If you’ve ever been in a crash, you’ve probably heard the phrase “Don’t worry. I have full coverage.” But here’s the problem. What most people think of as full coverage doesn’t always protect them like they expect, especially in Louisiana. As a Louisiana car accident lawyer, one of the things I despise is having to tell people who thought they were “fully covered” that they are not. Let’s break down what full coverage really means and why it may leave you exposed after a wreck.
Full coverage typically combines required liability insurance with both collision and comprehensive protection to cover vehicle damage, but may have too low of limits or not include optional policies like uninsured/underinsured motorist protection. It doesn’t guarantee full protection.
What Does Full Coverage Insurance Really Include?
In Louisiana, people often assume “full coverage” means they’re fully protected no matter what. Unfortunately, that’s not how it works. Full coverage is not a specific type of policy. It’s a general term that usually refers to a combination of:
- Liability Insurance: Covers injuries or damage to others if you’re at fault.
- Collision Insurance: Pays for damage to your vehicle if you’re in a crash.
- Comprehensive Insurance: Covers damage from non-collision events like theft or storms.
But here’s what full coverage does not include by default:
- Uninsured or Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) Coverage
- Medical Payments (MedPay) Coverage
That means if you’re hit by a driver with little or no insurance, or if you’re injured and need help with medical bills, your “full coverage” may not help. It’s a misnomer that leads too many people to believe they’re protected when they’re not.
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FREE Confidential Case Review (985) 240-9773Why Louisiana Drivers Should Be Cautious
Louisiana law only requires minimum liability coverage: $15,000 per person and $30,000 per accident. If that’s all you have, you’re not really fully covered, even if your policy is labeled that way. You’re more at risk if you don’t add UM or MedPay,
Worse, Louisiana has a high number of uninsured or minimally insured drivers. That means the chances of getting hit by someone without enough insurance are higher than most people think.
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FREE Confidential Case Review (985) 240-9773Understanding The Different Parts Of Full Coverage
Liability Insurance
Liability coverage is what Louisiana law requires. It pays for someone else’s medical bills or property damage if you’re at fault. But it doesn’t pay for your injuries or damages if someone hits you.
Collision Insurance
This helps fix your car after a crash, regardless of fault. But again, it doesn’t pay for hospital bills or cover your lost wages.
Comprehensive Insurance
This protects against damage from things like hail, flooding, theft, or fire. It’s helpful, but it doesn’t help with crash injuries or hit-and-run accidents.
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UM/UIM)
This is one of the most important coverages you can have in Louisiana. If you’re hit by someone without insurance or not enough insurance, UM/UIM coverage kicks in to cover your injuries. But it’s not automatically included. You have to request it. And it’s often the first thing people leave off to save a few bucks.
Medical Payments (MedPay)
MedPay covers medical bills right away after a crash, no matter who caused it. It’s often overlooked, but it can be a lifesaver if you need care before health insurance kicks in or if you have a high deductible.
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FREE Confidential Case Review (985) 240-9773Why Minimum or Low Liability Isn’t Enough
Louisiana’s minimum limits ($15,000 per person, $30,000 per accident) often aren’t enough. Medical costs escalate quickly, even with seemingly minor injuries. A typical ER visit or follow‑up care can cost $10,000–$15,000.
If they need more treatment than that and your limits fall short, the injured person (or their insurer) can sue you personally for the unpaid balance. That means your home equity, savings, retirement accounts, even future wages, could be at risk.
That’s why people with any assets often carry higher liability limits, like 100/300/100, or add an umbrella policy with $1 million+ in protection. It may cost a bit more, but it offers real peace of mind that one incident can’t take away everything you’ve worked for.
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FREE Confidential Case Review (985) 240-9773Why “Full Coverage” Isn’t Always Enough
Imagine this: You’re rear-ended at a red light. Your back is injured. You can’t work. You assume your insurance will help, but you don’t have UM or MedPay. Now you’re facing bills, missed paychecks, and insurance companies passing the buck.
This is where “full coverage” lets people down. It may fix your car, but it won’t help you get better or cover lost income if the other driver isn’t insured properly.
Tips To Protect Yourself With Better Coverage
- Ask your agent to add UM/UIM and MedPay.
- Review your liability limits. Consider increasing them to protect your family and assets.
- Look into rental coverage. It helps pay for a car while yours is in the shop.
- Lower your deductible if you can afford the higher monthly cost.
You don’t need the most expensive policy. But you do need one that protects you if you’re hurt in a crash. That includes adding the right types of coverage, not just relying on the label “full coverage.”
Why Legal Help Matters Even If You Have Insurance
Insurance companies are businesses. Even with good coverage, they may deny, delay, or underpay your claim. This is especially true for uninsured motorist claims. A lawyer can:
- Make sure your claim is handled fairly
- Push back on lowball offers
- Handle confusing policy language
- Fight to get you every dollar you’re entitled to
Even if you have the right coverage, it doesn’t mean you’ll get treated right. That’s where having an experienced Louisiana injury attorney on your side makes all the difference.
FAQ: Full Coverage Insurance In Louisiana
Is full coverage required in Louisiana?
No. Louisiana only requires liability coverage. Full coverage is optional, and even when added, doesn’t automatically include UM or MedPay.
How much is full coverage insurance in Louisiana?
It depends on your vehicle, driving record, location, and how much coverage you add. But policies labeled “full coverage” without UM or MedPay can be cheaper and leave you exposed.
Do I need UM if I have health insurance?
Yes. UM covers more than medical bills. It can also cover pain and suffering, lost wages, and future care. Health insurance doesn’t do all that.
Can I drop UM or MedPay to save money?
You can, but it’s risky. If you’re seriously hurt by an uninsured driver, you may be stuck paying for everything yourself.
Make Sure You’re Truly Covered
Don’t wait until a crash to find out your policy doesn’t protect you. Talk to your agent. Add the right coverage. And if you’ve been hurt in a crash, get legal help from someone who knows how to fight and win in Louisiana.
At LJBLegal, we’ve helped many people across the state stand up to insurance companies and recover what they’re owed. If you have questions about your insurance, or need help after an accident, call us today at 985-240-9773.
Your recovery matters. Let us help you protect it.
