If you spend a lot of time on the road, you might wonder where drivers are most likely to get pulled over. Traffic stops vary significantly depending on the state you are driving in, influenced by law enforcement practices and local regulations. Knowing which states have a higher chance of traffic stops can help you stay more aware and prepared.

Understanding where you might be stopped more often can help you drive smarter and avoid unexpected encounters with police. This article highlights eight states where drivers faced the highest likelihood of being pulled over in 2025, giving you valuable insight into traffic enforcement trends across the country.

Texas – Known for strict highway patrol and frequent traffic stops

When you drive in Texas, be ready for a lot of highway patrol activity. The Texas Highway Patrol focuses heavily on traffic enforcement and public safety.

They don’t just enforce speed limits; they respond to emergencies and manage commercial vehicle regulations. This means you’re likely to encounter patrols on many highways.

Knowing common reasons for stops can help you avoid them and keep your drive smooth. Staying alert and following rules is key when you’re on Texas roads. Learn more about how the Texas Highway Patrol operates here.

California – High volume of state police stops, especially on freeways

When you’re driving in California, especially on freeways, you’re more likely to encounter state police than city officers. State police handle over 80% of traffic stops in the state, so expect to see them patrolling highways frequently.

In 2023, officers stopped over 4.5 million drivers across California. Black drivers were over twice as likely to be pulled over compared to white drivers, highlighting ongoing racial disparities. You might find it helpful to understand these patterns when planning your trips.

For more details, check out California’s 2023 police stop data.

Florida – Aggressive patrol policies on highways and tourist areas

When you’re driving in Florida, expect strict patrols, especially on highways and near popular tourist spots. The Florida Highway Patrol keeps a close eye on speeders and aggressive drivers to keep everyone safer.

Tourist traffic means crowded roads, so patience is key. You might see extra troopers around busy areas, working hard to catch aggressive behaviors and speeding. Staying alert and following speed limits helps you avoid getting pulled over during these intense patrols. For more details on Florida’s patrol efforts, check out this Operation Southern Slow Down update.

New York – City and state police closely monitor speeding and infractions

In New York, both city and state police work hard to keep roads safe by closely monitoring speeding and other traffic violations. You’ll find speed cameras in many places, especially near work zones and busy intersections, to catch drivers who push the limits.

These cameras have helped reduce speeding by a large margin, making your drive safer. Plus, during special enforcement periods like Speed Week, you might notice increased patrols focused on catching aggressive and speeding drivers. Staying alert and following speed limits is the best way to avoid getting pulled over.

Learn more about New York’s efforts here.

Georgia – High citation rates during traffic stops statewide

If you’re driving in Georgia, be prepared for a higher chance of getting pulled over. The state has steady citation rates during traffic stops across many areas.

Traffic violations here can lead to costly fines or even license suspension. Common reasons include speeding, seat belt infractions, and other moving violations.

Knowing the local traffic laws can help you avoid trouble. For detailed information on Georgia traffic violations, you can visit the Georgia Governor’s Office of Highway Safety.

Arizona – Strict enforcement on speeding and DUIs

In Arizona, you need to be especially careful about speeding. Driving over 80 mph or exceeding the speed limit by 20 mph can lead to serious charges, even without other reckless behavior. The state takes speeding seriously to keep everyone safe.

DUI laws are also strict. If you’re stopped for suspicion of DUI, you automatically consent to a blood alcohol test. Penalties can be harsh, reflecting Arizona’s commitment to cracking down on impaired driving.

Knowing these rules helps you avoid trouble and enjoy safer travels. For more on Arizona’s strict traffic laws, check this detailed overview.

Nevada – Popular for patrol stops on desert highways

When driving through Nevada, especially on remote highways like US Route 50, expect frequent patrol stops. Officers keep a close watch as many travelers stop illegally for photos or breaks.

The long stretches of desert may seem quiet, but law enforcement stays active to ensure safety. If you’re pulled over, it’s often for speeding or stopping in restricted areas.

Staying aware of posted signs and traffic laws can help you avoid tickets on Nevada’s highways. For more details on why stops happen, check out this article on Nevada desert road photo tickets.

Louisiana – Notorious for tough patrol and frequent ticketing

If you’re driving in Louisiana, be ready for strict traffic enforcement. Many highways have sudden speed limit drops, which can catch you off guard.

Some towns rely heavily on traffic fines, so patrols are often hidden. Even cautious drivers can end up with tickets.

Knowing where these speed traps are can save you from fines and stress on the road. Paying attention to changing speed limits is key when roaming Louisiana. For more details, see the list of worst speed traps in Louisiana.