If you, or a loved one, has been involved in a DUI auto accident it can void your insurance policy.
Driving under the influence (DUI) is a criminal offense. In Mississippi, for your first offense you can be facing up to 48 hours in jail, up to $1,000 in fines and 90 days suspension. For your third offense, you can be sentenced to jail for up to 5 years.
Driving a vehicle after drinking alcohol is dangerous, you’re not only risking your own life but the lives of other drivers and pedestrians. There are strict laws in Mississippi when it comes to DUI.
In terms of cover it depends on your insurance policy, but you may not be covered for driving under the influence. If other drivers have been involved in the accident and/or property has been damaged as a consequence of your DUI, then you could be left to pay the damages if your insurance doesn’t cover you.
These are the key things to know about your car insurance when you or a loved one has been involved in a DUI auto incident in Mississippi:
It Depends on Your Insurance Provider
It’s important to read your policy documents from your insurance company. Some insurers will refuse to cover you and pay for damages if your accident was caused by DUI.
Look at your policy as some insurers include a clause that states you won’t be covered in the event you are DUI or drinking while intoxicated (DWI).
If there is no clause mentioned, then your insurance will probably cover you for your DUI accident. It’s important to speak to your insurance provider and ask them if there will be any issues making an auto accident claim with a DUI involved.
Liability Insurance Will Cover Other Drivers
Having liability insurance will pay for the damages of the other drivers involved in the accident. It won’t cover your damages or personal injuries as it’s designed to cover other drivers only.
Liability insurance protects other drivers when you’re responsible for an accident, even one involving a DUI. This protects you from having to pay high medical expenses and property damages.
Your Insurance Company Won’t Cancel Your Policy
Even if your car insurer has a clause saying they won’t cover your accident because you were drinking under influence, doesn’t mean they will end your insurance policy. They entered an agreement with you before you started the policy so you will still have car insurance.
However, your insurer can decide not to give you insurance cover when time comes to renew your policy. After being involved in a car accident, you will be considered a high risk driver and some insurance companies won’t want to cover you.
Get a Lawyer to Fight Your Corner
After being involved in a DUI auto accident, it’s important to have a lawyer on your side. At Coxwell & Associates, PLLC, we have worked on countless car accident claims and DUI cases.
The Next Step
Have you been involved in an accident? Start by downloading and completing our car accident claim form. Tell us everything about your accident and one of our attorneys will get back to you.
Disclaimer: This blog is intended as general information purposes only, and is not a substitute for legal advice. Anyone with a legal problem should consult a lawyer immediately.