New York drivers could soon see changes in their auto insurance bills under new state budget reforms aimed at fraud and rising premiums, according to RochesterFirst.
Gov. Kathy Hochul said the changes would limit payouts for drivers involved in crimes or illegal activity during crashes, including uninsured and drunk drivers. The reforms also tighten rules around “serious injury” claims and give prosecutors broader authority to pursue staged crash schemes.
State officials say New Yorkers pay about $4,000 annually for car insurance, far above the national average. The budget package also blocks insurers from using factors like ZIP code, education level, and homeownership status when setting rates.
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