Navigating Traffic Laws in Missouri

Speed Limits in St. Louis

Missouri law sets default speed limits, but individual cities like St. Louis may have their own posted regulations.

• Urban areas: 25-35 mph (varies by street and district)
• Highways and expressways: 55-70 mph
• School zones: 20-25 mph (when children are present)
• Residential areas: Typically 25 mph

Always watch for posted speed limits, as exceeding them can result in fines and points on your driving record. Excessive speeding (20+ mph over the limit) can lead to reckless driving charges (Missouri Revised Statutes §304.010).

Right-of-Way and Stop Sign Rules

Right-of-way laws help prevent accidents at intersections and pedestrian crossings. In Missouri:

• At four-way stops, the first vehicle to arrive has the right-of-way. If two vehicles arrive simultaneously, the car on the right goes first.
• At uncontrolled intersections, the driver on the left must yield to the driver on the right.
• Drivers must always yield to pedestrians in crosswalks and at unmarked intersections.
• Emergency vehicles with sirens or flashing lights have the right-of-way and all other vehicles must pull over.

Failing to yield correctly can lead to citations and liability in an accident (Missouri Revised Statutes §304.351).

Red Light and Stop Sign Violations

Running a red light or stop sign is a serious offense in St. Louis. The penalties include:

• Fine of up to $500
• Points added to your driving record (which can increase insurance rates)
• Potential license suspension for repeat offenses

Missouri also permits using red-light cameras in some areas to enforce violations. If caught on camera, the vehicle’s registered owner may be fined (Missouri Revised Statutes §304.271).

Distracted Driving Laws in St. Louis

Missouri has strict distracted driving laws, especially for young drivers.

• Texting while driving is illegal for drivers under 21 and commercial drivers.
• Hands-free devices are encouraged for all drivers.
• Reading or typing on a mobile device while driving can result in fines and points on your license.

While Missouri has not yet banned handheld phone use for all drivers, distracted driving can still lead to a reckless driving charge if it causes an accident (Missouri Revised Statutes §304.820).

Parking Laws and Violations in St. Louis

Parking violations can result in fines or towing. Key parking rules in St. Louis include:

• No parking in fire lanes or within 15 feet of a fire hydrant
• No blocking driveways or intersections
• Handicap spaces require a valid permit
• Street parking restrictions apply during snow emergencies

Unpaid parking tickets can lead to vehicle booting or impoundment (St. Louis City Parking Violations Bureau).

Insurance Requirements for St. Louis Drivers

Missouri law mandates minimum auto insurance coverage for all drivers:

• $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury
• $25,000 per accident for property damage
• Uninsured Motorist Coverage: $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident

Driving without insurance can result in fines, license suspension, and impoundment (Missouri Revised Statutes §303.025).

What to Do If You Get a Traffic Ticket in St. Louis

If you receive a traffic citation, you have the following options:

• Pay the fine online or in person at the St. Louis Municipal Court.
• Contest the ticket in court if you believe it was issued unfairly.
• Request a payment plan or traffic school to reduce fines and avoid points on your license.

Failure to pay a ticket can lead to warrants, additional fines, or a suspended license (Missouri Courts Traffic Payment System).

Stay Informed and Drive Safely in St. Louis

Understanding St. Louis traffic laws can help avoid legal trouble, fines, and accidents. Whether you’re a daily commuter or a new driver, following these rules keeps you and others on the road safe.