Real-World Story: A Toast Too Many
Aunt Katherine couldn’t wait to celebrate Olivia’s graduation from college. Having her favorite niece out of state for four years was difficult for her since they were so close.
After dinner with family and friends — and a few toasts — her jet lag got the best of her and it was time to go. Olivia’s cousin, Victoria, was staying at the same hotel, so they rode back together.
Katherine felt just fine to drive, having had only two glasses of wine. Yet as a 110-lb. woman, she already reached a .079% Blood Alcohol Content, causing impairment.
At an intersection near her hotel, she mistakenly thought that it was controlled with a 4-way stop and failed to yield the right of way, striking an oncoming truck and forcing it to roll.
Benjamin was in the truck with his father, John, when they collided. Though everyone involved in the crash was wearing a seat belt, all parties suffered critical injuries and sadly, John passed away at the scene. Victoria was transported to the hospital in serious condition and suffered a traumatic brain injury, which would require post-acute in-patient rehabilitation, neurobehavioral rehabilitation and later, outpatient and day treatment.
After Katherine’s auto liability limits were exhausted for this at-fault accident, she was held personally responsible for all medical bills.
Because she had a $2 MM standalone personal umbrella policy, it was able to satisfy the full claim amount.
Claim: $2 MM