Governor Vetoes Bill Giving Benefits to NY Drunk Drivers

Law would have changed no-fault coverage for those with New York DWI arrests.

New York Governor David Patterson vetoed a bill that would have extended no-fault insurance benefits to drunk drivers.

State legislation S.8294-A sought to repeal an Alcohol Exclusion under existing law that allows insurance companies to deny coverage of those arrested for driving while intoxicated in NY. The main beneficiary of the proposed bill would have been NY DWI drivers, as the state’s basic no-fault insurance already covers medical expenses incurred by passengers and victims of drunk driving.

Citing increased premiums, a New York insurance trade group urged Gov. Patterson to veto the measure.

If you have been arrested for DWI in New York you need to hire a NY DWI lawyer.