Louisiana drivers will face fines or even a jail term for going just 1 mph under the limit in the left lane. This will be the new rule after a law took effect on August 1, 2025, banning driving just 1 mph beyond the speed limit without a valid reason. Repeat offenders will face harsher fines or even a jail term.
What the Law Stipulates
The law, referred to as Act 24 (SB 11), aims to change highway driving behaviors by ensuring that drivers stay at or above the speed limit when they are in the left lane. It targets “left-lane campers” who block traffic by preventing other drivers from overtaking when they are going at a higher speed.
The new law requires drivers to use the left lane only when they are preparing to turn left, when overtaking another vehicle, or if it’s an emergency. Drivers found on the left lane without these two intentions, or if it’s not an emergency issue, will:
- Face $150 fine if it’s their first offense
- Face a $250 fine if it’s a second offense within 12 months.
- Face a $350 fine or up to 30 days in jail if it’s their third offense.
The new law is a major shift from the old rule, which only penalized drivers found driving 10 mph under the speed limit in the left lane.
Why Lawmakers Pushed the Change
Senator Jay Luneau, who sponsored the bill, said that he introduced it after he was blocked in traffic by slow drivers while commuting between Baton Rouge and Alexandria. Luneau told lawmakers that this was an issue that commuters encounter every week.
“Left-lane campers” force others to weave behind them, tailgate, or even overtake on the right, which is risky and can lead to accidents.
Those in support of the law say that it enhances safety, and therefore, it should not be seen as a punishment. The new law will ensure that traffic flows smoothly and reduce crashes.
Pushback from Critics
Some lawmakers are against the law, and they warn that it could be used as another reason to pull drivers over. Mike Bayham, R-Chalmette, said, “I don’t think we need a new reason to pull people over and give them traffic tickets.”
Critics argue that routine driving could now lead cautious drivers to face fines for minor behaviors.
Other Big Driving Changes in Louisiana
Besides this new law banning drivers from driving on the left lane 1 mph below the speed limit, here is a list of other driving laws that are in effect:
- Tougher insurance rules that could see uninsured drivers cover damages up to $100,000 in the event of a crash, even if it wasn’t their fault.
- Window tint limits have dropped from 45% to 25% light blockage. Those who skip inspections will pay fines ranging between $150 and $350.
- Hit-and-run offenders may face mandatory minimum jail time. This law aims to prevent drivers from fleeing the scene. It encourages drivers to help victims.
- It’s illegal to drive while holding a phone even if you are using it for navigation. Warnings will last until January 1, 2026, after which offenders will face fines of $100-$250.
How Louisiana Compares to Other States
Different states in the U.S. are taking different approaches to enhancing road safety. Some states are arresting left-lane campers, while others are raising highway speed limits and pairing them with tougher reckless-driving penalties.
These differences in driving laws are confusing drivers crossing state lines.
What Drivers Should Do Now
Drivers in Louisiana are supposed to do the following to be in adherence to the new left lane law:
- Use the left lane when passing or turning only.
- Return to the right lane ASAP as long as it’s safe
- Avoid going 1 mph under the limit in the left lane.
- Avoid repeat violations because you will pay more fines or even face jail time.
Conclusion
It is now clear that the left lane is for passing, for emergencies, or turning in Louisiana. Drivers caught driving 1 MPH Under limit in the left-lane law will face penalties starting $150 or even a possible jail time for repeat offenses. To avoid these penalties, move right and adhere to the speed limits.