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Distracted Driving Laws in Missouri

3 min read

Distracted driving is a serious safety concern, and Missouri has taken legislative steps to reduce accidents caused by inattention behind the wheel. As of August 28, 2023, Missouri’s “Siddens Bening Hands-Free Law” is in effect statewide, significantly tightening rules against distracted driving practices.

What the Law Prohibits

Under Missouri's hands-free law, it is illegal for drivers to:

  • Physically hold or support a cellphone or other electronic device with any part of their body.
  • Send, read, or write text-based communications.
  • Watch videos or movies not related to navigation.
  • Record or broadcast video (with limited exceptions like dashcams).
  • Engage in social media use while operating a motor vehicle.

These restrictions apply while driving or even when temporarily stopped in traffic, such as at stoplights or in congestion.

Who the Law Applies To

The law is applicable to all drivers operating a motor vehicle on Missouri roads. However, certain provisions apply specifically to different categories:

  • Commercial Drivers: Subject to federal hands-free laws as well.
  • Drivers under 21: Already prohibited from texting while driving since 2013; now they are also fully included under the new hands-free law.
  • School Bus Drivers: Prohibited from using handheld devices while operating a school bus.

Exceptions to the Law

There are narrow exceptions where the use of handheld devices is permitted:

  • Making emergency calls to law enforcement, fire departments, or medical services.
  • Using factory-installed or after-market GPS systems.
  • Hands-free voice-to-text communication.
  • Emergency first responders performing official duties.
  • Use of two-way or amateur radios by licensed operators.

Enforcement and Penalties

While Missouri is initially applying a "grace period" until January 2025 during which only warnings will be issued, full enforcement with penalties will begin afterward. Once enforcement starts, the penalties include:

  • Fines up to $150 for the first offense.
  • Increased fines up to $500 for repeat violations.
  • Possible points added to the driver’s record.
  • Enhanced penalties if the offense results in property damage, injury, or death.

Repeat violations and infractions occurring in work zones or school zones carry stiffer consequences.

Learn more about point-related penalties through the Missouri State Traffic Violation Points System.

Safer Alternatives and Best Practices

To comply with the law and reduce risk:

  • Use Bluetooth or in-car voice control for calls and navigation.
  • Set up your GPS and playlist before starting to drive.
  • If a call or text is urgent, pull over safely before engaging.
  • Use “Do Not Disturb” driving modes available on most smartphones.

These precautions are especially vital when traveling on Missouri Road Rules for Rural Highways where help may be less accessible in case of a crash, or when merging through Missouri Roundabout Guide intersections that demand full attention.

Drivers should also be cautious in adverse conditions like fog or rain. Refer to Missouri Driving in Fog and Rain for tips on maintaining visibility and awareness when distractions can be especially dangerous.

If you receive a citation for distracted driving, you may need to Pay or Contest a Missouri Traffic Ticket, and a violation could also impact insurance rates.

Stay informed and drive responsibly to avoid fines, protect others, and comply with Missouri’s latest road safety mandates.