Coverage for Falling Asleep at the Wheel in Your Car Insurance

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Falling asleep at the wheel, regardless of the cause, is dangerous for you and other motorists and pedestrians. It can result in auto accidents, begging the question: does your auto insurance policy cover falling asleep behind the wheels? The simple answer is that you may be covered, depending on the cause of your drowsiness while driving, as explained below.

When Auto Insurance Coverage Includes Falling Asleep at the Wheel Insurers usually assess each accident case on its merit. For instance, they’ll consider the severity of the damage to yours or the other motorist’s car.

However, the most important determinant is why you fell asleep at the wheel in the first place. Most insurers will cover the damages if fatigue or sleep deprivation from work caused you to fall asleep while driving. Thus, it’s important that you let your insurer know about your circumstances at the time of the crash.

Auto Insurance Policies That Can Cover Falling Asleep Behind the Wheels Your auto insurance policy includes a certain mandatory amount of liability protection. This coverage may pay for damages to another motorist’s car in an at-fault accident. The liability component will pay for third-party damages if your insurer agrees to cover an incident resulting from falling asleep at the wheel.

However, you need collision coverage to cover damages to your own vehicle in this type of accident. It’s an optional cover that can enable you to repair your car after hitting another, or objects like a tree or building.

When Auto Insurance Won’t Cover Falling Asleep at the Wheel If you crash your car while driving under the influence of substances like alcohol or drugs, then your auto insurance may not cover the damages. Keep in mind that DUI accidents could bring you substantial legal problems. It can also cause your car insurance premiums to increase.

What About Drowsy Driving Due to Narcolepsy?

People with narcolepsy have an extreme tendency to fall asleep, which can affect their driving. Your insurance company will probably pay damages from falling asleep at the wheel if you’re narcoleptic. However, you’ll want to inform your insurer of your condition when you’re purchasing your auto insurance policy. If you wait to bring it up after you’re involved in an at-fault crash, your insurer may decline any resultant claims by you or the other driver.

Also, remember that having narcolepsy may increase your auto insurance rates. If you’re likely going to fall asleep after driving for an extended duration, you’re better off avoiding it. Auto insurance may become too expensive for you if you keep crashing your car after falling asleep at the wheel.

Consider calling a cab, or using public transport or rideshare programs when you’re drowsy and haven’t had enough sleep.

In a nutshell, your auto insurance policy may cover accidents from falling asleep behind the wheels. Even so, your insurance rates may increase when you’re liable for such auto accidents. That’s why you’ll want to avoid driving while drowsy at all times. For assistance with your car insurance needs, contact the experts at Pierce Insurance Group. We look forward to answering all your insurance questions and helping you get the right coverage.