Introduction
If you’ve been injured in a car accident in New York City, you may be wondering what your rights are when it comes to medical care. The good news: under New York’s no-fault insurance law, you are legally entitled to receive medical treatment — regardless of who caused the accident.
But between navigating insurance paperwork, choosing a provider, and coordinating with attorneys, the process can quickly become overwhelming. That’s why Maywell Health is here. Our experienced team helps patients recover physically while also managing the insurance and legal documentation required for no-fault claims.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through:
- Your right to care under New York’s no-fault system
- What’s covered and who pays for treatment
- How to choose a provider that protects your medical and legal rights
- How Maywell Health streamlines your care, claims, and communication
Understanding Your Medical Rights After a Car Accident
New York is a no-fault state, which means that if you’re injured in a motor vehicle accident, your medical expenses are covered regardless of who was at fault. This system ensures that you get the care you need without waiting for court decisions or settlement negotiations.
Under no-fault insurance, you are entitled to:
- Immediate medical attention following your accident
- Follow-up care, including pain management, physical therapy, and diagnostics
- Reimbursement for travel to medical appointments
- Legal protection against out-of-pocket billing for covered services
At Maywell Health, we make sure patients are fully informed about these rights — and that they receive timely, appropriate care from the moment they walk through our doors.
Pro Tip:
Don’t delay care after an accident. Prompt medical evaluation not only supports your health but also protects your no-fault claim.
What Is No-Fault Insurance and What Does It Cover?
No-fault insurance — also known as Personal Injury Protection (PIP) — is designed to cover your medical expenses and certain other costs after a car accident, no matter who was at fault.
What’s Typically Covered Under No-Fault Insurance:
- Emergency care and hospitalization
- Follow-up visits with physicians or specialists
- Diagnostic tests such as X-rays, MRIs, and EMGs
- Pain management treatments, including injections and therapy
- Physical therapy, chiropractic care, and rehabilitation
- Transportation to and from medical appointments
This coverage applies not only to drivers, but also to passengers, cyclists, and pedestrians injured in a vehicle-related accident.
At Maywell Health, we work with no-fault claims every day. Our team ensures all treatment aligns with insurance guidelines so you can focus on healing — not paperwork.
Pro Tip:
There’s usually a cap on coverage and strict timelines for submitting claims. Working with a provider experienced in no-fault insurance is key to protecting your benefits.
Can I Choose My Own Doctor?
Yes — under New York’s no-fault insurance laws, you have the right to choose your own doctor, as long as they accept no-fault coverage.
That means you don’t have to rely on the insurance company to assign you a provider. You can seek care from specialists who are familiar with auto accident injuries and the documentation required to support your claim.
Why This Matters:
- You can receive care from a provider who understands your condition and recovery goals
- You’ll work with a clinic that handles the administrative process, so you don’t have to
- You’ll maintain control over your treatment plan and medical records
At Maywell Health, we are a recognized no-fault injury clinic in NYC. Our team regularly treats patients with auto-related injuries and provides all the necessary evaluations, imaging, and paperwork to support both your healing and your case.
Pro Tip:
Always confirm that your provider accepts no-fault insurance before starting treatment — and choose a clinic experienced in both medical care and claims support.
Who Pays for My Treatment After an Accident?
In most New York car accident cases, your medical treatment is covered by your own auto insurance policy or that of the vehicle you were in at the time of the accident. This is how the no-fault system works — it allows you to access care quickly without waiting for a liability determination or lawsuit resolution.
How It Works:
- Your provider submits medical bills directly to the no-fault insurance company
- Claims must typically be filed within 30 days of the accident
- You should not be billed out-of-pocket for services covered under PIP
- Any authorized treatment will be reimbursed through your no-fault benefits
At Maywell Health, we manage this entire process for you — from claim submission to insurer communication — so you can focus on your recovery, not red tape.
Pro Tip:
Keep all your accident information handy at your first appointment: claim number, insurance details, and date of injury. Timely documentation protects your benefits.
How Maywell Supports Your Recovery and Claim Process
At Maywell Health, we understand that recovering from a car accident involves more than just medical treatment — it also means navigating insurance forms, legal documentation, and strict filing deadlines. That’s why we provide comprehensive support every step of the way.
We Work Directly With Your Attorney
If you’re represented by a personal injury attorney, we’ll coordinate directly with their office to ensure your case has the detailed medical documentation it needs.
- Prompt delivery of medical records, imaging, and reports
- Written evaluations that support your legal and insurance claims
- Open communication to keep your case on track
We Handle All Insurance Submissions
Our team takes on the administrative burden so you don’t have to.
- Timely filing of claims within the legal 30-day window
- Direct communication with insurers for authorizations and approvals
- Tracking and documenting treatments for ongoing medical necessity
We Protect Your Records and Rights
Accurate medical records are essential for both your recovery and your legal case. We maintain secure, organized documentation of:
- Imaging, diagnostics, and visit notes
- Diagnoses and treatment plans
- Referral summaries and outcome reports
With Maywell Health, you receive not only trusted medical care but also peace of mind knowing your paperwork and claim are handled with precision.
Pro Tip:
Choose a provider that understands both clinical care and legal documentation — it makes a major difference in how your recovery and case progress.
What to Expect on Your First Visit
Your first appointment after a car accident is an important step toward healing — and ensuring your claim is properly supported. At Maywell Health, we make the process smooth, thorough, and focused on both your health and documentation needs.
What to Bring:
- Your no-fault claim number
- Date and location of the accident
- Your insurance company’s name and contact information
- Valid photo ID
- Attorney contact information (if applicable)
- Any prior imaging or medical records related to the injury
Having this information ready allows us to begin treatment immediately and submit your claims without delay.
We also provide a downloadable checklist so you don’t miss a thing — available on our Education Hub.
What Happens During the Visit:
- You’ll receive a comprehensive medical evaluation by a provider experienced in accident-related injuries
- We’ll discuss your symptoms, review any past records, and order diagnostics if needed
- A treatment plan will be created — aligned with your injury, your insurance coverage, and your long-term recovery goals
Pro Tip:
The sooner you schedule your first visit, the better. Early documentation of injuries is critical for both effective treatment and a successful no-fault claim.
What Treatments Are Typically Covered?
Under New York’s no-fault insurance system, medically necessary treatments for accident-related injuries are generally covered — as long as they are properly documented and submitted within legal timelines.
At Maywell Health, we offer a wide range of services tailored to your injuries, and we coordinate each treatment with your no-fault claim to ensure full compliance and coverage.
Common Covered Treatments Include:
- Orthopedic and neurological evaluations
- Physical therapy and chiropractic care
- Pain management procedures, including injections and trigger point therapy
- Diagnostic imaging (MRI, X-ray, EMG) to confirm injury and guide treatment
- Medication management and durable medical equipment (braces, supports, etc.)
- Mental health counseling for accident-related emotional distress
Our multidisciplinary team works together to create a recovery plan that addresses both physical and emotional aspects of healing.
Pro Tip:
Ask your provider to explain what treatments are covered and how often claims must be updated. Staying informed helps you avoid treatment interruptions.
Trusted Resources
For patients and families navigating post-accident care, having reliable information is just as important as having the right medical team. Below are helpful resources to better understand your rights under New York’s no-fault system and how to protect your access to care.
Authoritative External Links:
- New York DMV: No-Fault Insurance Overview
Learn how New York’s no-fault system works, what’s covered, and who qualifies for benefits. - NYC Bar Association: Understanding No-Fault Medical Claims
A comprehensive guide to your rights, responsibilities, and how to work with attorneys and medical providers.
At Maywell Health, we encourage every patient to stay informed and ask questions — because the more you know, the more confidently you can advocate for your care.
Pro Tip:
Bookmark these resources or share them with your attorney to help align your legal and medical strategy.
Conclusion
If you’ve been injured in a motor vehicle accident in New York City, you have the legal right to receive timely, comprehensive medical care — without waiting for a lawsuit or settlement. No-fault insurance is designed to protect your health and ensure you get the treatment you need.
At Maywell Health, we specialize in guiding patients through both recovery and the insurance process. From initial evaluation to final documentation, we handle everything — so you can focus on healing, not paperwork.
Our team works closely with your attorney, submits claims on your behalf, and delivers expert care every step of the way.
Injured in a car accident? Book your first visit with Maywell Health today and let us help you recover with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are my medical rights after a car accident in NYC?
Under New York’s no-fault insurance law, you have the right to receive medical treatment for accident-related injuries, regardless of who caused the crash. This includes emergency care, physical therapy, pain management, and more.
What is no-fault insurance and what does it cover?
No-fault insurance (Personal Injury Protection or PIP) covers medical expenses, transportation to appointments, and some lost wages after a vehicle accident — regardless of fault. Coverage typically applies to drivers, passengers, and injured pedestrians.
Can I choose my own doctor after a car accident?
Yes. You have the legal right to choose any provider who accepts no-fault insurance. At Maywell Health, we’re an approved accident injury clinic and regularly treat patients under no-fault claims.
Who pays for my treatment if I wasn’t at fault?
Your own auto insurance or the insurance of the vehicle you were in will pay for your treatment under New York’s no-fault system. You should not be charged upfront for covered services.
What documents should I bring to my first visit?
Bring your no-fault claim number, accident details, insurance information, photo ID, attorney contact (if applicable), and any previous imaging or medical records.
What treatments are typically covered under no-fault insurance?
Covered services often include orthopedic evaluations, pain management, physical therapy, diagnostic imaging (like MRIs), mental health counseling, and medical equipment.
