Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) Limits:
- Private Vehicle Drivers: The permissible BAC is 0.03% (30 mg of alcohol per 100 ml of blood).
- Commercial Vehicle Drivers: Zero-tolerance policy—no alcohol is permitted.
Even if your BAC is within the legal limit, alcohol can impair judgment and reaction times, potentially impacting insurance claims in case of accidents.
Impact on Insurance Claims:
Most motor insurance policies in India have specific clauses that exclude coverage if the driver was under the influence of alcohol or drugs at the time of the accident.
- Within Legal BAC:
Insurers may still dispute claims if alcohol consumption is deemed a contributing factor to the accident. - Above Legal BAC:
Claims are likely to be denied as driving under the influence is a violation of policy terms.
Motor Vehicle Act, 1988 – Penalties for DUI:
The Act imposes strict penalties for drunken driving, including:
- Fines: Monetary penalties based on the severity of the violation.
- License Suspension: Temporary or permanent revocation of the driving license.
- Imprisonment: In cases of serious accidents or repeated offenses.
Insurance Assessment:
In the event of an accident, insurers will analyze:
- Police Reports: Statements and evidence from law enforcement.
- Scene Evidence: Any indicators that alcohol contributed to the accident.
Takeaway for Drivers:
While staying within the legal BAC limit is crucial to comply with the law, abstaining entirely from alcohol while driving ensures better safety and prevents complications in insurance claims.
