Missouri Traffic Regulations

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary resource that the instructor will review with the recruits during the training?

Traffic Regulations Manual

Table of Contents

Motor Vehicle Offense Handbook

Revised Statutes of Missouri (correct)

What is the purpose of the instructor asking recruits to locate specific information in RSMo Chapters 304 and 307?

To assign separate Missouri Charge Codes

To test their knowledge of traffic laws

To discuss the regulation with the class (correct)

To help them understand the organization of the RSMo

What is the difference between the various speed limit laws in RSMo 304.010?

The rate of speed driven over the posted speed limit (correct)

The speed limit on different highways

The time of day the speed limit is exceeded

The type of vehicle being driven

What is the consequence of exceeding the posted speed limit by 01-05 mph?

Infraction Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the instructor having each recruit find a different traffic or equipment regulation?

To discuss the regulation with the class Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the recruits in the training session?

To locate specific information in the RSMo Signup and view all the answers

What type of violation is considered under RSMo 304.130?

Infraction Signup and view all the answers

What is the main difference between the various laws under RSMo 304.130?

Degree of speed driven over the speed limit Signup and view all the answers

What type of vehicles are exempt from RSMo 304.012?

Emergency vehicles Signup and view all the answers

What is the main reason for writing a ticket for careless and imprudent driving?

Endangering the property, life or limb of another Signup and view all the answers

What is considered 'following too closely' according to RSMo 304.017?

Following more closely than reasonably safe and prudent Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended safety rule for following distances?

Allow one car length for every 10 mph Signup and view all the answers

What type of vehicles must come to a full stop within 50 feet of a railroad crossing?

Motor vehicles transporting person(s) for hire Signup and view all the answers

What is prohibited when a train is approaching a railroad crossing?

Driving through, around or under any crossing gate or barrier Signup and view all the answers

Where are school bus drivers prohibited from taking on or discharging students?

Highways with four or more lanes of traffic Signup and view all the answers

What is required before a person can be ticketed for impeding the flow of traffic?

A warning before being ticketed Signup and view all the answers

When can a vehicle pass a school bus that is stopped to load or unload students on a roadway with three or fewer lanes?

Never, vehicles must always stop Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum distance required for a school bus to stop before picking up or dropping off students?

300 feet Signup and view all the answers

What should a driver do when facing a flashing red signal?

Stop at the clearly marked stop line or before entering the crosswalk Signup and view all the answers

Under what circumstances can a driver make a U-turn at a controlled intersection?

Never, U-turns are not allowed at controlled intersections Signup and view all the answers

When is a driver allowed to drive on the left side of a barrier on a divided highway?

Never, it is illegal to cross a median or drive to the left side of a barrier Signup and view all the answers

What is required of emergency vehicles to operate with emergency lights and sirens?

The driver must believe that an actual emergency exists and have at least one lighted lamp displaying red or blue light Signup and view all the answers

What should a driver do when approaching a stop sign intersection?

Stop at the clearly marked stop line, but if none, before entering the crosswalk Signup and view all the answers

When can a driver make a left turn on a red light?

Cautiously, yielding the right-of-way to pedestrians and other traffic Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the rule requiring drivers to remain in one lane on a highway with three or more lanes?

To increase traffic safety Signup and view all the answers

When must a school bus driver remain stopped after unloading students?

Until three or more vehicles have passed Signup and view all the answers

What is the maximum allowed width of a vehicle, including load, on highways in this state?

96 inches Signup and view all the answers

What is the maximum height, including load, allowed for vehicles on interstate highways and designated routes?

14 feet Signup and view all the answers

What is the maximum length of a single motor vehicle, including load, on highways in this state?

40 feet Signup and view all the answers

What is the maximum combined length of a truck-tractor and semi-trailer on highways in this state?

60 feet Signup and view all the answers

When are studded tires prohibited on highways in this state?

Between April 1 and November 1 Signup and view all the answers

What is prohibited on windshields, sidewings, and windows of motor vehicles in this state?

Vision-reducing material Signup and view all the answers

Who is exempt from wearing safety belts in a passenger car on highways in this state?

Drivers employed by the U.S. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of a safety bumper on a bus?

To absorb energy upon impact Signup and view all the answers

When is a secondary coupling device not necessary for towed vehicles?

When the primary coupling device is a center-locking ball Signup and view all the answers

What is required to be displayed at the end of a projection, such as a towed vehicle?

A red flag or cloth, at least 16 inches square Signup and view all the answers

What should a driver do when an emergency vehicle is approaching?

Yield the right-of-way and drive to a position parallel to and as far as possible to the right of the highway Signup and view all the answers

Under which circumstances can a law enforcement officer authorize a towing operator to remove a vehicle from a highway?

If the vehicle has been left unattended for more than 48 hours Signup and view all the answers

Who is responsible for clearing debris from a roadway?

Any person who purposely or accidentally dropped the debris Signup and view all the answers

What is the condition for enforcing traffic laws related to traffic control devices?

The traffic device must be visible to an ordinary person Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of a protective cover or securing a load on a vehicle?

To prevent the load from falling off during transport Signup and view all the answers

What is a single-beam headlamp?

A headlamp that uses one distribution of light Signup and view all the answers

When are lighted lamps required on a vehicle?

At any time from a half-hour after sunset to a half-hour before sunrise Signup and view all the answers

What is the consequence of abandoning a vehicle on private property without the owner's consent?

The owner of the vehicle is responsible for tow charges Signup and view all the answers

Under which circumstances can a law enforcement officer authorize a towing operator to remove a vehicle from private property?

If the vehicle unreasonably interferes with the use of the property Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the RSMo statute 304.155?

To authorize towing of vehicles left unattended on public property Signup and view all the answers

What type of license is required to operate an all-terrain vehicle on a highway?

Valid operator's or chauffeur's license Signup and view all the answers

What safety feature is required on an all-terrain vehicle when operated on a highway?

Bicycle safety flag Signup and view all the answers

What is the maximum speed allowed for an all-terrain vehicle operated on a highway?

Thirty miles per hour Signup and view all the answers

Which type of person is exempt from passing a motorcycle operation examination?

Disabled person Signup and view all the answers

Who is responsible for enforcing the provisions of this subsection within their jurisdiction?

State law enforcement officials or peace officers Signup and view all the answers

Who is exempt from wearing safety belts in their vehicles?

Postal Service workers Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum age requirement for a child to use a booster seat?

Four years old Signup and view all the answers

What is the penalty for violating the child passenger restraint system law?

Fine of not more than fifty dollars and court costs Signup and view all the answers

What is the maximum weight for a child to use a child passenger restraint system?

Eighty pounds Signup and view all the answers

Who is responsible for ensuring the protection of children in motor vehicles?

Driver Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum height requirement for a child to use a booster seat?

Four feet, nine inches Signup and view all the answers

What is the exception to the child restraint system law?

Agricultural work-related activities Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of a child booster seat?

To elevate a child to properly sit in a federally approved safety belt system Signup and view all the answers

Who is not required to wear a safety belt in the back seat of a motor vehicle?

Children who are part of an immediate family with more children than seating positions Signup and view all the answers

What is the definition of a 'child passenger restraint system'?

A seating system that meets the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum age of a child who is exempt from the child restraint system requirement on a school bus?

Four years Signup and view all the answers

What is the penalty for transporting a child under the age of four years unprotected by an approved child restraint system?

A citation and dismissal if evidence of acquisition of a child restraint system is provided Signup and view all the answers

Who is exempt from the requirement to operate an all-terrain vehicle on the highways of this state?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the highways and transportation commission's program?

To develop a program of public information Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum requirement for operating a motorized bicycle on any highway or street in this state?

A valid license to operate a motor vehicle Signup and view all the answers

What is prohibited regarding the operation of an all-terrain vehicle on rivers or streams in this state?

Operating an all-terrain vehicle on any river or stream Signup and view all the answers

What is required to operate an all-terrain vehicle on highways within the city limits?

A special permit Signup and view all the answers

What is the fee for a special permit to operate an all-terrain vehicle on county roads?

Fifteen dollars Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of noting the child's name and date of birth in the description section of the M.U.C.S.?

To identify the child's age Signup and view all the answers

What is the consequence of not providing evidence of acquisition of a child restraint system prior to or at the hearing?

The charges will not be affected Signup and view all the answers

When are lighted lamps required on vehicles?

During the times when lighted lamps are required Signup and view all the answers

How many headlamps must a motorcycle be equipped with?

One Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum distance at which approved single-beam headlamps must be able to reveal persons and vehicles?

200 feet Signup and view all the answers

What is the maximum height above the road surface at which the high-intensity portion of the light from single-beam headlamps may project?

42 inches Signup and view all the answers

How many rear lamps must a motor vehicle be equipped with?

Two Signup and view all the answers

At what distance must the red light from a tail lamp be visible?

500 feet Signup and view all the answers

When must the operator of a motor vehicle dim their headlamps?

Within 500 feet of an oncoming vehicle Signup and view all the answers

How many red reflectors must a motor vehicle be equipped with?

Two Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of a red light on a pole or other object that projects more than five feet from the rear of a vehicle?

To indicate the presence of the object Signup and view all the answers

At what height above the ground must rear lamps be positioned?

Between 15 and 72 inches Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Motor Vehicle Offense Handbook

The instructor will review the organization of the Revised Statutes of Missouri (RSMo) and have recruits locate specific information regarding traffic regulations and equipment regulations.

Traffic Regulations

Exceeded The Posted Speed Limit (RSMo 304.010):
- Multiple speed limit laws have been enacted since the state of Missouri raised the speed limit on certain highways from 55 mph.
- Each law has a separate Missouri Charge Code that utilizes the same Chapter RSMo 304.010.
- Violations vary depending on the rate of speed driven over the posted speed limit:
  - Exceeded Limit by 01-05 mph (Infraction)
  - Exceeded Limit by 06-10 mph (Misd.C)
  - Exceeded Limit by 11-15 mph (Misd.C)
  - Exceeded Limit by 16-19 mph (Misd.C)
  - Exceeded Limit by 20 or more mph (Misd.B)
Exceeded Posted Speed Limit Set By 1st Class County (RSMo 304.130):
- Applies to County maintained/governed roadways that lie in the unincorporated venue of a 1st class county.
- Speed limit law is regulated in the same manner as RSMo 304.010.
- Each law under RSMo 304.130 employs the description of Exceeded The Posted Speed Limit Set By 1st Class County and is further modified by the degree of speed driven over the speed limit.
Operation Of A Motor Vehicle In A Careless And Imprudent Manner (RSMo 304.012):
- A person operates a motor vehicle in a careless and imprudent manner if their driving endangers the property, life, or limb of another.
- A more detailed description of the violation is required, including what caused the endangerment.
- Emergency vehicles are exempt from this law, but operators must still drive safely.
Impeding The Flow Of Traffic (RSMo 304.011):
- No person shall drive a motor vehicle at such a slow speed as to impede or block the normal flow of traffic.
- The operator must first receive a warning before they can be ticketed.
Following Too Closely (RSMo 304.017):
- Following too closely is defined as "more closely than reasonably safe and prudent."
- Common sense suggests leaving enough space for a driver to stop.
- Safety rules:
  - For every 10 mph, allow one car length between your car and the car you are following.
  - Determine an object ahead, such as a utility pole, and count two seconds. If your vehicle meets that point prior to reaching the two-second mark, your vehicle may be too close.
Railroad Crossings (RSMo 304.030):
- The following vehicles must come to a full stop within 50 feet, but not less than 10 feet, of railroad crossings at all times:
  - Motor vehicles transporting person(s) for hire.
  - School buses.
  - Motor vehicles transporting explosives, corrosives, flammables, etc.
Stop Required At Railroad Crossing (RSMo 304.035):
- No person shall drive any vehicle through, around, or under any crossing gate or barrier at a railroad crossing when a train is approaching while such gate is closed or is being opened or closed.
Operation And Responsibility Of School Bus Drivers (RSMo 304.050):
- The operator of a school bus cannot take on or discharge students on a highway consisting of four or more lanes of traffic as to require the student to cross more than two lanes of traffic.
- The operator may not take on or discharge students whereupon his/her school bus is not visible in each direction for at least 300 feet.

Equipment Regulations

Light Signals (RSMo 304.281):
- Traffic facing a steady red signal shall stop at the crosswalk, stop line, or a point on the near side before entering the intersection.
- A driver may cautiously enter the intersection to make a right turn on a red light but will yield to pedestrians and other traffic.
Stop Signs (RSMo 304.351 (4a)):
- When a driver approaches a stop sign intersection, he shall stop his vehicle at a clearly marked stop line, but if none, before entering the crosswalk, or if none, then at a point nearest the intersecting roadway.
- A stop is determined when all wheels cease rotation momentarily.
Flashing Signals (RSMo 304.301):
- A flashing red light is a stop signal.
- Traffic facing a flashing red signal shall stop at a clearly marked stop line, but if none, before entering the crosswalk on the near side of the intersection, or if none, then at the point nearest the intersecting roadway where the driver has a view of the approaching traffic on the intersecting roadway.
U-Turns (RSMo 304.341 (2)):
- No U-turns at controlled intersections.
- No U-turns when it is unsafe or interferes with other traffic.
-driving On The Right Side Of The Roadway (RSMo 304.015):
- Vehicles will drive on the right side of the roadway with sufficient width except:
  - When overtaking or passing.
  - When making a left turn.
  - When the right side of the roadway is closed to traffic.
  - When traveling on a one-way street.
- When a highway is clearly marked with three or more lanes, a vehicle shall remain in one lane unless:
  - Movement can be made safely.
  - Making a left turn.
  - Must obey signs enacted controlling traffic movement.

Emergency Vehicles

Emergency Vehicles (RSMo 304.022, 307.175):
- Emergency vehicles include law enforcement, fire, ambulance, public utility, towing, and government vehicles used in an emergency.
- Required to have at least one lighted lamp displaying red or blue light that is visible at a distance of 500 feet.
- Required to give an audible signal by siren, bell, or whistle.
- Visible light(s) and audible signal must both be used if vehicle is driven as an emergency vehicle.
- The driver of an emergency vehicle must believe that an actual emergency exists in order to operate as an emergency vehicle.
- Emergency vehicles are only authorized to operate with emergency lights and siren on when responding to an emergency.

Abandoned Vehicles

Vehicles Left Unattended On Public Property (RSMo 304.155):
- A law enforcement officer may authorize a towing operator to remove any vehicle from the right of way of any highway if the vehicle has been left unattended for more than 48 hours.
- A law enforcement officer may also authorize a towing operator to remove any abandoned property illegally left standing upon any highway or bridge if the abandoned property is left in a position or under such circumstances as to obstruct the normal movement of traffic.
Vehicles Left Unattended On Private Property (RSMo 304.157, 577.080):
- If a person abandons a vehicle on any real property owned by another without the consent of the owner, a law enforcement officer may authorize a towing operator to remove such vehicle.
- The vehicle is abandoned if it is left unattended for more than 48 hours or if it unreasonably interferes with the use of real property by the person in possession.

Injurious Substances

Injurious Substances Placed On Roadway (RSMo 304.160):
- Any person who purposely or accidentally dropped nails, tacks, wire, scrap metal, glass, or other injurious substances on the roadway shall immediately make all efforts to clear the highway of the substances.

Presumptions

Presumptions (RSMo 304.271):
- No traffic laws shall be enforced against a violator if at the time the traffic device cannot be seen by an ordinary person.

Equipment Regulations

Loads To Be Secured (RSMo 307.010):
- All motor vehicles and trailers operating on public highways and carrying material or farm products that may reasonably be expected to become dislodged due to air pressure or vehicle movement shall have a protective cover or be secured so that no portion of the load can fall from the vehicle.
Definitions (RSMo 307.020):
- Auxiliary lamp: Additional lighting device that supplements head lamps in providing general illumination ahead of a vehicle.
- Headlamp: Major lighting device capable of providing general illumination ahead of the vehicle.
- Single-beam headlamp: Headlamp that uses one distribution of light.
- Multi-beam headlamp: Headlamp arranged so as to permit the driver of a vehicle to use one of two or more distributions of light on the road.
When Lighted Lamps Are Required (RSMo 307.040):
- Lighted lamps are required at any time from a half-hour after sunset to a half-hour before sunrise and at any other time when there is not sufficient light to render clearly discernible and vehicles on the highway at a distance of 500 feet ahead.
Headlamps On Motor Vehicles (RSMo 307.045):

Vision-Reducing Materials on Vehicles

Vision-reducing materials are not allowed on windshields, front side windows, or rear side windows of motor vehicles, unless required by a physician's prescription for certain physical disorders.

Seat Belts and Passenger Safety

Passenger cars are defined as motor vehicles designed to carry 10 persons or less, including trucks licensed for less than 12,000 pounds.
Seat belts are required for passenger cars, but exemptions apply to cars manufactured before 01-01-68, drivers employed by the U.S. Postal Service, and vehicles used in agricultural work-related activities.
Drivers and front seat passengers must wear properly adjusted and fastened safety belts.
Children under 16 years old must be secured in a properly adjusted and fastened safety belt in any passenger compartment.

Child Passenger Restraint Systems

Child passenger restraint systems, child booster seats, and vehicle safety belts must meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.
Children under 16 years old must be secured in a child passenger restraint system, child booster seat, or vehicle safety belt appropriate for their age, weight, and height.
Specific requirements apply for children under 4 years old, children weighing less than 40 pounds, children between 4-8 years old, and children over 80 pounds or 4 feet 9 inches tall.

Penalties and Exceptions

Violations of child passenger restraint system laws may result in fines of up to $50 and court costs.
Exceptions apply to public carriers for hire, students on school buses, and drivers transporting children in immediate family situations.

Motorized Bicycles and Scooters

Motorized bicycles, "pocket bikes," and scooters require a valid license to operate a motor vehicle.
Operation of motorized bicycles on interstate highways is prohibited.

All-Terrain Vehicles

All-terrain vehicles are prohibited on highways, rivers, or streams of this state, except for specified exceptions, such as governmental use, agricultural purposes, or handicapped persons.
Special permits may be issued for special uses of all-terrain vehicles on highways or county roads.
Fees of $15 may be collected and retained by cities or counties for such permits.
Off-road vehicles may be operated within waterways on owned or permitted land, or for fording streams or rivers at road crossings.

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Description

Learn about the Revised Statutes of Missouri, focusing on motor vehicle offenses, traffic regulations, and equipment regulations. Review the Table of Contents, Chapters, and Sections.