New Mississippi Traffic Law: Right Turns at Red Lights—What’s Changed?

In a move aimed at improving road safety and traffic flow, Mississippi has recently implemented a new regulation regarding right turns at red lights.

This change affects how drivers should approach right turns at intersections, and it’s crucial for all Mississippi drivers to understand the new rules. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, knowing the updated traffic laws can help you stay safe and avoid fines.

Let’s break down what the new rule entails and how it might impact your driving habits.

1. What Has Changed?

Under the updated law, Mississippi now requires all drivers to come to a complete stop before making a right turn at a red light. While this requirement has always been a general rule in many states, the law now places more emphasis on fully stopping at red lights—no rolling through or slow turning without halting.

While right turns on red lights have been permitted in Mississippi for many years, this change underscores the importance of stopping completely to evaluate the situation before proceeding. Drivers are expected to come to a full stop, assess the intersection, and only proceed when it’s safe to do so.

2. Why the Change?

The main purpose behind this change is to improve safety on Mississippi roads. Many accidents at intersections occur when drivers don’t fully stop before making right turns, which can lead to collisions with pedestrians, cyclists, or other vehicles that might be coming through the intersection.

This stricter enforcement encourages drivers to fully assess their surroundings before making a turn, reducing the risk of accidents. The goal is to ensure that intersections are navigated more safely, providing a safer environment for everyone on the road.

3. Where Does the Rule Apply?

The new rule applies to all intersections in Mississippi where right turns on red are allowed. In general, drivers should always be aware of road signs indicating whether right turns on red are permitted or prohibited at any given intersection. The rule is applicable across the state, from urban areas to rural communities, as long as the intersection allows for a right turn on red.

However, it’s important to note that there are still areas where right turns on red are not permitted. These include intersections near schools, bus stops, or other locations with heavy foot traffic, where turning right on red could pose a safety risk.

4. What Are the Consequences of Not Complying?

Failing to comply with the new rule can result in a traffic citation and fines. While the fines for not fully stopping at a red light may vary by jurisdiction, drivers can generally expect fines ranging from $50 to $200 depending on the area and any additional violations that may occur.

If a driver causes an accident due to not stopping fully, they could face higher penalties, including potential liability for damages. Additionally, drivers who receive multiple citations for failing to stop at red lights could see points added to their driving record, which could affect their insurance rates.

5. How Can Drivers Ensure Compliance?

To comply with the new law and stay safe on the road, Mississippi drivers should follow these simple steps:

• Stop completely at the red light—this means the vehicle must come to a full halt before proceeding with a right turn.
• Look both ways for pedestrians, cyclists, or other vehicles before turning. Make sure the intersection is clear.
• Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks and cyclists in bike lanes. Always prioritize their safety.
• Use your mirrors to check for any traffic or pedestrians you might have missed in your initial glance.

Taking these steps can help ensure that you’re driving safely and responsibly while also avoiding potential fines.

6. What About Other Drivers?

While this new rule affects drivers making right turns on red lights, it also serves as a reminder for all road users to stay vigilant. Pedestrians and cyclists should be cautious when crossing at intersections, even when they have the right of way. Likewise, other drivers should always anticipate that those making right turns on red may stop, yielding to pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles.

The new regulation aims to make all road users more aware of the risks associated with busy intersections and promote safe driving practices for everyone.

Mississippi’s new traffic law requiring drivers to fully stop at red lights before making a right turn is a welcome change designed to improve road safety and reduce accidents. As drivers, it’s essential to understand the new regulation and incorporate it into your daily driving habits. By fully stopping at red lights and paying attention to your surroundings, you can help prevent accidents and ensure a safer driving environment for everyone.

As always, it’s important to stay informed about local traffic laws and to drive responsibly. By adapting to this new rule, you’ll contribute to a safer Mississippi for all road users.

About The Author