The Legal Consequences of Distracted Driving in Missouri

Distracted driving is a dangerous epidemic on America’s roads—and Missouri is no exception.

With more distractions than ever competing for a driver’s attention—from smartphones and GPS systems to fast food and fatigue—many motorists fail to give the road their full focus. The consequences can be devastating, both physically and legally.

In this article, we explore what qualifies as distracted driving under Missouri law, the types of distractions that lead to crashes, and most importantly, the legal consequences drivers may face if they cause an accident due to distraction.

What Is Distracted Driving?

Distracted driving refers to any activity that takes a driver’s attention away from the task of driving. It is often divided into three categories:

Visual Distraction – Taking your eyes off the road
Manual Distraction – Taking your hands off the wheel
Cognitive Distraction – Taking your mind off driving

Examples include:

Texting or checking email
Eating or drinking
Adjusting the radio or GPS
Talking to passengers
Reaching for an object

The most dangerous distractions often involve a combination of all three categories—like texting while driving, which requires looking at a screen, using your hands, and mentally processing a message.

Missouri’s Distracted Driving Laws

Missouri’s laws on distracted driving are more limited than many other states, but they are changing rapidly in response to public safety concerns.

Current Law

Missouri enacted the Siddens Bening Hands-Free Law, which prohibits all drivers from manually using cell phones while driving. This new law replaced the older rule that only restricted texting for drivers under 21.

Under the Siddens Bening Hands-Free Law, drivers are not allowed to:

Hold a cell phone while driving
Send, read, or write text messages
Browse the internet or watch videos
Engage in video calls or use social media apps

Exceptions include:

Hands-free device usage (Bluetooth, dashboard mounts)
Voice-to-text functions
Emergency communication with law enforcement or emergency services

Violations can result in fines and, more seriously, increased liability if the driver causes an accident.

Legal Consequences of Distracted Driving in Missouri

When a driver causes a car crash due to distracted driving, the consequences go far beyond a traffic ticket. Here’s a breakdown of the potential legal fallout.

Traffic Violations and Fines

Distracted driving is a moving violation. If you are caught holding a phone or texting behind the wheel:

First offenses can result in fines up to $150
Repeat offenses or violations in construction/school zones may lead to higher fines or points on your license

Accumulating points can lead to license suspension and higher insurance premiums.

Civil Liability in an Accident

If a distracted driver causes a collision, they can be held civilly liable for any injuries or property damage. That means:

Victims can file a personal injury claim
The driver (and their insurer) may have to pay for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages

Distracted driving is a clear example of negligence under Missouri law. If proven, it greatly strengthens the injured party’s case.

Missouri uses a pure comparative fault system, meaning a driver’s share of fault reduces their ability to recover damages. But if you’re found entirely at fault due to distraction, you may be responsible for 100% of the resulting costs.

Punitive Damages

In some cases, distracted driving can be so reckless that it qualifies for punitive damages—a type of financial penalty meant to punish the driver and deter future misconduct.

For example, if someone was livestreaming or watching a video while driving, and seriously injured someone, a judge or jury might award punitive damages in addition to standard compensation.

Criminal Charges

When distracted driving results in serious injury or death, the driver may face criminal charges, such as:

Involuntary manslaughter
Assault in the second degree
Reckless driving

These charges carry significant consequences:

Jail time
Probation
Permanent criminal record
Loss of driving privileges

Prosecutors will look at whether the distraction showed a disregard for human life—such as reading a text at highway speeds or driving through a school zone while using a phone.

How Do You Prove Distracted Driving?

In personal injury cases, proving the other driver was distracted is key to recovering damages. Lawyers may use evidence such as:

Cell phone records
Dashcam or surveillance video
Police reports
Witness statements
Accident reconstruction experts

This is why it’s crucial for accident victims to speak with a personal injury attorney quickly—evidence disappears fast, and legal support can help preserve your claim.

What to Do If You’re Injured by a Distracted Driver

If you’ve been hurt in a car crash and suspect the other driver was distracted, take the following steps:

Call 911 and report the accident
Document the scene – take photos, get witness info
Seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor
Don’t speak to the other driver’s insurance adjuster without legal advice
Contact a personal injury lawyer experienced in distracted driving claims

Distracted driving in Missouri carries serious legal consequences—especially now that hands-free laws are in effect statewide.

But beyond the fines and traffic tickets, it’s the human cost that matters most: injuries, trauma, and lives lost.

If you’ve been hurt due to someone else’s distraction behind the wheel, don’t face the aftermath alone. Aramjoo Law Firm is here to serve you. Contact us today at (816) 479-5898 or online to schedule your free consultation.