Lowndes County posted on Facebook reminding drivers that tailgating is illegal under Mississippi Code Section 63-3-619 and that motorists must maintain a “reasonable and prudent” distance from the vehicle ahead, taking into account speed, traffic and road conditions.
The post, titled “Traffic Tip Tuesday,” advises passenger vehicle drivers to follow the three-second rule: pick a fixed object, and when the car ahead passes it count “one-Mississippi, two-Mississippi, three-Mississippi.” If a driver reaches the object before finishing the count, the post says, they are too close.
The county’s message also notes that commercial trucks must maintain 300 feet of space from other trucks outside business or residential areas unless they are passing. The post says keeping a safe distance provides enough time to react, can help drivers avoid fines and may protect them from being assigned comparative negligence if a crash occurs.
Lowndes County urged drivers to increase following distance in rain, fog, heavy traffic or at night. The post appeared on the county’s Facebook page under the “Traffic Tip Tuesday” heading. We will provide more information as it becomes available.
