Quick Answer In most car accident cases in New York, hiring a personal injury attorney significantly increases your settlement. An attorney protects you from insurance tactics, ensures proper medical documentation, and negotiates on your behalf. MAIC works with PI attorneys across the Bronx — ask about our attorney referral program.

What No-Fault Covers Without a Lawyer

New York's No-Fault insurance covers your medical bills (up to $50,000), lost wages (up to $2,000/month for 3 years), and certain other out-of-pocket expenses regardless of fault — and without needing to file a lawsuit or hire an attorney. For these benefits, you simply file a No-Fault claim with your insurance company within 30 days.

When You Need a Personal Injury Attorney

You need a PI attorney if you have suffered: a serious injury as defined by New York Insurance Law (significant disfigurement, fracture, permanent limitation of use of a body organ or member, or significant limitation of use of a body function or system); lost wages beyond No-Fault limits; or pain and suffering damages. These claims require filing a personal injury lawsuit.

Why Medical Documentation Comes First

Whether or not you hire an attorney, getting comprehensive medical care immediately after your accident is the single most important step you can take. Your medical records — their completeness, their objectivity, and their clinical detail — determine the value of any PI claim. Attorney involvement without documentation is a weak case. Documentation without attorney involvement is a missed opportunity.

Get evaluated at MAIC first — call (888) 991-5290. Then consult with a PI attorney.