Typically, a car insurance policy covers the policyholder and those members of the household who are old enough to drive or those who’ve been specifically added to the policy by name. Many policies also have provisions for permissive use of borrowed vehicles, although this type of coverage may come with a higher deductible and/or more limited benefits.
Excluded drivers are named individuals who are specially not covered by an insurance policy. Often, this is because they’re considered high risk due to a DUI or a poor driving record. Excluding a driver from coverage isn’t allowed by all insurers, but many will permit it to save the policyholder money or to prevent the entire household from being uninsurable.
Compensation For Accidents Caused by Excluded Drivers
When a person is named as an excluded driver for a specific vehicle but operates it anyway, this is legally the same as driving without insurance. If a car accident occurs, the policy will not pay for damages caused by the excluded driver.
Drivers or passengers who are injured by another person’s negligence are entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. When no insurance coverage is available, they can attempt to collect from either the at-fault driver or the vehicle owner’s personal assets.
If the at-fault driver or vehicle owner is without the means to provide compensation, your only other option is to use your own uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage (UM or UIM coverage). Louisiana law requires all car insurance policies sold in the state to come with this type of coverage, although you can specifically request to have it waived. Most policies are issued with the state’s bodily injury liability limits of $15,000. However, some drivers who want to provide additional peace of mind choose higher coverage limits.
Have You Been Injured In A Louisiana Car Accident?
If you’ve been hurt in a car accident you need to speak with an experienced car accident attorney as soon as possible. Please contact us online or call our Alexandria office directly at 318.541.8188 to schedule your free consultation.