Louisiana drivers beware: Some of the state’s highways are notorious for speed traps, and getting caught off guard could leave you with a hefty fine.

From sudden speed drops on rural roads to hidden patrols on major highways, these traps are set up to catch even the most cautious drivers. Many of the towns on this list rely heavily on traffic fines to fund their operations—making them hotspots for aggressive speed enforcement.

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If you're traveling through Natchitoches, Jefferson Davis, or St. Martin Parishes, you’ll need to stay alert. Speed drops can come out of nowhere, and officers are known to use clever hiding spots like tree cover or overpasses to monitor traffic.

One small town in particular is infamous for reducing speed limits just before you enter its limits, leaving you little time to react. Another municipality positions officers near a major casino, hoping to catch visitors as they relax their guard.

There’s also a stretch along I-10 where patrols are especially heavy on bridges, and officers ramp up enforcement during peak travel times. But perhaps the most notorious locations are along US-165—a road lined with traps where multiple towns lie in wait.

There are a lot of places around the state where these kinds of things happen. In fact, one news outlet all but says Louisiana is the best when it comes to speed traps.

Whether you’re driving across the state or just passing through, understanding where these traps are can save you from an unexpected ticket. Want to know which towns made the list? Click here to find out which roads and routes to avoid—and how to keep your trip fine-free.

Louisiana’s Worst Speed Traps

Driving through Louisiana? You might want to hit the brakes—fast. Several towns across the state are notorious for sudden speed drops and aggressive ticketing practices. These speed traps aren’t just about keeping roads safe; many small municipalities depend on traffic fines to fund their budgets. From hidden patrol cars to sharp speed limit changes, here are Louisiana’s worst speed traps and tips to help you avoid an unwanted ticket.

Gallery Credit: Joe Cunningham

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