New York State Governor David Paterson has vetoed legislation to extend no-fault insurance benefits to drunk drivers who get injured in automobile accidents.
The bill, S.8294-A, would have repealed New York’s Alcohol Exclusion law, which allows insurance companies to deny this coverage to motorists who drive while under the influence.
Currently, New York’s basic no-fault coverage does not apply to anyone who drives a car while drunk if the insurer can prove that the accident was a cause of intoxication.? However, the intoxicated operator’s no-fault coverage will extend to passengers of DWI violators and pedestrian victims.
The Independent Insurance Agents and Brokers of New York, a trade group, had recommended that Paterson veto the bill, arguing that it would lead to increased premiums.