A quick reference for terms specific to auto insurance in New York. For terms that apply across every kind of policy, see our General Terms glossary, or the full Insurance Terms index.
APIP / OBEL (Optional Basic Economic Loss)
Extra no-fault coverage above the standard PIP amount, available in New York for an additional cost.
Bodily Injury Liability (BI)
Pays for injuries you cause to someone else in an accident you’re responsible for, including their medical bills and lost wages.
Collision Coverage
Pays to repair or replace your car if it’s damaged in an accident, regardless of who caused it.
Comprehensive Coverage
Pays for damage to your car from things other than a collision, like theft, vandalism, fire, or hitting a deer.
MVR (Motor Vehicle Record)
A driver’s official driving history, used by insurance companies and employers to evaluate risk.
No-Fault / Personal Injury Protection (PIP)
In New York, this pays your own medical bills and some lost wages after an accident, no matter who caused it.
Property Damage Liability (PD)
Pays for damage you cause to someone else’s car or property in an accident you’re responsible for.
Rental Reimbursement
Pays for a rental car while yours is being repaired after a covered claim.
SUM (Supplementary Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist)
New York’s specific version of UM/UIM coverage. It fills the gap when the at-fault driver’s liability limits are lower than yours.
Supplementary Spousal Liability (SSL)
A New York-specific coverage that allows an injured spouse to bring a claim against the other spouse under certain circumstances.
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM)
Pays for your injuries if you’re hit by a driver who has no insurance at all, or whose liability limits are lower than the UM/UIM limits you carry on your own policy.
Read more: What Is SUM Coverage in New York? A Full Breakdown 192