Important Update for Louisiana Drivers – New Laws Effective in 2026

These changes could impact your wallet, your license, and your legal rights after an accident. Here’s what you need to know:

Hands-Free Phone Law

Drivers may no longer hold or manually use a phone while driving. This includes:

• Texting or social media

• Scrolling maps or apps

Phones must be completely hands-free.

Enforcement Update:

• Fines up to $100

• Up to $250 in school or construction zones

Left Lane = Passing Lane

The left lane is now strictly for passing.

• Driving even 1 mph under the speed limit in the left lane can result in a stop unless you are actively passing.

Penalties:

• Fines start at $150

• Repeat violations can reach $350 or even jail time

Major Insurance Law Expansion – “No Pay, No Play”

This is the most financially serious change.

If you are driving without insurance and are involved in a crash:

• Even if the accident is not your fault

• You may be blocked from collecting up to $100,000 in damages

Why this matters:

The law is designed to remove uninsured drivers from the road—but ignoring it could cost you dearly.

Have questions or concerns about how these new laws affect you?

The team at Sam Jenkins Law Office is here to keep you informed.

Stay safe. Stay informed. Stay covered.

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