What absolute speed limit laws are in effect in Louisiana to prevent accidents?

Baton Rouge, LA – Ensuring that drivers travel at a reasonable speed is one of the most important ways for any government to keep people safe on the roads. However, there also needs to be considerations related to the flow of traffic and avoiding congestion. Louisiana has adopted speeding laws that tend to vary based on the type of roads in question, along with other conditions. If a driver is traveling faster than the absolute speed limit, they may be stopped by the police and receive a citation. If the driver causes an accident while speeding, they may possibly be sued and evidence of speeding will be used to help prove negligence. 

State laws for speeding

The Louisiana Department of Transportation has stated that the following absolute speed limits apply throughout the state unless otherwise posted. A limit of seventy miles per hour on interstate highways, sixty five miles per hour on divided lane highways with multiple lanes, and fifty five miles per hour on many other roads. Areas that are zoned for residential use, schools, construction, and businesses are generally subject to much lower speed limits. Absolute speed limits are shown by a standard black and white sign, but there are also yellow advisory speed limit signs near curves and other obstacles.  

In addition to these limits, the state also routinely uses data related to traffic, accident history, and construction to determine when speed limits need to be modified. The state has found that drivers who proceed while staying at or close to the speed limit tend to be much less likely to be involved in an accident than those going too fast or too slow. 

Suing a speeding driver

Anyone who was struck by a speeding driver should remain at the scene and contact the police. They will begin their accident investigation, and they may issue citations to the driver who was speeding. Both the report and the ticket can be used against the driver in a civil lawsuit. If the driver is found to be at fault, they will have to pay for medical treatment, lost wages, and other losses caused by their speeding and negligent driving. Legal advice is recommended for anyone who believes that their injuries were caused by a careless driver. 

Assistance from local attorneys in Louisiana

Miller, Hampton, and Hilgendorf is a firm that helps people who have been involved in accidents in the Baton Rouge area. Their attorneys can provide advice about the process of filing a civil injury case against the party responsible for any losses. 

Firm contact info:

Miller, Hampton, and Hilgendorf

3960 Government St., Baton Rouge, LA 70806

225-343-2205

www.mlhlaw.com