Mississippi Town Approves 3-Foot Buffer Zone Rule for Motorists

November 20, 2009

Tupelo aldermen have approved an ordinance that requires motorists to switch lanes or provide a 3- to 6-foot buffer zone when passing someone on foot, horseback, bicycle, motorcycle, scooter or farm equipment.

Liria Frerer told aldermen this week that her son, a high school students, was killed by a trucker on a clear August day despite wearing bright clothing and following the traffic rules.

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She says few motorists notice bicyclists, making them vulnerable to injury or death.

The Northeast Mississippi Daily Journal in Tupelo reports the ordinance tracks state law, which carries a $500 fine and six months in jail for violators.

The new ordinance goes into effect in 30 days