No, Mississippi prohibits operating squatted trucks on public roads under Mississippi Code § 63-7-67, classifying them as modified vehicles with altered suspension systems that compromise safety. The Mississippi Department of Public Safety (MDPS) enforces this restriction, citing risks to vehicle stability and road safety. Local ordinances in cities like Jackson and Gulfport further restrict modifications that alter ride height beyond manufacturer specifications.
Key Regulations for Squatted Trucks in Mississippi
- Height Restrictions: Vehicles must maintain manufacturer-specified ground clearance; modifications exceeding 3 inches above stock height violate state safety standards.
- MDPS Inspections: Law enforcement may cite vehicles with visibly altered suspensions during routine traffic stops, requiring proof of compliance or removal of modifications.
- Local Ordinances: Municipalities like Biloxi and Tupelo impose additional fines for squatted trucks, with penalties ranging from $100 to $500 per offense.
The MDPS aligns enforcement with 2026 NHTSA guidelines, prioritizing crackdowns on vehicles deemed unsafe due to suspension alterations. Owners risk impoundment if modifications pose immediate hazards. Federal DOT standards also apply to commercial vehicles, compounding liability for fleet operators.