Missouri Law states that when you see law enforcement with lights flashing and approaching, a motorist is to pull as far as possible to the right of the traveled portion of the highway and stop when a police car approaches displaying emergency equipment. The motorist must remain stopped until the patrol car has passed, or a police officer directs them otherwise to pull to the side of the road. When you see flashing red and blue lights on a patrol car, don’t panic or try to outrun the police. Simply slow down, signal your intention to turn onto the right shoulder, and drive off the roadway to the right as far as is safe and place your car in park. It is important that neither you or any of your passengers make any sudden or undirected movements that may cause alarm. Remember—law enforcement does not know who you are or what your intentions are. You may not get the benefit of the doubt—so always remain calm, respectful, and hands in sight. Remind your passengers to do the same.
After clarification as to why you were pulled over, the police may ask for your driver’s license, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance identification card. While the trooper is approaching your vehicle, DO NOT attempt to reach under your seat, into a glove compartment, into a console, or any other place hidden from the trooper’s view. If you are asked to exit your car, always keep your hands in plain view of the trooper. If a traffic ticket is issued by the officer, please maintain a polite and cooperative attitude. Do not attempt to debate the traffic ticket on the side of the road. You can hire a traffic attorney to help handle the case in the court systems.
Should I sign the ticket?
A traffic ticket is a legal document issued by troopers for traffic violations. A space for your signature is provided near the bottom of the traffic ticket. By signing the ticket, you are not admitting guilt. Your signature only recognizes receipt of the traffic ticket and your agreement to appear in court on the given court date, or that you will contact the court prior to the court date for disposal of the case. Your attorney can do this for you. Refusing to sign the traffic ticket does not eliminate your obligation to appear in court. Once the trooper gives you a copy of the traffic ticket, you have been served a summons (subpoena) to appear in that jurisdiction’s court. Failure to appear on your scheduled court date is a violation of law and may result in additional charges being filed against you and/or your driver’s license being suspended and/or a warrant for your arrest to be issued. In nearly all court cases where a fine is imposed, court costs must be paid. No fines are collected roadside at the time of the ticket being issued. If you lose your copy of the ticket you must contact the associate circuit court of the county in which the ticket was written. It is the responsibility of the violator to handle all traffic tickets in a timely manner.
If you received a speeding ticket in Missouri, call Boehmer Law at 636-896-4020 to see how we can help you. We have handled numerous tickets, and we know how to help you. Most of the time, we can handle everything over the phone in one call. We try to make this as easy as possible for you and will let you know everything you will need on the phone.
The choice of an attorney is an important one and should not be based solely on advertising. The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation.
