Cycling safety in Louisiana

Crash data

35 cyclist fatalities in 2023 · about 749 cyclist injuries.

In 2023, 35 pedalcyclists (bicyclists) were killed in traffic crashes in Louisiana. This figure is confirmed by two independent official sources: NHTSA's FARS-based 'State Traffic Data: 2023 Data' fact sheet (DOT HS 813 743, Table 7), which lists 35 pedalcyclist fatalities out of 811 total Louisiana traffic deaths (4%), and the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission, which reports 35 bicycle fatalities for 2023. Statewide bicycle injuries of 749 come from the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission (LHSC) bicycle/pedestrian safety page for 2023; NHTSA's national fact sheet does not break out a state-level injury count, so the injury figure is sourced to the state agency. LHSC also notes roughly 17% of bicycle fatalities were alcohol-related. 2023 is the latest finalized FARS Annual Report File year available as of this research.

Official reports & data:

Cycling rules in Louisiana

Helmets: Riders under age 12 (operators and passengers) must wear a properly fastened bicycle helmet. There is no statewide helmet requirement for adults. Note: for e-bikes, all Class 3 operators and passengers must wear a helmet regardless of age. (source)
Passing distance: A driver overtaking a bicyclist going the same direction must exercise due care and leave a safe distance of not less than three (3) feet, maintaining that clearance until safely past. (source)
Sidewalk riding: State law neither expressly permits nor prohibits sidewalk riding — it is governed by local ordinance, so rules vary by city. Example: New Orleans prohibits sidewalk riding for anyone 15 or older. Check the local ordinance where you ride. (source)
E-bikes (3-class system): Louisiana has adopted the standard 3-class e-bike system (electric-assist bicycles under 750W with operable pedals). Class 1 = pedal-assist up to 20 mph; Class 2 = throttle-assist up to 20 mph; Class 3 = pedal-assist up to 28 mph. E-bikes meeting the definition are treated as bicycles (no registration, plate, or driver's license). No one under 12 may operate a Class 3, and all Class 3 riders/passengers must wear a helmet. (source)
Lights & reflectors at night: When riding at night, a bicycle must have a white front headlight and a red rear light, each visible from at least 500 feet. A rear reflector is also required. (source)
Direction of travel / where to ride: Bicyclists must ride with the flow of traffic (same direction as vehicles) and keep as close as practicable and safe to the right side of the roadway, except when passing, preparing to turn left, avoiding hazards, or when the lane is too narrow to share. Riding no more than two abreast is allowed if it does not impede traffic. (source)
Stop signs & signals (no stop-as-yield): Louisiana has NOT adopted stop-as-yield / the 'Idaho stop'. Bicyclists must come to a full and complete stop at all stop signs and red lights and otherwise obey the same traffic laws as motor vehicles, including signaling turns and stops. (source)
DUI on a bicycle: Louisiana's DWI/DUI statute applies to motor vehicles, so it generally does not cover a standard (non-motorized) bicycle; however, an intoxicated cyclist can still face charges such as public intoxication. Riding impaired remains dangerous and is discouraged. (source)

Cities and counties often add their own rules (for example, where you can ride on sidewalks or boardwalks). Check the local ordinance for the specific town you're visiting.

Resources

Bike-friendly destinations in Louisiana

Ride these with the rules above in mind:

In an emergency in the U.S., call 911. Read our general bike safety guide →