Traffic Enforcement Penalties
- 1/17Accumulating 12 points in 12 months results in
Louisiana law mandates suspension if 12+ points are recorded within 12 months.This threshold shows a pattern of dangerous driving and triggers automatic administrative action by the OMV Office of Motor Vehicle.
Typical license suspension length for 12 points in 12 months depends on
Could range from 30 days to one year based on previous violations.Habitual offenders may face longer suspensions, while first-time offenders might receive the minimum duration.
Driving with a suspended license may lead to
This is a misdemeanor, and may also result in vehicle impoundment. Convicted drivers may also be required to appear in court and pay reinstatement fees to recover their license.
Reckless driving in Louisiana is considered
It carries serious consequences including jail time and heavy fines. Reckless driving in Louisiana may result in up to 90 days in jail and fines up to $200 for a first offense.
Running a red light adds how many points?
This violation also increases your insurance premiums significantly. Red light violations are reported to insurance companies and can remain on your record for several years.
Failing to stop for a school bus results in
Especially severe if children are boarding or exiting the bus. The violation may lead to court appearances, increased fines, and temporary license suspension even on first offense.
Not having insurance during a traffic stop may lead to
You may receive a fine, lose your license, and have your car impounded. Proof of insurance must be shown to the OMV to avoid extended penalties or a hold on your vehicle registration.
Leaving the scene of an accident can lead to
May be charged as a felony if there is injury or property damage. Hit-and-run involving serious bodily harm can lead to years of imprisonment and felony conviction.
Driving without a valid driver’s license results in
Conviction may include fines, court appearance, or jail time. Unlicensed driving is a criminal offense, not a simple infraction, and may affect your ability to obtain a license later.
Speeding 15 mph over the limit adds
Speeding violations also put you at risk of license suspension. Accumulating too many speeding-related points over time may trigger enrollment in a driver improvement program.
Using a phone while driving in a school zone results in
Distracted driving in a school zone may also add demerit points. Using a handheld device in school zones is especially monitored during posted hours, increasing enforcement risk.
A driver becomes a habitual offender after
License may be revoked under Louisiana’s habitual offender laws. A revoked license requires re-application after the penalty period and passing all required tests again.
Not wearing a seatbelt while driving may result in
Officers may stop and fine you even if no other violation occurred. Not wearing a seatbelt is a primary offense in Louisiana, and no other cause is needed for the stop.
Violation that results in the most license points is
Includes criminal charges, high point penalties, and jail risk. Hit-and-run convictions may also carry civil liability if injuries or damages are involved
Louisiana’s Move Over Law requires action for
You must slow down or change lanes to protect roadside workers. Failure to comply with the Move Over Law can result in fines and even jail time if an injury occurs.
Littering from a vehicle in Louisiana results in
Littering is treated as both an environmental and traffic offense. Offenders may be assigned roadside cleanup duties and face enhanced fines for repeat violations.
Engaging in street racing can result in
Vehicles may also be seized by law enforcement on conviction. Street racing convictions can lead to license revocation and court-ordered driver education.