Louisiana Puts Money Behind Video Telematics—Is Your Fleet Ready?

Louisiana has enacted HB 549 (Act 19), the first state law to require insurers to offer a liability-premium discount to commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) equipped with a forward-facing dash cam paired with a telematics system. The law applies to policies issued or renewed on/after January 1, 2026, and it’s a clear financial nudge for fleets to adopt video telematics now.

What qualifies? The statute defines a dashboard camera as a 1080p, forward-facing device capable of continuous loop recording and a telematics system as tech that collects and transmits real-time driving data (e.g., speed, braking, mileage). Discounts are mandatory for authorized insurers and apply to the liability portion of the premium.

Why pair dash cams with telematics?

• Stronger claims defense & faster exoneration. Video corroborated by hard data shortens investigations, deters fraud, and reduces litigation drag.
• Safer drivers, lower severity. Real-time insights (hard braking, speeding, following distance) reduce crash frequency and trim liability exposure over time.  
• Operational accountability. To keep the discount, systems must be installed and operational at issuance/renewal, remain in continuous use, and be annually verified via a telematics summary report or affidavit.

What should fleets do now?

1. Confirm your pairing path. The law requires compatibility between the dash cam and telematics system for data verification. Many fleets can satisfy the “telematics” requirement through an existing ELD/GPS platform provided it collects/transmits the required driving data and can integrate/pair with the camera. Validate capabilities with your insurer and vendor.
2. Document early. Be ready to furnish proof of installation/operation (e.g., vendor certificate or telematics report). Missed documentation can forfeit the discount at renewal.
3. Align your renewal calendar. Because the discount attaches at issuance or renewal starting Jan 1, 2026, plan installs and integrations ahead of that date to capture savings for the full term.

Louisiana’s move validates what safety-focused fleets already know: video plus telematics pays for itself in avoided losses, quicker claim resolutions, and now mandated premium relief. If you operate in Louisiana and you’re running VideoProtects with an ELD and telematics platform, reach out to your insurance provider so you’re ready on January 1, 2026.