Winnsboro, Louisiana Speed Traps

LA Hwy 15 is a four lane highway with a median. The posted speed limit is 65mph as you approach the intersection of Hwy 15 and LA Hwy 857 there is a caution light. Approximately 2000 feet on either side of this intersection the speed limit drops to 50mph with no warning other than a single sign. The Chief of Police usually sit behind a building, in plain looking sedan with no lights visible on top, shooting radar. I received a ticket for traveling 61 in a 50mph zone which I believed to be a 55mph. I found out I was incorrect. The reason I feel that Baskin, LA is a speed trap is that the speed limit drops 15mph in a very short distance which is approximately 1/4 of a mile.

For twenty years, this town never had a speed trap. The police were very easygoing and lenient. You had to be driving extremely carelessly for them to give you a second glance. Not true since a new Chief was elected. A good man, don’t get me wrong. But he is very strict and has actually managed to get speed limits changed without the public knowing until they are caught going 45 in a 35 that used to be a 45. I have listed the most obvious trap, but I would be careful anywhere within a mile or so of the city limits.