Work With Trusted & Experienced
Louisiana Public Adjusters That Work For You!
100% Contingency Based. We Don't Get Paid Unless YOU Get Paid!*
*Some Services Not Available In All Areas. Contingency fees not allowed in Louisiana.
Don’t Settle For Less!
Get The HIGHEST & Most FAIR Settlement Amount ... That You Are Legally Entitled To ... From Your Insurance Claim!
Get a free on-site inspection & insurance policy evaluation from one of our expert public claims adjusters!
Work with highly trained & vetted Louisiana public adjusters who are state-licensed, bonded, and trained to handle all residential or commercial insurance claims, big or small!
Public Claims Adjusters Network (PCAN) member public insurance adjusters in Louisiana offer technical and detailed expertise that has satisfied countless homeowners, business owners, condominium associations, property management companies, and HOAs.
Our network members have years of experience dealing with insurance companies. Many of our network’s public adjusters also have previous backgrounds in construction and/or insurance, giving them a significant advantage in quickly securing the highest claim settlement compensation for their clients.
They know what to look for, what repairs actually cost, and what the insurance company’s adjusters tend to ignore (and hope you don’t know about!).
Consultations are always:
- Friendly
- Free
- No-Obligation
- 100% contingency-based In Nearly Every State
… meaning your public adjuster doesn’t get paid, unless you get paid!*
PCAN public adjusters take pride in providing superior customer service, and clear & friendly communication. Please fill out our contact form to schedule a no-obligation consultation with one of our network’s licensed & verified Louisiana public adjusters today!
*Some Services Not Available In All Areas. Contingency Fee Not Permitted By Law In Lousianna. By law, services in Kansas are only available for commercial claims.
Request A Free Consultation!
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*Some Services May Not Be Available In All Areas. Contingency fees are not permitted by law in Louisiana. Public Claims Adjusters Network (PCAN) is not a Public Adjusting Agency. PCAN is a private network of stringently vetted, state-licensed, bonded, and PCAN Verified public adjusters with members Nationwide. Your contact request will be matched to one of our verified member public adjusters serving the Louisiana community, to ensure the highest quality of service & care.
Higher Claim Payouts When Using A Public Adjuster According To Landmark OPPAGA Study!
Contingency Based. We don’t get paid, unless you get paid!
*Contingency fees not permitted by law in Louisiana.
Why Hire A Public Insurance Adjuster In Louisiana?
Louisiana Public Adjusters Help Get You The HIGHEST & Most Fair Settlement Amount (That You Are Legally Entitled To) From Your Homeowners, Roofing, Condo & HOA, & Business Insurance Claims!
Get a Free On-Site Inspection & Insurance Policy Evaluation From One Of Our Expert Louisiana Public Claims Adjuster Members Today!
- Save You Time & Help Speed Up The Claim Process
- Help Alleviate Stress & Walk You Through The Whole Process
- Negotiate With The Insurance Company & Make Sure You Get The Highest Settlement Possible*
- Prepare & File All The Necessary Documents, And Handle All The Necessary Follow-up's
*Some Services Not Available In All Areas. Contingency fees not allowed in Louisiana.
What Our Network Of Licensed Louisiana Public Insurance Adjusters Bring To The Table
Louisiana Insurance Policy Claims Specialists
PCAN member public insurance claims adjusters have years of experience in claims & reviewing coverages. As such, they understand the numerous types of policies and endorsements you may experience when dealing with your claim in Louisiana. Their expertise allows them to find & utalize the various coverages your policy may have, and in many cases, inform you of coverage & clauses you may not even know about.
Advocates For Louisiana Homeonwers Insurance Policy Holders
PCAN member public claims adjusters advocate for your rights as the policy holder. They ensure that the clients’ rights are being protected throughout the claims process, and make sure you get all the benefits you are entitled to based on your policy. Public adjusters are there with you every step of the way!
Experts In Seen & Unseen Damages
PCAN member public insurance adjusters in Louisiana have years of experience identifying damage, and in most cases, come from professional construction, roofing, and insurance backgrounds. As such, they are able to find & isolate damages that you may not even know to look for, or know would/should be covered by your policy! They also incorporate the latest assessment techniques & technology when conducting their property inspections.
Expert Claims Negotiators
Settlement negotiation is critically important when it comes to the claims process. Public adjusters in Louisiana know how the insurance companies think, and come to the negotiation table fully prepared to defend & enforce your rights. PCAN member public claims adjusters have the expertise and experience in claims negotiations to ensure that you get what you are actually entitled to under your policy ... not what the insurance company tells you that you are, based on their own interests. When the insurance company plays hardball or puts up a fight, your public adjuster won't be afraid to get in that ring and fight them for what's rightfully yours!
Our Expert Public Adjusters Work Exclusively For You To Ensure You Get The Highest Settlement Possible From Your Property Insurance Claim After A Disaster.
The Homeowners Insurance Claims Recovery Process In Louisiana
Louisiana state-licensed public claims adjusters are fluent in “Insurance Policy Jargon”, and will guide you through the entire property insurance claims process, while they fight to make sure you get the highest & most fair compensation possible for your claim!
View 7-Step Claims Recovery Process Map
Step #1
Make Sure Your Family Is Safe
When disaster strikes, the priority is to make sure your family is safe. Always have an emergency bag!
Step #2
Contact A PCAN Public Adjuster In Louisiana
Contact one of the PCAN verified and state-licensed public insurance claims adjusters to schedule an appointment for them to come out & meet with you to inspect the damage.
Step #3
Thorough Review Of Your Policy
Your public insurance claims adjuster will conduct a comprehensive review of your policy, note any coverage restrictions, coinsurance requirements, limitations, and review additional options that may be available to you.
Step #4
Create A Claims Strategy That Works For Your Specific Goals & Needs
Your public claims adjuster will discuss what is most important to you when it comes to your claim, then create & tailor the right claims strategy to take care of your family.
Step #5
We Take Care Of All Insurance Related Paperwork, Negotiations, & Follow Up.
Once you have agreed on a strategy, your public insurance claims adjuster will:
- Meet with insurance company adjusters & personnel at the loss/damage location.
- Agree to the scope of damages & make sure that they are including all the damages in the scope, as well as clearly deciding on what should be repaired vs. replaced.
- Prepare a detailed reconstruction estimate.
- Prepare a detailed inventory of personal property.
Step #6
Negotiations & Final Settlement
Your public claims adjuster will work to make sure you receive the highest settlement possible under your specific insurance policy.
Step #7
Restoration | Reconstruction | Relocation
Your public adjuster will negotiate with the insurance company to ensure that you can achieve your specific goals. Whether that’s full or partial restoration, rebuilding your property, or a full-relocation.
(Click To Expand Infographic)
Our Expert Public Adjusters Work Exclusively For You To Ensure You Get The Highest Settlement Possible From Your Property Insurance Claim After A Disaster.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Louisiana Public Adjusting
What Are Louisiana Public Adjusters, & What Do They Do?
Louisiana Public adjusters are licensed insurance professionals who independently defend policy holders throughout the insurance claims process. According to the National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters (NAPIA) the experts act as advocates for homeowners and ensure their rights are secured when dealing with insurance companies..
The function of public adjusters has become more significant in recent years, particularly since insurance claims become more complex. A landmark study by the Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability (OPPAGA) revealed that policyholders who utilized public adjusters received settlements up to 800% higher than those who handled claims independently.
Public adjusters provide comprehensive services throughout the claim process. They conduct thorough damage assessments, and prepare and file the necessary documents, and handle all communications with insurance companies. This type of support from licensed professionals, significantly reduces the stress and time involved with filing claims and allows policyholders owners to focus on recovering.
Working primarily on a contingency fee basis which typically range between 10 and 20% of the final settlement, public adjusters are paid to ensure the highest possible amount of compensation to their customers. The fee structure is according to the complexity of the claim as well as state regulations and required resources.
These professionals have extensive expertise of insurance policies, building codes, and costs for construction. They use this knowledge to:
- Expedite the claims process
- Document and evaluate the extent of damages
- Navigate complex policies
- Directly negotiate with insurance companies
- Ensure compliance with deadlines for filing and other policy requirements
Research has clearly shown that professional representation during the claims process usually results in more comprehensive settlements as well as quicker resolution of claims. Public adjusters’ understanding of insurance regulations and industry practices can help avoid common mistakes that could slow or hinder settlements.
Disclaimer: *Some Services Not Available In All Areas. Contingency fees not allowed in Louisiana.
Will My Settlement Be Larger If I Hire A Louisiana Public Adjusting Company?
Industry research and analysis has shown that employing a public insurance adjuster can significantly increase policyholder settlements for claims. According to groundbreaking study by the Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability (OPPAGA), policyholders who employed public adjusters received settlements up to 800% more than those who handled claims on their own.
Public adjusters in Algiers, Louisiana serve as licensed professionals who represent only policyholders during the claim process. The National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters (NAPIA) states that these state-licensed professionals provide detailed claims management services, including detailed documentation of property damage as well as policy interpretation and settlement negotiations with insurance companies.
The value of professional representation is particularly evident in final settlement figures, as professionally managed claims usually yield more comprehensive damage assessment, and more accurate valuations of losses.
Public adjusters streamline the claims process by:
- Handling all correspondence and documentation with insurance companies
- Conducting detailed assessments of property damage
- Preparing comprehensive claim submissions
- Negotiating directly with insurance carriers
- Accelerating the settlement timeline
- Ensuring compliance with policy guidelines and deadlines
Most public adjusters operate on the contingency fee basis, that typically range from 10% to 20% of the final settlement amount. This fee structure aligns the adjuster’s interests with the policyholder’s, as their compensation depends on securing a favorable settlement agreement.
The expertise of a Public Adjuster often is invaluable in complicated claims scenarios, where technical knowledge of building codes, construction costs, and insurance policy provisions can have a significant impact on settlement outcomes.
Their professional oversight helps ensure that no covered damages are missed and claims are appropriately valued according to the current market conditions.
Disclaimer: *Some Services Not Available In All Areas. Contingency fees are not permitted in Louisiana.
How Much Do Louisiana Public Adjusters Charge?
Public adjusters typically operate on a contingency fee basis, charging between 10% to 20% of the final insurance claim settlement. According to the National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters (NAPIA), these fees vary based on claim complexity, state regulations, and required resources. The contingency fee structure ensures that public adjusters’ interests align directly with those of their clients, as their compensation depends on securing favorable settlements.
Before engagement, policyholders should carefully review fee arrangements and contract terms, ensuring clear understanding of the service agreement. According to the Insurance Information Institute (III), public adjusters must maintain state licenses and adhere to strict professional standards, providing an additional layer of consumer protection. Their role becomes particularly valuable in complex claims where specialized knowledge can significantly impact settlement outcomes.
A landmark study by the Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability (OPPAGA) demonstrated that policyholders who engaged public adjusters received settlements up to 800% higher than those who handled claims independently. This significant difference underscores the value these professionals bring to the claims process.
Disclaimer: *Some Services Not Available In All Areas. Contingency fees not allowed in Louisiana.
When Is It Too Late To Hire A Louisiana Public Adjuster?
Navigating the insurance claims process requires careful timing and professional expertise. Understanding when to engage a Louisiana public adjuster can significantly impact claim outcomes and settlement amounts. According to the National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters (NAPIA), policyholders can benefit from hiring a public adjuster at any point during an active claim, though earlier engagement typically yields better results.
Key timing considerations include:
Statute of Limitations:
- Each state maintains different deadlines for filing insurance claims
- Claims must be initiated within these legal timeframes
- Public adjusters can assist with existing claims, even if initially filed independently
Documentation Requirements:
- Public adjusters help organize and prepare comprehensive claim documentation
- They can recover or reconstruct missing documentation
- Professional documentation improves claim validity and settlement potential
Claim Status:
- Active claims benefit from professional representation
- Denied claims may be reopened with proper documentation
- Disputed settlements can be renegotiated
Public adjusters provide valuable services throughout the claims process Including:
- Expedited claim processing through professional management
- Expert negotiation with insurance carriers
- Complete documentation preparation and submission
- Regular communication with insurance companies
- Stress reduction through professional claim handling
- Maximum settlement potential through experienced representation
Disclaimer: *Some Services Not Available In All Areas. Contingency fees not allowed in Louisiana.
When Should You Hire A Public Claims Adjuster In Louisiana?
Complex insurance claims usually require expert knowledge to effectively navigate. Public insurance adjusters, state-licensed professionals who solely work for policyholders, can have a significant impact on claim outcomes as well as settlement outcomes.
There are a variety of scenarios that need a public adjuster:
- Property damage that is extensive
- Claims that involve multiple types of coverage
- Disputed claims or partial claim denials
- Complex requirements for documentation
- Situations that are time-sensitive which require immediate attention
Public adjusters streamline the claims process by:
- Conducting comprehensive damage assessments
- The preparation and filing of required documentation
- Managing communication with insurance companies
- Settlement negotiations on behalf of the policyholders
- Ensuring compliance with the policy terms and deadlines
Public adjusters particularly benefit policyholders because of:
- Stress reduction by utilizing expert claim management
- Speeding up the settlement process
- Offering objective damage assessments
- Ensuring comprehensive documentation
- Utilizing industry-specific expertise to ensure fair settlements
Disclaimer: *Some Services Not Available In All Areas. Contingency fees not allowed in Louisiana.
Can I File My Insurance Claim Myself In Louisiana?
While policyholders are entitled to file insurance claims independently, research from experts in the industry suggest this approach may not yield optimal results.
The most significant challenges of self-filing include:
- Complex documentation requirements and policy interpretation
- Time-intensive communication with insurance representatives
- Risk of overlooking covered damages or benefits
- Potential undervaluation of claims by insurance companies
- Limited-to-zero negotiation experience with insurers
licensed public adjusters provide important advantages to the process of settling claims:
-
- Professional Documentation and Assessment – Public adjusters thoroughly document damages, prepare comprehensive claim files, and handle all paperwork required, making sure nothing is overlooked.
- Time and Stress Management – These professionals handle all communications with insurance companies, allowing homeowners to focus on recovering while speeding up the process of filing claims.
- Expert Negotiation – With extensive knowledge of insurance policies and regulations, public adjusters engage directly with insurance companies to secure fair settlements.
- Cost-Effective Service – Public adjusters typically work on a contingency-fee basis, usually ranging between 10-20% of the final settlement amount, which ensures alignment with the policyholder’s interests.
The National Association of State Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) recognizes public adjusters as licensed professionals who represent the interests of policyholders throughout the claims process. Their expertise can be beneficial in complicated claims or when significant damages are involved.
Statistics from the industry consistently show that professional professional representation by state-licensed public adjusters leads to better outcomes for policy holders, with quicker processing, and more complete settlement packages.
Disclaimer: *Some Services Not Available In All Areas. Contingency fees are not accepted in Louisiana.
In Louisiana, Can My Contractor Represent Me Against My Insurance Company?
Although contractors frequently offer the opportunity to negotiate with insurers, this strategy can have some significant risks and limitations. According to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), contractors do not have the legal authority and knowledge to serve as official representatives for insurance claim negotiations.
This limitation can dramatically affect the outcomes of a claim and potentially compromise the rights of the owner of the policy.
Departments of insurance in each state regulate licensed public adjusters, who undergo intensive specialized training, must pass Federal background checks, & require specialized licensing by the state to operate. They also are legally authorized to act on behalf of the policyholder to protect & protect their right … legal authority that contractors don’t possess … which makes them the legal and comprehensive alternative to representation by contractors.
Public Adjusters specialize in the interpretation of insurance policies, assessing and documenting damage, and negotiating with insurance companies in order to secure fair claim compensation.
Public adjusters provide several distinct advantages, including:
- Specialist claim documents and filing
- Professional negotiation with insurance carriers
- Comprehensive damage assessment
- Faster claim processing
- Reduce stress by a complete claim management
The National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters (NAPIA) emphasizes the fact that public adjusters need to maintain professional licenses and follow strict ethical standards. This provides the additional level of consumer protection that is not offered by the representation of contractors.
For more complex claims, for more complex claims, public adjusters’ expertise in the interpretation of policies, documentation requirements and negotiation techniques often is invaluable, and can help avoid costly mistakes and claim denials that could arise from negotiation led by contractors.
Disclaimer: Certain Services Not Available In All Areas. Contingency fees are not available for Louisiana.
I Already Settled My Claim, But It Wasn’t Enough Money To Cover The Damages. Is It Too Late To Get More?
When insurance settlements prove insufficient to pay for property damage, the policyholder has a variety of legal options to seek additional compensation, even after the initial settlement of their claim.
As per the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), policyholders should be sure to carefully review their settlement terms and related documentation before accepting the final settlement payment.
The timing and the circumstances for seeking additional compensation are crucial aspects, as the majority of insurance policies have specific timeframes for claim disputes and appeals, generally between one and two years following the settlement date.
Licensed public adjusters are vital in re-assessing settlement claims and finding previously unnoticed damages. Public adjusters conduct thorough property assessments, document any additional damages, and negotiate with insurance carriers in the interest of policyholders.
Important steps to pursue additional compensation include:
- Document newly discovered damages
- Review the policy terms and settlement agreements
- Collect additional evidence and estimates
- Retain professional representation from a state-licensed public insurance adjusters
The National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters (NAPIA) emphasizes that public adjusters are often able to spot overlooked damages and policy provisions which allow for an additional amount of compensation. Their experience in policy interpretation and claim valuation is particularly useful when challenging settled claims.
Policyholders should act promptly upon discovering insufficient settlement amounts, as a delay could hinder their ability to collect additional compensation. When utilizing a public adjuster’s services, the claim review and negotiation process typically progresses more efficiently than policyholder-directed efforts.
Disclaimer: *Some Services Not Available In All Areas. The use of contingency fees is not permitted in Louisiana.
Why hire a Public Insurance Claims Adjuster In Louisiana if the insurance company already sent an adjuster?
The decision to hire a state-licensed public insurance claims adjuster, even if an insurance company has appointed its own adjuster, can dramatically affect the outcome of an insurance claim.
Although the insurance company adjusters work for their employer’s interests … public adjusters serve as dedicated advocates for policyholders. The National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters (NAPIA) highlights that these state-licensed & regulated professionals operate independently, ensuring fair settlements of claims and complete policy interpretation.
Public adjusters streamline the claims process by managing documentation, performing complete assessment of the damage and coordinating all communications with insurance companies. This professional intervention typically accelerates claim resolution and reduces homeowners’ administrative burdens.
The importance of public adjusters isn’t only limited to monetary benefits. They offer professional guidance throughout the claims process, guiding clients through the complexities of policy and ensuring that the damage is documented and assessed.
They create specific damage estimates, gather necessary evidence, and engage directly with insurance companies in order to get the best settlement results.
The process of settling insurance claims is complex and time-consuming, making professional representation essential during major losses. Public adjusters’ expertise in policy interpretation and negotiation usually results in more comprehensive settlements that cover both obvious and concealed damages.
Disclaimer: *Some Services Not Available In All Areas. Contingency fees are not permitted in Louisiana.
Can My Insurance Company Cancel My Contract If I Use a Public Adjuster In Louisiana?
No. Insurance companies cannot legally cancel policies solely because policyholders hire public adjusters to represent their interests during the claims process, according to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC). Policy cancellations are strictly governed by contractual terms and state regulations, typically limited to specific circumstances such as non-payment of premiums or material misrepresentation.
The National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters (NAPIA) emphasizes that hiring a licensed public insurance adjusters is a protected right of policyholders. These professionals serve as advocates during insurance claims, handling documentation, negotiations, and communications with insurance carriers to expedite settlements.
The Insurance Information Institute (III) confirms that policyholders maintain the right to professional representation during claims processes, and insurers must honor this right while adhering to fair claims handling practices.
Disclaimer: Some Services Not Available In All Areas.
An insurance terms glossary provides insight to policyholders of critical terms and definitions commonly used to clarify various aspects of coverage and claims.
Key concepts include such terms as Actual Cash Value Vs. Replacement Value, a method for determining compensation based on replacement costs minus recoverable depreciation, and ALE (Additional Living Expenses), which cover necessary living costs when a home is uninhabitable.
For example, understanding your home insurance declaration page, common homeowners damage deductibles for various kinds of home & property damage, the general policy exclusions standard in many home insurance policies, can bring much-needed awareness & clarity to policyholders of potential common insurance terms that may affect their claim outcomes. For example, knowing which key documents (such as photographs and receipts) are essential for substantiating claims.
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Our Expert Public Adjusters Work Exclusively For You To Ensure You Get The Highest Settlement Possible From Your Property Insurance Claim After A Disaster.
Discover How Louisiana Public Claims Adjusters Can Get You More From These Types Of Property Damage Insurance Claims
Our Expert Public Adjusters Work Exclusively For You To Ensure You Get The Highest Settlement Possible From Your Property Insurance Claim After A Disaster.
Find A PCAN Public Adjuster In Louisiana Near You In One Of These Cities:
Click To Expand & View List Of Cities Served
- Public Adjusters Algiers, Louisiana
- Public Adjusters Baton Rouge, Louisiana
- Public Adjusters Bossier City, Louisiana
- Public Adjusters Bristol, Louisiana
- Public Adjusters Holly Beach, Louisiana
- Public Adjusters Kenner, Louisiana
- Public Adjusters Lafayette, Louisiana
- Public Adjusters Lake Charles, Louisiana
- Public Adjusters Metairie, Louisiana
- Public Adjusters Metairie Terrace, Louisiana
- Public Adjusters Monroe, Louisiana
- Public Adjusters New Orleans, Louisiana
- Public Adjusters Shreveport, Louisiana
- Public Adjusters St. Tammany, Louisiana
- Public Adjusters Vernon, Louisiana
Our Expert Public Adjusters Work Exclusively For You To Ensure You Get The Highest Settlement Possible From Your Property Insurance Claim After A Disaster.
More About Louisiana
Louisiana
| |
---|---|
State of Louisiana État de Louisiane (French) Létat de Lalwizyàn (Louisiana Creole) | |
Nicknames:
| |
Motto(s): Union, Justice, Confidence | |
Anthem:
| |
Location of Louisiana within the United States | |
Country | United States |
Before statehood | Territory of Orleans and Louisiana Purchase |
Admitted to the Union | April 30, 1812; 212 years ago (1812-04-30) (18th) |
Capital | Baton Rouge |
Largest city | New Orleans |
Largest county or equivalent | East Baton Rouge Parish |
Largest metro and urban areas | Greater New Orleans |
Government | |
• Governor | Jeff Landry (R) |
• Lieutenant Governor | Billy Nungesser (R) |
Legislature | Legislature |
• Upper house | Senate |
• Lower house | House of Representatives |
Judiciary | Louisiana Supreme Court |
U.S. senators | Bill Cassidy (R) John Kennedy (R) |
U.S. House delegation | 4 Republicans 2 Democrats (list) |
Area | |
• Total | 52,124 sq mi (135,000 km) |
• Land | 43,204 sq mi (111,898 km) |
• Water | 8,920 sq mi (23,102 km) 15% |
• Rank | 31st |
Dimensions | |
• Length | 379 mi (610 km) |
• Width | 130 mi (231 km) |
Elevation | 100 ft (30 m) |
Highest elevation | 535 ft (163 m) |
Lowest elevation | −8 ft (−2.5 m) |
Population (2024) | |
• Total | |
• Rank | 25th |
• Density | 106.9/sq mi (41.3/km) |
• Rank | 26th |
• Median household income | $58,200 (2023) |
• Income rank | 47th |
Demonyms | Louisianian Louisianais (Cajun or Creole heritage) |
Language | |
• Official language | None constitutionally specified; Louisiana French (special status under CODOFIL) |
• Spoken language | As of 2010 |
Time zone | UTC−06:00 (CST) |
• Summer (DST) | UTC−05:00 (CDT) |
USPS abbreviation | LA |
ISO 3166 code | US-LA |
Traditional abbreviation | La. |
Latitude | 28° 56′ N to 33° 01′ N |
Longitude | 88° 49′ W to 94° 03′ W |
Website | louisiana |
List of state symbols | |
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Living insignia | |
Bird | Brown pelican |
Dog breed | Catahoula Leopard Dog |
Fish | Crappie |
Flower | Magnolia |
Insect | Honeybee |
Mammal | Black bear |
Reptile | Alligator |
Tree | Bald cypress |
Inanimate insignia | |
Beverage | Milk |
Fossil | Petrified palmwood |
Gemstone | Agate |
Instrument | Diatonic accordion |
State route marker | |
State quarter | |
Released in 2002 | |
Lists of United States state symbols |
Louisiana (French: Louisiane ; Spanish: Luisiana [lwiˈsjana]; Louisiana Creole: Lwizyàn) is a state in the Deep South and South Central regions of the United States. It borders Texas to the west, Arkansas to the north, and Mississippi to the east. Of the 50 U.S. states, it ranks 31st in area and 25th in population, with roughly 4.6 million residents. Reflecting its French heritage, Louisiana is the only U.S. state with political subdivisions termed parishes, which are equivalent to counties, making it one of only two U.S. states not subdivided into counties (the other being Alaska and its boroughs). Baton Rouge is the state’s capital, and New Orleans, a French Louisiana region, is its largest city with a population of about 383,000 people. Louisiana has a coastline with the Gulf of Mexico to the south; a large part of its eastern boundary is demarcated by the Mississippi River.
Much of Louisiana’s lands were formed from sediment washed down the Mississippi River, leaving enormous deltas and vast areas of coastal marsh and swamp. These contain a rich southern biota, including birds such as ibises and egrets, many species of tree frogs—such as the state-recognized American green tree frog—and fish such as sturgeon and paddlefish. More elevated areas, particularly in the north, contain a wide variety of ecosystems such as tallgrass prairie, longleaf pine forest and wet savannas; these support an exceptionally large number of plant species, including many species of terrestrial orchids and carnivorous plants. Over half the state is forested.
Louisiana is situated at the confluence of the Mississippi river system and the Gulf of Mexico. Its location and biodiversity attracted various indigenous groups thousands of years before Europeans arrived in the 17th century. Louisiana has eighteen Native American tribes—the most of any southern state—of which four are federally recognized and ten are state-recognized. The French claimed the territory in 1682, and it became the political, commercial, and population center of the larger colony of New France. From 1762 to 1801 Louisiana was under Spanish rule, briefly returning to French rule before being sold by Napoleon to the U.S. in 1803. It was admitted to the Union in 1812 as the 18th state. Following statehood, Louisiana saw an influx of settlers from the eastern U.S. as well as immigrants from the West Indies, Germany, and Ireland. It experienced an agricultural boom, particularly in cotton and sugarcane, which were cultivated primarily by slaves from Africa. As a slave state, Louisiana was one of the original seven members of the Confederate States of America during the American Civil War.
Our Expert Public Adjusters Work Exclusively For You To Ensure You Get The Highest Settlement Possible From Your Property Insurance Claim After A Disaster.