As a reckless driving defense attorney, I often meet with people who are fearful of losing their license. In some cases, this happens after an incident in which they were unaware of the speed limits or traffic laws in the area where they were pulled over.
With this in mind, I thought I should pass on the newest changes to speed limits in Olive Branch, Mississippi.
Residents and commuters in Olive Branch are likely noticing that many limits have been lowered from twenty-five to twenty miles per hour, and others from thirty to twenty-five.
According to a recent DeSoto Times-Tribune article and City Engineer Steve Bigelow, the reduced speed limits are not part of an organized program.
Most of the reduced speeds have been made because of concerns for child safety on residential streets.
Olive Branch has also introduced speed bumps to many areas where residents have requested them.
The limit on Highway 305 between U.S. 78 and old Goldman Road has temporarily dropped from thirty-five to twenty-five miles per hour while the highway is being widened to five lanes.
It is important for Olive Branch residents to note these changes, as reckless driving can put a serious mark on your driving record. In Mississippi, if you are convicted of reckless driving, you could be punished with a fine of up to $100 the first time; if you’re convicted of reckless driving twice, you could face prison time and a $500 fine.
In our state, reckless driving is explained in Mississippi Code Ann. § 63-3-1201 as:
Any person who drives any vehicle in such a manner as to indicate either a willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property is guilty of reckless driving. Reckless driving shall be considered a greater offense than careless driving.
To everyone in Olive Branch and throughout Northern Mississippi, I urge you to carefully watch for changes in speed limits and other traffic laws to avoid careless or reckless driving charges.
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