Louisiana Safety Regulations

• Louisiana state law requires babies under one year of age and under 20 pounds to ride in a rear-facing car seat.
• Babies at least one year and 20 pounds up to at least 40 pounds must ride in a forward-facing car seat.
• Children ages four to six who weigh at least 40 pounds up to at least 60 pounds must ride in a belt-positioning booster car seat.
• Children over age 6 and 60 pounds, if they are not riding in a car seat, must use a lap/shoulder seat belt.
• Louisiana state law recommends that children who fall into more than one category by age and weight should be placed in the car seat that gives the most protection in a crash.

Though Louisiana does have a ban on open containers, there is an exception for frozen alcoholic beverages with lids on them. While you can’t drink it, or put a straw in it, you can order a 60-ounce Hurricane or Strawberry Daiquiri from a drive-through.

Regulations state that all passengers riding in an automobile must buckle up, and children must be secured in the appropriate child safety seat.
Consequences: A first time offense comes with a $25 fine, and repeat offenses incur a $50 fine.

• Text messaging banned for all drivers. Fines up to $175 (first offense) and then $500. Primary enforcement begins Aug. 15, 2010.
• Drivers under 18 years old may not use wireless devices — including cell phones, text-messaging units and computers — while operating motor vehicles. Primary offense as of Aug. 15.
• Drivers with learner’s and intermediate licenses prohibited from using cell phones unless a hands-free device is attached.

2010 legislation:
Louisiana Senate Bill 9: Upgrades the existing law prohibiting text messaging to primary enforcement status, meaning law officers can stop and cite violators solely for that offense. Also applies to ban on use of wireless telecommunications devices by youngest drivers. Fines would remain at $175 (first offense) and then up to $500. Insurance company notification of offenses. (Louisiana Act 203)