If you’ve been injured in a car accident in New York, you may already know that our state follows a “No-Fault” insurance system. But what you might not know is that there’s a way to increase the protection available to you—APIP, or Additional Personal Injury Protection. This extra layer of coverage can make a major difference in your recovery, both physically and financially.
What Is APIP?
APIP stands for Additional Personal Injury Protection, and it’s an optional add-on to your car insurance policy in New York. The standard No-Fault insurance (also called Basic PIP) provides up to $50,000 per person for medical expenses, lost wages, and other reasonable and necessary costs related to injuries from a motor vehicle accident. But in serious accidents, that $50,000 can run out quickly.
That’s where APIP comes in. It increases the amount available beyond the basic PIP limit—sometimes by tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars—giving you more security in the event of a serious injury.
What Does APIP Cover?
APIP generally provides:
- Additional medical and hospital expenses
- Increased lost wage benefits (above the standard 80%/max $2,000 per month under Basic PIP)
- Other necessary and reasonable expenses, such as transportation to medical appointments or household help during recovery
Who Can Use It?
APIP coverage can be used by:
- The policyholder
- Relatives who live in the same household
- Authorized drivers and passengers in the insured vehicle
- Pedestrians hit by the insured vehicle
Why You Might Need APIP
Even minor injuries can require costly medical treatment and time away from work. With New York’s high cost of living and medical care, Basic PIP often isn’t enough.
APIP provides a financial cushion that:
- Reduces out-of-pocket medical expenses
- Covers longer recovery periods with wage replacement
- Prevents the need to pursue a lawsuit right away just to cover bills
How Much Does APIP Cost?
Surprisingly, APIP is relatively affordable—especially considering the financial hardship it can help avoid. Adding tens of thousands of dollars in extra coverage usually only increases your premium slightly.
What About OBEL?
Another term you might hear alongside APIP is OBEL—Optional Basic Economic Loss. OBEL allows for an additional $25,000 of coverage, which can be designated for specific types of losses (like rehab or lost wages). OBEL and APIP can be stacked to create a more robust safety net.
Final Thoughts: Protect Yourself Before the Accident Happens
If you don’t already have APIP, it’s worth calling your insurance company to explore your options. And if you’ve been injured in an accident, it’s important to find out whether APIP applies to your situation—and how to claim it.
At Walker & Mackenzie, P.C., our experienced car accident attorneys help victims understand and maximize all sources of compensation available under New York law, including APIP and other insurance benefits.
Injured in a car accident? We’re here to help. Contact the experienced car accident attorneys at Walker & Mackenzie, P.C. today at (631) 791-5090 for a free, no obligation, consultation to review all of the legal remedies available to you!