CAN I GET A TICKET FOR BLOCKING AN INTERSECTION IN MISSOURI?

You’ve probably seen it, or done it. You’re stuck in traffic, the light turns green, and you roll into the intersection hoping to make it across… but traffic stops, and suddenly, you’re stuck blocking cross traffic.

It’s frustrating. It’s risky. And yes — it can lead to a ticket in Missouri.

If you’ve been cited for blocking an intersection in Kansas City, call Speeding Ticket KC today. Our experienced Missouri traffic defense attorneys want every driver in Kansas City and throughout Missouri to know about blocking intersections, when it’s illegal, and what a traffic attorney can do if you get cited.

WHAT DOES MISSOURI LAW SAY ABOUT BLOCKING AN INTERSECTION?

Missouri law prohibits “obstructing the flow of traffic,” and that includes blocking intersections. Under RSMo 304.351, and related city ordinances, you can be ticketed for entering an intersection when you can’t fully clear it. This applies even if the light is green when you enter.

Blocking an intersection can cause:

• Gridlock
• Delays for emergency vehicles
• Dangerous conditions for pedestrians and turning vehicles

COMMON SCENARIOS THAT LEAD TO A TICKET

Rush Hour Gridlock

• You follow the car in front of you through a green light.
• Traffic stops and now you’re stranded in the middle of the intersection as the light changes.

Result? You’re blocking other lanes. A cop sees it — you get cited.

Blocking a Crosswalk

• If you stop in a crosswalk or bike lane while waiting at a red light, you may also be ticketed under local obstruction ordinances.

Failing to Yield at Box Intersections

• Certain intersections (especially downtown or near hospitals) have posted signs like “Don’t Block the Box.”
• Violating those signs is an enforceable offense.

WHAT IS THE PENALTY FOR BLOCKING AN INTERSECTION IN MISSOURI?

Blocking an intersection is typically considered a non-moving traffic violation, but it can escalate depending on the situation.

• Fines: Usually $50–$150, but higher in school or construction zones.
• Court Costs: Often $25–$75 additional.
• Points: Some local jurisdictions may assess 2 points if the violation is treated as careless or imprudent driving.
• Insurance Impact: Even non-moving violations can affect your record depending on how they’re processed.

CAN I FIGHT A TICKET FOR BLOCKING AN INTERSECTION?

Yes, especially if:

• There were no signs prohibiting entrance into the intersection.
• The situation was caused by emergency conditions or poor traffic signal timing.
• You never fully blocked cross traffic.

An experienced Kansas City traffic attorney can:

• Argue for dismissal based on lack of signage or unclear conditions.
• Negotiate the ticket down to a non-moving violation (no points).
• Represent you in court so you don’t have to take time off work.

WHY HIRE A KANSAS CITY TRAFFIC DEFENSE LAWYER?

An skilled Missouri traffic defense attorney knows how local courts handle intersection violations and how to protect your driving record.

• Prevent points and insurance rate hikes
• Avoid time-consuming court appearances
• Possibly dismiss or reduce your charges
• Clean up multiple old tickets or keep your CDL clean

CALL SPEEDING TICKET KC TODAY FOR A FREE CASE EVALUATION

If you’ve been ticketed for blocking an intersection in Missouri, don’t just pay the fine and move on. It may affect your insurance and driving record. Call Speeding Ticket KC today and let us help you fight your ticket the smart way. Our affordable Kansas City defense team offers free consultations. Let us help you defend your case.

Call Speeding Ticket KC today and let us help you fight your ticket the smart way.

Cities we serve: Adrian, Archie, Bates City, Belton, Blue Springs, Buckner, Butler, Cameron, Claycomo, Cleveland,  Drexel, Fairview,  Ferrelview,  Gladstone, Grain Valley, Grandview, Greenwood, Houston Lake, Independence, Kansas City Missouri, Kearney, , Knob Noster, Lake Lotawana, Lake Tapawingo, Lake Waukomis, Lake Winnebago, Lawson, Lee’s Summit, Liberty, North Kansas City, Oak Grove, Oakview,  Parkville, Peculiar,, Platte City, Platte Woods, Plattsburg, Pleasant Hill,  Raymore, Raytown, Riverside, Smithville, Sugar Creek, Tracy,  Warrensberg, Weatherby Lake, and Weston.

Statewide: Missouri State Highway Patrol and Sheriff Counties we serve: Bates County, Cass County, Clay County, Jackson County, Platte County, Ray County.

Contact us if your ticket is not on this list so our experienced Kansas City traffic defense lawyers near me in Missouri can be of assistance.