Many drivers who receive a traffic ticket are unsure what to do next. While it may not seem like something to be too concerned about, a citation could result in serious consequences if it’s not dealt with in the proper manner. As such, it’s important to understand your rights before deciding how to handle a ticket. The following guide goes over various violations you can receive in Missouri and the different options for responding.

What to Know About Missouri Traffic Tickets

Types of Violations

As someone who drives, it’s essential to be aware of which actions can lead to a traffic ticket. Citations are separated into two categories—moving and non-moving violations. A moving violation is one that occurs while the vehicle is in operation, while non-moving violations are given when a car is stationary.

Some of the most common types of moving violations are speeding, distracted driving, driving without a valid driver’s license, running a red light or stop sign, reckless driving, leaving the scene of an accident, and driving under the influence (DUI). Doing any of these will put points on your driving record. If you accumulate eight points within 18 months, your license will be suspended, and 12 points in 12 months will cause a license revocation.

Non-moving violations don’t involve an assessment of points or affect insurance premiums. These can include illegal parking, expired tags, excessive muffler noise, littering from the vehicle, and failing to display license plates correctly.

Ways to Respond

There are a few ways you can respond to a traffic ticket in Missouri. First, you may choose to simply pay the ticket. This serves as an admission of guilt and automatic conviction resulting in an assessment of points.

Based on your driving record and the type of violation, you could lose your driving privileges and see a rise in insurance rates. In certain counties, you might be eligible to pay the ticket and enroll in the Driver Improvement Program (DIP). Upon completion, the points will be removed from your driving record, but your insurer will still be able to see the conviction.

If you wish to plead not guilty, you can opt to fight the ticket and request a hearing. Having an attorney represent you in court will improve your chances of getting the charges dropped or lowered to a non-moving violation.

If you’ve been cited for a driving violation, turn to Traffic Law Firm of Missouri for help determining the best course of action to take. With years of legal experience, their lawyers are familiar with effective strategies for fighting a traffic ticket and will provide you with the best possible defense. They’ve successfully advocated on behalf of many motorists to get their charges reduced or dismissed. Call (636) 462-7867 to schedule a consultation, or visit them online for more information on the kinds of cases they handle.