Distracted Driving Law: From August 1, drivers in this US state face $100 fines for… Here's what law says, what is banned, exemptions, penalties
What the new Louisiana Distracted Driving Law Says?
Under the new law, Louisiana drivers will be fined if they are found using handheld devices while operating a vehicle. The base fine will be $100. If the offense takes place in a school zone or a construction area, the fine will increase to $250.
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Louisiana Distracted Driving Law: What Is Banned?
The law specifically prohibits writing, reading, or sending text-based communication. It also bans accessing or posting on social media. Even if drivers are using hands-free systems, texting or emailing is still not allowed.
However, the law does not prohibit all phone use. Drivers may still answer calls using hands-free devices like Apple Watches. They are also allowed to use their phones while waiting at a red light.
Louisiana Distracted Driving Law: What Exemptions are Included?
Certain individuals and situations are exempt from the law. Paramedics using radios and drivers reporting an accident are allowed to use devices. These exceptions ensure emergency and critical communication is not hindered.
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Louisiana Distracted Driving Law: When will Penalties Begin?
Although the law will take effect on August 1, 2025, Louisiana has announced a grace period. During this period, no fines will be issued. Enforcement will begin in January 2026, giving drivers time to adapt to the new rules.
Louisiana Distracted Driving Law: Why Was the Law Introduced?
According to the Louisiana Department of Insurance, over one-fourth of all car accidents involve cell phone use. This includes both handheld and hands-free devices. This data prompted the state to strengthen its distracted driving laws.
Governor Jeff Landry commented, 'Finally, this year we were able to pass a distracted driving bill.' He emphasized the law's role in reducing crashes.
Similar Laws in Other States
Louisiana is not alone in passing stricter distracted driving laws. Pennsylvania introduced the 'Paul Miller's Law' in June 2025. This law bans phone use even when drivers are stopped at red lights. It includes a grace period, and fines will start in June 2026. Iowa also enacted a hands-free law on July 1, 2025. Fines will begin in January 2026 and start at $100.
Alaska once had one of the nation's harshest penalties for texting and driving. Fines went up to $10,000. However, enforcing the law was difficult, so penalties were reduced.
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What Other Behaviors Cause Distractions?
Distracted driving includes more than just phone use. Other common distractions are:
Adjusting radio or GPS settings
Applying makeup
Eating and drinking
Reaching into the backseat
Searching glove compartments or purses
These actions take attention away from the road and hands off the wheel, increasing accident risks.
How Drivers Can Prevent Distractions?
To avoid distractions, drivers can:
Enable 'Do Not Disturb' or 'Driving Mode' on phones
Place phones in glove boxes or the back seat
Park before responding to texts or calls
Allow passengers to handle communications
Demonstrate safe driving to others
These actions help reduce accidents and promote safer roads.
FAQs
What does Louisiana's distracted driving law ban?
It bans texting, emailing, and using social media while driving, even with hands-free systems. Calls are allowed only through hands-free devices.
When will Louisiana start issuing fines?
Although the law starts on August 1, 2025, fines will not be enforced until January 2026 due to a grace period.
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