5 Critical Facts Louisiana Drivers Must Know About Uninsured Motorist Coverage
If you’re a driver in Louisiana, you’ve probably heard of uninsured motorist (UM) coverage. But do you really understand how it works and why it’s so crucial in the Bayou State? With an estimated 11.7% of Louisiana drivers uninsured, protecting yourself is more important than ever. As an experienced personal injury attorney, I, Bart Bernard, want to share five essential facts about UM coverage that every Louisiana driver should know.
1. UM Coverage Isn’t Automatic (But It Should Be!)
Unlike many states, Louisiana doesn’t require drivers to carry UM coverage. However, it’s not automatic. Your insurance company must offer it to you, and if you decline, it has to be in writing. Considering the high number of uninsured drivers in Louisiana, I strongly recommend adding UM coverage to your policy. It’s a small price to pay for peace of mind.
2. UM Coverage Protects You and Your Passengers
UM coverage steps in when you’re in an accident caused by a driver who doesn’t have insurance – or doesn’t have enough insurance to cover your damages. It can help pay for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering for both you and your passengers. In essence, it acts as a safety net when the at-fault driver can’t compensate you.
3. UM Coverage Comes in Two Flavors: Bodily Injury and Property Damage
There are two main types of UM coverage:
- Uninsured Motorist Bodily Injury (UMBI): This covers medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering for you and your passengers if injured by an uninsured driver.
- Uninsured Motorist Property Damage (UMPD): This covers damage to your vehicle caused by an uninsured driver.
4. You Can Stack UM Coverage
If you have multiple vehicles with UM coverage, you may be able to “stack” your policies, increasing the total amount of coverage available. For instance, if you have two cars with $25,000 in UMBI coverage each, stacking could give you up to $50,000 in coverage for a single accident. Be sure to discuss stacking options with your insurance agent.
5. Filing a UM Claim Can Be Complex
While UM coverage is designed to protect you, the claims process can be tricky. Insurance companies may try to minimize payouts or deny claims altogether. That’s where having an experienced personal injury attorney like myself can make a world of difference. We know how to navigate the system, negotiate with insurers, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Don’t Risk It: Get Protected Today
Driving in Louisiana carries inherent risks, but you don’t have to face them alone. UM coverage is a crucial layer of protection against uninsured drivers. Don’t leave your financial well-being to chance. If you’ve been injured in an accident with an uninsured driver, contact the Law Offices of Bart Bernard today for a free consultation. We’re here to help you understand your options and fight for your rights.
