Everyone knows that serious traffic violations like DUI or reckless driving carry hefty penalties. But what about the violations that don’t grab headlines? In Missouri, and especially in cities like St. Charles, there are several lesser-known offenses that can catch drivers off guard and result in fines, license points, and even criminal charges. While they may seem insignificant at the time, these infractions can add up quickly and lead to long-term consequences.
Missouri uses a point-based system to monitor driving behavior. Each violation adds points to your license, and accumulating too many can result in suspension or revocation. Additionally, many insurance providers will raise your premiums after even a single citation. Below are seven traffic violations that most drivers don’t give a second thought to but should.
If an emergency vehicle is approaching with lights or sirens, Missouri law requires you to pull over to the right or come to a complete stop if necessary. Failing to do so is not only dangerous, but it’s also a traffic offense that can carry a significant fine and add points to your driving record.
What many drivers don’t realize is that this law also applies to stationary emergency vehicles stopped on the side of the road. Known as the “Move Over” law, it requires motorists to switch lanes or slow down when approaching a parked vehicle with flashing lights—including police, ambulances, and tow trucks. Violating this law puts both you and emergency workers at risk, and enforcement has become more aggressive in recent years.
While speeding gets a lot of attention, driving too slowly can also be considered a violation, particularly if it disrupts the flow of traffic. Missouri law prohibits drivers from operating a vehicle at such a slow speed that it impedes the normal movement of traffic, especially on highways.
This offense often occurs in the left lane or near freeway on-ramps, where drivers may hesitate or misjudge merging speeds. Not only does this create a traffic hazard, but it also frustrates other drivers and increases the risk of accidents. If law enforcement believes you are unnecessarily holding up traffic, you could be pulled over and cited on the spot.
It’s not uncommon for drivers to install decorative license plate frames, but these can sometimes obscure important parts of the plate, such as state names or registration stickers. Missouri law mandates that all license plates must be fully visible and free of obstructions at all times.
An obscured plate can give police officers probable cause to stop your vehicle, even if you haven’t committed any other violation. This is often used as a reason to initiate further investigation. Whether your plate is blocked by dirt, snow, or a frame, you could find yourself with an unexpected ticket simply because your registration information isn't clearly displayed.
Turn signals aren’t optional; they’re legally required. Failing to use a turn signal when changing lanes or making a turn is considered a moving violation in Missouri. And using your signal too late or inconsistently can be just as problematic.
The law states that a turn signal must be used at least 100 feet before turning. That gives other drivers enough notice to respond safely. If you frequently switch lanes without signaling or signal at the last second, you increase your chances of a crash and of being pulled over. This type of citation adds points to your record and is one of the more preventable offenses on the road.
Listening to music through headphones while driving might seem harmless, especially when using hands-free technology. However, Missouri law prohibits wearing headphones or earbuds in both ears while operating a vehicle. This law is designed to ensure drivers remain alert to their surroundings and can hear horns, sirens, or other critical audio cues.
If an officer sees you wearing both earbuds or a full headset, they can issue a citation, even if you’re driving carefully. Using one earbud is generally acceptable, but anything that hinders your ability to hear outside noises can be considered a hazard and a violation of state traffic law.
Tailgating, or following another vehicle too closely, is a common yet dangerous behavior. In Missouri, you’re required to leave a safe distance between your vehicle and the one in front of you. This distance should allow you enough time to react and stop in case the car ahead suddenly brakes.
Police officers are trained to recognize unsafe driving patterns, including tailgating. Even if you don’t get into an accident, you can still be cited for this behavior. And if you do rear-end another vehicle, the fault is almost always assumed to be yours, bringing with it legal and financial consequences.
Transporting furniture, equipment, or other bulky items in your vehicle? Missouri law requires that all loads be properly secured to prevent items from falling onto the road. This doesn’t just apply to large trucks; passenger vehicles are also subject to this rule.
If an item falls from your vehicle and causes damage or an accident, you could be held responsible not just for traffic fines but for injuries and property damage as well. Even something as simple as an unsecured cooler or toolbox in your truck bed could result in a citation. Law enforcement officers often patrol for these violations near highways and construction areas.
Many of these violations may seem trivial, but they can quickly snowball into bigger issues if left unaddressed. If you’ve been ticketed for any traffic violation in Missouri, especially in St. Charles, our traffic violation attorneys can help you understand your legal rights and fight the charges you’re facing.
Don’t let a small mistake lead to a big problem. If you've been cited for any of these offenses, contact us today to speak with an experienced attorney who will stand up for your rights and work toward the best outcome possible.
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