Mississippi Parking Laws: Understanding the Basics
A big part of driving responsibility is knowing where to park legally and safely. Mississippi drivers should take the time to understand and apply the state's parking rules and laws. If they don't, it could mean fines, vehicle confiscations, and more. There are a few things to consider when parking.
Can you park on the highway?
When you are outside of business or residential areas, you should park as far away from traffic as possible. You should try to leave at least 20 feet so that other vehicles cannot pass by and this reduces the risk of an accident. You need to park your vehicle so that you can see it for at least 200 feet in every direction. If you parked in a dangerous area, such as a sharp curve, your car could be towed and impounded. If your car breaks down, you won't be arrested for it, but you need to make sure you move your car as quickly as possible to reduce the risk to other motorists. If you have to park on the side of the road at night due to a breakdown, you need to keep your parking lights or flashers on.
Where is it forbidden to park?
There are a number of places where it is always illegal to park unless you do so to avoid an accident. It is forbidden to park on the sidewalk or inside the intersection. You are not allowed to park within 10 feet of a fire hydrant, and you may not park at a crosswalk. Drivers in Mississippi are not allowed to park within 20 feet of a crosswalk at an intersection or within 30 feet of traffic control devices such as signals, stop signs, and yield signs. You must be at least 15 feet from the nearest railroad crossing.
You cannot park within 20 feet of a fire station entrance, or 75 feet if it is posted. Drivers also cannot park in front of a public or private driveway. This is a danger and inconvenience for those who want to enter or leave the roadway.
If there is any obstacle on the road, you will not be able to park in the area if your vehicle may slow down the traffic. Also, you can't park twice in Mississippi. Do not park on bridges or overpasses, or on underpasses.
Also, you can not park in places where there are signs prohibiting parking. It's always a good idea to look for signs in the area when you're about to park, as they can help you determine if it's safe and legal to park or not. Keep in mind that different cities and towns may have different parking laws that you'll also want to look into.
