Mississippi Town Approves 3-Foot Buffer Zone Rule for Motorists

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.

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