Driving in Louisiana comes with strict rules, and traffic violations can lead to serious consequences. Whether you live in New Orleans or are just passing through, it’s important to know what you should know about traffic violations in Louisiana to keep your record clean and avoid fines or license suspensions.
Common Types of Traffic Violations
Drivers in Louisiana can be ticketed for a variety of offenses. The most common include:
- Speeding: Exceeding posted limits or driving too fast for conditions
- Running red lights or stop signs: Failing to come to a complete stop
- Reckless driving: Operating a vehicle with willful disregard for safety
- Failure to yield: Not allowing the right of way to other drivers or pedestrians
- Driving without a valid license or insurance: Operating without legal documentation
- Improper lane changes: Moving lanes without signaling or checking blind spots
- Following too closely: Tailgating other vehicles unsafely
These violations can happen to anyone, especially in busy city traffic or during stressful commutes. Even minor infractions can lead to long-term consequences on your driving record and wallet.
How Traffic Violations Affect Your Record
In Louisiana, traffic violations result in points being added to your driving record.
Accumulating too many points can lead to:
- Increased insurance premiums
- License suspension or revocation
- Court-ordered defensive driving courses
Each violation carries a set number of points. For example, speeding can add 1–2 points, while reckless driving can add more, depending on severity. Insurance companies often review your driving history when determining rates, and multiple points can cause premiums to rise significantly.
Penalties and Fines
The fines for traffic tickets in Louisiana vary by parish and violation type. For example:
- Minor speeding (under 10 mph over the limit): $50–$150
- Major speeding (over 20 mph over the limit): $200+
- Running a red light: Around $150–$250
- Driving without insurance: $500 or more, plus possible vehicle impoundment
In addition to fines, you may face court costs, license suspensions, or mandatory driving courses. Unpaid tickets can also result in warrants being issued for your arrest. Some violations, such as reckless driving, may carry jail time if severe enough to be charged as a misdemeanor.
Additional Consequences of Traffic Violations
Traffic violations can impact your life in other ways beyond fines and points.
Before paying your ticket:
- Understand that it may affect your ability to get certain jobs, such as commercial driving positions
- Realize that multiple moving violations can lead to being labeled a high-risk driver
- Know that accumulating points too quickly could lead to automatic suspension of your driver’s license
After paying your ticket:
- Check with your insurance company to see if your premium will increase
- Consider attending a defensive driving course to reduce points, if eligible
- Keep records of payments and court documents for future reference
Being proactive about violations can reduce long-term costs and protect your driving privileges.
Options After Receiving a Ticket
If you receive a traffic ticket in Louisiana, you generally have three options:
- Pay the fine: This is an admission of guilt and will add points to your record
- Request a court hearing: Contest the ticket in front of a judge if you believe you weren’t at fault
- Attend traffic school: In some cases, completing an approved course can dismiss the ticket or reduce points
When deciding:
- Pay close attention to the deadlines listed on your citation
- Gather any evidence or documentation if contesting
- Contact the court or your attorney for guidance on the process
Ignoring a ticket can lead to license suspension, higher fines, and additional legal trouble. Always respond promptly to avoid these penalties.
Can Traffic Violations Be Dismissed?
Some violations may be dismissed under certain conditions. For example:
- Attending traffic school (if eligible)
- Proving you had valid insurance or a license at the time of the ticket
- Demonstrating faulty ticketing equipment (radar guns or cameras)
- Reaching a plea agreement in court
However, dismissal isn’t guaranteed and often depends on the judge and the circumstances of your violation. Consulting with an attorney can help you understand your options if you’re facing a serious violation or potential license suspension.
What You Should Know About Traffic Violations in Louisiana Before You Drive
Understanding what you should know about traffic violations in Louisiana can help you avoid costly mistakes. Drive within speed limits, obey signs and signals, and stay alert to other drivers.
If you do get a ticket, address it promptly to keep your driving record clean and maintain your insurance rates. Safe driving protects not only you but everyone sharing the road, and staying informed is the best way to avoid unnecessary legal and financial problems
Contact a New Orleans, LA Car Accident Lawyer from Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers for Help Today
For more information, please contact Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation with a car accident lawyer in New Orleans, LA today. We have three convenient locations in Louisiana, including Baton Rouge, New Orleans, and Lafayette.
We proudly serve East Baton Rouge Parish, Lafayette Parish, Orleans Parish, and its 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
318 Harrison Avenue Suite 107
New Orleans, Louisiana, 70802
(504) 294-3804
Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers – Lafayette Office
1318 Camellia Boulevard Suite 206
Lafayette, Louisiana, 70508
(337) 473-2991