Increased Pedestrian and Cyclist Traffic: Navigating Mississippi Roads Safely in Warmer Weather

As the temperatures rise across Mississippi, so do the number of pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers on the road. While everyone has a right to be on the road, more people can mean an increased risk of accidents, injuries, and deaths. To avoid serious accidents and ensure the safety of yourself and others, make sure you understand the rules of the road and know what to do if you’ve been involved in an accident. 

Pedestrian Rules for Safety in Mississippi

Contrary to popular belief, pedestrians do not always have the right-of-way in Mississippi. If a pedestrian doesn’t follow the rules of the road, they may give up their protection under the law. According to Mississippi Code Title 63: Motor Vehicles and Regulations §63-3-1105, pedestrians have certain rights and responsibilities:

• Always cross at an intersection — Pedestrians must only cross the street at an intersection. If they fail to do this and try to cross in the middle of the street, they may give up their protections under the law. 
• Follow traffic control devices whenever possible — Many intersections have traffic control devices installed. If there is a light with a crossing signal, use it. If there is no signal, the pedestrian has the right-of-way whether or not there is a marked crosswalk.
• Exercise common sense — Even when a pedestrian has the right-of-way, they must exercise common sense. In other words, if a vehicle clearly isn’t going to stop, it would be dangerous to step onto the road even if you have the right to do so. 
• Wear bright clothing — While not required, both pedestrians and cyclists should wear bright clothing whenever possible so they are more visible to drivers. 

Bicyclist Rules for Safety in Mississippi

Riding a bicycle on the road can be dangerous. When bicycles are involved in accidents with motor vehicles, pedestrians, or even other cyclists, the results can be life-altering. 

In Mississippi, bicycles are treated the same as vehicles, meaning they can use the roadway just like a motor vehicle. However, to remain safe, cyclists should operate in the far right lane. A few rules related to bicyclists in Mississippi include:

• Rules of the road — Bicyclists are required to follow the rules of the roads, which means obeying stop signs, traffic signals, and yield signs. They should also use hand signals when making turns. 
• Use of helmets — Mississippi law does not require that cyclists wear a helmet. Regardless, it’s a good idea because they are proven to save lives. 
• Pedestrian walkways — While some walkways are specifically built for bicycle traffic, others are meant for pedestrians. Adult cyclists are prohibited from using these walkways and sidewalks in most municipalities. 
• Designated bike lanes — If there are designated bike lanes, which you will often find near the coast, it’s important that bicyclists use these instead of other vehicle lanes. 
• Don’t impede traffic — According to Mississippi law, bicyclists should not ride more than two abreast on a roadway but may do so on designated bicycle paths. If riding two abreast, cyclists should not impede the movement of traffic. 
• Bicycle safety equipment — Mississippi requires that bicycles be equipped with sufficient lighting equipment, such as a white lamp on the front that is visible for at least five hundred feet and a rear reflector. 

Drivers Sharing the Road in Mississippi

When the weather warms up, there are also more drivers on the road who must keep an eye out for pedestrians and bicyclists. Drivers must respect that these people have as much of a right to occupy bicycle lanes, streets, and intersections as drivers. Some of the ways motorists can effectively share the road with pedestrians and cyclists and minimize accidents include:

• Be vigilant for others on the road and at intersections
• Remain clear of bike lanes
• Avoid tailgating bicyclists
• Obey all traffic signals and try to make eye contact with others to ensure they are paying attention
• Watch for cyclists or pedestrians in heavily trafficked areas
• Learn the hand signals cyclists use when preparing to make turns

Get the Information You Need to Move Forward After An Accident

An accident involving a pedestrian or cyclist can change your life in an instant. Whether you are the driver or another party, the results of these crashes can be catastrophic. At Mississippi Car Accident Attorney, our mission is to provide those involved in vehicle accidents with the information they need to safeguard their rights and pursue the full damages they are entitled to from the responsible parties.