Missouri, October 16, 2025
News Summary
Missouri is enforcing stricter penalties and new laws to combat distracted driving and traffic violations, driven by alarming statistics of traffic-related fatalities and injuries. New regulations include a hands-free law for drivers and escalated penalties for illegally passing school buses, aiming to enhance roadway safety and deter reckless driving behavior. With consistent issues in traffic signals addressed, Missouri’s measures are designed to reduce incidents and create safer driving conditions across the state.
Missouri Drivers Face Increased Penalties and New Laws to Counter Distracted Driving and Traffic Violations
Missouri is implementing stricter penalties and new legislation aimed at combating distracted driving and addressing various traffic violations. With the alarming statistic of approximately nine deaths daily due to distracted driving and over 325,000 injuries in 2023 from related crashes, these measures are deemed critical for ensuring roadway safety.
The state classifies disobeying traffic lights as a moving violation, which results in two points added to a driver’s license along with additional court fees and ticket payments. Accumulating 12 points within an 18-month period may lead to a driver’s license suspension. Under Missouri law, vehicles must completely stop at red lights and not proceed until safe, although there is an exception for turning right on red.
Bicyclists and motorcyclists are exempt from activating weight-based traffic signals; if ticketed for running a red light due to a signal malfunction, they can contest the penalty. Drivers are advised to be patient at red lights and refrain from running them, as delays may lead to the signal changing. For consistent issues with traffic signals, drivers can report concerns through the Kansas City 311 website or contact local law enforcement for assistance with malfunctioning stop lights.
In addition to new regulations around traffic laws, Missouri has introduced a hands-free law prohibiting the use of handheld cell phones while driving. This is part of a nationwide initiative that currently affects 32 states including Washington D.C. The Missouri Department of Transportation is actively analyzing telematics data to identify regions with high instances of distracted driving.
Law enforcement in Missouri is now able to respond without lights or sirens in specific scenarios to prevent evidence destruction and allow for more effective surveillance. New legislation has also classified acts such as checking multiple car door handles with the intent to steal as a criminal offense, allowing for arrests before any theft occurs. Additionally, measures have been put in place to combat stunt driving and street takeovers, with escalating penalties for repeat offenders.
Another significant change in state law pertains to the illegal passing of school buses, now classified as a Class A misdemeanor, carrying the potential for jail time and hefty fines. In 2024, Missouri reported 843 traffic crashes involving school buses, which resulted in seven fatalities and 345 injuries. Under the amended law, penalties for illegally passing school buses could escalate to Class D felonies for injuring children and Class C felonies for fatalities.
With these legislative changes, Missouri aims to enhance roadway safety and deter dangerous driving practices, contributing to a reduction in traffic-related incidents and fatalities in the state.
FAQ
What happens if I disobey a traffic light in Missouri?
Disobeying traffic lights is considered a moving violation, resulting in two points added to a driver’s license and additional court and ticket fees.
Can I report malfunctioning traffic lights in Missouri?
Yes, drivers can report consistent issues with traffic signals to municipal governments through Kansas City’s 311 website or contact local law enforcement if a stop light appears malfunctioning.
What is the hands-free law in Missouri?
Missouri has a hands-free law against handheld cell phones while driving, which is part of a national effort affecting 32 states and Washington D.C.
What are the consequences of illegally passing a school bus in Missouri?
Illegally passing a school bus is classified as a Class A misdemeanor, with penalties that can include jail time and hefty fines. Injuring children could lead to Class D felonies, while fatalities could result in Class C felonies.
Key Features of New Laws and Penalties in Missouri
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Traffic Light Violations | Disobeying lights results in 2 points on license, fines. |
| Distracted Driving | Hands-free law against handheld cellphones while driving. |
| School Bus Penalties | Class A misdemeanor with potential jail time for illegal passing. |
| Stunt Driving | Criminalizes stunt driving and street takeovers with escalating penalties. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- CBS News: Missouri Law Targets Distracted Drivers
- FOX 2 Now: Three New Missouri Laws for Drivers to Know for 2025
- News-Leader: When Do Missouri Drivers Have to Stop for School Buses?
- Kansas City Star: Missouri Laws on Distracted Driving
- Muddy River News: Changes in Missouri Laws
- Wikipedia: Distracted Driving
- Google Search: Missouri Traffic Laws
- Google Scholar: Missouri Distracted Driving
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Distracted Driving
- Google News: Missouri Driving Law
Author: STAFF HERE KANSAS CITY WRITER
The KANSAS CITY STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREKansasCity.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Kansas City, Jackson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as American Royal World Series of Barbecue, Dia De Los Muertos, and Planet Anime Kansas City. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Kansas City, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and entertainment that power the local economy such as Children's Mercy Hospital, Government Employees Health Association, and AMC Entertainment. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREStLouis.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Missouri's dynamic landscape.
