If you’re reading this, it’s probable that you’ve been caught running a red light or a stop sign in Missouri. These moving violations typically result in a traffic ticket and points on your driving record, as well as fines to pay.
In this article, we will discuss the serious nature of stop-sign traffic violations and what you should do if you got such a ticket.
You may also need the assistance of an experienced stop-sign traffic attorney. Call Missouri Traffic Tickets at 417-501-0653 for a free consultation today.
Stop-Sign Violations
in Missouri
Every driver in Missouri is required to come to a full and complete stop at a stop sign or red flashing light (which requires the same things as a stop sign). You must stop before the limit line. You must stop before the crosswalk at a stop sign before entering the crosswalk.
If you violate any of these laws, you are violating Missouri Laws Section 300.270, which is a moving violation, and police officers are within their legal responsibility to charge you accordingly. Remember that anything less than a complete stop is considered a violation and can be treated as such with the full weight of the law.
Just like with speeding tickets, the consequences for stop-sign tickets are somewhat dependent on the situation. In most cases, stop-sign violations are considered a Class C misdemeanor in Missouri, which means you could face up to 15 days in jail time, $750 in fines, and court fees.
It escalates when your failure to stop results in an accident, especially an accident that causes bodily harm to another person. You could see restrictions on your driving privileges, increased fines, and increased jail time.
If your failure to stop results in someone else’s death, you could also face:
- a $1000 fine
- six-month of a suspended license
- escalated charges of vehicular manslaughter
You could have grounds for fighting the consequences of a stop-sign violation charge. For example, if an object such as a tree branch or a bush was obscuring your view of the sign, a judge could see your side of things and let you off. You should always seek the assistance of an experienced traffic ticket attorney to help limit the consequences and keep your driving record squeaky clean.
Red-Light Violations
in Missouri
Missouri has two traffic-light laws that often get drivers tickets:
- Left-on-red rule. Although some states will let you turn left on a red light, depending on the situation, it is always illegal in Missouri to turn left on a red light.
- Right-on-red rule. While you can typically turn right after stopping at a red light in Missouri, you must always check to ensure that no pedestrians or other vehicles are in your way.
Red-light violations are the same as stop sign violations – a Class C misdemeanor unless someone was injured or killed, in which case the consequences go up quickly. Running a red light is a quick way to land yourself a ticket for careless and imprudent driving.
You may have a case to contest your failure-to-stop ticket if:
- The light was malfunctioning or remained red for an abnormally long time
- No other person or motorist was approaching as your vehicle entered the intersection on a red light
- You came to a complete stop and there is direct evidence supporting that claim.
Hire Top-Rated
Failure To Stop Lawyers in Missouri
Getting a ticket doesn’t always mean you have to face the consequences. You can often contest tickets in court and get the fees and charges reduced or dropped entirely. There’s often room for negotiation.
It is legal and viable for you to challenge a traffic violation ticket on your own, but we highly recommend hiring a traffic ticket attorney who has experience in your are. Our knowledge of local laws, customs, and judges makes Missouri Traffic Tickets the perfect place to find a trusted lawyer who will handle your case with the utmost care.
Call Missouri Traffic Tickets at 417-501-0653 to get help from licensed traffic lawyers in Missouri. Our office hours are Monday through Friday between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.
