Top Reasons Drivers Get Speeding Tickets in Missouri and How to Avoid Them
Spending tickets costs money and causes stress. In Missouri, many drivers get tickets every day. Let’s look at the top reasons drivers get caught speeding—and what you can do to avoid it. Consult a local license back lawyer in Kansas City.
1. Driving Over the Posted Limit
This is the main reason. You go faster than the speed limit, and you risk a ticket.
Why It Happens
- You’re running late.
- You don’t watch your speed.
- You think you won’t get caught.
- You’re used to driving faster.
- You don’t know the local limits.
How to Avoid It
- Pay attention to speed limit signs.
- Use cruise control on highways when safe.
- Leave early to avoid rushing.
- Check your speedometer often.
- Set alerts on your phone or car if available.
Speed limits exist to keep everyone safe. Roads, traffic, and weather all affect the speed you should drive. Going faster puts you and others in danger.
2. Speed Traps in Small Towns
Many small Missouri towns use speed traps to catch drivers. These traps are set near places where speed drops suddenly.
Where to Watch
- Town borders
- School zones
- Construction zones
- Near stop signs or railroad crossings
- Short speed limit drops
How to Avoid It
- Slow down as you enter towns.
- Watch for warning signs.
- Obey flashing school zone lights.
- Ease off the gas gently—don’t brake hard.
- Use traffic apps that warn of speed traps.
Small towns can change speed limits quickly, like from 55 to 35 mph. Missing the sign means you’re speeding in their eyes. While legal, many drivers feel these traps are unfair.
3. Highway Speeding
Highways tempt drivers to go fast, but Missouri state troopers watch carefully.
Common Highways to Watch
- I-70
- I-44
- I-55
- US 63
- US 60
How to Avoid It
- Keep your speed in check.
- Stay in the right lane unless passing.
- Don’t tailgate—officers notice that.
- Avoid speeding with fast groups.
- Follow truck speeds if unsure.
Patrol cars hide in places like under bridges or behind trees. They use radar or lidar guns to catch speeding cars. If you go over the limit, you’re a target.
4. Late Night Driving
Police watch closely at night, especially after bar closing hours.
Why You’re a Target
- Fewer cars make speed more obvious.
- Officers look for drunk drivers.
- Roads seem safer so some speed.
- You might be tired or distracted.
How to Avoid It
- Stick to the speed limit.
- Avoid late trips unless necessary.
- Stay alert and don’t use your phone.
- Keep lights and signals working.
- Avoid loud music or open containers.
Night driving is more dangerous. Lower visibility and more officers watching mean you need to drive smart.
5. Out-of-State Plates
Missouri police often pull over cars with out-of-state plates. They know these drivers may be less familiar with local rules.
Why You’re Picked
- You don’t know local speed limits.
- Officers see you as easy to ticket.
- Your car stands out on the road.
- You might skip court.
How to Avoid It
- Follow all speed signs carefully.
- Don’t assume rules are the same as home.
- Use GPS apps that show speed limits.
- Stay in the right lanes unless passing.
- Avoid sudden lane changes.
If you’re from out of state, don’t risk it. Drive cautiously and keep your speed low.
6. Driving Too Fast for Conditions
Missouri weather changes fast. Rain, ice, fog, or snow require slower speeds.
When This Happens
- Storms
- Icy roads and bridges
- Foggy mornings or evenings
- Nighttime on rural roads
How to Avoid It
- Slow down in bad weather.
- Don’t use cruise control on wet or icy roads.
- Turn on headlights in fog.
- Leave extra space between cars.
- Check your tires and brakes often.
Even if you’re below the posted limit, you can still get a ticket for going too fast for conditions.
7. Following the Flow of Traffic
“Everyone else was speeding” is no excuse. If you’re caught speeding, you’re responsible.
Why It’s Risky
- Police pick any car in the group.
- Other drivers may break the law.
- Speed groups change quickly.
How to Avoid It
- Stay in the middle of traffic groups.
- Don’t try to keep up if they’re too fast.
- Use your speedometer, not other cars.
- Slow down if traffic moves too fast.
Following the pack won’t protect you. Police only need one car to stop.
What Happens If You Get a Ticket in Missouri?
Getting a ticket means fines, points, and higher insurance.
- Fines usually range from $85 to $250.
- Points (2 or 3) get added to your license.
- Too many points risk license suspension.
- Insurance rates often go up.
- You may pay court costs.
Can You Fight a Ticket?
- You can hire a traffic lawyer.
- Some tickets get reduced or dropped.
- Errors on the ticket can help your case.
- Always keep copies of paperwork.
Missouri’s point system is strict. Too many points mean trouble.
Tips to Stay Ticket-Free
- Use apps like Waze to spot speed traps.
- Keep your car in good shape.
- Stay calm and patient.
- Watch for changing road signs.
- Follow the rules even if others don’t.
- Know where police patrol.
- Avoid distractions and tired driving.
What To Do If You’re Pulled Over
- Pull over safely.
- Keep your hands visible.
- Be polite and quiet.
- Don’t admit guilt.
- Take the ticket, don’t argue.
- Sign it to show receipt—not guilt.
FAQs
1. How many points does a speeding ticket add in Missouri?
Most tickets add 2 to 3 points. Higher speeds mean more points.
2. Can I take a class to reduce points?
Some courts allow traffic schools to remove or reduce points.
3. Will a speeding ticket raise my insurance?
Yes. Insurance may increase for 3 to 5 years after a ticket.
4. Are speed traps legal in Missouri?
Yes. Some towns have limits on how much revenue they get from tickets.
5. What happens if I ignore my ticket?
Ignoring it can cause a warrant or license suspension. Always respond or get a lawyer.
Missouri roads are watched closely by law enforcement. Smart driving and respect for speed limits keep you safe and save money. Drive carefully, stay alert, and keep your record clean. Call an experienced speeding ticket lawyer in Kansas City today.