Mississippi has recently updated its traffic regulations concerning right turns at red lights, aiming to enhance road safety and clarify existing rules. This article delves into the specifics of these changes, the rationale behind them, and offers guidance for drivers to navigate intersections safely and legally.
Understanding the Updated Law
Under the revised Mississippi Code § 63-3-309, drivers are permitted to make a right turn at a red light after coming to a complete stop, provided no signage explicitly prohibits such a maneuver. This means that at intersections without a “No Turn on Red” sign, motorists must:
- Come to a Complete Stop: Before the crosswalk or stop line.
- Yield: To all pedestrians and oncoming traffic.
- Proceed with Caution: Only when the intersection is clear and it is safe to turn.
It’s crucial to note that merely slowing down without a full stop is insufficient and constitutes a violation of the law.
Reasons Behind the Update
The primary motivations for refining this law include:
- Enhancing Pedestrian and Cyclist Safety: With an increase in foot and bicycle traffic, especially in urban areas, ensuring that drivers fully stop and assess their surroundings before turning is vital.
- Reducing Accidents: Clarifying the necessity of a complete stop aims to decrease collisions resulting from drivers misjudging gaps in traffic or overlooking pedestrians.
- Aligning with National Standards: Updating the law ensures consistency with traffic regulations in other states, promoting uniformity for drivers traveling across state lines.
Key Provisions of the Law
- Complete Stop Requirement: Drivers must halt at the designated stop line or before entering the crosswalk.
- Signage Compliance: If a “No Turn on Red” sign is present, turning right on red is strictly prohibited.
- Yielding Obligations: Motorists must yield to pedestrians lawfully within an adjacent crosswalk and to other vehicles lawfully using the intersection.
- Left Turn on Red: At the intersection of two one-way streets, drivers facing a steady red signal may cautiously enter the intersection to turn left in the direction designated for one-way traffic, after stopping, unless a sign stating “No Turn On Red” is in place prohibiting such a turn.
Safety Considerations
To ensure safety and compliance:
- Vigilance: Always check for pedestrians and cyclists before proceeding.
- Signal Usage: Use turn signals to indicate your intentions to other road users.
- Avoid Rolling Stops: Ensure the vehicle comes to a complete halt to allow adequate time for observation.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Violating the right-on-red regulations can result in:
- Fines: Typically ranging from $100 to $150, varying by jurisdiction.
- Points on License: An improper right turn at a red light can add points to a driver’s record, potentially leading to increased insurance premiums.
- Liability in Accidents: Failure to adhere to the law may result in being deemed at fault in collisions, leading to legal and financial repercussions.
Conclusion
Mississippi’s updated traffic law on right turns at red lights underscores the importance of safety and clarity on the roads. By understanding and adhering to these regulations, drivers can contribute to a safer driving environment for all road users. Always remember to stop completely, observe your surroundings diligently, and comply with all traffic signs and signals.
(Source : gobigbluecountry.com )
