Missouri Speeding Ticket Defenses: A Guide

TL;DR

Missouri drivers facing speeding tickets have several defenses at their disposal, including claiming mistaken identity, challenging the accuracy of speed detection equipment, and pointing out procedural errors made by the issuing officer. Negotiating with prosecutors can also help reduce charges or fines, and attending traffic school can reduce points on your driving record. Understanding and utilizing these strategies can mitigate the consequences of a speeding ticket effectively.

Defenses for Speeding Tickets in Missouri

Speeding tickets can be a significant inconvenience, leading to fines, points on your driving record, and increased insurance premiums. However, there are several defenses available to drivers in Missouri that can help mitigate or even dismiss these tickets. Understanding these defenses and the processes involved can be crucial in handling a speeding ticket effectively.

Common Defenses for Speeding Tickets

Mistaken Identity

One of the most straightforward defenses is mistaken identity. This occurs when the officer who issued the ticket mistakenly identifies your vehicle as the one speeding. This can happen in situations where multiple cars are on the road, especially if they are similar in color and make. If you believe you were not speeding or were not in the area at the time, gathering evidence such as witness statements or GPS data from your vehicle can support your claim.

Faulty Equipment

Another common defense is the use of faulty or improperly calibrated speed detection equipment. Radar guns and other speed measurement devices must be regularly maintained and calibrated to ensure accuracy. If you can prove that the equipment used to measure your speed was faulty or had not been properly maintained, the court may dismiss the ticket. Obtaining the maintenance records for the equipment and any calibration logs can be crucial for this defense.

Procedural Errors

Procedural errors made by the issuing officer can also serve as a defense. This includes mistakes on the ticket itself, such as incorrect information regarding the location, time, or speed. Additionally, if the officer fails to appear in court or does not follow proper protocol during the traffic stop, these errors can be grounds for dismissal. Reviewing the ticket for any inaccuracies and ensuring all procedural steps were followed can highlight potential defenses.

Negotiating with Prosecutors for Reduced Charges or Fines

In many cases, it may be beneficial to negotiate with prosecutors to reduce the charges or fines associated with a speeding ticket. Prosecutors may be willing to negotiate, especially if you have a clean driving record or if the speeding violation was minor. Here are a few strategies:

Plea Bargain

You can negotiate a plea bargain to a lesser offense that carries fewer points or lower fines. For example, you might plead guilty to a non-moving violation, which does not affect your insurance rates or add points to your license.

Mitigating Circumstances

Present any mitigating circumstances that might justify a reduction in penalties. This could include an emergency situation or an otherwise exemplary driving record.

Deferred Adjudication

In some cases, you may be able to agree to a deferred adjudication, where you pay the fine and avoid points on your record if you do not receive any further violations within a specified period.

Attending Traffic School to Reduce Points

Missouri offers drivers the option to attend a Driver Improvement Program (DIP) to reduce the points on their driving record. Completing a traffic school course can help mitigate the impact of a speeding ticket. Here are the steps to follow:

Eligibility

Check if you are eligible for traffic school. Generally, this option is available for minor offenses and if you have not attended traffic school within a certain period.

Approval

Obtain approval from the court or the Fine Collection Center to attend traffic school as an alternative to receiving points on your license.

Completion

Enroll in and complete a state-approved traffic school course. Upon completion, submit the certification to the court or the appropriate authority.

Attending traffic school not only helps in reducing points but also demonstrates a proactive approach to improving your driving skills, which can be favorable in court proceedings.

Conclusion

Receiving a speeding ticket in Missouri doesn't have to be an insurmountable obstacle. By understanding and utilizing common defenses, negotiating with prosecutors, and considering traffic school, you can significantly mitigate the consequences. Always consider consulting with a legal professional to navigate these options effectively and to increase the likelihood of a favorable outcome.

FAQs about Speeding Tickets in Missouri

What are common defenses against a speeding ticket in Missouri?

A1: Common defenses include mistaken identity, where the wrong vehicle is identified; faulty speed detection equipment, where the radar gun or other device was not properly maintained or calibrated; and procedural errors, where mistakes were made by the issuing officer or on the ticket itself.

Can I negotiate to reduce my speeding ticket fine or charges?

A2: Yes, you can negotiate with prosecutors to reduce charges or fines. Options include plea bargains to lesser offenses, presenting mitigating circumstances, or agreeing to deferred adjudication, which avoids points on your license if no further violations occur within a specified period.

How does attending traffic school help with a speeding ticket?

A3: Attending traffic school can help reduce the points added to your driving record from a speeding ticket. You must obtain approval from the court or Fine Collection Center to enroll in a state-approved course and submit the completion certificate to the appropriate authority.

What happens if I accumulate too many points on my Missouri driving record?

A4: Accumulating 4 points in 12 months results in a point accumulation advisory letter. Reaching 8 points in 18 months leads to a 30-day license suspension for the first suspension, 60 days for the second, and 90 days for subsequent suspensions. Accumulating 12 points in 12 months, 18 points in 24 months, or 24 points in 36 months results in a one-year revocation.

Can faulty speed detection equipment be used as a defense in court?

A5: Yes, if you can prove that the speed detection equipment used was faulty or improperly calibrated, the court may dismiss your speeding ticket. Maintenance records and calibration logs of the equipment can serve as crucial evidence in such a defense.

What are the long-term consequences of a speeding ticket on my insurance?

A6: A speeding ticket typically increases your insurance premiums, often by around 18% on average. The exact increase depends on factors such as the severity of the violation, your driving record, and your insurance provider. Shopping around for quotes and improving your credit score can help mitigate the increase.