Top Reasons Missouri Drivers Get Traffic Tickets And How To Avoid Them

With great scenery and a wide network of roads, Missouri can easily become a driver's dream. Truth be told, driving in Missouri is a pleasure, but then again, like everywhere else in the United States, it comes tagged with many rules expected of all its drivers. Unfortunately, more and more drivers find themselves on the receiving end of traffic tickets for infractions that could have been so easily avoided. This article will outline some of the major reasons Missouri drivers receive traffic tickets and how readers can practically avoid them.

Speeding: The #1 Offense

Some of the most common infractions in Missouri included speeding: when one drives either above the posted limit or too fast for conditions, huge fines and increased insurance rates await.  

How to Avoid Speeding Tickets:

• Know Your Speed Limits: Obey the speed limit signs. Most of the time, the highways of Missouri are going up and down in speeds, so go accordingly.
• Put On Cruise Control: In big highway driving, putting on cruise control helps in traveling at the same speed.
• Go Slow in Work Zones: The fine for speeding is doubled in construction zones. So always look out for such a zone and slow down.

Red Running Lights and Stop Signs

Too many drivers misjudge the light or fail to stop at all at an intersection. Several intersections around Missouri have installed traffic cameras, which may catch red-light runners and easily land one a ticket if violated.

How to Avoid this Infraction:

• Practice Full Stops: Always come to a complete stop at stop signs-even when the road appears to be free from other traffic.
• Avoid Distracted Driving: Distractions can lead to failing to recognize that a light turned red, or another driver at an intersection has stopped.  Stay alert.
• Time Your Approach: If you see a light turn yellow, be prepared to stop rather than attempting to accelerate.

Improper Lane Changes

One major reason people get traffic tickets in Missouri is a failure to signal a lane change or cut another off. This is one thing as best legal practice management system police officers are quite sensitive about when on the roads with much traffic going on.

Lane change ticket Avoidance Tips:

• Turn Signal On: One should always manage to signal at least 100 feet before changing lanes.
• Check Your Blind Spots: A check over the shoulder in the direction of the lane one intends to merge into, to make certain that the lane is clear of other traffic. Never make any Sudden Movements: Make lane changes as planned in advance, therefore avoiding last-minute movements.

Distracted Driving

Nowadays, more and more Missouri drivers' needs to drive with their smartphones are being hit hard by distracted driving. From texting to eating, even messing with your GPS while driving will cost you money in tickets or worse, it ends in an accident.  

How to Drive Distraction-Free:  

• Put Your Phone Away: Use hands-free devices or set your phone to "Do Not Disturb" mode.
• Plan Ahead: Fill in GPS destinations prior to driving.
• Keep Your Eyes on the Road and Hands on the Wheel: Try not to multitask; even short distractions may lead to infractions.  

Driving Under the Influence (DUI)

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a serious crime in Missouri. A DUI not only brings severe punishment but also death.

Keeping Yourself from DUI Charges:

• Designated Driver: Plan to have one if you know you will be drinking.
• Ride-Sharing Applications: Uber, Lyft, or such facilities are a great substitute when one intends to consume alcohol and does not want to drive afterwards. 
• Know Your Limits: Even one drink consumed may affect judgment; better be safe than sorry.  

Expired License Plates or Vehicle Registration

Driving with expired tags is one of those little, easily avoided yet common violations in Missouri. Most drivers simply tend to forget to do it on time. 

How to Stay Compliant:

• Set Reminders: Mark on your calendar or set a reminder on a digital device for renewal before it expires. 
• Renew Online: Missouri does allow online renewal services, making it quite easy to keep it up to date.
• Keep Proof in Your Vehicle: Always carry proof of valid registration to avoid unnecessary fines.  

Failure to Yield Right of Way

Misjudging who has the right of way often leads to accidents and traffic citations. This is particularly common at roundabouts, intersections, and when merging onto highways.  

Right-of-Way Tips:

• Learn Missouri’s Rules: Familiarize yourself with state-specific right-of-way laws.
• Give Way: Give way if doubt persists as this may lead to misunderstanding or an accident.
• Clearly Indicate Intentions of one's Driving: Allow other drivers to be aware of your intentions so that the flow of traffic is unhindered.

Driving Without Insurance

State law in Missouri requires all drivers to have liability insurance. If one drives without insurance and gets pulled over, then the fines could be huge, plus points on the driving record, and possible suspension of license.

How to Beat Insurance Tickets:

• Keep Proof Conavalible: Always have the latest insurance card in one's vehicle.
• Shop for an Affordable Policy: Take some time to find a carrier that has reasonable rates.
• Setup Auto-Payments: Never get penalized for overdue payment of your insurance bill through autopayments.

Conclusion

Traffic tickets are expensive, and they stain your driving record. Below are some common reasons Missouri drivers are being cited and how to avoid those infractions will save money while preserving your driving privilege and creating safer roads for all.

Remember, the best counter to traffic tickets is to follow traffic rules and keep your eyes on the road through safe driving. After all, safe driving ensures not only your safety but also that of every other user in Missouri. Drive safe!