I had three beers and hopped on my scooter to go home. I clipped a curb and broke my ankle and the scooter stem. The police showed up and breathalyzed me. I blew a 0.09. Not only did I get a DUI (yes, you can get a DUI on a scooter), but my insurance denied my medical claim and the theft/damage claim.
Key Takeaways
- The Intoxication Exclusion: Almost every insurance policy (Health, Life, Accident, Property) has a clause excluding loss arising from “being under the influence of alcohol or drugs.”
- Medical Denial: While the ACA protects against some denials, supplemental accident plans (like Spot) and AD&D policies strictly exclude intoxication.
- Liability Denial: If you hit someone while drunk, your liability insurance might refuse to defend you because it was a “willful criminal act” or “reckless endangerment.”
- The Police Report: If the report mentions “alcohol” or “impairment,” the adjuster will see it.
The “Why” (Moral Hazard)
Insurance covers accidents. Riding drunk is considered an intentional exposure to risk.
“We do not cover any loss caused directly or indirectly by the insured being intoxicated.”
The Investigation: The Sober Truth
I looked at the fine print of accident policies.
1. Spot Injury Insurance
- Exclusion: Explicitly lists “Injury sustained while legally intoxicated” as not covered.
2. PEV Property Insurance
- Exclusion: “Illegal Acts.” Operating a vehicle while impaired is illegal. Therefore, the crash damage is not covered.
3. Liability Defense
- Reality: They might pay the victim (to protect the victim), but they will drop you immediately after. Or, they might deny coverage entirely, leaving you to be sued personally.
Comparison Table
| Claim Type | Result if Intoxicated |
| Repairs to your board | Denied |
| Your Medical Bills | Denied (Accident Policy) / Covered (Health Ins – usually) |
| Damage to Others | Risky (Possible Denial) |
Step-by-Step Action Plan
- Uber is Cheaper: A $20 Uber vs. a $10,000 DUI and denied medical bills.
- Refuse the Field Test (Know Your Laws): If you weren’t arrested, don’t volunteer “I had a few beers” to the police or the insurance adjuster.
- Read Your Policy: Search for “Intoxication” or “Alcohol.” Know if your life insurance pays out if you die drunk on a scooter. (Hint: Often no).
FAQ
Does a DUI on a scooter affect my car insurance?
YES. A DUI is a DUI. Your auto premiums will skyrocket or you will be dropped.
[IMAGE: Photo of a breathalyzer displaying “0.09” next to an electric scooter]