The Mississippi Department of Transportation urged drivers and cyclists to exercise caution on the first day of spring, saying increased pollen and warmer weather often bring more people onto bicycles.
MDOT told drivers to slow down, leave at least 3 feet of clearance between their vehicle and anyone bicycling, and change lanes to pass when safe. The agency said it is legal in Mississippi to pass bicyclists in a no-passing zone as long as it can be done safely.
MDOT advised cyclists to ride with the flow of traffic in dedicated bike lanes or as far to the right as practical, to know and use hand signals, and to obey the same laws as motor vehicles, including stop signs and traffic signals.
The agency said it posted a link to a free, updated Mississippi Bicycling Guide in the comments of its social media post. MDOT said the guide includes state bike laws, safety tips and information on major bike trails across the state.
Jon Ross Myers is the executive editor and publisher of the Mississippi News Network, Mississippi's largest digital only media company. He can be reached at editor@tippahnews.com
