Louisiana - As Louisiana students head back to school, state authorities are urging drivers to prioritize safety in and around school zones, near school buses, and whenever children are being transported. The Louisiana State Police stress that vigilance and strict adherence to traffic laws are crucial for the wellbeing of children and the community during this busy time.

School Zone Safety Rules Tighten as Students Return

With the increase in morning and afternoon traffic, drivers are reminded to stay alert and obey all posted signs, signals, and especially instructions from school crossing guards. Under Louisiana law, crossing guards have full authority to direct traffic within marked school zones, and drivers must comply with their directions. Speed limits are strictly enforced in school zones because young pedestrians may act unpredictably, particularly during drop-off and pick-up hours, which see the highest pedestrian and vehicle activity.

Updated Distracted Driving Law: Hands-Free Only

A major update for the 2025-2026 school year is Louisiana’s strict hands-free law, implemented statewide as of August 1, 2025. The law now prohibits any driver—regardless of age—from using a handheld cell phone for calls, texting, or accessing social media while driving on any public roadway. Breaking this law risks fines and penalties, but more importantly, it increases the risk of a crash. Authorities advise motorists to eliminate distractions and use hands-free technology to keep attention solely on the road and on students walking or biking nearby.

Essential School Bus Safety Practices

Rules for stopping for school buses remain unchanged and are rigorously enforced. When a school bus activates its red lights and extends its stop arm, all drivers—on both sides of the road—must stop no closer than 30 feet from the bus and stay put until the bus moves again and its lights are off.

Proper Child Passenger Restraints Required

Louisiana law also requires that children under 13 ride in the back seat whenever possible. For proper safety:

• Children should be kept in rear-facing car seats until at least age two, or until they outgrow the height or weight limit of their seat.
• Forward-facing seats with internal harnesses must be used for as long as a child fits in them, usually up to 65 pounds.

For those uncertain about correctly installing car seats, certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians are available at no charge through local Louisiana State Police Troop offices.

As the school year begins, authorities across Louisiana encourage all residents—drivers, parents, and students alike—to work together for safer roads and campuses.