This comprehensive guide to Missouri traffic laws provides clear, actionable explanations of the most commonly searched driving rules in the Show-Me State. Whether you're navigating I-70 across Missouri from Kansas City to St. Louis, I-44 through the scenic Ozark Mountains, I-35 north to Iowa, I-29 along the Missouri River, or local highways through Springfield, Columbia, Branson, and the Lake of the Ozarks region, understanding Missouri-specific traffic regulations helps you stay safe and avoid costly violations. From double yellow line rules to school bus stop requirements, hands-free cell phone laws, DWI regulations, speed limits, work zone safety, Move Over Law, and Kansas City/St. Louis metro area driving—every section references the official Missouri Revised Statutes (RSMo) and guidance from the Missouri Department of Revenue (DOR) and Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT). This is educational information, not legal advice; always obey posted signs, signals, and directions from law enforcement.
Missouri highways including I-70, I-44, I-35, I-29, and scenic Ozark roads require strict adherence to lane markings and traffic laws.
In Missouri, double solid yellow centerlines designate a no-passing zone where vehicles traveling in either direction are prohibited from crossing into the opposing lane to overtake another vehicle. According to RSMo § 304.015 andRSMo § 304.016, these markings appear on curves, hills, narrow bridges, intersections, areas with limited sight distance, and locations deemed unsafe for passing by the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT). Violating this law can result in fines ranging from $150 to $300, plus 2-4 points on your Missouri driving record and potential insurance premium increases. Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP), county sheriffs, and municipal police departments actively enforce no-passing zones on I-70, I-44, I-35, I-29, US-63, US-54, US-65, MO-13, and rural county highways throughout the state.
Legal Exceptions: When You May Cross Double Yellow Lines in Missouri
Missouri law recognizes several limited exceptions where drivers may legally cross double solid yellow lines:
Left turns into driveways, side streets, and private roads: You may cross double yellow lines when making a left turn into a residential driveway, business entrance, farm access road, or private property, provided it is safe and no oncoming traffic is present.
Avoiding obstructions in your lane: When a temporary obstruction blocks your lane—such as a disabled vehicle, fallen tree limbs or debris from storms, road damage, farm equipment temporarily stopped, or wildlife (deer crossing is common in Missouri)—you may briefly cross the centerline if the opposing lane is clear and the maneuver can be done safely.
Following official directions from law enforcement or traffic control: When Missouri State Highway Patrol officers, local police, emergency responders, MoDOT workers, or construction flaggers direct you to cross the centerline, you must follow their instructions.
Passing bicycles with adequate clearance: Missouri law allows drivers to cross double yellow lines to pass bicycles when at least 3 feet of clearance can be provided, the opposing lane is clear, and the maneuver can be completed safely (RSMo § 300.411).
These exceptions do not permit passing slow-moving vehicles, farm tractors under their own power, or general traffic congestion. The maneuver must be necessary, brief, and safe for all road users. On Missouri's scenic two-lane highways through the Ozarks, Mark Twain National Forest, and rural farming communities, patience is essential in no-passing zones even when frustrated by slow-moving agricultural equipment or recreational vehicles heading to popular destinations like Branson, Lake of the Ozarks, or Table Rock Lake.
I-70 Across Missouri: Kansas City to St. Louis Traffic Corridor & Enforcement
Interstate 70 crosses Missouri for 252 miles from the Kansas border near Kansas City to the Illinois border at the Mississippi River near St. Louis. This major east-west corridor connects Kansas City (I-435, I-635, US-40), Columbia (home of the University of Missouri), and St. Louis (I-270, I-64, I-55 interchange). While I-70 uses white lane markings for most sections, double yellow lines appear on entrance/exit ramps, service roads, connector routes, and older sections near downtown St. Louis. The Missouri State Highway Patrol maintains aggressive traffic enforcement along I-70, particularly during holiday travel periods, university move-in weekends, and major events like football games at Arrowhead Stadium (Kansas City Chiefs) and The Dome at America's Center (St. Louis). Expect both stationary radar units and moving patrol enforcement, especially between Columbia and Kingdom City where speeds often exceed posted limits.
Southern Missouri's Ozark region features winding two-lane highways including I-44 from Joplin to Rolla to Springfield, US-65 south from Springfield to Branson, MO-13 through rural counties, and scenic routes around the Lake of the Ozarks and Mark Twain National Forest. These routes have extensive double yellow no-passing zones due to sharp curves, steep grades, limited sight distance, and high recreational traffic. Popular tourist destinations like Branson's entertainment district, Silver Dollar City, Table Rock Lake, and Bull Shoals Lake attract millions of visitors annually, creating heavy summer and fall traffic. Missouri law strictly prohibits passing across double yellow lines even when behind slow recreational vehicles, boats on trailers, or sightseers—wait for a legal passing zone marked with dashed yellow lines. The Missouri State Highway Patrol conducts regular safety patrols on these scenic routes, particularly during peak tourism season (May through October).
Missouri law prohibits passing across double yellow lines but allows left turns into driveways when safe.
Missouri Right Turn on Red & Traffic Signal Laws
Missouri Revised Statute § 304.281: Right on Red After Complete Stop
Missouri law permits right turns on red signals after coming to a complete stop at the stop line, crosswalk, or intersection edge, unless a "NO TURN ON RED" sign prohibits it (RSMo § 304.281). Before turning, drivers must:
Come to a full stop—your vehicle must reach zero miles per hour behind the stop line
Yield to pedestrians in or approaching the crosswalk—Missouri has strict pedestrian priority laws
Yield to all vehicles, cyclists, and motorcyclists with the right-of-way
Check for "NO TURN ON RED" signs, which may apply at all times or during specific hours
Ensure the turn can be made safely without interfering with traffic flow
Rolling through the stop or blocking the crosswalk is a common violation strictly enforced throughout Missouri. Courts treat incomplete stops seriously, with fines typically ranging from $100 to $200 plus court costs and 2 points on your license. In high-pedestrian areas like downtown Kansas City's Power & Light District, Country Club Plaza, St. Louis' The Loop near Washington University, Downtown West area, Columbia's downtown entertainment district near Mizzou, and Springfield's Battlefield Mall area, police closely monitor right-turn compliance. Crosswalk violations can also trigger additional pedestrian right-of-way citations under RSMo § 300.375.
Kansas City & St. Louis Metro Areas: No Turn on Red Restrictions
Kansas City intersections near downtown, the Power & Light District, Country Club Plaza, Crown Center, Union Station, and the Crossroads Arts District frequently post "NO TURN ON RED" signs due to heavy pedestrian traffic, streetcar operations on Main Street, and complex signal phasing. Similarly, St. Louis intersections near the Gateway Arch, Busch Stadium, Ballpark Village, The Loop in University City, Delmar Loop, Forest Park area, and Clayton's business district have numerous restrictions. Springfield's downtown square and Branson's Highway 76 (The Strip) entertainment district also feature extensive no-turn-on-red zones. Always read supplemental plaques beneath signs—some restrictions apply only during peak hours (7-9 AM, 4-7 PM) or when pedestrians are present.
Left Turn on Red in Missouri: One-Way to One-Way Streets
Missouri permits left turns on red from one-way streets onto other one-way streets, provided you come to a complete stop, yield to pedestrians and traffic, and no sign prohibits the turn (RSMo § 304.281). This scenario occurs primarily in downtown Kansas City, downtown St. Louis, and certain areas of Columbia and Springfield with one-way street grids. Before attempting a left turn on red, verify that both streets are one-way in the appropriate directions and check for prohibitive signage.
Missouri Traffic Signal Timing & Yellow Light Duration Standards
Missouri traffic signals follow MoDOT and Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) guidelines for yellow (amber) light timing, typically 3-5 seconds depending on intersection speed limits and approach geometry. If you are already in the intersection when the light turns red, complete your movement safely. Entering on yellow is legal if you cannot stop safely; entering on red is a violation subject to citation and fines. Missouri has limited red-light camera enforcement in some municipalities—these cameras photograph vehicles that enter intersections after the signal turns red. Consult local ordinances as red-light camera programs vary by city.
Missouri Roundabouts & Traffic Circle Right-of-Way Rules
Missouri has increasingly installed modern roundabouts and traffic circles throughout the state, particularly in newer suburban developments around Kansas City (Johnson County, Overland Park), St. Louis (St. Charles County, O'Fallon), Columbia (Grindstone Parkway area), and Springfield. Missouri roundabout rules require entering traffic to yield to vehicles already circulating inside the roundabout. Never stop inside the roundabout unless traffic conditions require it. Use your right turn signal when exiting. Multi-lane roundabouts require staying in your lane—do not change lanes within the circle. Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks at roundabout entrances and exits. Missouri's roundabouts improve traffic flow and reduce severe crashes compared to traditional signalized intersections.
Kansas City Streetcar & St. Louis MetroLink: Light Rail Right-of-Way Laws
Kansas City's KC Streetcar operates along Main Street from River Market through downtown to Union Station and Crown Center. The streetcar has the right-of-way in its dedicated lanes and at crossings. Never turn in front of an approaching streetcar or block tracks. St. Louis' MetroLink light rail system operates on dedicated tracks and street-level crossings throughout the metro area. When crossing signals activate (flashing lights and/or gates), you must stop at least 15 feet from the tracks. Violating light rail right-of-way laws (RSMo § 304.022) carries fines up to $500, points on your license, and potential criminal charges if violations result in accidents or injuries.
In Missouri, always stop fully and yield to pedestrians before making a right turn on red.
Missouri School Bus Stop Laws & Strict Penalties
Missouri Revised Statute § 304.050: Stopping for School Buses with Flashing Lights
Missouri enforces strict school bus stop laws to protect children. When a school bus activates flashing red lights and extends its stop arm, the following rules apply under RSMo § 304.050:
Undivided roads (no median or barrier): All vehicles traveling in both directions must stop at least 10 feet from the bus and remain stopped until the red lights stop flashing and the stop arm retracts.
Divided highways (physical median or barrier at least 5 feet wide): Only traffic traveling in the same direction as the bus must stop. Opposing traffic on the other side of a physical divider (concrete median, grass median, raised barrier) may proceed cautiously.
Multi-lane roads without median: All lanes in both directions must stop. Painted center turn lanes or double yellow lines do not count as physical dividers.
Passing a stopped school bus is a serious traffic violation in Missouri. First-offense penalties include fines of $300 minimum (up to $1,000), possible license suspension up to 90 days, 4 points on your driving record, and significantly increased insurance rates. Second offense within two years carries fines up to $2,000, license suspension up to one year, and potential criminal prosecution. If the violation results in injury to a child, criminal penalties increase dramatically and can include felony charges with multiple years imprisonment.
Missouri School Bus Camera Programs: Stop-Arm Video Enforcement Technology
Many Missouri school districts equip buses with exterior stop-arm cameras that record license plates of vehicles illegally passing stopped buses. Video footage is reviewed by local police or Missouri State Highway Patrol, who issue citations to registered owners. Camera-based enforcement has increased significantly in districts throughout Kansas City, St. Louis metro, Springfield, Columbia, Jefferson City, Joplin, and rural counties. Missouri law (RSMo § 304.050) authorizes automated enforcement with registered owner liability. Expect strict enforcement during morning (6:30-8:30 AM) and afternoon (2-4 PM) school hours on all roads including rural farm-to-market highways where school buses make frequent stops.
Flashing Yellow vs Flashing Red School Bus Signals in Missouri
Missouri school buses first activate flashing yellow (amber) lights approximately 100-300 feet before the intended stop to warn drivers that the bus is preparing to stop for children. You should slow down and prepare to stop but are not yet legally required to do so. Once the flashing red lights activate and the stop arm extends, you must come to a complete stop. Do not proceed until the red lights stop flashing, the stop arm retracts, and all children are clear of the roadway and have reached a safe location. Missouri law requires drivers to remain stopped even if the bus appears to be finished loading/unloading—wait for the official signal to proceed.
Enhanced Penalties for School Bus Violations Causing Injury or Death
Missouri imposes severe enhanced penalties if passing a stopped school bus results in injury or death. Violations causing bodily injury can result in Class A misdemeanor charges with fines up to $2,000 and up to one year in jail. Violations resulting in death can be prosecuted as Class D felonies with substantially higher penalties including multiple years imprisonment, fines up to $10,000, and permanent license revocation. Missouri courts show zero tolerance for school bus violations that endanger children.
On undivided Missouri roads, all traffic in both directions must stop when a school bus displays flashing red lights.
Missouri Speed Limit Laws & Highway Regulations
Missouri Revised Statute § 304.010: Maximum Speed Limits Statewide
Missouri establishes maximum speed limits for different types of roads under RSMo § 304.010and RSMo § 304.009 (basic speed law). Default speed limits include:
Interstate highways (I-70, I-44, I-35, I-29, I-55, I-270, I-435, I-470): 70 mph in rural areas, 60 mph in urban areas near Kansas City, St. Louis, and major cities
School zones: 20 mph when children are present (flashing beacons active during school hours)
Always obey posted signs, which supersede default limits. Speed limits can change frequently based on road conditions, construction zones, weather (tornadoes, severe thunderstorms, ice storms, flooding), and traffic patterns. Missouri's basic speed law (RSMo § 304.009) requires drivers to operate at speeds reasonable and proper for current conditions—you can be cited for driving too fast for conditions even if you're under the posted speed limit.
The Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP) maintains aggressive speed enforcement on major interstates and highways throughout all patrol troops. Common high-enforcement zones include:
I-70 corridor: Kansas City to Columbia to St. Louis (Troops A, C, F)—expect tickets for 10-15 mph over posted limits
I-44 corridor: Joplin to Springfield to Rolla to St. Louis (Troops D, G, I)—heavy enforcement especially in Ozark mountain curves
I-35 north corridor: Kansas City to Iowa border (Troop H)—agricultural truck enforcement
I-29 along Missouri River: Kansas City to Iowa border (Troop H)—high-volume commercial traffic enforcement
MSHP uses stationary radar, moving patrol, LIDAR (laser speed detection), and aircraft speed enforcement on major highways. Missouri has a reputation for strict speed enforcement—troopers commonly issue citations for exceeding posted limits by 10+ mph on rural interstates. Radar detectors are legalfor passenger vehicles in Missouri but do not exempt you from speed limits or enforcement.
Work Zone Speed Limits & Doubled Fines in Missouri Construction Areas
Missouri law authorizes doubled fines for speeding violations in active highway work zones when workers are present (RSMo § 304.580). Work zones are marked by orange construction signs, cones, barrels, reduced speed limits (typically 45-60 mph on highways), and "WORK ZONE FINES DOUBLED" warning signs. MoDOT posts "SPEED LIMIT ENFORCED BY RADAR" signs to warn drivers. A typical speeding ticket costing $150 in normal conditions can double to $300 in an active work zone with workers present. Additionally, Missouri has enacted enhanced penalties for speeding violations or aggressive driving in work zones that endanger highway workers—these can result in criminal charges, higher fines up to $1,000, additional points, and possible license suspension.
Missouri Point System & License Suspension Thresholds
Missouri uses a point system administered by the Department of Revenue (DOR). Speeding violations add points:
1-5 mph over limit: 2 points (minor speeding)
6-10 mph over limit: 2 points (speeding)
11-15 mph over limit: 3 points (speeding)
16-19 mph over limit: 4 points (excessive speeding)
Accumulating 8 or more points within 18 months triggers license suspension: 30 days for first suspension, 60 days for second suspension within 18 months, 90 days for third or subsequent suspensions. Drivers under 18 face stricter penalties with suspension possible after just 6 points. Insurance companies significantly increase premiums for drivers with multiple speeding violations.
Lake of the Ozarks & Tourist Area Speed Enforcement
The Lake of the Ozarks region, Branson entertainment district, Table Rock Lake area, and other Missouri tourist destinations experience heavy seasonal traffic and increased law enforcement presence during summer months (Memorial Day through Labor Day) and fall color season (September-October). Highway patrol, county sheriffs, and local police conduct aggressive speed enforcement and DWI checkpoints on MO-54, US-65, MO-76 (Branson Strip), MO-13, and lake access roads. Tourist areas also have strict enforcement of distracted driving laws, seatbelt laws, and child restraint requirements. Exercise extra caution and obey posted speed limits in these high-traffic recreational zones.
Contesting Speeding Tickets in Missouri Municipal & Associate Circuit Courts
If you receive a speeding citation in Missouri, you may pay the fine and accept points on your record, request a court hearing to contest the charge, or hire an attorney to negotiate a reduction to a non-moving violation (such as defective equipment) that carries no points. Missouri Associate Circuit Courts and Municipal Courts handle most traffic violations. At trial, the citing officer must present evidence of your speed and proof that radar/LIDAR equipment was properly calibrated and certified. You may cross-examine the officer and present defenses. Consulting a traffic attorney is advisable for serious violations (20+ mph over, work zone violations, or cases that would trigger license suspension). Some attorneys can negotiate amended charges that reduce or eliminate points, protecting your driving record and insurance rates.
Missouri Revised Statute § 577.010: Driving While Intoxicated (DWI)
Missouri prohibits operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated (DWI) with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher for drivers 21 and over, 0.02% or higher for drivers under 21 (Zero Tolerance law under RSMo § 302.525), and 0.04% or higher for commercial drivers under federal regulations. Even if your BAC is below the legal limit, you can still be charged with DWI if alcohol or drugs have impaired your ability to drive safely (RSMo § 577.010). Missouri courts and prosecutors take DWI offenses extremely seriously due to the state's history of alcohol-related traffic fatalities on rural highways and interstates.
First-Offense DWI Penalties in Missouri
A first-time DWI conviction in Missouri (RSMo § 577.010) carries:
Fines: Up to $500 plus court costs, fees, and DOR surcharges (total typically $800-$1,500)
Jail time: Up to 6 months in county jail (typically suspended with probation for first offense without aggravating factors)
License suspension: 90 days administrative suspension (DOR), followed by restricted driving period with ignition interlock device
Ignition interlock device (IID): Required for all DWI offenders seeking restricted driving privileges or full license reinstatement (RSMo § 302.309)
Substance abuse traffic offender program (SATOP): Mandatory assessment and completion of court-approved 10-week education/treatment program
Probation: Typically 2 years supervised probation with conditions (no alcohol, random testing, community service)
Penalties increase substantially for repeat offenses, high BAC levels (0.15% or above), refusal to submit to chemical testing, DWI incidents involving accidents or injuries, or child endangerment (passenger under 17 in vehicle). Second and subsequent DWI offenses within 5 years carry mandatory minimum jail time, longer license revocations, and felony charges for third or subsequent offenses.
Missouri Implied Consent Law & Chemical Test Refusal Consequences
Under Missouri's implied consent law (RSMo § 577.020), by driving on Missouri roads you automatically consent to chemical testing (breath, blood, or urine) if lawfully arrested for DWI. Refusing the test results in automatic administrative penalties imposed by the Department of Revenue:
First refusal: 1-year license revocation (no driving privileges available for first 90 days)
Second refusal or refusal with prior alcohol-related enforcement contact: 1-year revocation
Third or subsequent refusal: 10-year denial of driving privileges
Refusal does not prevent criminal prosecution—the state can still charge you with DWI based on officer observations, field sobriety test performance, driving behavior, physical symptoms of intoxication, and other evidence. Refusal can be used against you in court as consciousness of guilt and typically results in harsher penalties if convicted. Missouri prosecutors aggressively pursue DWI charges even in refusal cases, often obtaining search warrants for blood draws if probable cause exists.
Ignition Interlock Device (IID) Requirements for All Missouri DWI Offenders
Missouri law requires ignition interlock devices (IID) for all DWI offenders seeking any driving privileges during suspension/revocation periods or full license reinstatement after DWI convictions (RSMo § 302.309). An IID is a breath-testing device connected to your vehicle's ignition system that prevents engine start unless you provide a breath sample below the programmed limit (typically 0.02% BAC). Missouri requires IIDs for:
First DWI offense: Required for restricted driving privilege during 90-day suspension and thereafter until full reinstatement (typically 6-12 months minimum)
Second DWI offense: Required for any restricted driving and full license reinstatement (minimum 5 years or permanently)
Third or subsequent DWI: Required permanently for any driving privileges (10-year denial can be reduced with IID compliance)
Test refusal cases: Required for any restricted driving privilege and reinstatement
You must use a Missouri DOR-approved IID provider and pay all installation, monthly monitoring ($75-$125/month), calibration, and removal costs. Attempting to circumvent the device, tampering with equipment, having someone else blow into it (blow-and-go), or driving a vehicle without an installed IID when required is a Class A misdemeanor criminal offense (RSMo § 577.600) that can result in additional jail time up to one year, extended IID requirements, and license revocation. All IID violations are reported electronically to DOR and can trigger immediate suspension and criminal prosecution.
Missouri Hands-Free Cell Phone Law & Distracted Driving Regulations
Missouri Revised Statute § 304.820: Hands-Free Law for Electronic Devices While Driving
Effective August 28, 2023, Missouri enacted a statewide hands-free law prohibiting drivers from manually holding or physically supporting electronic communication devices while operating motor vehicles (RSMo § 304.820, known as "Siddens Bening Hands Free Law"). This law applies to all Missouri drivers statewide and includes:
Complete handheld phone ban: Drivers may not hold a cell phone, smartphone, tablet, or electronic device in their hand while driving
Texting while driving prohibition: No driver may manually type, send, or read text messages, emails, or instant messages while operating a vehicle
Hands-free exceptions: Voice-activated and hands-free technology (Bluetooth, speakerphone, steering wheel controls) are permitted if the device is not held in the hand
Single-touch activation allowed: Drivers may activate or deactivate hands-free features with a single touch or swipe if the device is mounted or in a cradle
Emergency exception: Drivers may use handheld devices to report emergencies, crimes in progress, or request assistance from law enforcement or emergency services
Missouri Hands-Free Law Penalties & Enforcement
Violations of Missouri's hands-free law result in:
First offense: Fine up to $150
Second offense: Fine up to $250
Third and subsequent offenses: Fine up to $500
Points on driving record: 2 points for each violation
Missouri State Highway Patrol and local law enforcement actively enforce the hands-free law through observation during traffic stops and dedicated distracted driving enforcement campaigns. Insurance companies may increase premiums for handheld device violations. The law applies on all public roads including interstate highways, state routes, county roads, and city streets throughout Missouri.
Additional Restrictions for Drivers Under 21 & Commercial Drivers
Missouri imposes additional wireless communication restrictions on young and commercial drivers:
Drivers under 21 with intermediate license: Prohibited from using any wireless communication device (including hands-free) for the first six months of licensure except to report emergencies (RSMo § 302.178)
Commercial driver's license (CDL) holders: Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSR) prohibit texting and handheld phone use while operating commercial motor vehicles
The Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) and Missouri State Highway Patrol conduct ongoing distracted driving awareness campaigns including "Drive Smart," "Phone Down, Head Up," and "It Can Wait" initiatives. Missouri has seen significant reductions in distracted driving crashes since implementing the statewide hands-free law. Always secure your phone before driving, use hands-free technology that complies with state law, or wait until you reach your destination before using handheld devices.
Missouri Move Over Law & Emergency Vehicle Right-of-Way
Missouri Revised Statute § 304.022: Move Over Law for Stopped Emergency Vehicles
Missouri's Move Over Law (RSMo § 304.022) requires drivers approaching stationary emergency vehicles, law enforcement vehicles, Missouri State Highway Patrol vehicles, tow trucks, highway maintenance vehicles, or utility vehicles displaying flashing lights to:
On multi-lane highways: Move over to a non-adjacent lane if it is safe to do so, OR reduce speed to a speed safe for road conditions and be prepared to stop.
On two-lane roads: Slow to a speed safe for the conditions and be prepared to stop if necessary.
Covered vehicles include Missouri State Highway Patrol cruisers, local police departments, sheriff departments, fire apparatus, ambulances, MoDOT highway maintenance vehicles, utility company trucks, and tow trucks displaying amber, blue, red, or white flashing lights. Violations carry fines up to $500 for first offense and up to $1,000 for subsequent offenses. If the violation results in property damage, injury to an emergency worker, or death, penalties increase dramatically to Class A misdemeanor or felony charges with fines up to $10,000, license suspension/revocation, and imprisonment.
Missouri Emergency Vehicle Right-of-Way: Pull Over & Stop Requirements
When an emergency vehicle approaches with audible siren and visible flashing lights, Missouri law (RSMo § 304.022) requires you to immediately pull over to the right edge of the roadway and stop until the emergency vehicle passes. This applies to police cars, fire trucks, and ambulances. Never stop in an intersection—proceed through the intersection and then pull to the right. On one-way streets, pull to the nearest edge. Failure to yield to emergency vehicles carries fines up to $500, points on your license, and potential criminal charges if an accident results or emergency response is delayed.
This guide summarizes common Missouri traffic rules based on the Missouri Revised Statutes (RSMo) and guidance from the Missouri Department of Revenue and MoDOT. It is not legal advice. Always follow posted signs, signals, and instructions from law enforcement. Consult an attorney for specific legal questions or if you are facing traffic citations or criminal charges.
