Mississippi Traffic Laws

Reciting the state's traffic regulations by memory probably isn't the coolest party trick. Yet, knowing the law can help you avoid serious problems behind the wheel.

Driving in Mississippi requires you to understand and obey the rules of the road. Otherwise, you could lose your driving privileges or risk causing a car accident.

In this article, learn more about the laws and traffic tickets. You can also find more information through the Mississippi Department of Public Safety and FindLaw's traffic law resources.

Driving Laws in the Mississippi Code

Title 63 of the Mississippi Code lists the rules for driver's licenses, motor vehicles, and more. The table below links to a few basic state laws on public roads.

Note: State laws are always subject to change through the passage of new legislation, rulings in the higher courts (including federal decisions), ballot initiatives, and other means. While we strive to provide the most current information available, please consult an attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state laws you are researching.

What Are the Speed Limits in Mississippi?

State law says you should generally drive 65 mph or less on public roadways unless there is a different posted speed limit. But the law might require you to go slower depending on the conditions, such as on a route with sharp curves or many pedestrians.

Mississippi also sets a minimum speed. You can't drive slower than 30 mph on federal highways unless there's a good reason, such as slowing down for an emergency vehicle. If the highway maximum speed limit is 70 mph, the minimum speed limit is 40 mph.

Traffic Violations and Law Enforcement

If a police officer notices a problem with your vehicle or driving, they'll probably pull you over. Most traffic stops end with a ticket, but some can end in an arrest.

Minor tickets like parking citations usually won't affect your criminal record. More serious offenses, such as careless driving or driving under the influence (DUI), involve criminal law. Many of these offenses are misdemeanors in Mississippi. Yet, factors like your driving history or injuries could raise the charge to a felony.

You have rights when you face traffic charges. The state adopted the Traffic Violations Procedure to set rules for fines and other penalties. Police officers, court clerks, and other officials must follow the processes in this chapter to respect drivers' rights.

Mississippi License Suspension and Revocation

If you break state traffic laws, you'll get a violation on your driving record. Mississippi doesn't use a license point system like some other states, but you can still lose your driver's license under certain conditions.

For example, the first time you get a DUI, you will face an automatic 120-day license suspension. Under the Implied Consent Law, you could also face suspension for 90 days or one year if you refuse to take a DUI test.

You can also lose your driving privileges if you commit too many violations. The state can suspend your license if you show a pattern of "a disrespect for traffic laws and a disregard for the safety of other persons" (MS Code 63-1-53). The law doesn't set an exact number of violations that trigger a revocation or suspension.

Out-of-State Traffic Tickets

On a road trip outside Mississippi, check and obey the other states' traffic laws. A traffic offense can affect your record and license here in your home state.

Most states share motorists' records through the Nonresident Violator Compact. This agreement compels Mississippi to suspend your driver's license until you resolve the ticket in the other state (MS Code 63-1-103).

Connect with a Mississippi Traffic Lawyer

Small tickets can add up to a big problem down the road. Protect your license by challenging inaccurate tickets or unjust traffic stops. A local attorney can share their knowledge of Mississippi's state laws. They can help you understand the options you may have for your defense.