Stop sign and red light tickets in Missouri: fines and points

What is the fine?

Violation	Fine on the state schedule
Failed to stop for a stop sign	$60.50
Failed to stop for a steady red signal	$60.50
Failed to stop for a flashing red signal	$60.50
Turned right on red where a sign prohibits it	$60.50
Failed to yield to a vehicle or pedestrian in a controlled intersection	$100.50

Court costs are added. The municipal schedule lists the same fines, and cities can publish totals that include their costs.

How many points?

Violation	State law	County ordinance	City ordinance
Stop sign	2	2	1
Red light and other signals	2	2	2

The 1-point city stop sign applies "where no accident is involved" (RSMo 302.302).

Where do I have to stop?

At the marked stop line. If there's none, before the crosswalk. If there's no crosswalk, at the point nearest the intersecting road where you can see approaching traffic. Then yield to any vehicle in the intersection or close enough to be an immediate hazard.

What if someone was hurt?

The penalties go up. Under RSMo 304.351, a right-of-way violation that caused physical injury carries an added penalty of up to $200, and the court can suspend your license for 30 days. For serious physical injury it's up to $500 and 90 days.

Can I keep the points off?

Yes, with the court's approval. Both are ordinary moving violations, which the Driver Improvement Program covers. Ask before you plead guilty or pay.

Should I use the program on a 1-point ticket?

Probably not, unless you're close to 8 points. You get the program once in 36 months. Check your points first.