Kenny Habetz Injury Law | July 25, 2024 | Car Accident
Having the right insurance coverage is important to protect yourself from unforeseen accidents. One valuable form of coverage is uninsured motorist coverage. But what is uninsured motorist coverage in Louisiana, and what are its pros and cons? A Lafayette personal injury lawyer can help you understand your options after an accident involving a car, truck, or other vehicle.
Minimum Insurance Requirements in Louisiana
Louisiana state law mandates minimum auto insurance coverage that drivers must carry.
The minimum requirements apply for bodily injury and property damage:
- Bodily injury liability: $15,000 per person and $30,000 per accident
- Property damage liability: $25,000 per accident
These minimums may not be enough to fully compensate you after an accident, even if it is a minor accident. This could leave you exposed to cover the rest.
What is Uninsured Motorist Coverage?
Uninsured motorist coverage is an optional form of coverage on auto insurance policies. It is designed to protect you if you have been involved in an accident with a driver who does not have insurance or has a policy with limits below your total damages. Uninsured motorist coverage may help pay for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages you might incur due to your accident.
Pros of Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Uninsured motorist coverage offers a range of benefits that can provide crucial support and protection in the event of an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver.
This coverage includes:
- Financial protection: One of the primary benefits is financial protection. It can help protect you against being left with significant out-of-pocket expenses if an at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured, which can otherwise be financially devastating.
- Peace of mind: Knowing you have coverage in case of an accident with an uninsured driver can reduce stress and provide peace of mind. You can drive with confidence, knowing you are protected against potential financial hardships if another driver does not have adequate insurance coverage.
- Comprehensive coverage: UM coverage typically extends to cover medical bills, lost wages, and even pain and suffering. This can allow you or your passengers to receive the necessary medical care and financial support they need to recover from an accident.
- Easy claim filing: You file uninsured motorist claims with your own insurance company, which can make the claims process easier after an accident.
These are just four main benefits of uninsured motorist coverage that make it worth adding to your auto policy.
Cons of Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Uninsured motorist coverage can provide significant benefits, but it is also important to be aware of potential drawbacks.
Some cons to consider include:
- Additional cost: Adding uninsured motorist coverage to your policy typically increases your insurance premium, which can be financially burdensome. It is important to weigh the benefits against the added cost and your budget.
- Policy limits: Uninsured motorist coverage comes with limits, just like other insurance coverages. Severe accidents might exceed these limits, leaving you with uncovered expenses.
- Claim disputes: There might be disputes over the extent of your coverage and the amount you can claim, leading to potential legal battles.
The pros of purchasing uninsured motorist coverage typically outweigh these cons. Damages from even a minor accident can quickly exceed tens of thousands of dollars in medical bills, lost wages, and property damage. If the driver is uninsured or underinsured, you risk being left to shoulder the costs.
A Lafayette Car Accident Lawyer Can Help if You Were Injured By an Uninsured Motorist
If you have been involved in an auto accident in Lafayette, an experienced Lafayette car accident lawyer can help. Whether the driver is insured, uninsured, or underinsured, an experienced Lafayette car accident lawyer can help you explore potential sources of compensation, including uninsured motorist coverage that may be available through your policy. Schedule a free consultation to discuss your options if you or a loved one have been injured.
CONTACT THE LOUISIANA CAR ACCIDENT LAW FIRM OF KENNY HABETZ INJURY LAW FOR HELP TODAY
Call Kenny Habetz Injury Law for a free case evaluation with a Louisiana personal injury lawyer or contact us online. We have offices in Lafayette and Crowley, LA.
Kenny Habetz Injury Law – Lafayette
110 E Kaliste Saloom Rd Ste 101 Lafayette, LA 70508
(337) 227-6557
Kenny Habetz Injury Law – Crowley
604 S Parkerson Ave. Crowley, LA 70526
(337) 329-8883
