Driving in Mississippi, like any other state, comes with a set of rules and regulations that are designed to keep roads safe for everyone. Whether you’re a resident or just passing through, here’s a list of Mississippi traffic laws that every driver should be familiar with:
Seat Belts and Child Restraints
– Seat Belts: All front-seat passengers are required to wear seat belts in Mississippi. The driver is responsible for ensuring that all passengers under the age of 16 are buckled up, regardless of their seating position in the vehicle.
– Child Restraints: Children under the age of 4 must be in a child safety seat, while those aged 4 to 7 and under 65 pounds should be in a booster seat.
Distracted Driving – Texting and Driving: It’s illegal for drivers to write, send, or read text messages, emails, or access social media while driving. This law applies even if the vehicle is stationary at a traffic signal.
DUI Laws – Mississippi has stringent DUI laws. The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.08% for regular drivers and 0.04% for commercial drivers. For those under 21, any detectable amount of alcohol can result in DUI charges.
Mississippi’s Move Over Law – If there’s an emergency vehicle with flashing lights on the side of the road, drivers are required to move over one lane. If it’s not possible to change lanes safely, drivers should slow down.
Motorcycle Helmet Law – Every motorcycle and motor scooter operator and passenger is required to wear a helmet.
Right on Red – After coming to a complete stop, drivers in Mississippi are permitted to make a right turn at a red light unless a sign indicates otherwise.
Open Container Law – It’s illegal to have an open container of alcohol in the vehicle, even if you aren’t drinking. This law applies to drivers and passengers alike.
Speed Limits – While speed limits can vary depending on the area and road conditions, the typical limits are:
– 70 mph for interstates
– 65 mph for four-lane highways outside of cities
– 55 mph for other state highways and county roads
– Lower limits are often set for urban areas, school zones, and construction zones. Always adhere to posted speed limits.
Headlights – Drivers are required to use headlights from half an hour after sunset to half an hour before sunrise. Headlights should also be used during unfavorable weather conditions where visibility is compromised.
Passing School Buses – It’s illegal to pass a school bus that’s stopped to load or unload children. This applies to vehicles traveling in both directions unless there’s a divided highway.
While this list provides a general overview of some important traffic laws in Mississippi, it’s by no means exhaustive. It’s crucial for drivers to familiarize themselves with the state’s complete set of rules and regulations, and when in doubt, always opt for the safer driving choice. Keeping updated on Mississippi’s traffic laws not only ensures a smoother drive but also helps in avoiding potential legal complications.
If you have more questions or need expert assistance, consider reaching out to our experienced Mississippi car accident lawyer who can provide guidance tailored to your specific situation.
Don’t hesitate to call us today at (601) 969-2709 to receive your free consultation. We will evaluate your case and determine the best course of action to help you recover from your injuries and get your life back on track. We understand how difficult it can be to deal with the aftermath of an accident in Mississippi, and we are here to help. Call us today to speak with Attorney Bill Kellum and take the first step towards justice.
Kellum Law Firm, P.C.
1438 North State St.
Jackson, MS 39202
(601) 969-2709
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Kellum Law Firm, P.C.
617 Market St.
Port Gibson, MS 39150
(601) 590-9000
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