Missouri Traffic Laws
By Natalie Moritz | Legally reviewed by Melissa Bender, Esq. | Last reviewed November 21, 2023
This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by FindLaw’s team of legal writers and attorneys and in accordance with our editorial standards.
The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our contributing authors. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please contact an attorney in your area.
Brushing up on Missouri's rules of the road is a simple way to help keep yourself and other drivers safe. It may also help you avoid a ticket from a police officer.
In this article, you can learn more about Missouri traffic regulations, driving rules, and motor vehicle laws.
Use the following driving manuals and vehicle codes:
The driving manuals and vehicle codes in the bullets above cover several topics. The links at the end of this article also go in-depth about state-specific traffic laws and safety regulations.
Specifically, the linked materials will help you learn about:
- Basic driving laws, like who has the right-of-way, left turns, one-way streets, and passing zones
- Special rules for construction zones, school zones, and railroad crossings
- Speed limits for varying roads, interstate highways, and residential areas
- Restrictions on where you can drive all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), golf carts, and other specialty motorized vehicles
- Crossing paths with an emergency vehicle or school bus
- Sharing the road with a funeral procession
- Meeting and overtaking approaching vehicles from the opposite direction
- Traffic-control signals and devices like stop lights, stop signs, crosswalk signals, and other traffic signs and signaling devices
- Restrictions on the use of cell phones, text messaging devices, and other wireless communication devices while driving
- Guidelines for towing vehicles
- Required vehicle equipment such as headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and license plates
Types of Traffic Offenses in Missouri
Traffic offenses are categorized as either moving violations or non-moving violations. Moving violations occur when a vehicle is in motion, like speeding or an illegal lane change. Non-moving violations refer to offenses when a vehicle is not moving. These are most often issued for parking, equipment, or vehicle registration.
Most traffic offenses are infractions. Infractions are less severe than misdemeanor or felony crimes and usually don't go on your criminal record, but some traffic violations can have more severe consequences. These types of charges include:
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs (DUI/DWI)
- Leaving the scene of an accident (hit and run)
- Reckless driving
Penalties vary for these types of crimes. Depending on the nature of the offense, you could face a steep fine, jail time, and revocation of your driving privileges.
Resources for Missouri Drivers
There are several online resources for Missouri drivers to find details on construction work, road conditions, driver licensing, and more.
Motorists can visit the Missouri State Highway Patrol website for the following information:
- Online traffic accident reports and car accident maps
- Current road conditions and closures
The Missouri Department of Transportation provides updates on construction and work projects.
If you need to know more about driver licensing or vehicle registration, visit the Missouri Department of Revenue website.
Missouri Traffic Laws: Statutes and Links
Find useful Missouri traffic laws and links to their statutes in the table below.
Drinking & Driving Violations | Public Safety Offenses: Driving while intoxicated (MRS 577.010 to 5770.54) |
---|---|
Driving Without a License / With a Suspended License | Operation of motor vehicle without proper license prohibited (MRS 302.020) |
Driving Without Insurance / With Insufficient Insurance | Motor Vehicle Financial Responsibility Law(MRS Chapter 303) |
Driving Without Registration / With Expired Registration | Application for registration of motor vehicles, -- penalty for failure to comply (MRS 301.020) |
Illegal U-Turn | Turns at Intersection(MRS 304.341) |
Leaving the Scene of an Accident / Hit & Run | Leaving the scene of a motor vehicle accident(MRS 577.060) |
Mechanical Violations | Vehicle Equipment Regulations (MRS Chapter 307) |
Reckless Driving | Motorists to exercise highest degree of care(MRS 304.012) |
Running a Red Light / Stop Sign | Observance of traffic-control devices (MRS 304.271)Rules for traffic when controlled by light signals (MRS 304.281) |
Seat Belt / Child Restraint Violations | Seat belts required for passenger cars(MRS 307.178) |
Speeding | Definitions -- maximum speed limits...-- violations, penalty (MRS 304.010) |
Unlawful Vehicle Modifications | Vehicle Equipment Regulations (MRS Chapter 307) |
Ticketed for a Traffic Violation? Get Legal Help
If you have been ticketed for a traffic offense in Missouri, you should contact a traffic ticket attorney in your area. An experienced attorney can review the circumstances of your citation and help you plan a strong defense. This could save you a costly fine, points on your driving record, and a spike in your auto insurance rates. In some situations, it could even prevent a driver's license suspension or revocation.
Can I Solve This on My Own or Do I Need an Attorney?
- Complex traffic tickets usually require a lawyer
- Experienced lawyers can seek to reduce or eliminate penalties
- A lawyer can help you keep your license
Get tailored legal advice and ask a lawyer questions. Many traffic ticket attorneys offer free consultations.
Stay up-to-date with how the law affects your life
Learn more about FindLaw’s newsletters, including our terms of use and privacy policy.