Consequences and Options for NC Handyman High Risk Drivers
A quick way for a resident to find themselves on the same category as other motorists with greater risk-factors is to be convicted of driving while under the influence. In an effort to decrease alcohol related crashes, North Carolina created the Booze It & Lose It program that is dedicated to catching and punishing drunk drivers. Under this program, motorists that refuse to take a breath or blood test when stopped by a law enforcement officer may have their license suspended for a year. If convicted of a DWI a resident could have their license revoked for at least a year, face numerous fines, or even possible imprisonment. More importantly, however, these actions are likely to appear on a resident’s driving record for roughly three years, making it difficult to locate affordable automobile coverage.
Despite being in such a category, in North Carolina there are various coverage options that are available even for high risk drivers. Because basic liability with minimum limits is required in the Tar Heel State in order to legally drive, insurers are not permitted to deny an individual such coverage. However, they may place a motorist in a reinsurance facility, which requires higher liability limits to counter a person’s risk-factor. These limits typically include bodily injury liability with $100,000 per person and $300,000 per accident; property damage liability with $50,000 per accident; medical payment coverage ranging from $1,000 to $2,000 per person; and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage for $1,000,000. Instead of relying on these alternative coverage methods, however, residents are encouraged to strive to remain or become exceptional drivers that are aware, conscientious, and obey the traffic laws.