Because each state has a unique set of motorcycle laws, it’s a good idea to be familiar with the local laws where you ride. Whether you’re a Mississippi native or just passing through, we’ve outlined the most important Mississippi motorcycle laws you should know.
The Mississippi Helmet Law
Most states require motorcycle riders to wear a helmet, and Mississippi is no exception. While some states limit the age requirement, Mississippi requires all riders and passengers to wear a helmet. The law applies regardless of the rider’s or passenger’s age.
The penalty for failing to adhere to this law is a misdemeanor charge with a fine of up to $100 (and up to 10 days in jail). The penalties escalate for repeat offenders.
Mississippi Licensing Requirements
In addition to being required to wear a helmet, riders must also obtain a motorcycle license. In Mississippi, this license is an endorsement that attaches to a regular Class R driver’s license. To obtain this endorsement, riders must pass both a written and riding test to confirm their knowledge of the local laws and ability to maneuver a motorcycle safely.
Lane Splitting Restrictions
Lane splitting involves sharing a lane with other vehicles by riding between two lanes of traffic to overtake slow-moving traffic. It might be tempting to split lanes to get around traffic jams and shave minutes off of your travel time, especially since there is no illegal designation for this habit in Mississippi.
California is the only state that has given a formal blessing for lane splitting (most likely due to state-wide traffic conditions), and it can be frowned upon by an insurance company in case of an accident. However, studies have shown that lane splitting has little to no impact on accident numbers (accounting for less than 1% of motorcycle accidents).
If you do split lanes in Mississippi, exercise extreme caution, be aware of your surroundings and a negligent driver, and prepare for the additional risk.
Required Equipment
Riders must be equipped with the proper gear and equipment to ensure safety. In Mississippi, the requirements are:
– Wearing a motorcycle helmet
– A horn that is audible from 200 feet away
– At least one rearview mirror
– Functional brakes
– At least one operational headlight and taillight
DUI Thresholds
49 of the 50 states in the U.S. have a blood alcohol content limit of 0.08%. Any blood alcohol concentration at or beyond this number means the rider is intoxicated and cannot legally operate a motorcycle.
Alcohol is not the only ingestible substance that can result in being charged with DUI. Narcotics and prescription drugs may also contribute to impairment that makes it unsafe to operate a motorcycle.
Like helmet law violations, DUI penalties increase for repeat offenders.
Minimum Age Requirements
To obtain a motorcycle license in Mississippi, you must be at least 16 years of age. Further restrictions apply to minors under the age of 18. Minors need to obtain a parental consent form before being able to qualify for a motorcycle license.
Whether you are riding without a license as a minor or you are “of age” but still riding without a license, unlicensed motorcycle riders caught in the act are subject to a fine.
Contact Law Tigers for Legal Assistance in Mississippi
Understanding the traffic laws and how they apply to motorcycles in Mississippi can help you avoid traffic infractions and accidents. Following these laws to the letter can even save your life.
If you are involved in an accident and need legal assistance, call the team at Law Tigers for assistance at 1-888-863-7216. While you’re here, don’t forget to sign up for our free Rider’s Benefit Kit for additional protection and special bonuses.
