Mississippi § 63-3-603 - Driving on roadways laned for traffic.
Full text of Mississippi Mississippi Code of 1972 Annotated § 63-3-603 — Driving on roadways laned for traffic., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 63-3-603. Driving on roadways laned for traffic.
Whenever any roadway has been divided into three (3) or more clearly marked lanes for traffic, except through or bypassing a municipality, the following rules in addition to all others consistent herewith shall apply: A vehicle shall be driven as nearly as practical entirely within a single lane and shall not be moved from such lane until the driver has first ascertained that such movement can be made with safety. A vehicle shall not be driven in the center lane upon a roadway which is divided into three (3) lanes except when: Overtaking and passing another vehicle where the roadway is clearly visible and such center lane is clear of traffic within a safe distance; Such vehicle is in preparation for a left turn; or Such center lane is at the time allocated exclusively to traffic moving in the direction such vehicle is proceeding and is signposted to give notice of such allocation. Official signs may be erected directing slow-moving traffic to use a designated lane or allocating specified lanes to traffic moving in the same direction, and drivers of vehicles shall obey the directions of every such sign. Upon all roadways any vehicle proceeding at less than the normal speed of traffic at the time and place and under the conditions then existing shall be driven in the right-hand lane then available for traffic, or as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway, except when overtaking and passing another vehicle proceeding in the same direction or when preparing for a left turn at an intersection or into a private road or driveway. Persons riding bicycles upon a roadway shall not ride more than two (2) abreast except on paths or parts of roadways set aside for the exclusive use of bicycles. Persons riding two (2) abreast shall not impede the normal and reasonable movement of traffic and, on a laned roadway, shall ride within a single lane. A vehicle shall not be driven in the outermost left lane of any roadway with two (2) or more lanes allowing for movement of traffic in the same direction except when: Overtaking and passing another vehicle proceeding in the same direction under the rules governing such movement; The right lane(s) of a roadway is closed to traffic while under construction or repair; The right lane(s) of the roadway is in disrepair or in an otherwise impassable or unsafe condition; or A vehicle is preparing to exit the roadway on the left. A vehicle shall not be driven continuously in the outermost left lane of a multi-lane roadway whenever it impedes the flow of other traffic. A violation of this subsection (2) is punishable by a fine of not less than Five Dollars ($5.00) nor more than Fifty Dollars ($50.00).
Source: official Mississippi text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Mississippi § 63-3-603
What does Mississippi Code of 1972 Annotated § 63-3-603 cover?
Section 63-3-603 ("Driving on roadways laned for traffic.") is part of the Mississippi Code of 1972 Annotated, the codified statutory law of Mississippi. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Mississippi § 63-3-603?
A common citation format is "Mississippi Code of 1972 Annotated § 63-3-603" (Mississippi). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Mississippi law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Mississippi official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Mississippi attorney.
How does Mississippi § 63-3-603 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Mississippi can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Mississippi.