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New law has Trace rangers out in full force
by Danza Johnson/NEMS Daily Journal
19 months ago | 927 views | 8 8 comments | 4 4 recommendations | email to a friend | print
TUPELO - A lack of accidents on the Natchez Trace Parkway over the holiday weekend allowed park rangers to focus on enforcing that state's new 3-foot bicycle law.

Chief Ranger Mike Foster said only four automobile accidents were reported over the holiday weekend on the entire 444-mile Parkway, which stretches through Mississippi, Alabama and Tennessee. Two of those reported injuries.

He said that because of the new 3-foot bicycle law that took effect Thursday, more rangers were patrolling the Parkway.

"We didn't have much going on at all this holiday weekend and that's just how we like it," said Foster. "I think our increased presence played a factor in that. We are going to continue to be out and watch motorists and cyclists to assure that everyone is safe."

The new law requires motorists give at least a 3-foot cushion while passing bicyclists. Two bicyclists died on the Trace last year after being struck by vehicles.

The Parkway has more than 6 million recreational users and another 7 million motorists who use the Trace each year. And with that type of volume, Foster said it is important that all traffic laws are obeyed and enforced.

"We feel this new law is going to benefit everyone who uses the Trace," he said.

Only three arrests were made on the Trace over the weekend, including one for DUI.

Contact Danza Johnson at (662) 678-1583 or danza.johnson@djournal.com.
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Comments
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Goodnessme
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July 07, 2010
I agree with 3673, if they are gonna allow cyclist on the roads they should have to pay taxes just like a vehicle would!

My biggest question is why would anyone want to ride a bicycle or run down the Trace? There is barely enough room for two vehicles, I think if it is so important for bicycles and runners on the Trace they should make a lane just for them to make it safer for them.

If I'm not mistaken we have to pay for a tag on our vehciles for a road tax, so basicly the vehicles are the ones paying for the roads and not bicycles!
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americasgone
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July 07, 2010
Where to begin................ The new law won't save a single frickin life. Why, because in order to do so you would have to assume that prior to the implementation of the law people were "out to get" cyclist. I have always avoided bikes on the Trace. Why? Because I didn't want to hit someone. It had nothing to do with a law being in place, or not. Point being, people were already trying to avoid cyclist. All the new law does is make it easier to send someone to prison for life over a simple traffic accident. (exaggeration for dramatic effect)

If people want to put their life at risk by cycling on the Trace so be it. I will do my best to keep at least three feet from them when I pass.

I am not against protecting cyclist. I am against trying to legislate and punish people for lack of common sense.
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straightsense
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July 07, 2010
Got to be talking about motorcycles 2 abreast, not children riding their tricycles in the street.

I avoid Trace at all costs. Between staggering joggers and cyclist, it isn't safe for a vehicle to travel.

Remember when momma told you not to play in the street ? There was a reason for that
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3673
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July 07, 2010
Where is the law that state cyclist can ride 2 or 3 wide and stack up traffic? They need to tax these bike like they do cars, some of them are several thousands of dollars!
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justanexex
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July 07, 2010
The Trace was basically meant as a scenic route. I suspect that when many of us in Northeast Mississippi use the Trace, it is an the shortest way - say North to parts of Saltillo, Prentiss County, or even Iuka; or South to say Houston. It was not meant to be a needed road, but to some it is. Just shows that this area is still catching up to the rest of the state in functional highways.

Those who use the now need to adapt to the new law, that's just the way it is.
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fnm
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July 07, 2010
Here's an idea. The next time you approach a bicycle why not do what you would do if it were a car. When it's safe to do so move over into the PASSING lane and pass the bicycle. (btw) Ms law allows bikes to ride 2 abreast in their lane.
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jhall2
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July 07, 2010
Last month we were coming back from TN on the Trace and had a similar experience; we gave them their 3 feet. But the cyclists instead of getting in a single line when cars are approaching, they were riding 2-3 across. I know as motorists we have to watch out, but a little help on their part would be nice.
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straightsense
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July 07, 2010
I almost had a wreck trying to give a cyclist 3 feet. Problem was cyclist took his part all over the road.

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