Louisiana Enacts Strict Under-Speeding Fines Rhodes Island Raises Wrong-Way Driving Penalties

Rhode Island has enacted a new law significantly increasing penalties for driving the wrong way on interstate highways and ramps, raising fines from $85 to up to $500 and adding license suspensions of up to six months. The legislation, supported by House Deputy Speaker Raymond A. Hull and Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Matthew L. LaMountain, aims to deter this dangerous behavior, which often leads to fatal head-on collisions. AAA Northeast and Rhode Island State Police have expressed strong support for the law, emphasizing the high risk and preventability of wrong-way crashes. Data indicates contributing factors include older age, driving alone, and alcohol use, with the state previously implementing wrong-way detection systems that have recorded numerous incidents. The penalties in Rhode Island are now among the highest in New England, exceeding fines in neighboring states, reflecting a commitment to road safety. Meanwhile, Louisiana is implementing a separate law targeting slow driving in the left lane to improve traffic flow, with fines up to $350 and potential jail time for repeat offenders.