Underinsured Motorist Claim Lawyer in Queens County (Queens), NY
An underinsured motorist claim in Queens County is a legal action to recover compensation when the at-fault driver’s insurance is insufficient to cover your losses. These claims are governed by New York Insurance Law § 3420(f)(2). If you’ve been injured in Queens, an Underinsured Motorist Claim Lawyer Queens NY from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Understanding Underinsured Motorist (UIM) Claims in New York
New York law requires all auto insurance policies to include Underinsured Motorist (UIM) coverage, unless you specifically reject it in writing. This coverage is designed to protect you when the driver who caused your accident does not have enough liability insurance to pay for your damages. A claim is made against your own insurance policy after the at-fault driver’s limits are exhausted.
Last verified: April 2026 | Queens County Supreme Court | New York State Legislature
The firm was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, whose background in accounting and information systems provides a distinct advantage in evaluating the full financial impact of an injury and negotiating with insurance companies.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law governing underinsured motorist claims, refer to New York Insurance Law § 3420 (official New York State Senate). For court procedures, visit the Queens County Supreme Court website.
The UIM Claim Process in Queens County Supreme Court
Filing an underinsured motorist claim in Queens involves specific steps that differ from a standard third-party lawsuit. Your Underinsured Motorist Claim Attorney Queens NY must first settle with the at-fault driver’s insurer for the full policy limits, then formally demand UIM benefits from your own company. If the insurer denies or undervalues the claim, the next step is often arbitration, as most New York auto policies require it for UIM disputes.
- Exhaust the At-Fault Driver’s Policy: Your attorney negotiates a settlement for the full limits of the other driver’s liability insurance.
- Formal UIM Demand: A detailed demand package, including all medical records, proof of lost wages, and the settlement documentation, is sent to your own insurer.
- Negotiation & Potential Arbitration: Your lawyer negotiates with your insurer’s claims adjuster. If an agreement cannot be reached, the case typically proceeds to a binding arbitration hearing.
- Arbitration Hearing: A neutral arbitrator hears evidence and decides the value of your claim. This is less formal than a jury trial but requires thorough preparation.
Potential Compensation in a UIM Claim
In Queens County, a successful underinsured motorist claim can recover compensation for medical bills, future medical care, lost income, loss of earning capacity, and pain and suffering, up to the limits of your UIM coverage.
| Damage Type | Description | Documentation Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Economic Damages | Medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost wages. | Medical bills, pay stubs, employer verification. |
| Non-Economic Damages | Pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life. | Medical records, personal journals, testimony from family/friends. |
| Future Damages | Ongoing medical treatment, future lost earnings. | Doctor’s prognosis, vocational experienced report, life care plan. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your UIM Claim
Founded in 1997, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to complex insurance disputes. Our founder, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor with a background in accounting and information systems, which is invaluable for calculating the true long-term cost of an injury and countering insurance company tactics. We understand that an Underinsured Motorist Claim Law Firm Queens NY must be adept at both negotiation and the arbitration process unique to these cases.
Our Approach to Underinsured Motorist Claims
We focus on building a compelling case from the start. This involves gathering all medical evidence, consulting with medical and economic experts to project future costs, and preparing a strong demand that leaves little room for the insurer to undervalue your claim. We prepare every case as if it is going to arbitration, which strengthens our negotiating position.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contact Our Queens Underinsured Motorist Claim Lawyers
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New York Location: 50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1400, Office No. 142, Buffalo, NY 14202
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838)-292-0003 | Local: (838) 292-0003
Available: 24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Our New York location serves clients with matters at Queens County courts. We represent individuals across Queens neighborhoods, including Jamaica, Flushing, Astoria, Long Island City, Forest Hills, Bayside, Jackson Heights, Rego Park, Elmhurst, Woodside, Corona, Rockaway Beach, Howard Beach, Ozone Park, and Fresh Meadows. Contact an Underinsured Motorist Claim Lawyer Queens NY today.
Underinsured Motorist Claim Lawyer Queens NY FAQ
What is the difference between uninsured (UM) and underinsured (UIM) motorist coverage?
Yes, there is a key difference. Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage applies when the at-fault driver has no insurance. Underinsured Motorist (UIM) coverage applies when the at-fault driver has insurance, but their policy limits are too low to cover the full extent of your damages.
Do I need a lawyer to file an underinsured motorist claim?
It is highly advisable. Insurance companies have teams of adjusters and lawyers working to minimize payouts. An experienced Underinsured Motorist Claim Attorney Queens NY understands the tactics used to deny or reduce claims, knows the “serious injury” threshold, and can handle the arbitration process to fight for the full value you are owed.
How long do I have to file a UIM claim in New York?
The statute of limitations for a personal injury claim in New York is generally three years from the date of the accident. However, the contractual terms of your own insurance policy may have shorter deadlines for notifying the company of a potential UIM claim. It is critical to consult a lawyer immediately to protect all your rights.
Will my insurance rates go up if I file a UIM claim?
No, by New York law (Insurance Law § 2336), your premiums cannot be increased solely because you made a claim under your own uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage, provided you were not at fault in the accident.
What happens if my UIM claim goes to arbitration?
If negotiation fails, your policy likely requires binding arbitration. Your lawyer and the insurance company’s lawyer present evidence to a neutral arbitrator, who then makes a final decision on the value of your claim. The arbitrator’s award is legally binding and can be enforced in court if necessary.
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Page last verified: 2026-04. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance.