In a generation where smartphones are integral to daily life, understanding the legal boundaries of phone use behind the wheel is more critical than ever. Missouri’s texting and driving laws serve as a vital framework for ensuring road safety while balancing the need for connectivity. This legal landscape navigates the fine line between staying connected and maintaining focus on the road, a challenge for many in today’s fast-paced world. With over 3,500 fatalities suffered by victims in 2021, the guidance of a distracted driving lawyer can help accident victims seek justice and compensation for damages.
Motorists are only allowed to use hands-free Bluetooth technology or voice-to-text functions when behind the wheel. If drivers violate the new hands-free law, they may face significant fines if they are stopped for texting while driving. If you were injured in an accident due to a distracted driver, the lawyers of Goza & Honnold are here to help you navigate the legal process to seek compensation for damages.
What Are Missouri’s Texting and Driving Laws?
Missouri has expanded its ban on texting while driving, previously applicable only to minors, to include adults as well. Under the state’s new hands-free legislation, Missouri motorists are now required to use hands-free devices for any phone use while driving. This means drivers are prohibited from manually typing, browsing social media, holding their phones, watching videos, recording videos, posting to social media, and making video calls when behind the wheel.
The only exception to this rule is in the case of emergencies, where drivers may use their phones only if they are utilizing hands-free technologies like Bluetooth, speakerphone, or voice-to-text features. Missouri joins 27 other states in adopting such hands-free laws to combat distracted driving, with this specific regulation named the “Siddens Bening Hands-Free Law” in memory of two individuals who tragically suffered fatalities due to distracted driving incidents in the state.
When Can Missouri Drivers Use Their Phone in Their Vehicle?
So, does Missouri’s updated texting and driving statute imply that drivers are now restricted from utilizing all smartphone functions while driving? Certainly not. The law still permits using smartphones, provided they are accessed via hands-free methods.
Motorists are allowed to use their phones behind the wheel in the following ways:
- Initiate or receive calls using the phone’s hands-free capabilities.
- Employ the device’s built-in speakers or Bluetooth for conversational purposes.
- Communicate through text messages using voice-to-text technology.
- Operate the GPS, modify playlists, or select podcasts through voice commands.
Starting January 2025, individuals who break Missouri’s updated texting and driving regulations will encounter hefty fines, with a $150 penalty for the initial violation. If further offenses occur within two years of the first, the fine escalates to $500. Depending on the gravity of the infraction, penalties could intensify.
Missouri treats the prohibition against texting while driving as a secondary enforcement action akin to the seatbelt law. This arrangement means that drivers cannot be pulled over solely for using their phones. However, if stopped for a different traffic infraction, they may receive additional fines for texting and driving.
Speak With the Distracted Driving Accident Lawyers of Goza & Honnold
Seeking compensation for injuries after a distracted driving accident in Missouri, particularly under the new hands-free law, can be a complex and daunting process. If the accident was caused by motorist negligence, the experienced lawyers of Goza & Honnold will help you seek justice and compensation for damages. We will provide invaluable guidance, from understanding the nuances of Missouri’s hands-free legislation to representing your interests in court or settlement negotiations.
For a free consultation, call our office today at (913) 451-3433 or fill out a contact form.