police report related to your car accident on private property. Exchange insurance information with others involved in your accident, and take as many photos and videos of the crash scene as you can. Additionally, look for any surveillance cameras in the area.

But above all else, start working with a trusted car accident attorney. They can handle every aspect of your case and reduce the chances of you having to use your own money to pay for property damage and medical bills.

Contact Us After a Car Accident on Private Property in New York

Recovering from a car accident can be stressful, especially if your crash occurred on private property in New York. Cantor, Wolff, Nicastro & Hall LLC can provide you with answers to questions like, “Does car insurance cover accidents on private property?”

Call us at 716-848-8000 or contact us online to arrange a free consultation to discuss your recent car crash.