Required and Optional Auto Insurance Coverage in Louisiana

Louisiana law requires minimum levels of auto insurance liability coverage, while other forms of coverage such as medical payments coverage are optional.

2012-01-05

January 05, 2012 (Press-News.org) Most states require minimum levels of auto insurance coverage and impose penalties on drivers who fail to comply with those laws. Louisiana law only requires liability insurance, but drivers can decide whether they want other coverage such as uninsured motorist and medical payments coverage. You should know about the available types of coverage since it can determine how you will be compensated for medical bills and property damage claims in the event of a car accident.

Liability Insurance Requirements

Louisiana requires drivers to carry minimum amounts of liability insurance. These amounts reflect the maximum that the insurance company will pay per accident.

- $15,000 maximum for bodily injuries incurred by one person in one accident
- $30,000 maximum for all bodily injuries sustained in one accident
- $25,000 maximum for property damages caused in one accident

Even a minor accident can cause medical bills far in excess of these minimum requirements. Owners can purchase higher limits but many do not since it will increase the amount they pay for their auto insurance.

Uninsured Motorist Coverage Required, but Waivable

In Louisiana, auto insurance companies are required to offer uninsured motorist coverage, and accordingly, it is included in your policy unless you indicate otherwise in writing to your insurance company. If you waive uninsured motorist coverage, you may be disadvantaged in the event of a car accident since you might have to take legal action to recoup your losses.

In many cases, unfortunately, the other driver's failure to carry insurance also means they have minimal assets. If you have uninsured motorist coverage, however, your policy will pay for losses resulting from accidents caused by other, uninsured drivers.

Optional Medical Payments Coverage

A form of insurance known as "no-fault insurance" is technically not available in Louisiana, but drivers can purchase similar coverage. This kind of insurance covers medical or funeral expenses you, your family members or passengers incur in a car accident, regardless of who is at-fault for it.

If you are in an accident and incur medical and property damages, seek the advice of a lawyer who can aggressively pursue the compensation you deserve. Even with the best policy money can buy, if you have been in a serious accident, it is possible your medical bills far exceed what the insurance company has offered. An experienced auto accident lawyer can help you maximize the amount you receive.

Article provided by Brandt & Sherman, LLP. Visit us at Visit us at www.brandandsherman.com

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