Texting and driving is a primary offense in Louisiana
that carries a hefty minimum fine of $500 for adult drivers’ first offense and increased fines and license suspension for subsequent violations. These already high fines double if the violation results in a collision. Get rewarded for safe driving. Earn points and unlock benefits. Totally free.
Start earning nowWhat are the texting and driving laws in Louisiana?
Texting while driving is a primary offense in Louisiana. This means an officer can pull you over and give you a ticket just for using a handheld device—even if you’re not committing any other moving violations.
Texting and driving is only one part of what’s covered under Louisiana’s distracted driving law, though. Currently, Louisiana prohibits all of the following while driving:
Reading, writing, or sending text messages
The use of any social media
Use of any and all wireless devices, even hands-free, by drivers under the age of 16
Use of cell phones by drivers under 18, drivers with learner’s permits, and new drivers of any age for one year after receiving their license
Use of cell phones and/or portable electronic devices in active school zones
What are the penalties for texting and driving in Louisiana?
Louisiana has some of the steepest penalties for texting and driving in the country. They change depending on the driver’s age, the number of times the driver has committed the offense, and whether the violation results in a collision.
Here’s how it all breaks down:
| | | |
---|
| | $500 ($1,000 if offense results in a collision) | |
| 2nd and subsequent offenses | $1,000 ($2,000 if offense results in a collision) | 60-day license suspension |
| | $250 ($500 if offense results in a collision) | |
| 2nd and subsequent offenses | $500 ($1,000 if offense results in a collision) | 60-day license suspension |
In addition to the already-high fines listed above, offenders will also be responsible for all court costs and administrative fees associated with their violation of Louisiana’s distracted driving law.
Are there exceptions to Louisiana’s texting and driving law?
Yes. Louisiana allows drivers to use GPS and other navigation systems, and to use handheld phones in their vehicle if they are:
Getting help when their personal safety is at risk
Reporting emergency information or criminal activity to the police
Using a cell phone as part of their job while operating an emergency vehicle
Unlike many other states, Louisiana does not allow drivers to check texts while stopped at a stop sign or red light. Researchers have found that checking their phones can leave drivers distracted for up to 30 seconds after putting the phone down, so even a quick check, when you stop at a sign or light, is still a distraction.
If you need to check or send a text while driving in Louisiana, pull over and legally park your car first.
Are there special rules about texting and driving for young drivers?
Yes. Fines are lower in Louisiana for young drivers who violate distracted driving laws. That said, Louisiana includes additional restrictions on the use of cell phones and other handheld devices for drivers under 18.
Key Takeaway Texting while driving in Louisiana is illegal, but you can still use your phone for a few essential functions, such as checking GPS or emergency alerts.
Can texting and driving raise my insurance premium?
Not only are the fines for texting and driving in Louisiana high, but getting a ticket for distracted driving can also cause your car insurance
premiums to go up. While Louisiana is among only a few states that don’t apply points to your license in the event of a distracted driving violation, your insurance provider will be notified of each offense. Your driving record and your insurance company’s policies will then determine how much your rates will increase.
On average, the annual rate in Louisiana for a driver with a clean record is $2,001. After receiving a single ticket for texting and driving, that rate increases to $2,243.
Keep your insurance rates low and put your phone away while you’re behind the wheel. Not only will this help you maintain a clean record (which can earn you a safe driver discount
with your insurance company)—it’ll also keep you, your passengers, and other drivers safer on the road. “When using Jerry
, I was impressed at how their representative took care of my situation. He was so knowledgeable about my state’s insurance laws!” —Rabi B.
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