Will a medical suspension have a permanent impact on my auto insurance?
About two years ago, my driver’s license was suspended for a few months due to a medical emergency that caused me to lose consciousness. I’ve remained with the same insurance company during this time, and thankfully, they haven’t increased my rates (although I’m not sure if they’ve checked my DMV record again).
I’ve come across information online stating that medical suspensions remain on your DMV record indefinitely. If I decide to switch insurance providers, will this negatively impact my ability to find coverage? Will I face potential denials or significantly higher rates? Or is it just a short-term concern after the incident? I have a clean driving record with over 20 years, with no accidents or tickets. I appreciate any insights or advice! Thank you!
Generally, a medical suspension can remain on your DMV record permanently, but how it affects your auto insurance can vary by insurer and state. Here are some points to consider:
Insurance Company Policies: Different insurers have different policies regarding medical suspensions. While your current insurer may not have raised your rates, a new insurer might view the suspension differently. They might ask about your driving history, including any suspensions.
Time Frame: While the suspension may remain on your record, insurance companies typically look at how long ago the event occurred. Since it’s been about two years, some insurers may consider you a lower risk compared to someone who just experienced a suspension.
Clean Driving Record: Your lengthy clean driving history will work in your favor when applying for new insurance. Many companies focus on the overall picture, and a long history without accidents or tickets can help mitigate the impact of the medical suspension.
Disclosure: When applying for new insurance, be honest about your history. While it’s understandable to be concerned about how it will affect your rates, transparency is crucial.
Shopping Around: If you’re worried about how the medical suspension will impact your rates, consider getting quotes from multiple insurers. Some companies may be more lenient than others regarding medical suspensions.
State Regulations: State laws regarding reporting and considering medical suspensions vary. You may want to check your state’s regulations concerning how long this information stays relevant for insurers.
It’s wise to reach out to a few insurance agents to discuss your situation and get a better idea of how they may treat your record when you decide to switch insurers. Good luck!