4 Things All Missouri Drivers Should Know

Have you just obtained a Missouri driver’s license? Whether you’re a new driver or a seasoned driver who’s recently moved to the state, you probably can’t wait to go on some new adventures. Before you get behind the wheel, it’s important to learn about some of the state’s road regulations. Here are four things all Missouri drivers should know.

Don’t Text and Drive

Missouri is one of only two states in the country that doesn’t completely prohibit all drivers from texting while driving. There are regulations, however.

It’s currently illegal for anyone under the age of 21 to text and drive or use a handheld mobile device in any sort of way. That includes making phone calls or looking at photos on a phone. Anyone over the age of 21 isn’t subject to this law — at least not yet. There has been a recent initiative for Missouri to establish a law banning texting and other distracted driving practices.

Even though texting while driving isn’t completely banned in Missouri, it’s still best to avoid it. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 3,142 people died from distracted driving in the United States in 2019 alone. Pulling over if you need to send a text message or make a phone call could help save a life — maybe even your own.

There Are Seatbelt and Child Safety Laws

Missouri state law requires all drivers and front-seat passengers to wear a seatbelt at all times. Backseat passengers under 16 years of age must also wear a seatbelt. That being said, the Governors Highway Safety Association recommends all backseat passengers to buckle up, regardless of age.

Like other states, there are also safety laws in place to protect children in Missouri. According to the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT), these laws are as follows:

Children under the age of 4 or less than 40 pounds must use an appropriate car seat.
Children between 4 to 7 years of age must use an appropriate car seat or booster seat until they reach 4’9” or 80 pounds.
Children who are 8+ years of age and weigh a minimum of 80 pounds must wear a seatbelt or be buckled into a booster seat.

Neglecting to follow these Missouri car seat laws can result in fines. That’s not to mention that failing to protect children can prove to be dangerous or even deadly.

Emergency Vehicles ALWAYS Have the Right of Way

It might not surprise you to learn that emergency vehicles, such as ambulances and police vehicles, have the right of way in Missouri. However, it’s important to keep this law involving roundabouts in mind.

If you notice an emergency vehicle entering a roundabout, you should not enter the roundabout and move to the right side of the road. If you’re already in a roundabout when an emergency vehicle enters, you should not halt. Instead, try to exit the roundabout ASAP.

Rules Change After Age 70

The aging population is an issue of concern in Missouri. According to MoDOT, there were 174 fatalities and 709 serious injuries among people 65 years of age and older in 2019 alone.

The state of Missouri has taken steps to help reduce the number of car accidents among the aging population. As a result, people over the age of 70 must renew their licenses every three years. Family members can report their loved ones if they feel they are unfit to drive.

Now that you’ve reviewed these Missouri laws and regulations, you’re ready to hit the roads. Remember to always use your best judgment at all times when driving throughout the state.