Louisiana’s “No Pay, No Play” law can have a major impact on your ability to recover compensation after a car accident—especially if you or the vehicle you were in were uninsured at the time of the crash. Understanding how this law works, who it applies to, and what exceptions may exist is critical for protecting your rights.
What Is Louisiana’s No Pay, No Play Law?
Under Louisiana Revised Statute §32:866, uninsured drivers are restricted from recovering the first $100,000.00 of bodily injury damages and the first $100,000.00 of property damage after an accident — even if the other driver was completely at fault.
This law was designed to encourage all Louisiana drivers to carry valid auto insurance, but it often creates serious challenges for injured victims who still deserve compensation.
Exceptions to the No Pay, No Play Law
There are several important exceptions where the No Pay, No Play limitation may NOT apply. You may still be eligible for full compensation if:
• The at‑fault driver was cited for driving while intoxicated (DWI/DUI)
• The at‑fault driver intentionally caused the crash
• Your vehicle was legally parked at the time of the accident
• You were a passenger in an uninsured vehicle (you did not choose the insurance status)
• The at‑fault driver fled the scene (hit‑and‑run)
Important Information for Injured Drivers
Even if you were uninsured, you may still recover some compensation. The law does NOT block your entire claim — only the first $100,000.00in bodily injury damages and the first $100,000.00 in property damage. Serious injuries, long‑term medical care, lost wages, and other damages may still be pursued.
However, insurance companies frequently use the No Pay, No Play law to deny claims or reduce payouts, even when exceptions apply. Speaking with an experienced Louisiana personal injury attorney is one of the best ways to protect your rights.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Does No Pay, No Play mean I cannot file a claim at all?
No. You can still file a claim, and you can still recover damages beyond the restricted amounts.
Do I owe a penalty if I was only a passenger?
Usually no. Passengers are typically exempt because they are not responsible for insuring the vehicle.
What if the at‑fault driver has no insurance?
The No Pay, No Play law only reduces recovery for uninsured victims — but you may still have a UM/UIM claim.
Can an attorney challenge a No Pay, No Play penalty?
Yes. An attorney can determine whether an exception applies or if the insurance company is misapplying the law.
Contact Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers for a Free Consultation
If you were injured in a car accident — even if you were uninsured — you still have legal rights. Louisiana’s No Pay, No Play law is complicated, and insurance companies often rely on it to limit your compensation. Our experienced team at Mansfield Melancon Injury Lawyers can review your case, determine whether any exceptions apply, and fight for the recovery you deserve.
We proudly serve East Baton Rouge Parish, Lafayette Parish, Orleans Parish, and their surrounding areas:
Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers – Baton Rouge Office
404 Europe Street
Baton Rouge, Louisiana, 70124
(225) 263-4787
Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers – New Orleans Office
365 Canal Street Suite 415
New Orleans, Louisiana, 70130
(504) 294-3804
Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers – Lafayette Office
1318 Camellia Boulevard Suite 206
Lafayette, Louisiana, 70508
(337) 473-2991
Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers – Metairie Office
111 Veterans Memorial Blvd, Suite 255
Metairie, Louisiana, 70005
(888) 601-0127