Updated October 2, 2026.
Louisiana law permits jail as a possible penalty for some traffic offenses, including violations covered by the general traffic-penalty statute. That does not mean every speeding citation results in jail. The charged law, prior violations, circumstances, and court’s decision matter.
Let us handle your Louisiana traffic ticket. Send us your ticket for review. Our attorneys assess the charge, explain the available options, and handle the court work covered by your representation. We work to protect your driving record and save you time.
What the general penalty statute provides
Unless a more specific provision applies, R.S. 32:57(A)(1) permits a fine of up to $175, up to 30 days in jail, or both for a first violation covered by that provision. It permits up to $500, up to 90 days, or both for a subsequent violation. These are statutory penalties, not a complete quote for the total due on any ticket.
Court costs and applicable assessments can add to a fine. The cited charge may also carry a different penalty. Check the court’s current instructions and the statute or ordinance on your citation before deciding how to respond.
Special zones can change the penalty
R.S. 32:57 has separate provisions for qualifying construction or utility work zones with workers present and designated highway safety corridors. Those provisions were amended in 2025. It would be inaccurate to apply the general $175 figure to every speeding case without checking the location and charge.
School-zone allegations can also affect the procedure for resolving a citation. Read the notice and get the court’s instructions about whether an appearance is required. A payment amount found for a different city or parish is not an answer for your case.
Speeding and reckless operation are different charges
R.S. 14:99 defines reckless operation using criminal negligence or recklessness in operating a vehicle. Its penalties differ from the general traffic-penalty provision. The circumstances of the driving matter; a rule that every driver 15 mph over is automatically guilty of reckless operation misstates the statute.
Our speeding versus reckless-driving guide explains that distinction. If your citation includes reckless operation, an accident, impairment, or another charge, get advice on the complete case.
Arrest and a jail sentence are different events
A possible sentence after conviction is different from what happens during a traffic stop. A warrant, a separate suspected offense, or other circumstances can affect whether an officer makes an arrest. A blog post cannot determine that outcome from the alleged speed alone.
A missed required hearing creates another issue. Our missed-court guide explains the stakes. Send us the citation and notices promptly so we can review the current orders and available response.
What to do after receiving the citation
- Send us the citation and court date.
- Include available photographs, video, and a factual account of the stop.
- Tell us about prior cases and license notices.
- Our attorneys review the charge, potential penalties, evidence, and required court work.
R.S. 32:64 requires a reasonable speed for the conditions as well as compliance with applicable maximum limits. There is no blanket five-mph allowance that makes speeding lawful. Any challenge to the measurement, identification, or other evidence should be based on the facts of your case.
Let us handle your ticket
Send us your ticket or call (225) 327-1722 to get started. Include the court date and any notices you have received. Our team will explain the next step and the fee for handling your matter. You can also contact us here.