Our team of uninsured motorist lawyers has been helping clients from Lafayette, LA, to Metairie, LA, for years, so we’ve seen our share of car accident claims.
Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon for drivers in Louisiana to be under-insured or even completely uninsured, which means if they cause a car accident, the other driver is usually left high and dry. Uninsured motorist coverage can help protect you from being the victim in a situation like this, potentially providing coverage for what the at-fault driver’s coverage (or lack thereof) does not pay.
This guide will cover everything you need to know about submitting an uninsured motorist claim.
Do I Need Uninsured Motorist Coverage?
Approximately 11.7% of Louisiana drivers are uninsured, which means that if you’re involved in a car accident in the Metairie or Lafayette area, there’s a chance that the other driver won’t be able to pay for your resulting expenses, even if they’re at fault. Louisiana only requires drivers to carry minimum liability coverage, so even if the other driver is insured, the insurance coverage may not be enough to take care of your damages.
Uninsured motorist coverage covers bodily injury or property damage caused by uninsured drivers, giving you a level of security when it comes to collisions that aren’t your fault. It’s not required in Louisiana, but can be a wise investment.
Even if you consider yourself a safe driver, you can’t control what other people do on the road. And with a far higher car collision frequency than the national average, Louisiana can be a dangerous state to drive in.
Between the prevalence of uninsured drivers and the frequency of car accidents in the state, it is wise to get uninsured motorist coverage. Still not convinced? Take a look at all these reasons why you might need uninsured motorist coverage to protect yourself while driving.
Should I Submit an Uninsured Motorist Claim?
If you’ve been in a car wreck and aren’t sure whether you should submit an uninsured motorist claim, speaking with an attorney can help you understand the process and make an informed decision. Every accident is different, and you’re never guaranteed an insurance settlement. However, generally speaking, you should file an uninsured motorist claim if:
- You were not at fault
- You have uninsured motorist coverage
- The at-fault driver carries insufficient or no insurance
- You have damages resulting from the accident
Remember that insurance companies are for-profit businesses, so they may try to get away with paying you less than you deserve. An experienced uninsured motorist lawyer will be able to help you navigate the process and increase your chances of getting a fair insurance settlement from your insurer. While a lawyer can’t guarantee results, they can help you gather evidence and build a strong case in your favor.
Things to Keep in Mind When Filing an Uninsured Motorist Claim
One of the primary reasons people fail to file uninsured motorist claims is because they’re afraid their rates will go up. However, this is insurance coverage you pay for every month, to protect you and your family.
In the state of Louisiana, car insurance companies cannot raise your rates after an accident if you were not at fault. If your provider raises your rates after you file an uninsured motorist claim, you may be entitled to reimbursement.
However, do keep in mind that many car insurance providers investigate uninsured motorist claims more aggressively than other claims. That makes it all the more important to speak with an uninsured motorist lawyer who can help you build a strong case.
Do You Need an Uninsured Motorist Lawyer?
If you’ve been involved in an accident that wasn’t your fault, an uninsured motorist lawyer may be able to help you navigate the process of seeking compensation. Our Metairie, LA, and Lafayette, LA, lawyers would be happy to provide a free consultation to discuss your case. Contact us today to get started.