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Bike Across Mississippi!
JACKSON, MISS. – Spring has sprung, and it is the perfect time to strap on a helmet and take the bicycle out for a spin. May is designated as “Bike Safety Month,” and the Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) is celebrating by launching the new Mississippi Bicycling Guide.
This updated guide from MDOT’s Bicycle & Pedestrian Program features bicycle safety tips, state bike laws, a list of major bike trails in Mississippi and more.
Here are some bicycle safety tips to get you started:
- Before you leave, check your bike for proper fit, maintenance and tire pressure.
- Wear bright clothing or utilize reflective gear. Make sure you are seen.
- Always wear a helmet; it could save your life.
- Obey all traffic laws. Ride in the same direction as traffic, use hand signals when turning and follow all traffic signs and signals. When in doubt, ride single file.
If you are behind the wheel of a car, follow these tips to keep cyclists, other motorists and yourself safe:
- Before you leave, adjust your mirrors and know your blind spots. Bicycles are smaller than vehicles and can easily blend in with traffic. Check twice for bikes.
- Always leave extra space between your vehicle and cyclists. State law requires at least three feet between a vehicle and a cyclist.
- Pay attention and drive defensively. While you can’t control how others drive, you can anticipate traffic changes, allowing you to respond at a moment’s notice.
The Mississippi Bicycling Guide is available now, and MDOT offers it to the public free of charge. A physical copy can be ordered by visiting GoMDOT.com/maps. For more information about bike safety, visit GoMDOT.com/BikeandPed and follow @MississippiDOT on Facebook, Instagram and X.
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