Uninsured Motorist Laws for Louisiana

Uninsured motorist laws vary throughout the United States. In Louisiana, your insurance provider is required to offer it to you as part of your automobile liability policy; however, you can sign a waiver stating that you do not wish to carry such coverage if you wish. Doing so leaves you with partial insurance coverage. In the event you are involved in an accident with an uninsured or under-insured driver, you may be left without compensation for all or some of your losses.

What Is Uninsured Motorist Coverage?

Automobile drivers purchase uninsured or under-insured motorist coverage alongside liability coverage. It protects a driver from losses and damages to property and injuries that occur because of a collision with a driver who either does not have insurance at the time of the accident or does not have enough insurance to pay for the amount of damages in an accident. You should be offered uninsured motorist protection when you acquire insurance for your vehicle. If you are not offered this coverage, in Louisiana, your insurance company may be liable for not offering it to you. Generally, the proof your insurance company needs to have to show that they offered it to you is a signed waiver stating that you opted to refuse this coverage. If they do not provide this proof, it may be possible to hold them liable in a court of law for accident damages caused by an under-insured or uninsured driver.

Why You Should Carry Uninsured Motorist Protection

Your policy should include uninsured motorist protection in Louisiana unless you signed a waiver of this protection. Carrying this protection will ensure that you are compensated for damages to your vehicle, injuries to yourself and any passengers. You also need to know that your property can be at stake if your insurance is not adequate to cover damages or injuries to your passengers, so it is not a good idea to carry inadequate insurance. Your home and other property can be reached in some cases to fulfill tort verdicts against you. Do not leave yourself vulnerable. Call and make sure you are carrying satisfactory insurance coverage before you find yourself in a difficult situation.

Get Legal Help

If you are in need of assistance in dealing with your insurance claim due to an accident with an uninsured motorist, it is a good idea to consult with a Louisiana personal injury attorney. An attorney can assist you with dealing with the driver and your insurance. You may be able to get compensation for medical bills, lost wages, damage to your vehicle or property and other covered expenses.