Initially, regardless of the insurance status of the other vehicle, a Buffalo driver’s own auto insurance covers his or her immediate medical needs following a motor vehicle accident. This is required by New York State law. If the injuries are severe enough that they warrant a personal injury lawsuit, the insurance coverage available varies depending on the circumstances surrounding the stolen vehicle.
While most insurance policies include a provision that they will not provide coverage for stolen vehicles, under New York law there is a strong presumption that the driver of a vehicle had permission to use it. Even if it is clearly established that the vehicle was being operated without the permission of the owner, the owner may still be held liable if he or she left the vehicle unattended with the key in the ignition and the engine running.
In most cases where the theft of the vehicle is clearly established, however, the owner’s policy will not cover the injuries. Under such circumstances, the injured person may bring an uninsured motorist claim against his or her own insurance provider. All insurance providers in New York State are required to provide this coverage to protect individuals involved in accidents with uninsured vehicles. The amount of coverage, however, varies depending upon what you have chosen to purchase.
If you have suffered a personal injury in a car accident and have any questions, please call us at 716-542-5444. We would be happy to help you.
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