Regardless of a posted speed limited in Jefferson Parish, drivers are required to slow their speeds based on attending circumstances. For example, if a driver sees an accident occur ahead in the right lane of a two-lane road, he has a duty to drive safely to prevent another accident. This may require him to move to the left lane and pass the accident slowly since those involved in the recent accident may exit their vehicles into the left lane. Jefferson Parish Code of Ordinances, Section 36-48 states:
No person shall drive a vehicle on the streets within this parish at a speed greater than is reasonable and prudent under the conditions and potential hazards then existing, having due regard for the traffic on, and the surface and width of, the highway, and the condition of the weather, and in no event at a speed in excess of the maximum speeds established by this chapter.
If a driver fails to slow his speed under the posted speed limited when circumstances warrant, he may be ticketed for careless operation if he causes an additional accident. However, a driver can also be ticketed for driving too slowly. Jefferson Parish Code of Ordinances, Section 36-49 states:
Except when a special hazard exists that requires lower speed for compliance with section 36-47, no person shall operate or drive a motor vehicle upon the streets of this parish at such a slow speed as to impede the normal and reasonable movement of traffic.
For example, a driver cannot driver 15 miles under the speed limit without reason. Doing so creates a hazard because there are no circumstances warranting slow speed. The slow moving driver becomes the hazard and makes himself susceptible to being ticketed.
This above ordinances govern all cities and towns in Jefferson Parish including, Avondale, Barataria, Bridge City, Crown Point, Grand Isle, Gretna, Harvey, Harahan, Jefferson, Kenner, Lafitte, Marrero, Metairie, New Orleans (70121, 70123), Nine Mile Point, River Ridge, Terrytown, Village of Jean Lafitte, Waggaman, and Westwego.
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