Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a serious offense. It puts lives at risk and is a primary cause of accidents each year. When an adult child is charged with a DUI, it is important to notify the auto insurance company about the charges.

Liability and Risks

A key reason that it is important to notify the insurer in Albany, New York is the amount of risk involved. If the company is not informed that a 22-year-old son was charged with drinking and driving, then they are legally allowed to refuse payment if an accident occurs in the future.

Refusing to inform the insurer may result in losing the policy. In general, it is better to explain the situation than to take the risk that the insurer will drop the policy in the future.

Changes to the Policy

After informing the insurer about the situation, the cost of coverage and the details in the policy may change. The risks increase when a driver under the plan is charged with a DUI because it means that the driver is more likely to get into an accident. The car may not be covered if the accident is caused by a similar incident.

If the charges are dropped or the young adult is proven innocent, then it may be possible to retain the same coverage and plan.

It is tempting to avoid the situation when a young adult makes a mistake, but the consequences of avoiding the situation may result in more severe complications in the future. To learn more about the possible solutions that are available after a DUI charge, contact us to talk to an independent agent today.