Texting & Driving Laws
Finder Law Serves Clients Across Jefferson City, Columbia, and Central Missouri
Kara McNabb • January 17, 2025
Texting and driving is a dangerous behavior that continues to be a significant concern on roads across the country, including in Missouri. As smartphones become an increasingly integral part of daily life, the temptation to send a quick message while driving can be overwhelming. However, Missouri law takes a firm stance against distracted driving, particularly texting behind the wheel. This blog post will walk you through Missouri's texting and driving laws, penalties, and the risks involved with this behavior.

What is Missouri’s Texting and Driving Law?
Missouri has implemented a statewide ban on texting while driving, specifically targeting drivers of all ages. Under Missouri law, it is illegal for drivers to send, read, or write a text message while operating a vehicle. The law is designed to reduce distractions that can lead to serious accidents, injuries, and fatalities.

Key Points of Missouri’s Texting and Driving Law:
- Texting Ban for All Drivers: Missouri's texting and driving law applies to all drivers, regardless of age. This means that whether you are 16 or 60, it is illegal to use your phone to send or read text messages while driving.
- Texting While Driving: It’s important to note that texting includes sending, reading, or composing a text message, email, or instant message. This applies not only to traditional SMS texting but also to any written communication through apps like WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, or other social media platforms.
- Use of Cell Phones: While texting is banned, Missouri law does not outright ban the use of cell phones while driving. Drivers are allowed to use their phones for hands-free communication, such as making calls or using voice-activated features. However, it is still illegal to hold your phone in your hand while driving for any purpose other than texting.
- Exceptions to the Law: There are some exceptions to the texting and driving law in Missouri. Drivers are allowed to text in the following situations:
- Emergency Situations: Drivers may text in case of an emergency, such as notifying emergency personnel of an accident or calling for roadside assistance.
- Parked or Stopped Vehicle: If a driver is safely pulled over and stopped at the side of the road (not at a stop sign or traffic light), they can use their phone for texting or other purposes.

Penalties for Violating Missouri’s Texting and Driving Law
Violating Missouri’s texting and driving law can result in fines and other consequences. The penalties are designed to deter drivers from engaging in this risky behavior and encourage safer driving practices. Here are the penalties you may face if caught texting and driving in Missouri:
- Fines
- The first offense for texting while driving is typically classified as a primary offense, meaning law enforcement officers can pull you over if they observe you texting behind the wheel. If convicted, you could face a fine of up to $200.
- For subsequent offenses, the fines may increase. If you are caught texting and driving multiple times, penalties can escalate, and the fines may rise accordingly.
- Points on Your License: In addition to fines, a conviction for texting and driving may result in points on your driving record. Accumulating too many points can lead to a suspended or revoked driver’s license.
- Possible Insurance Consequences: A texting and driving violation can also affect your car insurance premiums. Insurance companies may raise rates for drivers who have a history of distracted driving or moving violations.
- Increased Penalties for Endangering Others: If texting while driving leads to an accident that results in injury or death, the driver could face more severe legal consequences, including criminal charges such as vehicular manslaughter or reckless driving. These charges can result in much harsher penalties, including potential jail time.
The Dangers of Texting and Driving
While the law is clear, it’s important to understand why texting and driving is so dangerous. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving is a leading cause of car accidents. Texting while driving significantly increases the risk of a crash because it requires the driver to take their eyes off the road, their hands off the wheel, and their mind off the task of driving.
Here are some alarming statistics that highlight the dangers of texting and driving:
- In 2021, approximately 3,140 people were killed in accidents involving distracted driving in the United States.
- Sending or reading a text message takes your eyes off the road for an average of 5 seconds. At 55 mph, that’s equivalent to driving the length of an entire football field with your eyes closed.

How to Avoid the Dangers of Texting and Driving
To stay safe and avoid legal trouble, it's best to make a habit of avoiding texting while driving altogether. Here are a few tips to help you stay focused on the road:
- Use Hands-Free Technology: Use hands-free devices such as Bluetooth or voice assistants like Siri or Google Assistant to make calls or send voice-activated messages.
- Put Your Phone Away: Keep your phone out of reach while driving. Place it in your glove compartment or center console so that you’re not tempted to check notifications.
- Pull Over Safely: If you absolutely need to send a text, find a safe place to pull over and stop before checking your phone.
- Use "Do Not Disturb" Mode: Enable your phone’s "Do Not Disturb" feature to silence incoming notifications while you’re behind the wheel.

Conclusion
Texting and driving is a serious safety concern that Missouri law aims to curb through strict regulations. While texting is illegal for all drivers in the state, it’s important to recognize the dangers of distracted driving and the potential consequences of violating the law. Remember, no text message is worth the risk of an accident, injury, or death.
If you’ve been issued a ticket for texting while driving and need help understanding the ramifications, call Finder Law today to set up a consultation. We have the experience and understanding of how this could affect your insurance rates and your driving record. With over ten years of experience practicing law in mid-Missouri, we can help you achieve the best outcome for your offense.
This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For specific guidance, please contact our office directly.
For many Missourians, staying compliant with probation conditions is essential to avoid more serious penalties. But sometimes, those very stipulations—such as driving restrictions, curfews, or travel limits—can make it difficult to keep a job or meet family responsibilities. If your probation terms are interfering with your livelihood, you may have legal options to request modifications or work-related permissions. Understanding Common Probation Restrictions  Probation conditions vary by case, but certain restrictions can create practical challenges. Examples include: Driving limitations or suspended licenses after DUI, DWI, or traffic-related convictions Strict curfews that conflict with night-shift or weekend work Travel restrictions that prevent commuting between counties or regions for employment Mandatory counseling or community service schedules that overlap with work hours While these conditions are court-ordered, Missouri law allows for reasonable adjustments when restrictions make employment or transportation impossible. Requesting a Modification of Probation Terms If you’re struggling with restrictive probation conditions, your attorney can file a motion to modify probation or request a special court hearing to explain how those terms are impacting your ability to work. Judges often consider: Efforts to maintain compliance and consistent employment Proof that your job or transportation is legitimate and necessary Support from probation officers or employers Alternatives that maintain accountability but permit reasonable freedom of movement An attorney experienced in probation and post-sentencing matters can present a clear plan to the court showing how modification supports rehabilitation—not defiance—of the law. Why Legal Representation Matters Dealing with probation terms on your own can be risky. A misstep—no matter how unintentional—could lead to revocation or jail time. Legal advocacy ensures that your rights are protected while still demonstrating respect for the court’s authority and your commitment to compliance. Speak to Finder Law, LLC About Your Options If your Missouri probation terms are preventing you from working, driving, or caring for your family, it’s time to take action. Daniel Finder at Finder Law, LLC helps individuals seek fair modifications and reasonable solutions that allow them to move forward while staying on the right side of the law. Call Finder Law , LLC today to schedule a confidential consultation and discuss your options for modifying probation or driver’s license conditions. Your future—and your freedom to work—may depend on getting skilled legal guidance now.
Two adults suffered minor injuries due to a car crash in Boone County on March 24, 2026 on MO-124 South of Lakeview According to the Missouri Highway Patrol, a 21-year-old Festus man driving a 2002 BMW 352I swerved to avoid stopped traffic and traveled directly into the path of a 2025 Ford Bronco driven by a 50-year-old Centralia woman.  The female was transported to Boone Hospital by private vehicle. Both vehicles were totaled in the crash. Even if your injuries seem minor after a car accident, consulting a personal injury attorney can protect your rights and prevent costly mistakes. What appears to be a small issue—like mild soreness or a headache—can develop into more serious medical conditions over time, and insurance companies often use early statements or quick settlements to minimize what they pay you. An experienced attorney ensures your injuries are properly documented, calculates the full value of your claim (including future medical care and lost wages), and handles negotiations so you don’t settle for less than you deserve. Taking action early gives you the best chance at a fair outcome—so don’t wait. Contact Daniel Finder at Finder Law, LLC today to discuss your case and make sure your rights are fully protected. All facts of the incident are based on preliminary reporting done by The Missouri State Highway Patrol.
Inheriting property can be both a blessing and a challenge—especially when multiple siblings inherit land together. Whether it’s a farm, rural acreage, or family homestead, co-ownership among relatives can quickly create disagreements about use, maintenance, taxes, or whether to sell the land at all. Understanding your rights and options under Missouri estate and property law can help prevent lasting family conflicts and protect the value of your shared inheritance. Common Issues When Siblings Co-Own Land When siblings inherit land, they typically hold the property as tenants in common, meaning: Each sibling owns a proportional share (equal or per the will’s instructions). Every co-owner has the same right to use and access the property. No one can sell or develop the land without the others’ agreement.  Problems often arise when one sibling wants to sell, while others want to keep the land in the family—or when there are disagreements over taxes, upkeep, or income from crops or rentals. Legal Paths to Resolve Disputes If the siblings cannot agree, there are several ways to move forward: Voluntary buyout: One or more siblings can buy out the others’ ownership interest. A proper appraisal ensures fairness for all parties. Partition action: If no agreement can be reached, Missouri law allows any co-owner to file a partition lawsuit. The court may order the property to be divided equitably or sold, with proceeds distributed according to each owner’s share. Creating a land-use agreement: Drafting a written contract that outlines use, expenses, and decision-making can prevent future conflicts among co-owners. Placing the property in a trust or LLC: In some cases, families choose to transfer the land into a family trust or limited liability company (LLC) to simplify management and succession planning. Why Legal Guidance Is Essential Without clear agreements or legal structure, family relationships and lifelong inheritances can quickly become tangled. Consulting an attorney helps ensure that everyone’s rights are respected and that the property’s value—and family harmony—are preserved. Call Finder Law, LLC for Help Managing Inherited Property If you or your siblings have inherited Missouri farmland, acreage, or any significant property, Finder Law, LLC can help. Attorney Daniel Finder provides practical guidance on dividing land, resolving disputes, and structuring family ownership arrangements that prevent conflict for years to come. Call Daniel Finder at Finder Law, LLC today to schedule a consultation about your inherited property. We’ll help you find a balanced solution that protects both your family relationships and your financial future.
Two juveniles were injured in a crash in Cole County on March 21, 2026 when they were passengers in a 2004 Chevrolet Silverado, driven by a 16-year-old Jefferson City boy.  According to the Missouri Highway Patrol, the passengers, a 14-year-old boy from Mary’s Home and a 15-year-old boy from Jefferson City, suffered moderate injuries when the driver failed to maintain control of the vehicle when it crossed the center line of 7500 Heritage Highway, struck a tree, and overturned. The occupants were both transported to University Hospital by ambulance. The Chevrolet was totaled and towed from the scene. When young passengers are injured in a crash, the impact can be especially devastating for both the victims and their families. Beyond the immediate medical concerns, families often face ongoing treatment costs, emotional distress, and uncertainty about how to navigate the legal process. Insurance companies may not fully account for the long-term effects of these injuries, making it critical to have an experienced personal injury attorney who can advocate for the full compensation these victims deserve. A skilled attorney will handle the investigation, deal with insurers, and ensure that every avenue of recovery is pursued so families can focus on healing. If your child or loved one has been injured in a crash, don’t face this difficult time alone—contact Daniel Finder at Finder Law, LLC today to discuss your case and secure the representation you need. All facts of the incident are based on preliminary reporting done by The Missouri State Highway Patrol.
A 29-year-old Versailles man was seriously injured in a crash in Morgan County on March 20, 2026. Based on information from the Missouri Highway Patrol, the 29-year-old, driving a 1991 Kawasaki ZG1200 was struck when the 85-year-old driver of a 2016 Ford Explorer crossed the center of Old Five Road. The driver of the Ford was a male, also from Versailles.  The 29-year-old was air lifted to University Hospital with serious injuries. The Kawasaki was totaled and the Ford had extensive damage. The driver of the Ford was wearing a safety device, but the driver of the Kawaski was not. When a serious crash results in life-altering injuries, victims are often left facing overwhelming medical costs, lost income, and an uncertain future. In these situations, insurance companies may attempt to reduce or deny valid claims, making it difficult to secure the compensation needed for recovery. That’s why it’s crucial to have a skilled personal injury attorney who can thoroughly investigate the accident, establish liability, and fight for the maximum compensation available. An attorney serves as your advocate every step of the way, allowing you to focus on healing while your legal rights are protected. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a crash, don’t take on the burden alone—contact Daniel Finder at Finder Law, LLC today to discuss your case and get the dedicated representation you deserve. All facts of the incident are based on preliminary reporting done by The Missouri State Highway Patrol.
A 52-year-old man from Columbia was injured while driving his 2002 Ford Thunderbird on Rt WW at Rangeline on March 20, 2026. According to the Missouri Highway Patrol, an 89-year-old man from St. Louis driving a 2002 VW ID4 crossed directly in the path of the Ford. The driver of the Ford and the passenger of the VW, an 81-year-old female, were both transported by ambulance to University Hospital The Ford was totaled in the crash &and the VW had extensive damage. After a serious car crash, injuries can quickly disrupt every aspect of your life—from mounting medical bills and lost wages to the stress of dealing with insurance companies. Too often, insurers attempt to minimize payouts or shift responsibility, leaving injured individuals without the compensation they truly need to recover. An experienced personal injury attorney can step in to investigate the accident, determine liability, and aggressively pursue the full value of your claim. With the right legal guidance, you can focus on healing while your attorney handles the complexities of your case. If you’ve been hurt in a crash, don’t leave your future to chance—contact Daniel Finder at Finder Law, LLC today to discuss your case and get the strong representation you deserve.  All facts of the incident are based on preliminary reporting done by The Missouri State Highway Patrol.
A 25-year-old Columbia man driving a 2006 Harley Davidson Roadking was injured in a Boone County crash on March 20, 2026. According to the Missouri Highway Patrol, a 42-year-old female from Columbia was driving a 2024 Chevrolet Equinox on Mexico Gravel at North Lake of the Woods. While at an intersection, the Chevrolet struck the motorcycle. The male was transported by EMS to University Hospital with moderate injuries.  The motorcycle suffered extensive damage and the Chevy reportedly had minor damage. Both drivers were wearing safety devices. After a motorcycle crash, even moderate injuries can lead to significant medical expenses, time away from work, and lasting physical and emotional impacts. Unfortunately, insurance companies often try to downplay these claims or shift blame, especially in motorcycle cases. That’s why it’s critical to have an experienced personal injury attorney who understands how to properly evaluate your case, gather evidence, and advocate for the compensation you deserve. From negotiating with insurers to pursuing a claim in court if necessary, the right legal representation can make a meaningful difference in your recovery. If you’ve been injured in a crash, don’t face the process alone—contact Daniel Finder at Finder Law, LLC today to discuss your case and protect your rights. All facts of the incident are based on preliminary reporting done by The Missouri State Highway Patrol.
A 36-year-old woman is dead and two juveniles were seriously injured after a two-vehicle crash in Audrain County just after 6 p.m. Wednesday, according to a Missouri State Highway Patrol crash report.  The report states that a 16-year-old boy from Mexico was driving a 1998 Chevrolet 1500 on Highway 22 on Audrain County Road 215 when he went off the right side of the road, overcorrected and hit a 2014 Toyota Sienna, driven by a 36-year-old woman from Thompson. The woman was pronounced dead on scene. A passenger in the Toyota, an 11-year-old girl from Thompson, was taken to University Hospital with serious injuries. The 16-year-old was also taken to University Hospital with serious injuries. Both vehicles were totaled. The woman and girl were both wearing seatbelts at the time of the crash. It is unknown if the 16-year-old was wearing a seatbelt. In the aftermath of a devastating crash, families are often left facing not only emotional loss but also significant financial and legal challenges. Medical bills, funeral expenses, and long-term care costs can quickly add up, while insurance companies may attempt to limit what they pay. Having an experienced personal injury attorney on your side can make all the difference—ensuring a thorough investigation, identifying all liable parties, and fighting for the full compensation you deserve. Legal representation allows families to focus on recovery while a professional handles negotiations and, if necessary, litigation. If you or your loved ones have been affected by a serious accident, don’t wait to protect your rights—contact Daniel Finder at Finder Law, LLC today to discuss your case and secure the dedicated representation you need. All facts of the incident are based on preliminary reporting done by The Missouri State Highway Patrol and KMIZ.
A 71-year-old woman from Pilot Grove was killed in a Monday morning crash on Highway 135 at Route E in Cooper County, according to a crash report from the Missouri State Highway Patrol.  The report says the woman was a passenger in a 2014 Toyota Venza that was driven by a 74-year-old Pilot Grove man. The vehicle was heading south on Highway 135 when a 2012 Ford F-250 – driven by a 32-year-old Moberly man – was heading west. The driver of the Toyota stopped at a stop sign at the intersection before driving straight and the Ford F-250 “slid and failed to stop” as it hit the Toyota, the report says. The Toyota then slid, went off the road and hit a stop sign while the Ford “came to a controlled stop at Highway 135,” the report says. The report says the woman was a passenger in a 2014 Toyota Venza that was driven by a 74-year-old Pilot Grove man. The vehicle was heading south on Highway 135 when a 2012 Ford F-250 – driven by a 32-year-old Moberly man – was heading west. The driver of the Toyota stopped at a stop sign at the intersection before driving straight and the Ford F-250 “slid and failed to stop” as it hit the Toyota, the report says. The Toyota then slid, went off the road and hit a stop sign while the Ford “came to a controlled stop at Highway 135,” the report says. After a serious or fatal crash, victims and their families are often left dealing with overwhelming grief, financial strain, and uncertainty about what to do next. Insurance companies may move quickly to minimize payouts, and without experienced legal guidance, families risk accepting far less compensation than they deserve. Hiring a personal injury attorney ensures that your rights are protected, evidence is properly gathered, and all avenues of recovery—such as medical expenses, lost income, and wrongful death damages—are fully pursued. An attorney also handles the legal complexities so you can focus on healing. If your family has been impacted by a tragic accident, don’t navigate this process alone—contact Daniel Finder at Finder Law, LLC today to discuss your case and get the experienced representation you need. All facts of the incident are based on preliminary reporting done by The Missouri State Highway Patrol and KMIZ.
When parents share custody after a divorce or paternity judgment, school enrollment decisions can become unexpectedly complicated. Whether you’re choosing between districts, debating which parent’s address determines school placement, or navigating differing opinions about educational needs, these disputes often raise deeper questions about custody, legal rights, and the best interests of your child. Who Has the Right to Decide School Enrollment in Missouri? In Missouri, the right to make educational decisions usually depends on legal custody rather than physical custody. Joint legal custody means both parents share the right to make major decisions—including where the child attends school. This requires communication and mutual agreement. Sole legal custody allows one parent to make decisions independently, including selecting the school or district. If a disagreement arises under joint legal custody, neither parent can unilaterally change the child’s school. The issue may need to be resolved through mediation, a parenting coordinator, or a return to family court for modification or enforcement of the custody order. What Happens If Parents Live in Different School Districts? When parents share physical custody in different districts, determining school enrollment can also affect child support, transportation arrangements, and daily schedules. Missouri courts consider what best serves the child’s educational stability and well-being—factors like proximity, extracurricular activities, and continuity in friendships and learning environments. If circumstances have changed since the original custody judgment—such as one parent moving out of district—a motion to modify custody or the parenting plan may be necessary to address school-related conflicts. When to Seek Legal Help School disputes often signal deeper issues in co-parenting communication or evolving family needs. Addressing them promptly with legal guidance can prevent unnecessary court conflict and protect the child’s best interests. At Finder Law, LLC, attorney Daniel Finder helps Missouri parents resolve post-judgment disputes and modifications with clarity and compassion. Whether through negotiation or court action, our goal is to help you reach a balanced solution that supports both your parental rights and your child’s educational success. Call Daniel Finder at Finder Law, LLC today to discuss your Missouri custody or school enrollment dispute. Let’s find the most effective path forward for your family.
