A car accident can be a confusing and stressful experience, and it’s critical to understand the necessary steps to protect your rights and access medical care promptly. In New York, one of these critical steps is completing a No-Fault Application.
In this blog post, we’ll explore what a No-Fault Application is, how to fill it out, the time limits involved, and why it’s a crucial requirement after a car accident in New York.
In New York, the No-Fault Application, officially known as the NF-2 form, is a critical document that ensures you, the injured person receives prompt medical coverage and related benefits after a car accident.
Some people wrongly think that there own health insurance will pay. Health insurances such as BlueCross Blue Shielf, Cigna, HealthPlus, Medicaid and Medicare do not pay. Once they review the bills they will deny to pay as they result from a car accident. This could leave you with thousands of dollars in unpaid medical bills because you did not timely file this NF2 (No-Fault application).
The no-fault insurance law in New York is designed to provide financial assistance, regardless of who was at fault for the car accident. Hence, the word ‘No-Fault’. So no matter who was at fault for an accident your own car insurance pays. If the accident was not your fault, accessing these rates will not make your insurance go up.
Furthermore, this even applies if you are a pedestrian and hit by a car, if there is a car registered at your home even if not yours and you don’t have a license that vehicle pays.
Completing the No-Fault Application may seem like a frightening task, but it’s a necessary one to access medical care and financial assistance you are entitled to and have been paying into with every auto insurance payment.
Tip, a law firm such as ours will fill out the form for you at no extra charge.
But regardless here’s a step-by-step guide to filling one out.:
You can request the NF-2 form from your insurance company, attorney, or download it from the New York State Department of Financial Services (NYDFS) website.
Fill in your personal information, including your name, address, contact details, and date of birth.
Provide details about the car accident, including the date, time, and location. Describe the circumstances to the best of your ability. However, no need to be too specific. Example if a car hit you from behind, a statement such as ‘ another vehicle hit me from behind’ should suffice.
Include details about your car insurance policy, including the name of your insurance company and your policy number.
List your medical provider’s information, including the name of the facility, address, and contact details. Do not worry if you didn’t see any doctors yet at the time of filling out the NF2 (No-Fault application).
Describe your injuries, symptoms, and medical conditions resulting from the accident. Once again, this can be simple if you hurt your back, just write ‘back injury’. No need to go into detail.
Sign and date the form.
In New York, it is crucial to be aware of the time limits for filing a No-Fault Application. Generally, you should submit the application within 30 days of the accident.
However, there are certain instances that may allow for an extension, such as if you were disabled or if you were unaware of the severity of your injuries at the time of the accident.
Why You Must Fill Out a No-Fault Application
After a car accident in New York, completing a No-Fault Application is a necessary step in securing medical coverage and financial support. Knowing how to fill out the form, adhering to time limits, and understanding why it’s essential will help you navigate the process with confidence and ensure you receive the required care and assistance during this challenging time.
If you or a loved one was hurt and have any questions about filling this application out, please feel free to call our office for a free telephone consultation. We can walk you through any questions you have on the telephone for free.
As always after a car accident, consider consulting an experienced attorney to protect your rights and interests. Remember the insurance company (yours and the other persons) are NOT your friend and do not owe you a fiduciary duty, meaning they can mislead.
Another helpful tip is the insurance company will promise to pay your medical bills and then shortly after they will have you visit your doctor then cut you off from all No-Fault benefits including medical. An experienced injury attorney can and will prevent this.
