Tips for Driving Through Mississippi for the First Time

Whether you’re visiting Mississippi or just passing through, driving through a state for the first time may be a bit nerve-wracking. While you may be a bit unfamiliar with the roads, you can take some steps to make yourself more comfortable behind the wheel so you can relax and focus on driving safely. When drivers keep safety and caution on their minds, they’re reducing their chances of causing an accident.

Knowing a bit about the laws, the kind of roads you’ll be driving on, and looking ahead to where you’re going will make you more aware of what you’ll experience when you’re driving. Let’s take a look at these tips so you can prepare for driving through Mississippi.

Plan Routes

Plan your routes before heading out on your trip. You can figure out when you’ll need to exit or get on a new highway or which roads have tolls. Having this knowledge ahead of time can decrease your reliance on a navigation app. While you may have your GPS displayed in the car, you’ll have seen the route before and are more likely to be able to focus on the road.

It’s also beneficial to get a feel for what the traffic patterns are like—heavy traffic and accident-prone routes are likely to increase your travel time. You may choose to find other routes that are longer and more scenic. This way, you’ll see more of the beautiful surroundings and you may find some hidden gems in Mississippi, while avoiding intense traffic.

Follow Traffic Laws

Always obey traffic laws and never risk increasing your chances of getting into an accident—or getting pulled over by a cop. When you’re driving in Mississippi, make sure you’re giving other drivers plenty of space on the road. Fully stop at stop signs, slow down at yellow lights, and don’t run red lights. Remember, your destination will always be there—arrive safely!

One of the best ways to stay safe on the road is to follow the speed limit. Going too far under or over the speed limit puts you in danger of getting into a car collision. When you’re in a new state, you may not know the speed limit of the road. Sometimes, the speed limit can change on a stretch of road depending on the area you’re in. If there’s a lack of signage, you may have to follow with what traffic is doing, but you don’t want to be at a complete loss when it comes to what the actual speed limit is. Keep the following points in mind so you can make sure you’re traveling at a safe speed:

• According to Mississippi Code, no vehicle on a state highway should exceed 65 mph.
• The statutory speed limit is 70 mph on interstate highways or controlled-access highways with four or more lanes.

Seat Belts

States may have different seat belt laws. Mississippi has primary seat belt laws, meaning that police can pull you over and issue a ticket if they notice someone is not using their seat belt. Drivers and front-seat passengers must wear their seat belts. Know that children under the age of four must be in a car seat.

Wearing your seat belt is important so you’re compliant with the law, but also because seat belts offer considerable protection in the event of an accident. When seat belts keep you in place, they can prevent you from serious or life-threatening injuries. Those who don’t wear seat belts could sustain a serious brain injury from hitting something in the car or be ejected from the vehicle. Always buckle up.

Keep License and Registration with You

You should have a valid driver’s license and the registration for your car with you when you’re driving. These are essential documents that can help you in case of a car accident. While no one expects a collision, it’s best to be prepared in case one happens.

If you’re involved in a car crash, you’re going to need to speak to the other driver as well as the police. When exchanging information with the other driver, you should give your name, contact information, and insurance policy. The police will likely make a report of the accident. When they’re speaking with you, they may look at your license and registration to confirm your identity and get information on the vehicle.

Corban Gunn, Attorney at Law Helps Those in Mississippi

If you’re in an accident in Mississippi, Corban Gunn, Attorney at Law is an experienced Biloxi car accident lawyer who can help you get compensation for your injuries. Contact the law firm today to schedule an obligation-free consultation so you can go over your legal options.