Home > FAQ > What if I Don't Have Proper Coverage?
Louisiana law requires that all registered owners of an automobile carry liability insurance. Uninsured motorists are subject to penalties such as fines, limited recovery of damages, and impoundment of the uninsured vehicle.
Motorists who fail to provide proof of insurance can have their vehicles immediately impounded or have their license plates removed and a yellow sticker affixed to the back windshield of the vehicle. The motorist is then given three days to provide proof of insurance to the Office of Motor Vehicles. After three days, if the motorist is stopped again, the officer can impound the car until proof of insurance is given and all towing and reinstatement fees are paid. The fines range from $75 to $100 on the first conviction, $100 to $250 on the second conviction and up to $700 on each conviction after that.
The law known as "No Pay, No Play" prohibits uninsured motorists from collecting the first $10,000 in property damages and the first $10,000 in personal injuries regardless of who causes the accident. This law also includes a provision that may allow you to waive your right to make a legal claim for pain and suffering if you buy economic-only uninsured motorist coverage.
All information courtesy of: Louisiana Department of Insurance's Publication - Consumer's Guide to Auto Insurance