DUI Rules That May Surprise You

Finder Law Serves Clients Across Jefferson City, Columbia, and Central Missouri

Kara McNabb • February 5, 2025

Driving Under the Influence (DUI) is a serious offense in Missouri, just like in any other state, but there are several unique aspects of Missouri's DUI laws that might surprise you. While most people know the basic rule — you can't drive with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher — Missouri’s laws have several layers that many drivers may not be aware of. Let’s dive into some aspects of Missouri’s DUI laws that could surprise you.



1. Implied Consent Law

In Missouri, the state’s "implied consent" law means that by driving on Missouri roads, you automatically consent to submit to chemical testing if an officer suspects you are driving under the influence. This applies to breath, blood, or urine tests.


What might surprise you, though, is that refusing to take a chemical test can have serious consequences — even if you haven’t been convicted of DUI. Refusal to submit to a test results in an automatic one-year license suspension, regardless of the outcome of your DUI case.


This is an important factor to consider because while you have the right to refuse, refusing can often make the situation worse.



2. DUI Penalties Increase with Prior Offenses

In Missouri, DUI penalties increase if you have prior offenses. However, even your previous alcohol-related offenses outside of Missouri can count towards these penalties. That means if you were convicted of a DUI in another state, that conviction could increase the severity of your punishment in Missouri, including longer license suspensions, increased fines, and even mandatory alcohol education classes.


Additionally, Missouri has a persistent offender statute, meaning the penalties can grow exponentially. For example, a third offense DUI within 10 years can lead to mandatory jail time, longer license suspension, and higher fines.



3. Sobriety Checkpoints Are Legal

Unlike many states, Missouri allows sobriety checkpoints. These are set up by law enforcement to check for impaired drivers. What may surprise you is that Missouri courts have upheld the constitutionality of sobriety checkpoints, so they are a regular and legal part of DUI enforcement in the state.


However, officers must follow strict protocols when conducting these checkpoints. The process must be conducted in a random and non-discriminatory manner, and officers cannot single out specific drivers for stops based on profiling.



4. Open Container Law Applies to DUI

Missouri's open container law surprises many people because it isn't just about whether you're drinking alcohol — it's also about having open alcohol containers in your vehicle, whether or not you're under the influence.


It’s important to note that Missouri law prohibits an open container of alcohol in the passenger compartment of a vehicle, even if the driver is sober. A violation of this law can lead to a fine, and if you’re found with an open container while driving under the influence, it can result in more severe DUI penalties.



5. DUI While Operating a Boat or Other Vehicle

Missouri’s DUI laws extend beyond just cars. If you're caught operating a boat, ATV, or even a bicycle while intoxicated, you can face DUI charges. Many people don't realize that operating a boat under the influence of alcohol or drugs is considered a DUI offense, which can lead to fines, jail time, or other penalties. The state's boating DUI laws are designed to reduce accidents on water just like on the roads.


In fact, Missouri has specific laws governing Boating While Intoxicated (BWI), and the penalties are quite similar to those for operating a motor vehicle while impaired.



6. The “Sobriety Court” Option

One unique aspect of Missouri’s DUI laws is the availability of Sobriety Courts for repeat offenders. Missouri has a program for individuals who have multiple DUI convictions. The program focuses on rehabilitation rather than punitive measures and can include drug and alcohol treatment, regular monitoring, and other support to help individuals stay sober.


What may surprise you is that participating in Sobriety Court can help reduce the likelihood of jail time and may allow drivers to regain their driving privileges earlier, as long as they successfully complete the program and stay sober. It's a lesser-known, but valuable, opportunity for some offenders.



7. Commercial Drivers Have a Lower BAC Limit

It may not come as a complete shock that commercial drivers are held to stricter standards than regular drivers, but the specifics of Missouri’s commercial driver laws can be surprising. Commercial drivers can be charged with DUI if their BAC is as low as 0.04% — significantly lower than the 0.08% limit for non-commercial drivers.


Additionally, a commercial driver’s license (CDL) may be suspended for a longer period than the typical driver’s license, and a conviction could result in the loss of the individual’s ability to work in certain professions.



8. Penalties for Drug Impairment Are Just as Severe

DUI isn’t just about alcohol in Missouri. Drug impairment is treated just as seriously under the law. Whether it’s marijuana, prescription medication, or illicit drugs, being caught driving while impaired by drugs can result in the same penalties as driving while intoxicated by alcohol.


With Missouri’s increasing push for medical marijuana legalization, it’s important to note that drivers under the influence of marijuana or other controlled substances can face DUI charges, and it’s not just the use of illegal drugs — even legal substances can impair your ability to drive and result in legal consequences.



Conclusion

DUI isn’t just about alcohol in Missouri. Drug impairment is treated just as seriously under the law. Whether it’s marijuana, prescription medication, or illicit drugs, being caught driving while impaired by drugs can result in the same penalties as driving while intoxicated by alcohol.


With Missouri’s increasing push for medical marijuana legalization, it’s important to note that drivers under the influence of marijuana or other controlled substances can face DUI charges, and it’s not just the use of illegal drugs — even legal substances can impair your ability to drive and result in legal consequences.



This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For specific guidance, please contact our office directly.

Options for Missouri Business Owners to Collect Unpaid Debts

By Alyssa Finder • February 18, 2026
Running a business in Missouri often involves extending credit to customers, clients, or other businesses. While most customers pay their bills on time, unpaid debts can create significant cash flow issues and affect the overall health of your business. Fortunately, Missouri law provides several avenues for business owners to pursue collection of unpaid debts.  Understanding your options and the proper legal procedures can help you recover the money you are owed efficiently and effectively.

Cooper County Car Crash

By Alyssa Finder • February 13, 2026
A two-vehicle crash occurred on Wednesday evening on I-70 in Cooper County. At 5:48 pm, a Sedalia man driving a 2012 Nissan Frontier went off the roadway on Westbound I-70 in Cooper County to avoid the driver of a 2021 Westenstar 4700. The Nissan then went off the right side of the roadway and overturned. The driver of the 2021 Westenstar 4700 was taken to University Hospital by ambulance with minor injuries. Highway crashes are often especially dangerous because of higher speeds, heavier traffic, and limited reaction time, which can turn even a brief mistake into a serious collision. Victims frequently suffer traumatic brain injuries, spinal and neck injuries, broken bones, and internal injuries that may require extensive medical treatment and time away from work. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a highway crash, contact Daniel Finder at Finder Law, LLC to discuss your legal options and pursue the compensation you deserve. All facts of the incident are based on preliminary reporting done by The Missouri State Highway Patrol.

Montgomery County Car Crash

By Alyssa Finder • February 13, 2026
A staff member suffered minor injuries when a Montgomery County school bus was hit by a car Wednesday morning. The Montgomery County R-2 bus was hit at about 7:30 a.m. on Highway 19 near Route WW just north of New Florence, according to a Missouri State Highway Patrol crash report. A Hyundai Elantra driven by a 35-year-old Wellsville woman hit the bus after crossing the center line, the patrol reported. The Hyundai driver was taken by ambulance to Lake St. Louis Hospital with moderate injuries. The injured school employee, 63, of High Hill, was taken to the Hermann Area District Hospital with minor injuries. The one student on the bus was not hurt, said Superintendent Brian White. When a vehicle crosses the center line on a highway, the resulting crash is often violent due to high speeds and the risk of a head-on impact. These collisions frequently cause traumatic brain injuries, neck and spinal injuries, broken bones, internal organ damage, and severe soft-tissue injuries that can have lasting effects. In the most serious cases, victims are left facing long-term medical care, lost income, and permanent disabilities. If you or a loved one has been injured in a center-line crash, contact Daniel Finder at Finder Law, LLC to discuss your legal options and protect your right to full compensation. All facts of the incident are based on preliminary reporting done by The Missouri State Highway Patrol and KMIZ.

Navigating Custody Disagreements After a Modification in Missouri

By Alyssa Finder • February 11, 2026
Custody arrangements in Missouri are designed to be flexible to reflect the best interests of the child. Even after a court has modified a parenting plan, disagreements between parents can still arise. Issues such as extracurricular activity costs, changes in school or school districts, and other daily parenting decisions can create tension and confusion.  Understanding how to navigate custody disagreements after a modification can help parents protect their rights and maintain stability for their children.

Cole County Pedestrian Injury

By Alyssa Finder • February 11, 2026
A vehicle hit a pedestrian on a Cole County road Friday morning, closing it for an hour. Sgt. Kyle Green with the Missouri State Highway Patrol said troopers were investigating the pedestrian crash on Route Y near Helias Road just after 9 a.m. Green said the pedestrian was hurt, but he did not know the severity of those injuries. An ABC 17 News photographer on scene saw law enforcement and Cole County EMS. A photographer said first responders opened the road back up just after 10 a.m. A Missouri State Highway Patrol crash report says a 39-year-old Gravois Mills man was seriously injured in the crash and was brought to University Hospital by ambulance. The report says a 21-year-old Jefferson City man drove a 2008 Chevrolet Impala and failed to yield to a stationary vehicles stopped in the roadway. The man drove the Chevrolet across the center of the roadway and hit the pedestrian, the report says. An MSHP spokesman told ABC 17 News that the pedestrian was hit after they stepped off a trash truck. The Chevrolet had extensive damage and the driver had no reported injuries. When a pedestrian is struck by a vehicle, the results are often catastrophic. Without the protection of a car’s frame, even a low-speed impact can cause devastating injuries such as fractures, internal trauma, or permanent disability. Medical costs, lost income, and long-term recovery can quickly become overwhelming. If you or someone you love has been hit by a car, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone— contact Daniel Finder at Finder Law, LLC for skilled personal injury representation and compassionate guidance every step of the way. All facts of the incident are based on preliminary reporting done by The Missouri State Highway Patrol and KMIZ.

Montgomery County Single Car Crash

By Alyssa Finder • February 11, 2026
Two men were seriously injured Wednesday afternoon in a pickup truck crash on Missouri Route 19 in Montgomery County. A 60-year-old Owensville man was severely injured Wednesday afternoon in a single- vehicle accident on Missouri Route 19 in Montgomery County. According to a Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP) crash report, the incident happened around 4:09 p.m. when a southbound 2015 Toyota Tundra pickup truck ran off the roadway near Loutre Bend Road, careened down an embankment, and crashed into multiple trees. A passenger, identified as a 60-year-old Owensville man, was ejected and severely injured. He was transported to University Hospital for treatment. The 28-year-old St. Clair man driving was brought to Mercy Hospital. Car crashes can cause devastating injuries. A momentary distraction can lead to serious consequences such as broken bones, spinal damage, or traumatic brain injuries—often leaving victims with lasting pain and financial strain. If you or a loved one has been injured, contact Daniel Finder at Finder Law, LLC to discuss your rights and explore your options for recovery. All facts of the incident are based on preliminary reporting done by The Missouri State Highway Patrol and The Legal Advocate.

Understanding Contempt of Court in Missouri: What It Means and Consequences

By Alyssa Finder • February 4, 2026
Being held in contempt of court in Missouri is a serious legal matter that can have significant consequences. Contempt occurs when an individual disobeys a court order, disrupts court proceedings, or otherwise fails to comply with the authority of the court. Understanding the types of contempt, reasons someone may be held in contempt, and the potential consequences is essential for anyone involved in legal proceedings.

Breach of Contract Cases in Missouri: What You Need to Know

By Alyssa Finder • January 28, 2026
Contracts are a fundamental part of everyday life and business in Missouri. From employment agreements and real estate transactions to service contracts and business partnerships, contracts help define each party’s rights and obligations. When one party fails to live up to their end of the bargain, a breach of contract may occur —often leading to financial loss, disputes, and potential litigation. If you believe a contract has been breached, understanding Missouri contract law and your legal options is an important first step.

Morgan County Car Crash

By Alyssa Finder • January 28, 2026
A rear-end accident along MO-52 left two men injured on Wednesday afternoon near Quarry Ln, prompting a response from area emergency services. According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the crash occurred at approximately 3:30 p.m. when a 2023 Ford Transit van, driven westbound by a 33-year-old man from Eldon, struck the rear of a 2001 Dodge Dakota that was stopped in the westbound lane. The impact caused significant damage to both vehicles, with the Dakota sustaining total damage. Both came to rest on the roadway facing westbound. The driver of the Dodge, a 72-year-old man from Versailles, was not wearing a seatbelt and sustained moderate injuries. He was transported by Mid-Mo Ambulance to Lake Regional Hospital for further treatment. The Ford driver initially refused care but was later listed with moderate injuries and taken to the same facility. Garbers Towing removed both vehicles from the scene as troopers with Troop F completed their investigation. The cause of the crash remains under review. Rear-end crashes may seem minor at first, but they often cause serious and lasting injuries. Victims commonly suffer whiplash, neck and back injuries, herniated discs, concussions, spinal injuries, and soft-tissue damage that can worsen over time. The sudden force of being struck from behind can also lead to chronic pain, limited mobility, and missed time from work, even when vehicle damage appears minimal. If you or a loved one was injured in a rear-end collision, call Daniel Finder at Finder Law, LLC to discuss your options and get experienced personal injury representation. All facts of the incident are based on preliminary reporting done by The Missouri State Highway Patrol.

Audrain County Car Crash

By Alyssa Finder • January 27, 2026
Missouri State Highway Patrol troopers are investigating a crash that left one person dead involving two tractor trailers and one SUV, according to MSHP Troop F Sgt. Kyle Green. The crash happened between Centralia and Mexico on Missouri 22, near Audrain Road 215, according to an MSHP post. As of 9 a.m. Wednesday, the Missouri Department of Transportation planned to keep the highway closed for at least four more hours, according to Little Dixie Fire Protection District Chief Jason Henry. Emergency crews were first dispatched on reports of a semitruck on fire a few hours earlier that morning, Henry said. They were then paged again, but this time on reports of a second semitruck being rolled over and an SUV involved in the crash, according to the fire chief. Henry told KOMU 8 it appeared the SUV driver was ejected from the vehicle, adding the scene remains active. KOMU 8 was on the scene and saw one of the trucks involved was an Ameren vehicle. When a car is hit by a semi-truck, the sheer size and weight of the truck often lead to catastrophic injuries. Victims may suffer traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, crushed or broken bones, internal organ injuries, severe burns, and permanent disabilities, even in crashes that happen at relatively low speeds. These collisions frequently result in long recovery periods, overwhelming medical bills, and time away from work, while trucking companies and insurers move quickly to protect themselves. If you or someone you love has been injured in a crash involving a semi, call Daniel Finder at Finder Law, LLC to protect your rights and pursue the personal injury compensation you deserve. All facts of the incident are based on preliminary reporting done by The Missouri State Highway Patrol and KOMU.