Consumer Rights in Louisiana

Redhibition is a civil law remedy unique to Louisiana (derived from French law) that allows a buyer to rescind a sale when the product has a hidden defect that makes it unfit for its intended use or so impairs it that the buyer would not have purchased it at the same price. For vehicles, this means you may be able to void the entire sale and recover your purchase price if a substantial hidden defect exists.

Louisiana's Unfair Trade Practices Act has a one-year statute of limitations — the shortest in the country. You must file your UTPA claim within one year of discovering the deceptive practice. This short window makes it critical to consult an attorney immediately upon discovering any consumer fraud.

Under R.S. 22:1892 and 22:1973, if an insurer arbitrarily refuses to pay a valid claim, you may be entitled to a 50% penalty on the amount due plus reasonable attorney fees. These are significant statutory penalties designed to deter bad faith conduct by Louisiana insurers.

Louisiana's lemon law covers only the first year or 12,000 miles — whichever comes first. After four repair attempts or 30 cumulative days out of service within this window, you may qualify for a replacement or refund. Beyond this window, the civil law redhibition remedy may still apply for hidden defects.