WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN MISDEMEANOR AND FELONY TRAFFIC INFRACTIONS IN MISSOURI?

Not all traffic violations are created equal. In Missouri, some offenses are treated as minor inconveniences, while others can carry heavy fines, license suspension, or even prison time. Understanding the difference between infractions, misdemeanors, and felonies is key to knowing your rights and your risks, when you’re pulled over.

TRAFFIC INFRACTIONS

A traffic infraction is the least serious category of violation. Most drivers encounter these at some point, and while they’re inconvenient, they typically don’t involve jail time.

Examples:

• Minor speeding (under 20 mph over the limit)
• Rolling through a stop sign
• Failing to signal a lane change
• Expired registration tags

Possible Penalties:

• A fine (usually $50–$250)
• Court costs
• Points on your license
• Higher insurance rates

Key Point: Paying the fine is the same as pleading guilty, which means the violation stays on your driving record.

TRAFFIC MISDEMEANORS

A misdemeanor traffic offense is more serious than an infraction. These typically involve unsafe driving behaviors that pose a higher risk to people or property.

Examples:

• Speeding 20–25 mph over the limit
• Reckless driving (careless and imprudent driving)
• Driving without a valid license
• Leaving the scene of a minor accident
• Driving while suspended or revoked

Possible Penalties:

• Class B misdemeanor: Up to 6 months in jail and a $1,000 fine
• Class A misdemeanor: Up to 1 year in jail and a $2,000 fine
• 2–12 points on your license (depending on the offense)
• Significant insurance rate increases

Key Point: Misdemeanors go on your criminal record, not just your driving record, which can impact employment, background checks, and professional licenses.

TRAFFIC FELONIES

A traffic felony is the most serious category and usually involves severe harm, repeat offenses, or life-threatening behavior on the road.

Examples:

• Habitual DWI/DUI (multiple offenses)
• Causing a fatal accident while driving under the influence
• Fleeing from law enforcement in a vehicle
• Vehicular assault or homicide
• Leaving the scene of an accident with injury or death

Possible Penalties:

• Prison time (over 1 year)
• Large fines
• Permanent loss or long-term suspension of your driver’s license
• Felony criminal record (with lifelong consequences)

Key Point: A felony conviction can affect your voting rights, firearm ownership, and career opportunities — in addition to severe legal penalties.

HOW POINTS TIE INTO ALL THREE CATEGORIES

Missouri’s point system applies to infractions, misdemeanors, and felonies alike. Points stay on your record for years and can lead to license suspension:

• 8 points in 18 months: license suspension
• 12 points in 12 months: license revocation

The higher the severity of the offense, the more points you receive and the faster you can lose your license.

Why Legal Help Matters at Every Level

Even a “simple” infraction can cost you hundreds of dollars in the long run if it raises your insurance rates. And once you move into misdemeanor or felony territory, the stakes are far higher.

An experienced Missouri traffic defense attorney can:

• Negotiate reductions to non-moving violations (avoiding points).
• Challenge the evidence against you.
• Keep offenses off your driving and criminal record.
• Minimize fines, penalties, and long-term consequences.

At Speeding Ticket KC, we help drivers at all levels — from minor tickets to serious criminal charges — protect their records, their licenses, and their futures.

DEALING WITH TRAFFIC TICKETS IN MISSOURI? CALL SPEEDING TICKET KC

In Missouri, the difference between a simple ticket and a criminal charge can be a matter of speed, circumstances, and past history. Knowing where your violation falls and acting quickly to protect yourself — is the best way to avoid lasting damage to your wallet, your license, and your reputation.

If you’ve been cited for any traffic offense in Kansas City or anywhere in Missouri, contact Speeding Ticket KC today. Our affordable Kansas City traffic defense team will fight to keep your record clean and your driving privileges intact.

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 our experienced Kansas City traffic defense lawyers near me in Missouri and let us help begin building your defense. Let us help.

Disclaimer: This page is for informational purposes only and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Always consult qualified counsel regarding your unique situation.