Louisiana – Motorists traveling on the Atchafalaya Basin Bridge will now be alerted to their speed through “your speed” feedback signs, a new safety measure aimed at reducing the number of fatal and injury crashes on the bridge. Additionally, the speed limit has been standardized to 60 miles per hour for all vehicles, replacing the previous 55 mph limit for trucks and 60 mph for cars.
The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) has implemented these changes to minimize speed differentials, a leading cause of crashes on the bridge. The bridge’s narrow shoulders leave little room for error, making it crucial for vehicles to maintain a consistent speed.
Trucks will still be restricted to the right lane only, a measure aimed at reducing congestion and promoting safer driving practices. To ensure compliance, Louisiana State Police and local law enforcement will continue to issue citations to violators.
The DOTD will closely monitor speed, crash, and incident-related data to assess the effectiveness of the new speed limit and feedback signs. This data-driven approach will help identify areas for improvement and inform future safety initiatives.
The Atchafalaya Basin Bridge is a critical transportation artery, and the new safety measures are designed to reduce the frequency and severity of crashes, which often result in lengthy closures and disrupt traffic flow.
By taking a proactive approach to road safety, the DOTD aims to create a safer driving environment for all motorists, reducing the risk of crashes and incidents, and ultimately saving lives.