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What Is Full Coverage Auto Insurance?

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Most auto accident victims in Louisiana believe they have full auto insurance coverage. It’s a statement that we at Spencer Calahan Injury Lawyers hear all the time. However, there is often a misunderstanding of what this term truly implies. In fact, there are such widely varying definitions of this term that it’s nearly impossible for consumers to determine what “full coverage” actually is.

Most drivers interpret full coverage to mean that they have at least met their state’s minimum liability requirements for auto insurance along with collision and comprehensive. In Louisiana, required coverage includes a bodily injury liability limit of $15,000 per person and $30,000 per accident. Property damage liability limits are set at $25,000. While carrying this level of coverage may keep you within the law, there are some important components that are missing, most notably uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage.

What is Uninsured Motorist?

Uninsured motorist coverage provides you with protection if you are injured in an accident with an at-fault driver who does not have insurance. Similarly, underinsured motorist coverage protects you in the same event if the other driver doesn’t have enough insurance to cover your damages. Uninsured/Underinsured motorist coverage is required under Louisiana law, unless drivers sign a rejection form should they choose not to carry it.

Unfortunately, in many instances insurance companies will offer this form for signature without a full explanation of its implications. It isn’t until the driver finds himself in a collision with an under or uninsured motorist that he really understands. As a responsible driver, it is important that you not only request uninsured motorist coverage, but that you thoroughly review all documents before you sign.

In Louisiana, an estimated 13 percent of drivers do not have insurance. Many more carry the state minimum that is often not enough to cover all of the damages. If you are injured in an accident with one of these individuals, uninsured motorist coverage can make a significant impact on the settlement amount that you are able to obtain for your injuries. If you signed an uninsured motorist rejection form, contact an attorney quickly. In some instances, these forms are improperly completed, allowing drivers to still take advantage of the coverage.

While auto insurance is something that all drivers must have, it is often misunderstood. Individuals settle for inadequate or incomplete coverage without realizing how it may impact them further down the line. If you have been injured in Louisiana due to a wreck with an at-fault driver, contact Spencer Calahan Injury Lawyers. We have an extensive history of helping victims navigate the claims process and reach a fair settlement amount for the injuries and associated costs they have sustained. To request a free evaluation of your case a skilled Baton Rouge personal injury attorney, click here, or call us directly at (225) 387-2323.