Missouri Traffic Ticket Myths & FAQ's

There are many misconceptions regarding traffic violations. This information may come from friends, co-workers or some other source. Much of this information is not reliable and may be legally and factually incorrect. Acting on information that you receive from a source other than an attorney can result in irreversible consequences.

David R. Crosby, a Missouri speeding ticket defense attorney brings decades of experience!

The following are some of the more common myths about Missouri traffic tickets.

• Can I be convicted of speeding when no speed limit is posted? Yes! For example, the speed limit in Hillsboro is 30 miles per hour when there is no sign posted.

• Will merely explaining what I believe really happened necessarily be sufficient to have the charge dismissed? Simply disputing the facts put forth by the officer will generally be unsuccessful. Arguments which are based on legal principles typically result in better outcomes. Cross examining a police officer in court is a skill that is acquired through years of experience. Conducting your own cross examination of the police officer may hurt your case rather than help it.

• Should I rely on the information I receive from the police officer? The officer may provide incorrect information. For example, an officer may tell you that a summons does not carry points when that is not the case. The officer is not obligated to provide you with legal advice.

• Will I still be able to fight my ticket if I miss my court date? Many times it is possible to reopen a case even though the summons was unanswered or a default conviction has been entered.

• Are mistakes on my summons grounds for dismissal? Although some mistakes may play a part in obtaining a dismissal, the Judge's focus is usually centered on the infraction that you are charged with. If the police officer fails to appear, will my case be dismissed?— When the officer's absence is due a legitimate reason such as illness, death in his family or a conflicting court appearance, the court will generally reschedule the case.

• Will a summons received while driving my personal vehicle affect my CDL? Absolutely!

• Should I always pay a summons which doesn't carry points? No. For example, paying no point summonses such as a cell phone ticket may still cause insurance premiums to increase. In addition, too many no point tickets may prevent you from renting a car.

• Can a lawyer defend my case in court without me? In most cases, the motorist does not have to appear if they have retained an attorney.