Louisiana hit-and-run drivers, sometimes aptly nicknamed “Ragin’ Cajuns,” commit the crime of fleeing the scene of an accident without exchanging information with other drivers or property owners. In Louisiana, failure to follow proper procedures after an accident, whether you lose control of your anger or simply suffer from stress or panic, can lead to serious legal and financial consequences. Here’s everything you need to know to avoid a hit-and-run in Louisiana, and the steps you as a victim can take to increase your chances of having your insurance claim approved.
Louisiana hit-and-run incident
In Louisiana, a hit-and-run accident is defined as a collision in which the driver who caused the accident or was involved in the accident did not stop to exchange personal or insurance information with the other driver. In recent years, hit-and-run accidents have been on the rise nationwide. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there will be 2,932 hit-and-run fatalities in 2022, further contributing to the upward trend.
Louisiana hit and run law
Louisiana hit-and-run law states that the at-fault driver is fully responsible in the event of a hit-and-run accident. If you are involved in a hit-and-run in Louisiana, the consequences can be serious.
Drivers responsible for hit-and-runs that only cause property damage can be fined up to $500. He could be sentenced to up to six months in prison. If an accident results in injury or death, drivers can be fined up to $5,000 and sentenced to up to 10 years in prison, with or without hard labor.
How a Hit and Run Affects Auto Insurance Premiums in Louisiana
Drivers who are arrested for being at fault in a Louisiana hit-and-run are likely to see their insurance premiums increased. Insurance companies may view the driver as a high-risk driver, especially if they already have other violations, and it may be difficult to find an insurance company to work with. You may also be required to submit an SR-22 form to the DMV, which is a document proving you have a valid insurance policy.
According to October 2024 Quadrant Information Service data, the average cost of full coverage auto insurance in Louisiana increases from $3,696 to $5,036 per year after an at-fault accident. For comparison, the national average for someone with a good driving record is $2,388.
4 things to do after being involved in a hit-and-run in Louisiana
If you are involved in a hit-and-run accident, the first thing you should do is pull over safely, even if the other party does not stop. Assess the situation and make sure you and your passengers are not harmed. If anyone in your vehicle needs medical assistance, call 911. If there are no injuries, you should:
- Call the police: Even if there is no major damage to your car, call the police immediately if you are involved in a hit-and-run. Leaving the scene of an accident is illegal in Louisiana, and police will investigate the incident as a crime. The officer will ask you to recall as much information as possible about the vehicle and driver that hit you. We will also create a police report that you can share with your insurance company.
- Take photos of the damage to the vehicle. Before you leave the scene, take a few photos of the damage to your vehicle, if you can do so safely away from traffic. These will be helpful when making an insurance claim. If you or any of your passengers require medical assistance, keep a record of the treatment you receive.
- Talk to bystanders: Ask anyone at the scene if they can share any information or footage of the accident. This could help catch the hit-and-run driver.
- Submit an insurance claim. Contact your insurance company and inform them of the hit and run. A representative will guide you through the insurance claim procedure and explain what is covered by insurance. Be sure to have a police report and photos of the damage to expedite the process.
Is a hit and run covered by car insurance?
Depending on your auto insurance coverage, you may be entitled to some compensation for a hit and run in Louisiana. However, if you have minimum liability insurance that only covers liability, hit and run will not be covered. Louisiana does not require drivers to carry uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, but if you have this optional coverage, it will only cover personal injury. You can receive some compensation for a hit and run.
However, if you have full coverage auto insurance, you will be covered to some extent for both your injuries and vehicle damage in the event of a hit and run. Medical expense coverage pays for your medical expenses and the medical expenses of your passengers. Collision and comprehensive insurance will cover damages to your vehicle, but you may have to pay a deductible before your vehicle insurance will cover the rest. This deductible can be reimbursed if the hit-and-run driver is found and has valid auto insurance, as they can file a claim against their liability coverage. Keep in mind that filing a car insurance claim will likely increase your premiums, so it can have long-term financial consequences even if you’re not at fault.
