We’ve been there – you’re driving your usual route to the work or the grocery store when you see the red and blue lights in your rear-view mirror. Sometimes, we speed because we’re distracted by our phone or kids in the backseat. Sometimes, we’re running late and knew we were “pushing it.”
No matter the reason, being pulled over and getting a traffic ticket is always a nuisance, and can affect us in a number of ways. We’ve pulled together a few “Frequently Asked Questions” (FAQs) to address here. Hopefully, this information helps you understand the citation process and what you can do the next time you see those red-and-blues in the rearview mirror.
What do speeding tickets in Missouri cost?
The answer depends on where your ticket is issued and the excess of your speed, along with other factors such as a CDL license or the presence of a school or construction zone. Speeding in rural cities and counties can often bring higher fines. And special circumstances, such as where construction workers are present, can double or even triple your fines.
How long will this ticket stay on my “permanent record?”
In Missouri, speeding tickets can be reduced to non-moving violations without ANY points on your record, and often without a court appearance. However, if your ticket isn’t reduced to this non-moving offense, then the record will reflect a guilty plea to the charge. Once you’ve paid your ticket, the traffic violation remains on your Missouri driving record for at least 3 years, maybe more, and can certainly effect insurance rates.
Is my ticket a “misdemeanor?”
It’s common for your speeding offenses to appear as misdemeanors. You can learn about the difference between Class B Misdemeanors and Class C Misdemeanors online, or we can walk you through that information after you submit your ticket. If your case isn’t handled correctly, these misdemeanors could result in additional fines or even jail time. Avoid that by contacting us after you’ve gotten a ticket in Missouri, so that we can discuss your options.
What about points on my license?
In Missouri, a speeding ticket will add from 2-4 points to your personal driving record, depending on the citation. If you accumulate 4 points in a 12-month time period, you’ll receive a letter from the Missouri Department of Revenue notifying you that you are close to a license suspension. Your license will be suspended if you accumulate a total of 8 or more points within an 18-month period. The period of revocation will depend on the amount of points and the time frame, but ranges from a 30-day suspension to 36 months.
When that happens, if you haven’t started working with us on your ticket, you should call our office immediately. We can help you navigate these waters and likely restore your driving privileges!
What if I don’t pay my speeding ticket?
If you do not contest your ticket or pay the fine assigned by the due date, you will likely end up paying an even larger fine in the end. Plus, there are additional ramifications to consider when failing to contest or pay your ticket, including:
- Car insurance increases
- A forced change in your car insurance coverage
- Arrest warrants issued
- Additional fines and points on your record
- A “hold” on your driver’s license, which is essentially a suspension
How can I get help on my speeding ticket?
Call us! We’re ready to help you navigate the process and will fight for your rights as a Missouri driver. We can help you with DUI/DWI, speeding, possession, other traffic violations, license suspensions and reinstatements, and personal injuries from auto accidents. We’re ready for your call today: 636-462-7867. Contact us online or call our offices to get started!