NEW ZERO TOLERANCE ALCOHOL LAW CAN AFFECT YOUR INSURANCE PREMIUM

The new laws currently being reviewed by parliament could mean that a few drinks at a braai over the weekend, or even just one beer at the office after work, could land you in jail. It could also mean that your insurance won’t pay your claim if you’re in an accident.

Transport minister, Fikile Mbalula, has emphasised the importance of the National Road Traffic Amendment Act’s bid to have its zero-tolerance while driving under the influence laws, approved.

While the current South African law says it's still legal to drive if your alcohol level is under 0.05g per 100ml, that will soon change.

How will the new law impact your insurance premium? While it has always been against the law to drive under the influence, South African insurance companies still have the right to refuse a payout if you’re in an accident while your alcohol level is above the limit, even if it's not your fault.

On the flip side, it could mean that there will be fewer accidents due to less drunk drivers on the road, and that could mean lower insurance premiums for thousands of South Africans.

While the amended act hasn’t been passed by parliament yet, it could be on the cards soon.

Image credit: The Citizen