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Missouri ranks poorly in terms of traffic safety laws

If someone asks you what helps to keep drivers safe on the road, one thing that may come to your mind is the law. Traffic laws are vital to keeping drivers, motorcyclists and pedestrians safe. Therefore, it is important to take a look at the traffic safety measures in Missouri.

Unfortunately, Missouri ranks poorly in terms of highway laws according to a new study. Missouri only has four out of 16 important traffic laws. Here is why Missouri drivers may be at a higher risk of accidents and injuries. 

Inadequate text messaging laws

Everyone knows that distracted driving is dangerous and causes crashes. Unfortunately, there is no statewide ban on text messaging for every driver. The only drivers prohibited to text under state law are ones who are 21 years old or younger. However, there are some city councils and municipalities that have all-age bans on texting. 

Lack of open container law

It is obvious to everyone that drunk driving is illegal and harmful, but some Missouri laws are lax on the issue. The law allows having open containers in vehicles, even though it is unlawful to consume alcoholic beverages while operating vehicles. 

No primary seat belt law

Seat belts are vital to protecting drivers and passengers in the event of a collision. While Missouri law requires drivers to wear seat belts, police cannot lawfully issue a ticket for not wearing a seat belt unless they stop motorists for other reasons first. 

Unsafe child seat laws

Ideally, there should be a law that requires children age 2 or younger to be in rear-facing safety seats. This is because young children have a unique body structure and are at a higher risk of sustaining an injury in a wreck. Unfortunately, there is no such law in Missouri. 

Without more stringent laws, you may encounter negligent, careless or reckless drivers on the road. Stronger laws can help keep drivers like you safe.