FIGHT YOUR TICKET AGAINST AGGRESSIVE DRIVING IN KC, MISSOURI

Aggressive driving is a serious offense in Missouri, and while the state does not have a specific law labeled “aggressive driving,” drivers can still face significant legal and financial consequences for engaging in aggressive behavior behind the wheel.

If you’ve been cited for aggressive driving, it’s crucial to understand your rights, potential penalties, and how to fight the ticket to avoid long-term repercussions.

At Speeding Ticket KC, our experienced Kansas City traffic defense attorneys specialize in defending traffic violations, including aggressive driving charges, in Kansas City and across the state of Missouri. If you’re facing an aggressive driving ticket, don’t wait; contact us today for a free case evaluation to determine how we can help you with your case.

WHAT IS CONSIDERED AGGRESSIVE DRIVING IN MISSOURI?

The state of Missouri does not have a specific statute titled “aggressive driving.” However, aggressive driving is typically charged under “careless and imprudent driving” (Section 304.012 of the Missouri Revised Statutes) or a combination of other moving violations.

Missouri law requires drivers to exercise the highest degree of care while operating a vehicle, meaning any behavior that endangers other drivers, passengers, or property can lead to an aggressive driving charge. Aggressive driving generally includes multiple traffic violations committed simultaneously or in quick succession.

Examples of aggressive driving behaviors in Missouri include:

• Speeding excessively beyond posted limits
• Tailgating or following too closely
• Erratic lane changes or weaving through traffic
• Failure to yield or cutting off other drivers
• Ignoring traffic signs and signals
• Brake checking (sudden braking to startle or punish another driver)
• Blocking or slowing down traffic in the left lane
• Excessive honking or flashing headlights aggressively
• Engaging in confrontations with other drivers
• Racing or road rage-related incidents

It’s important to note that while aggressive driving and road rage are sometimes used interchangeably, they are different in the eyes of the law. “Road rage” typically involves physical altercations or intentional harm, whereas aggressive driving refers to reckless behaviors that create dangerous conditions.

WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU GET AN AGGRESSIVE DRIVING TICKET IN MISOURI?

If you receive a citation for aggressive driving in Missouri, you have two primary options:

Pay the fine: This is an admission of guilt, meaning the violation will appear on your driving record and may result in points against your license.

Fight the ticket in court: With the help of an experienced traffic attorney, you may be able to reduce the charges, avoid points on your license, or have the case dismissed entirely.

Ignoring the ticket or failing to appear in court can result in a warrant for your arrest, additional fines, and potential suspension of your driving privileges.

PENALTIES FOR AGGRESSIVE DRIVING IN MISSOURI

The severity of the penalties for aggressive driving depends on whether the incident resulted in an accident or injury, as well as any prior offenses on your record.

Misdemeanor Classifications & Penalties:

Class C Misdemeanor: Typically applies to minor speeding offenses or other infractions related to aggressive driving.
Punishable by up to 15 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $750.

Class B Misdemeanor: Typically applies to more serious aggressive driving behaviors, such as reckless lane changes, tailgating, or excessive speeding.
Punishable by up to 6 months in jail and/or a fine of up to $1,000.

Class A Misdemeanor: Applies when aggressive driving results in an accident, injury, or significant property damage.
Punishable by up to 1 year in jail and/or a fine of up to $2,000.

In addition to these penalties, a conviction may result in probation, increased insurance rates, and potential loss of employment if driving is an essential part of your job.

AGGRESSIVE DRIVING AND MISSOURI’S POINT SYSTEM

One of the most serious hidden consequences of an aggressive driving conviction is the impact on your driving record. Missouri’s point system assigns penalty points for traffic violations, which can lead to license suspension or revocation if too many points are accumulated.

Points Assessed for Aggressive Driving Violations:

• Careless and imprudent driving (state jurisdiction): 4 points
• Careless and imprudent driving (municipal jurisdiction): 2 points
• Speeding (state jurisdiction): 3 points
• Speeding (municipal jurisdiction): 2 points
• Failure to yield or improper passing: 2-3 points

License Suspension & Revocation:

• 4 points in 12 months: Warning letter from the Missouri Department of Revenue
• 8 points in 18 months: 30-day license suspension for first-time offenders
• 12 points in 12 months: 1-year license revocation

If you accumulate too many points, not only could your driver’s license be suspended or revoked, but you may also face increased insurance premiums or be required to complete a driver improvement program to reinstate your driving privileges.

HOW TO FIGHT AN AGGRESSIVE DRIVING TICKET IN KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI

If you’ve been cited for aggressive driving, it’s in your best interest to consult a Kansas City traffic defense lawyer to explore your options. Here are some potential defense strategies:

Challenge the Officer’s Observations: Many aggressive driving charges are based on subjective observations by law enforcement. A skilled attorney can question whether the officer’s assessment of your driving behavior was accurate and justified.

Dispute the Evidence: If there is no clear video footage or witness testimony, it may be possible to challenge the validity of the charge. In some cases, errors in radar readings or speed detection devices can also be used in your defense.

Argue Necessity or Emergency: If you were driving aggressively due to an emergency situation—such as avoiding an accident or responding to a medical emergency—your attorney may be able to argue that your actions were justified under the circumstances.

Negotiate a Plea Deal: In many cases, an attorney can negotiate to reduce the charge to a non-moving violation, which carries no points and does not affect your driving record or insurance.

Seek Expungement (Record Clearing): If you already have an aggressive driving conviction on your record, you may be eligible for expungement after a certain period, allowing you to remove the offense from your driving history.

HIRE AN EXPERIENCED KANSAS CITY AGGRESSIVE DRIVING DEFENSE LAWYER

Missouri takes aggressive driving seriously, and the penalties can be severe. Whether you’re facing fines, points on your license, or even potential jail time, having an experienced Kansas City traffic attorney on your side can make all the difference.

At Speeding Ticket KC, our affordable Kansas City traffic defense attorneys have a proven track record of helping drivers avoid points and license suspensions, reduce fines and penalties, and keep their driving record clean. We can help you fight unfair or exaggerated charges.

Don’t let an aggressive driving ticket impact your future. Contact us today at (816) 366-5942 or fill out our contact form to request a free, confidential consultation. We respond to all inquiries the same business day if received before 4 p.m. CST.

Protect your driving privileges; call Speeding Ticket KC now!

How Our Traffic Ticket Defense Works

• 1

  Call or Click “Amend Your Ticket Today” and Inform us your ticket number and any other information relating to your ticket. If you are under 21, tell me your age.

• 2

  An email will be sent to you containing all pertinent information including an electronic contract(you can sign it online with your smartphone, tablet or computer), request for pertinent information, fine and court costs, and a link to pay.

• 3

  I will file on your case and set a court date and request a recommendation from the prosecutor.

• 4

  If the prosecutor accepts my offer you pay your fine online(KCMO Tickets only) or the firm pays it with a check. Receipt from jurisdiction is sent and your email.