As smartphones become a permanent fixture in our lives, so do the dangers of distracted…
WHAT HAPPENS IF I GET PULLED OVER FOR TEXTING WHILE DRIVING?
Texting while driving is one of the most dangerous habits on the road and Missouri law takes it seriously. If you’re pulled over for texting and driving, the consequences may be more than just a simple fine. You could be facing penalties that affect your license, your insurance, and even your future driving record.
At Speeding Ticket KC, we want you to understand what you’re up against if you are stopped for texting while driving in Missouri and ticketed. It may seem like a silly ticket but it’s one that that state of Missouri is taking very seriously in order to crack down.
Don’t wait. Call us today and schedule a free and confidential case evaluation with one of our experienced Kansas City traffic defense lawyers is your best move.
MISSOURI’S TEXTING WHILE DRIVING LAWS
Missouri law prohibits drivers from manually sending, reading, or writing electronic messages while operating a vehicle. That includes:
- Text messages
- Emails
- Social media updates
- Instant messages
Historically, Missouri’s texting ban applied only to drivers under 21 and commercial drivers. However, as of 2023, the law has expanded, and all drivers are now prohibited from texting while driving.
WHAT HAPPENS DURING A TEXTING WHILE DRIVING TRAFFIC STOP?
If you’re pulled over for texting while driving:
- The officer will ask for your license, registration, and proof of insurance.
- You may be issued a citation on the spot.
- If texting contributed to reckless driving, an accident, or another violation, you could face additional charges.
PENALTIES FOR TEXTING WHILE DRIVING IN MISSOURI
The penalties depend on your situation:
- Standard Offense
- Fines of around $50–$100 for a first offense.
- Possible court costs.
- Commercial Drivers (CDL holders)
- Heavier fines and federal consequences.
- Risk of disqualification from holding a CDL after repeat violations.
- Aggravating Circumstances
- If texting leads to an accident, injury, or death, charges can escalate to reckless driving or even felony charges.
In these cases, you may face license suspension, jail time, and large fines.
HOW A TEXTING TICKET CAN AFFECT YOUR DRIVING RECORD
Even though a texting ticket may seem minor, it can have serious ripple effects:
Points: In some cases, texting while driving can add points to your license. Too many points lead to suspension or revocation.
Insurance: Insurance companies view texting tickets as high-risk behavior, which often results in higher premiums.
Repeat Offenses: Multiple texting violations can make prosecutors and judges less willing to reduce future charges.
DEFENSES TO A TEXTING WHILE DRIVING TICKET IN MISSOURI
A skilled Kansas City traffic defense lawyer may be able to challenge your ticket. Possible defenses include:
- The officer mistook another action (like dialing GPS or using hands-free) for texting.
- You were lawfully parked at the time of the alleged violation.
- The stop itself was improper or lacked reasonable suspicion.
Every case is different, but these defenses can mean the difference between points on your record and a clean slate.
WHY YOU NEED A TRUSTED MISSOURI TRAFFIC DEFENSE ATTORNEY ON YOUR SIDE
At Speeding Ticket KC, we understand how even a “small” ticket can have long-term consequences. Our attorneys:
- Negotiate with prosecutors to reduce texting violations to non-moving violations (no points, no insurance hikes).
- Challenge improper stops and weak evidence.
- Handle court appearances on your behalf so you don’t have to miss work.
The upfront cost of a lawyer often saves drivers far more in insurance increases and long-term penalties.
WE’VE GOT YOUR BACK — CALL SPEEDING TICKET KC AND LET US HELP
If you’re pulled over for texting while driving in Missouri, you could be facing fines, points, insurance hikes, and more — especially if the violation caused an accident.
Don’t treat it like a minor ticket. Protect your license and your record by hiring an experienced Kansas City traffic defense lawyer. Contact Speeding Ticket KC today. We’ll fight to keep your record clean and your insurance rates low.
Don’t just pay your ticket and accept the penalties — fight back! The affordable Missouri traffic defense attorneys at Speeding Ticket KC have helped thousands of drivers in Kansas City and across Missouri protect their driving records and their wallets.
Whether you’re dealing with speeding, careless driving, or other traffic violations, contact Speeding Ticket KC now for a free consultation and let us work to keep your record clean.
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.
