CAN I GET CHARGED WITH A CRIME FOR SPEEDING IN MISSOURI?

Speeding tickets are one of the most common reasons drivers get pulled over in Missouri. Many people treat them as a simple annoyance—a fine, maybe a few points on your license, and then it’s over. But under certain circumstances, speeding in Missouri can lead to criminal charges, not just a traffic infraction.

At Speeding Ticket KC, we’ve helped countless clients across Kansas City fight speeding-related charges that had the potential to turn into serious legal problems. If you’re wondering whether speeding can lead to criminal charges in Missouri, the answer is yes, but it depends on the details.

WHEN IS SPEEDING JUST A TRAFFIC VIOLATION IN MISSOURI?

In most cases, speeding is classified as a civil traffic violation. That means:

• You’ll receive a ticket
• You may pay a fine
• You could get points added to your license
• Your insurance premiums may go up

This applies when you’re caught going a few miles per hour over the posted speed limit, especially if you weren’t putting other drivers at risk. According to Missouri state law, drivers must operate vehicles at a speed that is “reasonable and prudent under the conditions.”

WHEN CAN SPEEDING BECOME A CRIME IN MISSOURI?

Under certain circumstances, speeding can escalate into a misdemeanor criminal offense—and in rare but serious cases, even a felony. Here are situations where speeding may result in criminal charges:

Excessive Speed (25+ MPH Over the Limit): Driving 25 miles per hour or more over the posted limit can be charged as excessive speeding, which may be treated as a Class B misdemeanor.

This can result in:

• Up to 6 months in jail
• A fine of up to $1,000
• 2 to 3 points on your driving record
• A criminal record that can affect employment, background checks, and more

Reckless or Careless Driving: If you’re speeding in a way that endangers others—such as weaving through traffic, running red lights, or racing—you could be charged with reckless driving or careless and imprudent driving.

These charges carry criminal penalties, including:

• Jail time
• Higher fines
• Possible license suspension
• Permanent marks on your driving and criminal records

This is especially common when speeding occurs near schools, construction zones, or heavy pedestrian areas.

Causing an Accident While Speeding: If you cause a traffic accident while speeding, law enforcement may decide to pursue more serious charges:

• Vehicular assault (if someone is injured)
• Involuntary manslaughter (if someone is killed)
• Additional charges related to property damage

These can be felony-level offenses with significant prison sentences and long-term consequences.

HOW ARE COMMERCIAL DRIVERS AFFECTED?

If you hold a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), the bar is even lower. Speeding more than 15 MPH over the limit in a commercial vehicle can result in:

• Disqualification of your CDL
• Job loss
• Criminal misdemeanor charges

Your livelihood may be at stake if you’re charged with criminal speeding while operating a commercial vehicle.

WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I’M FACING CRIMINAL CHARGES FOR SPEEDING?

If you’ve been cited or arrested for excessive speeding, reckless driving, or causing an accident while speeding, do not treat this like a regular ticket. These are criminal charges—and a conviction can change your life.

Here’s what to do:

• Don’t plead guilty or pay the ticket without legal advice
• Contact a Kansas City criminal defense attorney immediately
• Keep all paperwork and documentation related to your stop or citation
• Don’t speak to law enforcement or prosecutors without a lawyer present

At Speeding Ticket KC, we’ve successfully defended clients facing misdemeanor and felony charges tied to speeding. Our attorneys will evaluate your case, challenge the evidence, and explore every available defense to reduce or dismiss the charges.

HOW A KANSAS CITY CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY NEAR ME CAN HELP

When you’re facing criminal speeding charges, you need more than a traffic lawyer—you need a skilled Kansas City criminal defense lawyer who understands both traffic law and criminal court procedures.

We can help by:

• Negotiating with prosecutors to reduce charges to non-criminal violations
• Challenging the accuracy of radar or speed-detection equipment
• Identifying procedural errors made during the stop
• Arguing for alternative sentencing (like traffic school or probation) instead of jail

Our goal is to protect your record, your license, and your future.

HIRE AN EXPERIENCED KANSAS CITY TRAFFIC DEFENSE LAWYER TODAY

If you’ve been charged with a crime for speeding in Missouri, take it seriously. Even a momentary lapse in judgment behind the wheel can lead to major consequences.

Speeding Ticket KC is here to help. Contact our office at 816-287-3787 or fill out our online form to schedule your free consultation. Let an experienced Kansas City traffic defense attorney fight for your rights and help you move forward with confidence.