Wednesday, May 18, 2011
(OKLAHOMA CITY) Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John Doak urged members of the House to approve and Gov. Mary Fallin to sign SB 272, a bill that prohibits uninsured motorists from obtaining pain and suffering awards in civil court.
“Driving is a privilege, not a right,” said Doak, who has more than 20 years of experience in the insurance industry. “In order to exercise that privilege, we require that drivers be of a minimum age, that they understand our traffic laws and that they have liability insurance. This bill reinforces that requirement.”
Nearly one in four Oklahoma motorists does not have liability insurance, Doak said.
“That is the third highest rate nationally,” Doak noted, “and Oklahomans pay the third highest auto insurance premiums, as well, one study showed. Steps like SB 272 will encourage motorists who might forego liability coverage to obtain it. That will reduce help reduce premiums because no longer will the insured bear the costs of the damage and injuries caused by uninsured motorists.”
The bill, which is authored by Sen. Cliff Aldridge, R-Midwest City, and Rep. Don Armes, R-Faxon, passed the Senate 28 to 20 today. It now goes to the House for consideration. Once approved by the House, the measure will go to Fallin for her consideration.
Similar legislation was vetoed by former Gov. Brad Henry in 2009.
“I hope Gov. Fallin will give this bill the consideration it deserves and approve it,” Doak said. “This is a common sense piece of legislation and should be the law in Oklahoma.”
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ABOUT THE OKLAHOMA INSURANCE DEPARTMENT
The Oklahoma Insurance Department, an agency of the State of Oklahoma, is responsible for the education and protection of the insurance-buying public and for oversight of the insurance industry in the state.
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For more information contact:
Shawn Ashley
(405) 521-4525
(405) 568-6004
e-mail: shawn.ashley@oid.ok.gov