LOUISIANA— A proposed Louisiana law could soon impose harsher penalties on drivers who clog the left lane by traveling under the speed limit, aiming to improve traffic flow and safety on the state’s highways.
Senate Bill 11, introduced by State Sen. Jay Luneau (D-Alexandria), seeks to increase fines for left-lane slow drivers and eliminate an enforcement loophole that has made ticketing difficult for state troopers. The bill will be debated during the legislative session starting April 14.
If enacted, SB 11 would:
• Raise the fine from $100 to $150 for a first offense.
• Increase the penalty to $250 for a second offense within 12 months.
• Impose a $350 fine and up to 30 days in jail for a third offense within a year.
The bill also removes the existing requirement that a driver must be at least 10 mph under the speed limit to be cited. Instead, any driver traveling below the posted speed in the left lane of a multilane highway would be in violation.
Luneau said the change is based on discussions with Louisiana State Police, who noted that the current law is difficult to enforce because troopers must confirm a 10-mph difference between two vehicles before issuing a ticket.
He added that left-lane hogs contribute to traffic congestion and accidents, particularly frustrating commercial drivers who rely on steady highway speeds.
“This issue causes accidents and delays, making it harder for drivers to reach their destinations,” Luneau said.
If passed, the stricter penalties could make Louisiana highways smoother and safer by encouraging drivers to keep the left lane clear for passing.
