As you get behind the wheel, you’re about to enter a “zone of vigilance” where staying focused is vital. Missouri’s vehicle TV laws are designed to keep you and others safe on the road by limiting distractions. Specifically, they target video displays that can mesmerize drivers, causing accidents and near-misses. But what exactly are these laws, and how do they impact your daily commute? Let’s investigate the rules of the road to guarantee a smoother, safer ride.
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Key Takeaways
- Missouri’s Siddens Bening Hands-Free Law prohibits watching videos or engaging in live broadcasts while driving.
- The law allows hands-free technology for navigation and calls, but manual entry into apps or websites is prohibited.
- Physically holding electronic devices while driving is a prohibited action under the law.
- There is no specific mention of TV laws in Missouri’s vehicle laws, as the focus is on distracted driving and hands-free technology.
- The law aims to enhance road safety in Missouri, where distracted driving poses serious risks to safety.
Understanding Missouri’s Hands-Free Law
Since Missouri’s roads are about to get a whole lot safer, it’s essential to understand the ins and outs of the Siddens Bening Hands-Free Law, which takes effect on January 1, 2025.
As a Missouri driver, you’ll no longer be allowed to physically hold or support electronic devices while driving. This means no writing, sending, or reading texts, making phone calls, or manual data entry.
However, you can use hands-free technology for navigation and calls. Make sure to comply, as penalties range from $150 to $500 for violations.
Why Distracted Driving Is so Dangerous
As you get behind the wheel, you’re likely aware of the risks of distracted driving, but do you fully grasp the devastating consequences of splitting your attention between the road and your electronic devices? Distracted driving is a serious threat to your safety and the safety of others on Missouri’s roads.
| Year | Accidents in Missouri | Physical Injury | Fatalities |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 1,732 | 733 | 12 |
| 2012-2021 | N/A | N/A | 800+ |
| Past Decade | 200,000+ | N/A | N/A |
| N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Common Technologies to Avoid While Driving
When you’re behind the wheel, it’s essential to avoid common distractions that can put you and others at risk.
You’re likely aware that smartphones can be a significant hazard, but you mightn’t realize that GPS devices can also be dangerous when used manually while driving.
Smartphone Risks
You’re likely familiar with the temptation to glance at your smartphone while driving, but the risks associated with this behavior are stark.
In Missouri, smartphones were responsible for 1,732 crashes in 2022, leading to 733 injuries and 12 fatalities. As a communication device, your smartphone is a significant distraction, and Missouri Law recognizes the dangers of distracted drivers.
GPS Distractions
402 accidents in Missouri in 2022 involved GPS devices, resulting in 175 injuries.
You might think GPS is a harmless navigation tool, but it can be a significant distraction while driving.
Manual use of GPS devices, such as entering or adjusting settings, is prohibited under Missouri’s Siddens Bening Hands-Free Law and can lead to penalties.
Instead, use voice commands to minimize cognitive distractions and keep your eyes on the road.
Remember, a five-second glance at your GPS can be equivalent to traveling the length of a football field without looking at the road.
Stay safe by using hands-free navigation.
Prohibited Actions Under the Law
When you’re behind the wheel in Missouri, you’re not allowed to physically hold or support electronic devices, which means no texting, emailing, or social media scrolling.
You’re also prohibited from engaging in certain communication actions, such as making phone calls, sending messages, or reading emails, as these require manual use of devices.
Holding Electronic Devices
As Missouri’s Siddens Bening Hands Free Law takes effect, drivers need to be aware that physically holding or supporting electronic devices while operating a vehicle is now strictly prohibited. This means you can’t hold your phone, tablet, or other devices while driving. The goal is to reduce distracted driving, which has caused over 200,000 accidents in Missouri in the past decade.
| Prohibited Actions | Consequences |
|---|---|
| Physically holding electronic devices | Fines starting at $150 for first offense |
| Manual entry of information into apps/websites | Fines up to $500 for repeated violations |
| Engaging in video calls or text-based communications | Escalating fines for repeated offenses |
Prohibited Communication Actions
You can’t hold your phone or device while driving, but that’s not all – the Siddens Bening Hands Free Law also prohibits certain communication actions that can distract you from the road.
You’re not allowed to write, send, or read texts, make phone calls, or engage in manual electronic communication while driving.
Additionally, you can’t manually enter information into apps, websites, or navigation systems.
Watching videos or broadcasting live content while driving is also banned.
These prohibited communication actions can make you a distracted driver, putting yourself and others at risk.
Exceptions to the Law
While obeying the Missouri vehicle TV laws is essential, there are specific situations where drivers are exempt from adhering to certain rules. For instance, you’re allowed to use your device for navigation under the Siddens Bening Hands-Free Law, as long as it’s not physically held. Additionally, law enforcement officers are exempt when responding to emergencies or performing official duties.
| Exception | Description | Applies to |
|---|---|---|
| Emergency Response | Law enforcement officers responding to emergencies | Law Enforcement Officers |
| Hands-Free Navigation | Using devices for navigation with voice-operated or hands-free feature | All Drivers |
| Commercial Use | Commercial drivers using mobile data terminals and rideshare drivers using mounted devices | Commercial Driver’s, Rideshare Drivers |
Penalties for Violations
If you’re caught violating Missouri’s hands-free law, you’ll face fines ranging from $150 to $500, depending on the circumstances.
You’ll receive a $150 fine for a first-time offense, but subsequent violations within 24 months will increase the fine to $250 or $500.
More severe penalties, including misdemeanor or felony charges, apply if your violation results in serious injury or death.
Fine Amounts
The Siddens Bening Hands-Free Law takes a stern stance against distracted driving, imposing fines that escalate with repeated offenses.
As a driver, you’ll face a $150 fine for your first violation. If you’re caught again within 24 months, the fine increases to $250, and a third or subsequent offense costs $500.
Violations in school or work zones automatically incur a $500 fine. More severe penalties, including up to $1,000 in fines and/or imprisonment, apply to serious injury crashes caused by distracted driving.
The law aims to deter you from engaging in this dangerous behavior.
Citations and Convictions
You’ll receive a citation for violating the Siddens Bening Hands-Free Law, which carries specific penalties depending on the severity of the offense and your prior violations.
If you’re caught distracted driving, you’ll face fines and other penalties. Here’s what you can expect:
- First-time offenders will receive a $150 fine for physically holding or supporting electronic devices while driving.
- A second offense within 24 months results in a $250 fine, while a third offense incurs a $500 fine.
- Violating the hands-free law in a school or work zone automatically results in a $500 fine.
- Serious violations causing injury or death can lead to misdemeanor or felony charges with more severe penalties.
Increased Penalties
As Missouri’s Siddens Bening Hands-Free Law takes a tough stance on distracted driving, the penalties for violations escalate significantly with each subsequent offense.
You’ll face a $150 fine for your first violation, but if you’re caught again within 24 months, the fine jumps to $250. A third violation in the same timeframe results in a $500 fine.
If you violate the hands-free law in a school or work zone, you’ll automatically incur a $500 fine, regardless of prior offenses.
Repeat offenders, beware: serious violations can lead to misdemeanors or felonies, with penalties reaching up to six months in jail and/or $1,000 fines.
Enforcement and Rights of Motorists
While traversing Missouri’s roads, it’s vital to understand how law enforcement enforces the Siddens Bening Hands-Free Law, as well as the rights you possess as a motorist.
Starting January 1, 2025, law enforcement officers can issue citations for violations of the hands-free law.
Mark your calendars: January 1, 2025, is when Missouri law enforcement begins issuing citations for hands-free law violations.
- If a violation occurs, you can’t be pulled over solely for cell phone use; it must occur with a primary offense.
- You have the right to decline searches of your electronic devices unless there’s serious injury or death involved that justifies a warrant.
- If you’re cited, you have the right to contest the citation and provide evidence or arguments in your defense.
- Remember, understanding your rights during a traffic stop is essential to guarantee fair treatment and avoid unnecessary penalties.
Protecting Your Rights After a Distracted Driving Accident
If a distracted driving accident has left you injured, dealing with the aftermath can be overwhelming. You need legal guidance to navigate the complexities of liability and compensation claims.
Skilled attorneys can investigate the accident, gathering evidence of illegal technology use under the Siddens Bening Hands Free Law. You may seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering resulting from negligence.
Understanding your rights during a traffic stop can protect you from unlawful searches and guarantee compliance with the law. Don’t hesitate to seek help to protect your rights and pursue damages.
Getting Your Case Reviewed for Free
You can take the first step towards seeking justice for your distracted driving accident by getting your case reviewed for free. This initial step can provide valuable insights into your potential claim and help you understand your rights and options.
- Submit a simple form to initiate a confidential case review, ensuring your personal information remains secure.
- Get immediate assistance and guidance on potential claims related to distracted driving incidents with 24/7 case reviews.
- Legal experts will evaluate your case, including the Siddens Bening Hands Free Law, to determine if technology contributed to the accident.
- A case review can clarify your rights and options for seeking compensation for injuries sustained due to distracted driving.
What Missouri Law Says About Using Technology While Driving
Missouri has enacted specific laws to regulate the use of technology while driving, aiming to reduce the risks associated with distracted driving.
You’re not allowed to physically hold or support electronic communication devices, like cell phones or tablets, while driving. You can’t manually enter letters, send, or read texts, make video calls, or watch videos either.
The Bening Hands Free Law permits hands-free use, like voice-activated navigation or calls, but prohibits manual operation.
Hands-free use is allowed, but manual operation is prohibited under Missouri’s Hands Free Law for safer driving.
Violations can result in fines starting at $150, increasing to $500 for repeated offenses or higher in work/school zones.
Staying Safe on the Road
Staying focused on the road is essential, as the consequences of distracted driving can be devastating. To avoid becoming a statistic, you must adopt safety measures to minimize distractions. Consider the following:
- Distracted driving has led to over 200,000 crashes in Missouri over the past decade, resulting in at least 800 deaths.
- A five-second glance at a phone while driving at 55 mph is equivalent to driving the length of a football field blindfolded.
- The Siddens Bening Hands Free Law prohibits physical handling of electronic devices while driving, allowing hands-free technology for calls but banning activities like texting and watching videos.
- In 2022, smartphones caused 1,732 crashes in Missouri, resulting in 733 injuries and 12 fatalities.
Missouri’s Cell Phone Law: What You Need to Know
What exactly does Missouri’s cell phone law entail, and how will it impact your daily drive? As of January 1, 2025, Missouri’s new Siddens Bening Hands Free Law prohibits physically holding or supporting electronic communication devices while driving.
You’re banned from writing, sending, or reading texts and making calls unless using a hands-free feature or function. Exceptions include voice-operated or hands-free features, and you can use devices when lawfully stopped or parked, as well as for navigation.
This law aims to reduce distracted driving, a significant concern in Missouri, where over 200,000 crashes were attributed to it in the past decade.
Consequences of Repeated Offenses
As you take to the roads, it’s essential to understand the repercussions of repeatedly violating Missouri’s hands-free law.
You’ll face escalating fines for repeated offenses, which can have serious consequences.
- A second offense within 24 months increases the fine to $250.
- A third offense within the same time frame results in a fine of $500.
- Violations in school or construction zones carry an increased fine of up to $500.
Repeated offenses can escalate to misdemeanor or felony charges if they result in serious injury or death.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Rules for License Plates in Missouri?
You need to display valid license plates on both the front and rear of your vehicle, with options for custom plates, and renew them annually through the Department of Revenue, aiding in vehicle identification during registration.
Can You Legally Drive a Side by Side on the Road in Missouri?
Hit the gas, but wisely! Yes, you can legally drive a side by side on Missouri roads, but only if it meets side by side regulations, adheres to vehicle safety requirements, and operates under legal driving conditions.
Do ATVS Have Titles in Missouri?
You’ll need a title for your ATV in Missouri, which involves proof of ownership and registration if used on public land. The title transfer process is handled by the Missouri DMV, offering benefits like secure ATV ownership and compliance with off-road vehicle regulations.
What Is an ID OD Inspection in Missouri?
Unlike a casual Sunday drive, registering your vehicle in Missouri requires a thorough ID inspection process, which involves meeting specific ID inspection requirements, paying fees ranging from $10 to $25, and obtaining necessary documentation at licensed locations.
Conclusion
As you get behind the wheel, keep in mind that Missouri’s vehicle TV laws are in place to protect you and others on the road. By understanding and following these regulations, you can significantly reduce your risk of being involved in a distracted driving accident. Did you know that in 2020, distracted driving was responsible for 26% of all traffic fatalities in Missouri? Stay focused, stay safe, and put your phone on silent mode – it’s the law!
