Louisiana consistently ranks among the states with the highest rates of uninsured motorists. That means there is a very real chance that if you are involved in an accident, the driver who hits you may not have coverage or may only carry the bare minimum.
This reality makes Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage one of the most important protections Louisiana drivers can have.
What Is Uninsured Motorist Coverage in Louisiana?
Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage steps in when the at-fault driver has no insurance or not enough insurance to cover your losses.
Unless you specifically rejected it in writing, Louisiana law assumes your auto policy includes UM coverage by default.
UM coverage can help pay for:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Future medical care
- Permanent injuries or disability
It essentially replaces the insurance that the at-fault driver should have had.
What If the Other Driver Has Insurance, but Not Enough?
This is known as an underinsured motorist claim. If the at-fault driver’s policy limits are too low to fully cover your damages, your UM/UIM coverage can help bridge the gap. This is especially important in serious injury cases, where medical costs can quickly exceed the minimum policy limits.
What to Do Immediately After Being Hit by an Uninsured Driver
What you do in the minutes and days after a crash with an uninsured driver can directly affect your ability to recover compensation.
1. Call 911 and Get Medical Help
Always prioritize your safety. Even if injuries seem minor, get checked. Delayed symptoms are common and documented medical care matters.
2. File a Police Report
A police report creates an official record of the accident, which is critical when dealing with insurance disputes.
3. Exchange Information
Get the other driver’s name, contact details, and vehicle information—even if they admit they’re uninsured.
4. Do Not Accept Cash at the Scene
Uninsured drivers often offer cash to avoid police involvement. Accepting it can seriously damage your claim later.
5. Notify Your Insurance Company
Report the accident promptly and clearly state that the other driver is uninsured or underinsured.
6. Speak With an Attorney Before Giving Recorded Statements
Insurance companies, even your own, are not on your side. A recorded statement given too early can be used to minimize or deny your claim.
Why Uninsured Motorist Claims Can Get Complicated
Many people assume their own insurance company will “do the right thing.” In reality, UM claims often involve:
- Disputes over fault
- Challenges to the severity of injuries
- Delays or low settlement offers
- Pressure to accept less than your claim is worth
Once you file a UM claim, your insurer effectively becomes the opposing party. Having legal representation helps level the playing field.
How an Attorney Helps After an Uninsured Driver Accident
An experienced personal injury attorney can:
- Investigate the crash and preserve evidence
- Handle all communication with insurers
- Maximize available UM/UIM benefits
- Calculate the full value of your damages
- Push back against unfair settlement tactics
- File a lawsuit if necessary
This is especially important in serious injury or long-term disability cases.
Talk to MGM Injury Attorneys Before You Make a Costly Mistake
If you were hit by an uninsured or underinsured driver in Louisiana, you don’t have to navigate this alone. One wrong move early in the process can cost you medical coverage, lost income, and long-term compensation.
MGM Injury Attorneys helps accident victims understand their rights, deal with insurance companies, and pursue the compensation they deserve.
Contact MGM Injury Attorneys today for a free consultation and get answers before insurance companies control the narrative.
