The bill amends and reenacts several provisions related to uninsured motorist coverage in Louisiana, specifically within R.S. 22:1295 and R.S. 22:1296. Key changes include the removal of references to the "commissioner of insurance" in certain contexts, and the introduction of new language that clarifies the conditions under which uninsured motorist coverage applies. Notably, the bill establishes that if an insured person signs a form rejecting or modifying coverage, it will be presumed valid unless improperly completed. Additionally, it allows for the option of "economic-only" uninsured motorist coverage, which excludes noneconomic losses, and specifies that the coverage must be selected on a prescribed form.

Furthermore, the bill introduces a new provision (R.S. 22:1295(7)) that specifically addresses commercial automobile insurance policies, allowing insured individuals to select uninsured motorist coverage on a designated form. If no selection is made and no premium payment for this coverage is received, it will be presumed that uninsured motorist coverage was not selected. The bill also clarifies that the uninsured motorist coverage does not apply to certain situations involving vehicles not described in the policy, and it maintains the right of insured individuals to pursue legal action against insurers while allowing for optional arbitration for claims.

Statutes affected:
SB499 Original: 22:1295(1), 22:1296(B), 22:1294(B)(4)
SB499 Engrossed: 22:1295(1), 22:1296(B), 22:1294(B)(4)
SB499 Reengrossed: 22:1295(1), 22:1296(B)
SB499 Enrolled: 22:1295(1), 22:1296(B)
SB499 Act 770: 22:1295(1), 22:1296(B)