Some states take speeding really, really seriously. But what about those inconsiderate left-lane hogs driving at speeds below the posted speed limit? Well, one state has had enough and promises to fine passing-lane slowpokes hundreds every time they drop below the speed limit by one mph in the left lane. For repeat offenses, there might even be jail time. 

We’re mere days away from a new speeding law that targets not speed, but slowpokes who hog the left lane

In a few days, Louisiana will begin enforcing its latest speeding law. Not a law focused on curbing the actions of “super speeders,” but rather a tool to punish those notorious left-lane hogs.

According to the new law, police can pull drivers over for going even one mph under the posted speed limit. Not in every lane, though. The law intends to force slow-movers out of the left lane to free up the lane for its purpose: passing. 

Repeat offenders could end up in jail

You read that right. Driving one mph under the posted limit in the left lane repeatedly could land you behind bars.

Of course, you’re unlikely to end up spending the night in jail for a first offense. That is, unless a person is sticking out of your trunk when the police pull you over.

No, first offenders can expect a $150 fine for holding up traffic in Louisiana’s left lanes. But follow-on troublemakers will receive higher fines, often rising to $350. But Louisiana authorities are quick to remind motorists that the criminally insistent slowpokes may find themselves behind bars. 

The speeding law goes into effect in Louisiana on August 1, 2025, but other states could follow suit

According to WAFB 9, the new law goes into effect on the first day of August. For now, the law impacts drivers in Louisiana exclusively, but other states may follow suit. 

That said, other states have recently turned to more dramatic consequences for speeding violations. Florida, for instance, recently instituted a “super speeder” law with the intent of bringing criminal charges against motorists who exceed the speed limit by 50 mph or travel above 100 mph.

It’s not outside the realm of possibility that other states will follow the Louisiana and Florida laws in an attempt to punish poor driving.