WHAT TRAFFIC OFFENSES CAN LEAD TO CRIMINAL CHARGES IN MISSOURI?

Most people think of traffic tickets as an annoyance that results in a fine and higher insurance rates. But in Missouri, certain traffic violations can cross the line from “minor infraction” into criminal charges. That means jail time, probation, and a permanent criminal record could be on the table — not just points on your license.

If you have been charged with a criminal charge after a traffic stop in Missouri, call Speeding Ticket KC. Our experienced Kansas City traffic defense attorneys want you to know everything you need to know about the traffic offenses and how they are related to criminal charges. Let us help you begin building your defense.

Below, we’ve listed some of the more common offenses.

DRIVING WHILE INTOXICATED (DWI)

The most common traffic-related crime in Missouri is driving while intoxicated. If your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08% or higher — or if police believe you’re impaired by alcohol or drugs — you can be charged with DWI.

Even a first offense can mean:

• Up to 6 months in jail
• A $1,000 fine
• 90-day license suspension

Repeat offenses or cases involving injuries can lead to felony charges.

RECKLESS AND CARELESS DRIVING

Missouri law doesn’t have a specific “reckless driving” statute, but prosecutors often charge drivers with “careless and imprudent driving.”

This can include:

• Excessive speeding
• Weaving in and out of traffic
• Racing
• Passing dangerously

If the driving behavior puts others at risk, it can be a misdemeanor offense with possible jail time, not just a ticket.

DRIVING ON A SUSPENDED OR REVOKED LICENSE

If your license has been suspended or revoked (often due to prior DWIs, too many points, or unpaid tickets) and you’re caught driving anyway, you can be charged with a Class D misdemeanor for a first offense.

Repeat violations can become felonies, leading to prison time and a longer suspension.

LEAVING THE SCENE OF AN ACCIDENT

If you’re involved in an accident and leave without providing your information or helping injured parties, you can be charged with a crime.

• Property damage only: Class A misdemeanor, up to 1 year in jail.
• Injury or death: Felony, with several years in prison possible.

Even minor fender-benders require you to stop, exchange information, and notify police if necessary.

DRIVING WITHOUT INSURANCE

Missouri law requires all drivers to have liability insurance. Driving without it can result in:

• Fines and points on your license
• License suspension
• Possible misdemeanor charges for repeat violations

VEHICULAR MANSLAUGHTER OR ASSAULT

If a driver causes a serious injury or death while breaking traffic laws (such as DWI or reckless driving), prosecutors can file felony charges like vehicular assault or involuntary manslaughter. These crimes carry long prison sentences and permanent criminal records.

YOU NEED AN EXPERIENCED MISSOURI TRAFFIC DEFENSE LAWYER

Yes, these charges are serious. If you’re already facing one of these criminal charges, you should be looking for an experienced Kansas City traffic attorney immediately. Unlike a speeding ticket or parking violation, traffic-related criminal charges:

• Go on your criminal record (not just driving record)
• Can result in jail or prison time
• May cause long-term license suspension
• Can lead to skyrocketing insurance premiums

COMMON DEFENSES AGAINST TRAFFIC CRIMES IN MISSOURI

A skilled and knowledgeable Kansas City traffic defense lawyer can help by:

• Challenging the legality of the traffic stop
• Questioning evidence like radar guns, breath tests, or accident reports
• Negotiating for reduced charges or alternative sentencing
• Fighting for limited driving privileges if your license is suspended

Missouri traffic crimes include DWI, careless driving, driving on a suspended license, hit-and-run, and more. Many of these offenses can lead to jail time, not just fines.

A conviction can impact your license, insurance, and future opportunities. Hiring the right Missouri criminal defense attorney can make a major difference in the outcome.

CALL SPEEDING TICKET KC TODAY

At Speeding Ticket KC, our affordable Kansas City criminal defense attorneys have helped countless Kansas City drivers protect their freedom and their future when traffic violations turned into criminal charges.

If you’re facing a serious traffic case, call us today for a free case evaluation.

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.