Speeding in Missouri can set you back time, money, and even your license. When you speed, you’re breaking the law. Here’s what you need to know to avoid trouble and stay safe on Missouri roads.
Missouri Speed Limits
Missouri speed limits vary by location:
- Urban roads: 25-35 mph
- Rural roads: 55-60 mph
- Highways: 65-70 mph
- Interstates: 75 mph maximum in some areas
Always follow posted signs. Limits can vary near schools, work zones, or residential areas. Flashing lights by schools typically signal reduced limits during school hours. Work zones can reduce limits by 10-20 mph. Going over these reduced limits can lead to double the fines.
Missouri also uses advisory speed limits around a sharp curve or near a hazard. They are not legally enforced like regular limits but ought to be obeyed for safety reasons.
What is Speeding?
Any speed over the limit constitutes speeding. But by how much?
- 1-5 mph over: Typically a warning
- 6-19 mph over: Likely a fine and points
- 20+ mph over: Higher fines, more points, maybe reckless driving
Missouri has a minimum speed law too. You might be within the limit but still can be given a ticket if you’re not safely at that speed based on road and weather conditions. 50 mph speed, for example, is legal for an open day but not for a snow day or fog. Authorities have jurisdiction in giving out these tickets under conditions.
Commercial truck drivers have stricter regulations. Commercial speeding can lead to job termination or higher fines. Missouri closely tracks these offenses as well.
Speeding Fines
Speeding tickets really do count:
Fines: $50 up to over $200 based on speed and location
- Court charges: Add $30–$100
- License points: 2 to 3 points per citation
- License suspension: 8 points within 18 months = suspension
- Insurance increases: Tickets can bump rates up for 3 years
Repeat offenders are fined more harshly. Tickets written in school or construction zones are pricier. Going 25+ mph over the speed limit can land you with a charge of reckless driving. This is a misdemeanor and can necessitate an appearance in court.
Local ordinances vary by municipality. You might receive more points or stiffer fines depending upon where you got the ticket.
How the Points System Works
Missouri’s point system tracks traffic infractions. This is how it operates:
- 2 points: City or county police officer speeding
- 3 points: Missouri State Highway Patrol officer speeding
- 4+ points: Reckless speeding or speeding over and above normal limits
Should you incur:
- 4 points within 12 months: Warning letter
- 8 points within 18 months: License suspension
- 12 points within 12 months, 18 within 24, or 24 within 36 months: Lengthy suspension
Points are on your record for three years. You can take a driver improvement course to reduce some.
Your driving history is monitored by the Missouri Department of Revenue. Too many points can affect employment if you have to drive for work. Employers often check driving records as part of employment screening.
Fighting a Speeding Ticket
You don’t always need to take a ticket. Here’s how to fight it:
- Plead not guilty in court: Request a hearing
- Hire a lawyer: Can have charges reduced or dropped
- Challenge the evidence: Radar device malfunction, illegible signs, or officer mistake
Traffic school is permitted in certain counties instead of points. Always inquire before paying the fine. Failure to appear in court can lead to a warrant, which will land you in jail or further fines.
If you are going to fight a ticket, gather evidence. Take pictures of illegible signs or weather. Write down as much as you can remember about the stop. Bring this to court.
When Speeding Is a Crime
Speeding may be a criminal offense in Missouri:
- Reckless driving: Driving very fast or endangering others
- Failure to yield, running lights, weaving: Can lead to more serious offenses
You might be arrested for extremely high speeds or for being a menace. Don’t take the risk.
Exceeding 100 mph could result in criminal charges. That includes possible time in jail, criminal conviction, and license suspension. It’s not a ticket. Call an experienced Kansas City criminal defense lawyer to get rid of the problems.
Paying Your Ticket
Most tickets give you directions for payment. You can:
- Pay online: On Missouri’s courts website
- Pay by mail: Mail check or money order
- Pay in person: Go to the courthouse listed on the ticket
If you pay, you’re admitting you did it. That is, you’re accepting the points and fine.
Pay on time. Failure to pay late may mean extra fees or a suspended license. If your license is suspended, you will have to pay a reinstatement fee and fill out other forms in order to be able to drive again.
Preventing Speeding Tickets
The best method to prevent tickets is to obey the law. Try these tips:
- Use cruise control on highways
- Monitor speed limit signs
- Don’t hurry—leave earlier
- Utilize traffic apps to stay away from speed traps
- Slow down during inclement weather
Be cautious of flashing lights in school zones. Avoid distractions. Don’t tailgate. These are habits that lower your odds of speeding.
If you tend to feel nervous behind the wheel, enroll in a defensive driving course. Such courses instill safe driving practices and can reduce insurance premiums.
FAQs
1. Is it possible to lose my license on just one speeding ticket?
No, not based on one ticket. But accumulating 8 points within 18 months will have your license suspended.
2. Will I get a problem with my out-of-state license for a Missouri ticket?
Yes. Missouri requires reporting tickets to out-of-state drivers. Your state of residence may add points or raise insurance.
3. May I take a class to avoid points on my record?
Yes. You may be able to take a Driver Improvement Program in some cases. It may keep points from appearing on your record. Contact the court before signing up.
4. Are radar detectors legal in Missouri?
Yes, for private vehicles. But they’re illegal in commercial vehicles. Using one in a truck or bus can lead to fines or penalties.
5. How long do speeding tickets stay on my record?
Tickets stay on your Missouri driving record for 3 years. Insurance companies may see them longer. Some companies check up to 5 years back when setting rates.
Final Thoughts
Missouri takes speeding seriously. Points, fines, and suspension of your license are real risks. Drive at the speed limit and learn about your rights.
Inform yourself. Stop for them whenever you get behind the wheel. If you happen to get one, don’t panic. Evaluate your choices. Sometimes, you’re better off contesting it. Other times, paying it and forgetting it is the wiser choice.
Stay safe. Drive smartly. Obey the law. Your safety—and your license—are on the line.
Consult a local speeding ticket lawyer in Kansas city today.
