‘Tis The Season 2016 – Driving While Impaired And Forfeiting Your Insurance Coverage

'Tis the season for gift-giving, festive decorations and holiday gatherings. For many, it is also the season for drinking wine, egg nog and other alcoholic beverages. As we discussed in our December 2013 and December 2012 blog posts, excessive consumption of alcohol or other substances at holiday gatherings can have significant legal implications for both the hosts and guests.

When individuals think about the advice "don't drink and drive", they are often aware of both the potential human consequences (e.g. severely injuring themselves and/or others) and the criminal consequences (e.g. a driving prohibition, fine or imprisonment). What drivers may be less aware of, are the potential consequences that driving while impaired can have for their insurance.