Mississippi Facts
The information below is updated periodically but things often change between updates. Do not rely on this information without checking with another source.
If you see an error, let us know at nma@motorists.org
Points of Interest
Although Mississippi law states that merging traffic has to yield to the mainstream of traffic, Mississippi drivers expect you to move over when on a limited access highway so they can merge from the onramp. Some people do look before they enter the highway, but many do not.
Speed Limits
Unless Otherwise Posted
Absolute
 |
|
| Urban | 25 mph |
| Rural | 55 mph |
| Four-lane highways | 65 mph |
| Interstates | 70 mph |
Speed Limits Enforcement Techniques
Enforced through use of:
|
|
|
| Pacing | Yes |
| Radar | Yes |
| Vascar | Yes |
| Photo Radar | No |
| Aircraft | Yes |
| Laser | No |
Tickets
Tickets can be paid by mail or in person.
Trial By Declaration Allowed
No
Jury Trial Allowed
|
|
|
| Speeding | Yes |
| Parking | Yes |
| Equipment | Yes |
| DWI | Yes |
Member of Nonresident Compact
Yes
Member of Driver License Compact
Yes
When and Where to File Accident Reports
Accidents involving death, personal injury, or property damage exceeding $100 must be reported immediately to the local police or nearest sheriff's office or State Highway Patrol.
Resident Insurance Requirements
Financial responsibility law.
Security-type law and future proof-type law.
Minimum limits: $10,000/20,000/5,000.
Mississippi has unsatisfied judgment funds law.
Regulations
- Open intoxicants are permitted in the vehicle at the discretion of local authorities.
- The BAC level is .08%.
- Mississippi has an administrative license suspension law and an implied consent law. The breathalyzer refusal penalty is a 90-day driver's license suspension for the first offense.
- Loaded firearms may be carried openly or concealed anywhere in a motor vehicle.
- Studded tires are prohibited.
- Tire chains are not required.
- Mississippi has a seat belt law with secondary enforcement for all front seat occupants.
- Mississippi has a mandatory child restraint law for passengers under 5 years of age, requiring the use of approved car safety seats.
- Mississippi has a mandatory motorcycle helmet law.
- Registration and insurance card are not required to be carried in the vehicle.
General Information
Telephone: 601/987-1332
Emergency Cellular Phone Number: 47