What liability limits should I choose for a new car in New York?
For most drivers in New York, 100/300/100 is a strong liability choice for a new car. New York’s minimum limits are 25/50/10, but those limits can leave you paying a lot out of pocket after a serious crash.
| Coverage | New York minimum | Common safer choice |
|---|---|---|
| Bodily injury per person | $25,000 | $100,000 |
| Bodily injury per accident | $50,000 | $300,000 |
| Property damage per accident | $10,000 | $100,000 |
Here’s what you need to know:
- 25/50/10 is the legal minimum, but it is often too low for a new car owner.
- 100/300/100 gives much better protection if you hurt someone or damage expensive property.
- If you have savings, a home, or other assets, higher limits can help protect them.
- If you commute often, drive in heavy traffic, or carry passengers, higher limits make more sense.
- If you want extra peace of mind, many drivers choose 250/500/100 or higher.
New York requires drivers to carry liability insurance, which pays for injuries and property damage you cause to other people. It does not pay to fix your own car. For a new car, that matters because your vehicle may also need collision and comprehensive coverage if you want help with theft, weather, vandalism, or crash damage.
A practical rule is to match your limits to what you could afford to pay if you caused a bad wreck. If you have a lot to lose, low limits can be a bad fit. If you have few assets and you mainly want to meet the law, the minimum may look cheaper, but it gives much less protection.
A simple way to choose is:
- Pick 100/300/100 if you want a balanced option.
- Pick 250/500/100 if you want stronger protection and can afford it.
- Stay above the minimum if you drive in busy areas, carry family often, or want better asset protection.
If you are buying a new car, ask for quotes at several limit levels before you choose. The price jump from minimum limits to higher limits is often smaller than people expect. Sidekick can help you compare those options and see how much extra protection each one buys you.
If you want the shortest answer: choose at least 100/300/100 for a new car in New York, and go higher if you have assets to protect or drive often.