Insurance company Baloise is now cancelling policies for any driver involved in an accident under the influence of alcohol or drugs, according to Het Nieuwsblad.
The insurer recently established a zero-tolerance policy towards drink and drug use.
Specifically, any policyholder who is involved in an accident or an incident causing damage, and is found to be under the influence, will have their insurance policy immediately cancelled.
This ruling applies even for first-time offenders, and no matter how slightly they exceed the permitted limit. The firm is also refusing new customers who have had accidents while intoxicated.
Baloise states it wants to send a clear message that it takes drink and drug use on Belgian roads very seriously.
This strict policy is noteworthy. Both Assuralia, the professional association of insurance companies, and the Federation of Insurance Brokers (FVF), state that most insurers only cancel a driver’s policy following a series of accidents.
