Eligibility Decisions

• Each insurance company has its own specific criteria when deciding whether or not to insure a driver. Companies take into account the basic issues they consider with all drivers, regardless of disability, including their driving record, past insurance coverage, and the validity of the individual's license. Most insurance companies require drivers to have had three years of consistent, unending insurance coverage in the past before they will grant standard coverage. Just because a driver has not had three years of past coverage, or they have a poor driving record, does not mean they are not eligible for sub-standard coverage.
  
  

Finding Coverage

• It is often helpful to get in contact with an insurance broker who is familiar with state eligibility and the business practices of the insurance companies operating in that state. Insurance brokers can advocate for you getting the best deal, and would be able to tell you if you are eligible for standard coverage or sub-standard coverage.
  
  

Standard Coverage

• Standard coverage generally provides better coverage and includes additional amenities such as rental cars and towing. Standard coverage may include different levels of coverage. For example, someone with uncontrolled or frequent seizures may be assigned to a high-risk group. People who have been in an accident or their medical condition has changed may be reassigned to a high-risk group or they may have their policy canceled.
  
  

Sub-Standard Coverage

• Sub-standard coverage provides only basic, minimum coverage with higher premiums. Someone who maintains a good driving record may be granted standard coverage later on.
  
  

Americans With Disabilities Act

• The Americans With Disabilities Act was passed in 1990 to protect disabled Americans from being discriminated against. The act prohibits insurance companies from raising their rates for people with disabilities for no reason. It also makes it illegal for insurance companies to deny coverage or charge higher than normal rates to people with disabilities based on their disability alone. In other words, an insurance company might be able to deny you coverage because of a poor driving record, but not because you have epilepsy.