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City of Warrenton, MO
Warren County
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Table of Contents
Table of Contents
The driver of any vehicle other than one on official business shall not follow any emergency vehicle traveling in response to an emergency call closer than five hundred (500) feet or drive into or park such vehicle within the block where fire apparatus has stopped in answer to a fire alarm.
No vehicle shall be driven over any unprotected hose of a Fire Department when laid down on any street or private driveway to be used at any fire or alarm of fire without the consent of the Fire Department official in command.
A. 
Definitions. As used in this Section, the following terms shall mean:
FUNERAL DIRECTOR
A person licensed as a funeral director pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 333, RSMo.
FUNERAL LEAD VEHICLE OR LEAD VEHICLE
Any motor vehicle equipped with at least one (1) lighted circulating lamp exhibiting an amber or purple light or lens or alternating flashing headlamps visible under normal atmospheric conditions for a distance of five hundred (500) feet from the front of the vehicle. A hearse or coach properly equipped may be a lead vehicle.
ORGANIZED FUNERAL PROCESSION
Two (2) or more vehicles accompanying the remains of a deceased person from a funeral establishment, church, synagogue or other place where a funeral service has taken place to a cemetery, crematory or other place of final disposition or a funeral establishment, church, synagogue or other place where additional funeral services will be performed if directed by a licensed funeral director from a licensed establishment.
B. 
Driving Rules.
1. 
Except as otherwise provided for in this Section, pedestrians and operators of all other vehicles shall yield the right-of-way to any vehicle which is a part of an organized funeral procession.
2. 
Notwithstanding any traffic control device or right-of-way provision prescribed by State or local law, when the funeral lead vehicle in an organized funeral procession lawfully enters an intersection, all vehicles in the procession shall follow the lead vehicle through the intersection. The operator of each vehicle in the procession shall exercise the highest degree of care toward any other vehicle or pedestrian on the roadway.
3. 
An organized funeral procession shall have the right-of-way at all intersections regardless of any traffic control device at such intersections, except that operators of vehicles in an organized funeral procession shall yield the right-of-way to any approaching emergency vehicle pursuant to the provisions of law or when directed to do so by a Law Enforcement Officer.
4. 
All vehicles in an organized funeral procession shall follow the preceding vehicle in the procession as closely as is practical and safe under the conditions.
5. 
No person shall operate any vehicle as part of an organized funeral procession without the flashing emergency lights of such vehicle being lighted.
6. 
Any person who is not an operator of a vehicle in an organized funeral procession shall not:
a. 
Drive between the vehicles comprising an organized funeral procession while such vehicles are in motion and have the flashing emergency lights lighted pursuant to Subsection (B)(5) above, except when required to do so by a Law Enforcement Officer or when such person is operating an emergency vehicle giving an audible or visual signal;
b. 
Join a funeral procession for the purpose of securing the right-of-way; or
c. 
Attempt to pass any vehicle in an organized funeral procession, except where a passing lane has been specifically provided.
7. 
When an organized funeral procession is proceeding through a red signal light as permitted herein, a vehicle not in the organized funeral procession shall not enter the intersection unless such vehicle may do so without crossing the path of the funeral procession.
8. 
No ordinance, regulation or any other provision of law shall prohibit the use of a motorcycle utilizing flashing amber lights to escort an organized funeral procession on the highway.
C. 
Any person convicted of violating any provision of this Section shall be punished by a fine not to exceed one hundred dollars ($100.00).
Each driver in a funeral or other procession shall drive as near to the right-hand edge of the roadway as practicable and shall follow the vehicle ahead as close as is practicable and safe.
The driver of a motor vehicle shall not drive within any sidewalk area except on a permanent or temporary driveway. A designated bicycle lane shall not be obstructed by a parked or standing motor vehicle or other stationary object. A motor vehicle may be driven in a designated bicycle lane only for the purpose of a lawful maneuver to cross the lane or to provide for safe travel. In making an otherwise lawful maneuver that requires traveling in or crossing a designated bicycle lane, the driver of a motor vehicle shall yield to any bicycle in the lane. As used in this Section, the term "designated bicycle lane" shall mean a portion of the roadway or highway that has been designated by the Governing Body having jurisdiction over such roadway or highway by striping with signing or striping with pavement markings for the preferential or exclusive use of bicycles.
The driver of a vehicle shall not back the same unless such movement can be made with reasonable safety and without interfering with other traffic.
No person shall open the door of a motor vehicle on the side available to moving traffic unless and until it is reasonably safe to do so, nor shall any person leave a door open on the side of a motor vehicle available to moving traffic for a period of time longer than necessary to load or unload passengers.
A. 
A person operating a motorcycle shall ride only upon the permanent and regular seat attached thereto and such operator shall not carry any other person nor shall any other person ride on a motorcycle unless such motorcycle is designed to carry more than one (1) person, in which event a passenger may ride upon the permanent and regular seat if designed for two (2) persons or upon another seat firmly attached to the rear or side of the operator.
B. 
The operator of a motorized bicycle shall ride only astride the permanent and regular seat attached thereto and shall not permit more than one (1) person to ride thereon at the same time, unless the motorized bicycle is designed to carry more than one (1) person. Any motorized bicycle designed to carry more than one (1) person must be equipped with a passenger seat and footrests for the use of a passenger.
A. 
No person shall ride a bicycle upon a sidewalk within a business district.
B. 
Whenever any person is riding a bicycle upon a sidewalk, such person shall yield the right-of-way to any pedestrian and shall give audible signal before overtaking and passing such pedestrian.
C. 
No person shall ride a motorized bicycle upon a sidewalk.
[Ord. No. 2672, 4-5-2022]
The following words and phrases, when used in this Title, mean:
ALL-TERRAIN VEHICLE
Any motorized vehicle manufactured and used exclusively for off-highway use according to Section 301.010, RSMo., traveling on three (3), four (4) or more low pressure tires, with a seat designed to be straddled by the operator and handlebars for steering control. Below is an example image of a vehicle qualifying under this definition.
340-105a.tif
GOLF CART
A motor vehicle that is designed and manufactured for operation on a golf course for sporting or recreational purposes and that is not capable of exceeding speeds of twenty (20) miles an hour.
LOW SPEED VEHICLE
A low speed vehicle shall include any vehicle as defined by Section 304.029, RSMo., and 49 CFR, Section 571.3, as amended, which are incorporated herein by this reference.
RECREATIONAL OFF-HIGHWAY VEHICLE
Any motorized vehicle manufactured and used exclusively for off-highway use according to Section 301.010, RSMo., traveling on four (4) or more non-highway tires and which may have access to ATV trails. Below are example images of a vehicle qualifying under this definition.
340-105b.tif
UTILITY VEHICLE
Any motorized vehicle manufactured and used exclusively for off-highway use according to Section 301.010, RSMo., traveling on four (4) or six (6) wheels, to be used primarily for landscaping, lawn care or maintenance purposes. Below is an example image of a vehicle qualifying under this definition.
340-105c.tif
[Ord. No. 2415, 6-5-2018[1]; Ord. No. 2672, 4-5-2022[2]]
No person shall operate an all-terrain vehicle or golf cart upon the streets or highways of the City, except vehicles owned and operated by a governmental entity for official use.
[1]
Editor's Note: Ord. No. 2415 also changed the title of this Section from "All-Terrain Vehicles — Prohibited — Exceptions — Operation Under an Exception — Prohibited Uses — Penalty" to "All Terrain Vehicles, Utility Vehicles, Golf Carts And Recreational Off-Highway Vehicles Prohibited."
[2]
Editor's Note: Ord. No. 2672 also changed the title of this Section from "All Terrain Vehicles, Utility Vehicles, Golf Carts And Recreational Off-Highway Vehicles Prohibited" to "All Terrain Vehicles and Golf Carts Prohibited."
[Ord. No. 2415, 6-5-2018[1]; Ord. No. 2672, 4-5-2022]
A. 
No person shall operate a Low Speed Vehicle ("LSV") upon the streets and highways of this City, except as follows:
1. 
LSVs owned and operated by a governmental entity for official use.
2. 
LSVs whose licensed operators carry a special permit issued by the City.
3. 
For the purposes of a properly permitted parade.
4. 
A person operating a LSV on a City street or highway pursuant to an exception covered in this Section shall have a valid operator's or chauffeur's license, but shall not be required to have passed an examination for the operation of a motorcycle.
5. 
The LSV shall be properly insured and such proof of insurance shall specifically list the vehicle as referenced by the serial number and year of model.
6. 
The vehicle shall be operated at speeds of less than twenty (20) miles per hour.
7. 
A LSV without a roof shall have a bicycle flag, which extends not less than seven (7) feet above the ground, attached to the rear of the vehicle. The flag shall be dayglow in color and triangular in shape, with an area not less than thirty (30) square inches. If the LSV has a roof, a reflective device shall be attached to the rear of the roof.
8. 
No person shall operate a LSV within any stream in this City, except that LSVs may be operated within waterways which flow within the boundaries of land which a LSV operator owns, or for agricultural purposes within the boundaries of land which a LSV operator owns or has permission to be upon, or for the purpose of fording such stream of this City at such road crossings as are customary or part of the street and City highway system.
B. 
Any person operating a LSV on a public street or highway shall be subject to all traffic ordinances of the City, except those Chapters pertaining to licensing and registration.
C. 
No person operating a LSV on City streets, roads or alleyways shall:
1. 
Operate the LSV in any careless or imprudent manner so as to endanger any person, or property of any person.
2. 
Operate the LSV while under the influence of alcohol or any controlled substance.
3. 
Operate a Low Speed Vehicle between the hours of official sunset and sunrise.
4. 
Operate a LSV on any park lands in the City of Warrenton, Missouri, except those operated by a governmental unit for official use.
5. 
Carry passengers in excess of the maximum number of designed seating for the LSV: no more than two (2) passengers per bench seat shall be allowed; or, those younger than sixteen (16) years in age unless the operator is the legal guardian of the passenger(s). Age/size appropriate child restraints are required.
6. 
Operate a LSV on any State or Federal highway, except any State highway with a posted speed limit of thirty-five (35) miles per hour or less, and then only to directly cross a portion of a State highway system which intersects a municipal street.
7. 
Operate a LSV in a manner which disturbs the public peace as detailed in Section 210.210 of the City Code.
D. 
Inspection, Permits And Registration.
1. 
Any LSV operating on a public street or highways under the jurisdiction of the City shall be registered with the City. The application for registration of a LSV with the City shall include the following information:
a. 
Identifying information for the Low Speed Vehicle, as determined by the Chief of Police.
b. 
The name and address of the owner of the Low Speed Vehicle.
c. 
A copy of proof of financial responsibility covering the LSV to be registered, for operation on public roads with no less than the minimal insurance limits as set forth by the State of Missouri for the operation of a vehicle on the highways of the State of Missouri, as they may be amended from time to time.
d. 
A notarized certification by the owner that the LSV meets all requirements of this Section.
e. 
A certificate indicating that the LSV has passed the inspection requirements as described in Subsection (D)(5) below.
2. 
Proof of registration issued by the City of Warrenton in the form of a receipt for registration and an approved vehicle sticker shall constitute all permits required from the City. The proof of registration shall be kept in the vehicle at all times of operation on a public street or highway, and the current registration sticker shall be conspicuously displayed on the exterior of the vehicle. Registrations must be renewed every two (2) years, and will be deemed revoked and invalid if modifications have been made to such vehicle which would make the owner's certification of the class of vehicle untrue.
3. 
Registration fees shall be ten dollars ($10.00) for each two-year LSV registration and/or renewal.
4. 
Applicants for a LSV permit shall bring the vehicle to City Hall for verification of vehicle type and VIN.
5. 
In order to apply for new or renewal registration under this Section, LSVs shall pass an inspection conducted by a licensed Missouri vehicle inspection station or a person or entity in the regular business of repairing, servicing and/or maintaining vehicles (each a "qualified inspector") and shall obtain from such qualified inspector a signed certificate of satisfactory inspection. The City shall maintain a form of "certificate of satisfactory inspection" which will list the inspection requirements as provided below. The City may provide blank forms of certificate of satisfactory inspection to known qualified inspectors, and otherwise will provide such forms to owners of LSVs upon request. A LSV inspection will confirm that the following are present and operational:
a. 
Headlamps.
b. 
Front and rear turn signal lamps.
c. 
Tail lamps.
d. 
Stop lamps.
e. 
Reflex reflectors, one (1) on each side as far to rear as practicable and one (1) red on the rear.
f. 
Exterior mounted mirror on drivers side of the vehicle and either an exterior mirror mounted on passenger side or an interior mirror.
g. 
Parking brake.
h. 
Windshield that conforms to the Federal motor vehicle safety standard on glazing materials as set forth in 49 CFR 571.202, as amended, which is incorporated herein by this reference.
i. 
A vehicle identification number that conforms to the Federal requirements of part 565 Vehicle Identification Number as set forth in 49 CFR 565, as amended, which is incorporated herein by this reference.
j. 
Type 1 or Type 2 seat belt assembly conforming to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard #209, as amended.
k. 
A flag (not less than thirty (30) square inches) extending not less than seven (7) feet above the ground if the neighborhood vehicle is not equipped with a roof.
l. 
That the LSV operates on at least four (4) wheels.
m. 
Not less than two (2) thirty-seconds inch of tread depth remaining on each tire, there are no visible tire threads or cords showing and there is no visible rubber separation.
Upon satisfactory confirmation of the requirements listed above, a qualified inspector, as defined above, may issue a signed certificate of satisfactory inspection.
[1]
Editor's Note: Ord. No. 2415 also changed the title of this Section from "Utility Vehicles, Operation On Highway and In Streams or Rivers Prohibited -- Exceptions -- Passengers Prohibited -- Violations, Penalty" to "Operation Of Low Speed Vehicles."
[Ord. No. 2672, 4-5-2022]
A. 
No person shall operate a Utility Vehicle ("UTV") or Recreational Off-Highway Vehicle ("ROV") upon the streets and highways of this City, except as follows:
1. 
UTVs or ROVs owned and operated by a governmental entity for official use.
2. 
UTVs or ROVs whose licensed operators carry a special permit issued by the City.
3. 
For the purposes of a properly permitted parade.
4. 
A person operating a UTV or ROV on a City street or highway pursuant to an exception covered in this Section shall have a valid operator's or chauffeur's license, but shall not be required to have passed an examination for the operation of a motorcycle.
5. 
The UTV or ROV shall be properly insured and such proof of insurance shall specifically list the vehicle as referenced by the serial number and year of model and shall be available upon request of law enforcement at all times while being operated on a City street or highway.
6. 
A UTV or ROV without a roof shall have a bicycle flag, which extends not less than seven (7) feet above the ground, attached to the rear of the vehicle. The flag shall be dayglow in color and triangular in shape, with an area not less than thirty (30) square inches. If the UTV or ROV does not have a roof, a reflective device shall be attached to the rear of the roof.
7. 
No person shall operate a UTV or ROV within any stream in this City, except that UTVs or ROVs may be operated within waterways which flow within the boundaries of land which a UTV or ROV operator owns, or for agricultural purposes within the boundaries of land which a UTV or ROV operator owns or has permission to be upon, or for the purpose of fording such stream of this City at such road crossings as are customary or part of the street and City highway system.
B. 
Any person operating a UTV or ROV on a public street or highway shall be subject to all traffic ordinances of the City, except those Chapters pertaining to licensing and registration.
C. 
No person operating a UTV or ROV on City streets, roads or alleyways shall:
1. 
Operate the UTV or ROV in any careless or imprudent manner so as to endanger any person, or property of any person.
2. 
Operate the UTV or ROV while under the influence of alcohol or any controlled substance.
3. 
Operate a UTV or ROV on any park lands in the City of Warrenton, Missouri, except those operated by a governmental unit for official use.
4. 
Carry passengers in excess of the maximum number of designed seating for the UTV or ROV: no more than two (2) passengers per bench seat shall be allowed; or, those younger than sixteen (16) years in age unless the operator is the legal guardian of the passenger(s). Age/size appropriate child restraints are required.
5. 
Operate a UTV or ROV in a manner which disturbs the public peace as detailed in Section 210.210 of the City Code.
D. 
Inspection, Permits And Registration.
1. 
Any UTV or ROV operating on a public street or highways under the jurisdiction of the City shall be registered with the City. The application for registration of a UTV or ROV with the City shall include the following information:
a. 
Identifying information for the UTV or ROV, as determined by the Chief of Police.
b. 
The name and address of the owner of the UTV or ROV.
c. 
A copy of proof of financial responsibility covering the UTV or ROV to be registered, for operation on public roads with no less than the minimal insurance limits as set forth by the State of Missouri for the operation of a vehicle on the highways of the State of Missouri, as they may be amended from time to time.
d. 
A notarized certification by the owner that the UTV or ROV meets all requirements of this Section.
e. 
A certificate indicating that the UTV or ROV has passed the inspection requirements as described in Subsection (D)(5) below.
2. 
Proof of registration issued by the City of Warrenton in the form of a receipt for registration and an approved vehicle sticker shall constitute all permits required from the City. The proof of registration shall be kept in the vehicle at all times of operation on a public street or highway, and the current approved vehicle sticker shall be conspicuously displayed on the rear of the vehicle. Registrations must be renewed every two (2) years, and will be deemed revoked and invalid if modifications have been made to such vehicle which would make the owner's certification of the class of vehicle untrue.
3. 
Registration fees shall be ten dollars ($10.00) for each two-year UTV or ROV registration and/or renewal.
4. 
Applicants for a UTV or ROV permit shall bring the vehicle to City Hall for verification of vehicle type and VIN.
5. 
In order to apply for new or renewal registration under this Section, UTVs or ROVs shall pass an inspection conducted by a licensed Missouri vehicle inspection station or a person or entity in the regular business of repairing, servicing and/or maintaining vehicles (each a "qualified inspector") and shall obtain from such qualified inspector a signed certificate of satisfactory inspection. The City shall maintain a form of "certificate of satisfactory inspection" which will list the inspection requirements as provided below. The City may provide blank forms of certificate of satisfactory inspection to known qualified inspectors, and otherwise will provide such forms to owners of UTVs or ROVs upon request. A UTV or ROV inspection will confirm that the following are present and operational:
a. 
Headlamps.
b. 
Tail lamps.
c. 
Stop lamps.
d. 
Reflex reflectors, one (1) on each side as far to rear as practicable and one (1) red on the rear.
e. 
Parking brake.
f. 
A vehicle identification number that conforms to the Federal requirements of part 565 Vehicle Identification Number as set forth in 49 CFR 565, as amended, which is incorporated herein by this reference.
g. 
Type 1 or Type 2 seat belt assembly conforming to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard #209, as amended.
h. 
A flag as described in Section 340.116(A)(6) if the vehicle is not equipped with a roof.
i. 
That the UTV or ROV operates on at least four (4) wheels.
j. 
Not less than two (2) thirty-seconds inch of tread depth remaining on each tire, there are no visible tire threads or cords showing and there is no visible rubber separation.
Upon satisfactory confirmation of the requirements listed above, a qualified inspector, as defined above, may issue a signed certificate of satisfactory inspection.
[Ord. No. 2415, 6-5-2018]
No person shall operate a motorized wheelchair in a careless or imprudent manner, or in any negligent manner which endangers any person or property, or unreasonably obstructs, hinders or impedes lawful course of travel of any other motor vehicle, or the lawful use by any pedestrian of public streets, sidewalks, paths, trails, walkways or parks. No motorized wheelchair may be operated on any numbered Federal or State Highway except to cross at the intersection of a City street in accordance with traffic controls.
No person riding upon any bicycle, motorized bicycle, coaster, roller skates, sled or toy vehicle shall attach the same or himself/herself to any vehicle upon a roadway. Neither shall the driver of a vehicle knowingly pull a rider behind a vehicle.
No person shall drive a vehicle onto or from any controlled access roadway except at such entrances and exits as are established by public authority.
It shall be unlawful for the directing officer or the operator of any railroad train to direct the operation of or to operate the same in such a manner as to prevent the use of any street for purposes of travel for a period of time longer than five (5) minutes; provided that this Section shall not apply to a moving train or to one stopped because of an emergency or for repairs necessary before it can proceed safely.
No vehicle shall at any time be driven through or within a safety zone.
Every person operating a motor vehicle on the highways of this City shall drive the vehicle in a careful and prudent manner and at a rate of speed so as not to endanger the property of another or the life or limb of any person and shall exercise the highest degree of care.
A. 
Upon all public roads or highways of sufficient width, a vehicle shall be driven upon the right-half of the roadway, except as follows:
1. 
When overtaking and passing another vehicle proceeding in the same direction pursuant to the rules governing such movement;
2. 
When placing a vehicle in position for and when such vehicle is lawfully making a left turn in compliance with the provisions of this Title;
3. 
When the right-half of a roadway is closed to traffic while under construction or repair; or
4. 
Upon a roadway designated by local ordinance as a one-way street and marked or signed for one-way traffic.
B. 
It is unlawful to drive any vehicle upon any highway or road which has been divided into two (2) or more roadways by means of a physical barrier or by means of a dividing section or delineated by curbs, lines or other markings on the roadway except to the right of such barrier or dividing section or to make any left turn or semi-circular or U-turn on any such divided highway, except at an intersection or interchange or at any signed location designated by the State Highways and Transportation Commission or the Department of Transportation. The provisions of this Subsection shall not apply to emergency vehicles, law enforcement vehicles or to vehicles owned by the Commission or the Department.
C. 
Whenever any roadway has been divided into three (3) or more clearly marked lanes for traffic, the following rules in addition to all other consistent herewith shall apply:
1. 
A vehicle shall be driven as nearly as practicable entirely within a single lane and shall not be moved from such lane until the driver has first ascertained that such movement can be made with safety.
2. 
Upon a roadway which is divided into three (3) lanes, a vehicle shall not be driven in the center lane except when overtaking and passing another vehicle where the roadway ahead is clearly visible and such center lane is clear of traffic within a safe distance, or in preparation for a left turn, or where such center lane is at the time allocated exclusively to traffic moving in the direction the vehicle is proceeding and is signposted to give notice of such allocation.
3. 
Upon all highways any vehicle proceeding at less than the normal speed of traffic thereon shall be driven in the right-hand lane for traffic or as close as practicable to the right-hand edge or curb, except as otherwise provided in Sections 304.014 to 304.026, RSMo.
4. 
Official signs may be erected by the State Highways and Transportation Commission or the Highway Patrol may place temporary signs directing slow-moving traffic to use a designated lane or allocating specified lanes to traffic moving in the same direction and drivers of vehicles shall obey the directions of every such sign.
5. 
Drivers of vehicles proceeding in opposite directions shall pass each other to the right and, except when a roadway has been divided into traffic lanes, each driver shall give to the other at least one-half (½) of the main traveled portion of the roadway whenever possible.
D. 
All vehicles in motion upon a highway having two (2) or more lanes of traffic proceeding in the same direction shall be driven in the right-hand lane except when overtaking and passing another vehicle or when preparing to make a proper left turn or when otherwise directed by traffic markings, signs or signals.
E. 
All trucks registered for a gross weight of more than forty-eight thousand (48,000) pounds shall not be driven in the far left-hand lane upon all interstate highways, freeways, or expressways within urbanized areas of the State having three (3) or more lanes of traffic proceeding in the same direction. This restriction shall not apply when:
1. 
It is necessary for the operator of the truck to follow traffic control devices that direct use of a lane other than the right lane; or
2. 
The right half of a roadway is closed to traffic while under construction or repair.
F. 
As used in Subsection (E) of this Section, "truck" means any vehicle, machine, tractor, trailer, or semitrailer, or any combination thereof, propelled or drawn by mechanical power and designed for or used in the transportation of property upon the highways. The term "truck" also includes a commercial motor vehicle as defined in Section 300.010 of this Title.
A. 
The following rules shall govern the overtaking and passing of vehicles proceeding in the same direction, subject to the limitations and exceptions hereinafter stated:
1. 
The driver of a vehicle overtaking another vehicle proceeding in the same direction shall pass to the left thereof at a safe distance and shall not again drive to the right side of the roadway until safely clear of the overtaken vehicle; and
2. 
Except when overtaking and passing on the right is permitted, the driver of an overtaken vehicle shall give way to the right in favor of the overtaking vehicle and shall not increase the speed of such driver's vehicle until completely passed by the overtaking vehicle.
B. 
The driver of a motor vehicle may overtake and pass to the right of another vehicle only under the following conditions:
1. 
When the vehicle overtaken is making or about to make a left turn;
2. 
Upon a City street with unobstructed pavement of sufficient width for two (2) or more lanes of vehicles in each direction; or
3. 
Upon a one-way street.
The driver of a motor vehicle may overtake and pass another vehicle upon the right only under the foregoing conditions when such movement may be made in safety. In no event shall such movement be made by driving off the paved or main traveled portion of the roadway. The provisions of this Subsection shall not relieve the driver of a slow-moving vehicle from the duty to drive as closely as practicable to the right-hand edge of the roadway.
C. 
Except when a roadway has been divided into three (3) traffic lanes, no vehicle shall be driven to the left side of the centerline of a highway or public road in overtaking and passing another vehicle proceeding in the same direction unless such left side is clearly visible and is free of oncoming traffic for a sufficient distance ahead to permit such overtaking and passing to be completely made without interfering with the safe operation of any vehicle approaching from the opposite direction or any vehicle overtaken.
D. 
No vehicle shall at any time be driven to the left side of the roadway under the following conditions:
1. 
When approaching the crest of a grade or upon a curve of the highway where the driver's view is obstructed within such distance as to create a hazard in the event another vehicle might approach from the opposite direction.
2. 
When the view is obstructed upon approaching within one hundred (100) feet of any bridge, viaduct, tunnel or when approaching within one hundred (100) feet of or at any intersection or railroad grade crossing.
A. 
No person shall stop or suddenly decrease the speed of or turn a vehicle from a direct course or move right or left upon a roadway unless and until such movement can be made with reasonable safety and then only after the giving of an appropriate signal in the manner provided herein.
1. 
An operator or driver when stopping, or when checking the speed of the operator's vehicle if the movement of other vehicles may reasonably be affected by such checking of speed, shall extend such operator's arm at an angle below horizontal so that the same may be seen in the rear of the vehicle.
2. 
An operator or driver intending to turn the vehicle to the right shall extend such operator's arm at an angle above horizontal so that the same may be seen in front of and in the rear of the vehicle and shall slow down and approach the intersecting highway as near as practicable to the right side of the highway along which such operator is proceeding before turning.
3. 
An operator or driver intending to turn the vehicle to the left shall extend such operator's arm in a horizontal position so that the same may be seen in the rear of the vehicle and shall slow down and approach the intersecting highway so that the left side of the vehicle shall be as near as practicable to the centerline of the highway along which the operator is proceeding before turning.
4. 
The signals herein required shall be given either by means of the hand and arm or by a signal light or signal device in good mechanical condition of a type approved by the State Highway Patrol; however, when a vehicle is so constructed or loaded that a hand and arm signal would not be visible both to the front and rear of such vehicle, then such signals shall be given by such light or device. A vehicle shall be considered as so constructed or loaded that a hand and arm signal would not be visible both to the front and rear when the distance from the center of the top of the steering post to the left outside limit of the body, cab or load exceeds twenty-four (24) inches, or when the distance from the center of the top of the steering post to the rear limit of the body or load thereon exceeds fourteen (14) feet, which limit of fourteen (14) feet shall apply to single vehicles or combinations of vehicles. The provisions of this Subsection shall not apply to any trailer which does not interfere with a clear view of the hand signals of the operator or of the signaling device upon the vehicle pulling such trailer; provided further, that the provisions of this Section as far as mechanical devices on vehicles so constructed that a hand and arm signal would not be visible both to the front and rear of such vehicle as above provided shall only be applicable to new vehicles registered within this State after the first (1st) day of January, 1954.
A. 
The driver of a vehicle upon a highway upon meeting or overtaking from either direction any school bus which has stopped on the highway for the purpose of receiving or discharging any school children and whose driver has in the manner prescribed by law given the signal to stop shall stop the vehicle before reaching such school bus and shall not proceed until such school bus resumes motion or until signaled by its driver to proceed.
B. 
Every bus used for the transportation of school children shall bear upon the front and rear thereon a plainly visible sign containing the words "School Bus" in letters not less than eight (8) inches in height. Each bus shall have lettered on the rear in plain and distinct type the following: "State Law: Stop While Bus is Loading and Unloading". Each school bus subject to the provisions of Sections 304.050 to 304.070, RSMo., shall be equipped with a mechanical and electrical signaling device approved by the State Board of Education which will display a signal plainly visible from the front and rear and indicating intention to stop.
C. 
Every school bus operated to transport students in the public school system which has a gross vehicle weight rating of more than ten thousand (10,000) pounds, which has the engine mounted entirely in front of the windshield and the entrance door behind the front wheels and which is used for the transportation of school children shall be equipped with a crossing control arm. The crossing control arm, when activated, shall extend a minimum of five (5) feet six (6) inches from the face of the front bumper. The crossing control arm shall be attached on the right side of the front bumper and shall be activated by the same controls which activate the mechanical and electrical signaling devices described in Subsection (B) of this Section. This Subsection may be cited as "Jessica's Law" in commemoration of Jessica Leicht and all other Missouri school children who have been injured or killed during the operation of a school bus.
D. 
Except as otherwise provided in this Section, the driver of a school bus in the process of loading or unloading students upon a street or highway shall activate the mechanical and electrical signaling devices, in the manner prescribed by the State Board of Education, to communicate to drivers of other vehicles that students are loading or unloading. A public school district has the authority pursuant to Section 304.050, RSMo., to adopt a policy which provides that the driver of a school bus in the process of loading or unloading students upon a divided highway of four (4) or more lanes may pull off of the main roadway and load or unload students without activating the mechanical and electrical signaling devices in a manner which gives the signal for other drivers to stop and may use the amber signaling devices to alert motorists that the school bus is slowing to a stop; provided that the passengers are not required to cross any traffic lanes and also provided that the emergency flashing signal lights are activated in a manner which indicates that drivers should proceed with caution and, in such case, the driver of a vehicle may proceed past the school bus with due caution. No driver of a school bus shall take on or discharge passengers at any location upon a highway consisting of four (4) or more lanes of traffic, whether or not divided by a median or barrier, in such manner as to require the passengers to cross more than two (2) lanes of traffic; nor shall any passengers be taken on or discharged while the vehicle is upon the road or highway proper unless the vehicle so stopped is plainly visible for at least five hundred (500) feet in each direction to drivers of other vehicles in the case of a highway with no shoulder and a speed limit greater than sixty (60) miles per hour and at least three hundred (300) feet in each direction to drivers of other vehicles upon other highways and on all highways, only for such time as is actually necessary to take on and discharge passengers.
E. 
The driver of a vehicle upon a highway with separate roadways need not stop upon meeting or overtaking a school bus which is on a different roadway, which is proceeding in the opposite direction on a highway containing four (4) or more lanes of traffic, or which is stopped in a loading zone constituting a part of, or adjacent to, a limited or controlled access highway at a point where pedestrians are not permitted to cross the roadway.
A. 
The driver of a vehicle approaching an intersection shall yield the right-of-way to a vehicle which has entered the intersection from a different highway, provided however, there is no form of traffic control at such intersection.
B. 
When two (2) vehicles enter an intersection from different highways at approximately the same time, the driver of the vehicle on the left shall yield the right-of-way to the driver of the vehicle on the right. This Subsection shall not apply to vehicles approaching each other from opposite directions when the driver of one (1) of such vehicles is attempting to or is making a left turn.
C. 
The driver of a vehicle within an intersection intending to turn to the left shall yield the right-of-way to any vehicle approaching from the opposite direction which is within the intersection or so close thereto as to constitute an immediate hazard.
D. 
The driver of a vehicle intending to make a left turn into an alley, private road or driveway shall yield the right-of-way to any vehicle approaching from the opposite direction when the making of such left turn would create a traffic hazard.
E. 
The City may, on any section of road where construction or major maintenance operations are being effected, fix a speed limit in such areas by posting of appropriate signs and the operation of a motor vehicle in excess of such speed limit in the area so posted shall be deemed prima facie evidence of careless and imprudent driving and a violation of Section 340.160.
[1]
State Law Reference — This Section has additional penalties based on certain circumstances, §304.351, RSMo.
The driver of a vehicle shall not follow another vehicle more closely than is reasonably safe and prudent, having due regard for the speed of such vehicle and the traffic upon and the condition of the roadway. Vehicles being driven upon any roadway outside of a business or residence district in a caravan or motorcade, whether or not towing other vehicles, shall be so operated, except in a funeral procession or in a duly authorized parade, so as to allow sufficient space between each such vehicle or combination of vehicles as to enable any other vehicle to overtake or pass such vehicles in safety. This Section shall in no manner affect Section 304.044, RSMo., relating to distance between trucks traveling on the highway.
A. 
No vehicle or combination of vehicles shall be moved or operated on any primary or interstate highway in this State plus a distance not to exceed ten (10) miles from such highways, having a greater weight than twenty thousand (20,000) pounds on one (1) axle, no combination of vehicles operated by transporters of general freight over regular routes as defined in Section 390.020, Missouri Revised Statutes, shall be moved or operated on any highway of this State having a greater weight than the vehicle manufacturer's rating on a steering axle with the maximum weight not to exceed twelve thousand (12,000) pounds on a steering axle and no vehicle shall be moved or operated on any primary or interstate highways of this State having a greater weight than thirty-four thousand (34,000) pounds on any tandem axle; the term "tandem axle" shall mean a group of two (2) or more axles, arranged one behind another, the distance between the extremes of which is more than forty (40) inches and not more than ninety-six (96) inches apart and further provided, however, that when any vehicle or combination of vehicles with six (6) axles which includes a tandem axle group as above defined and a group of three (3) axles which are fully equalized, automatically or mechanically and the distance between the center of the extremes of which does not exceed one hundred ten (110) inches, the Chief Engineer of the Missouri State Highways and Transportation Department shall issue a special permit for the movement thereof, as provided in Section 304.200, RSMo., for twenty thousand (20,000) pounds for each axle of the tandem axle group and for sixteen thousand (16,000) pounds for each axle of the group of three (3) fully equalized axles which are equalized, automatically or mechanically, when said vehicle or combination of vehicles is used to transport excavation or construction machinery or equipment, road building machinery or farm implements over routes in the primary system and other routes that are not a part of the interstate system of highways; provided, further, that the Chief Engineer of the Missouri State Highways and Transportation Department may issue permits on the interstate system.
B. 
An "axle load" is defined as the total load transmitted to the road by all wheels whose centers are included between two (2) parallel transverse vertical planes forty (40) inches apart, extending across the full width of the vehicle.
C. 
Subject to the limit upon the weight imposed upon a primary or interstate highway through any one (1) axle or on any tandem axle, the total gross weight with load imposed upon a primary or interstate highway, plus a distance not to exceed ten (10) miles from such highways, by any group of two (2) or more consecutive axles of any vehicle or combination of vehicles shall not exceed the maximum load in pounds as set forth in the following table: Distance in feet between the extremes of any group of two (2) or more consecutive axles, measured to the nearest foot, except where indicated otherwise
Maximum load in pounds
feet
2 axles
3 axles
4 axles
5 axles
6 axles
4
34,000
5
34,000
6
34,000
7
34,000
8
34,000
34,000
More than 8
38,000
42,000
9
39,000
42,500
10
40,000
43,500
11
40,000
44,000
12
40,000
45,000
50,000
13
40,000
45,500
50,500
14
40,000
46,500
51,500
15
40,000
47,000
52,000
16
40,000
48,000
52,500
58,000
17
40,000
48,500
53,500
58,500
18
40,000
49,500
54,000
59,000
19
40,000
50,000
54,500
60,000
20
40,000
51,000
55,500
60,500
66,000
21
40,000
51,500
56,000
61,000
66,500
22
40,000
52,500
56,500
61,500
67,000
23
40,000
53,000
57,500
62,500
68,000
24
40,000
54,000
58,000
63,000
68,500
25
40,000
54,500
58,500
63,500
69,000
26
40,000
55,500
59,500
64,000
69,500
27
40,000
56,000
60,000
65,000
70,000
28
40,000
57,000
60,500
65,500
71,000
29
40,000
57,500
61,500
66,000
71,500
30
40,000
58,500
62,000
66,500
72,000
31
40,000
59,000
62,500
67,500
72,500
32
40,000
60,000
63,500
68,000
73,000
33
40,000
60,000
64,000
68,500
74,000
34
40,000
60,000
64,500
69,000
74,500
35
40,000
60,000
65,500
70,000
75,000
36
60,000
66,000
70,500
75,500
37
60,000
66,500
71,000
76,000
38
60,000
67,500
72,000
77,000
39
60,000
68,000
72,500
77,500
40
60,000
68,500
73,000
78,000
41
60,000
69,500
73,500
78,500
42
60,000
70,000
74,000
79,000
43
60,000
70,500
75,000
80,000
44
60,000
71,500
75,500
80,000
45
60,000
72,000
76,000
80,000
46
60,000
72,500
76,500
80,000
47
60,000
73,500
77,500
80,000
48
60,000
74,000
78,000
80,000
49
60,000
74,500
78,500
80,000
50
60,000
75,500
79,000
80,000
51
60,000
76,000
80,000
80,000
52
60,000
76,500
80,000
80,000
53
60,000
77,500
80,000
80,000
54
60,000
78,000
80,000
80,000
55
60,000
78,500
80,000
80,000
56
60,000
79,500
80,000
80,000
57
60,000
80,000
80,000
80,000
D. 
Subject to the limit upon the weight imposed upon a supplementary highway through any one (1) axle which shall not have a weight greater than eighteen thousand (18,000) pounds or on any tandem axle which shall not have a weight greater than thirty-two thousand (32,000) pounds, the total gross weight with load imposed upon the supplementary highway by any vehicle or combination of vehicles shall not exceed the gross weight given for the respective distance between the first and last axle of a single motor vehicle or by the first axle of a motor vehicle and the last axle of the last vehicle in any combination of vehicles measured longitudinally to the nearest foot as set forth in the following table:
Distance in feet between the extreme axles
Maximum load in pounds
4
32,000
5
32,000
6
32,000
7
32,000
8
33,200
9
34,400
10
35,600
11
36,800
12
38,000
13
39,200
14
40,400
15
41,600
16
42,800
17
44,000
18
45,200
19
46,400
20
47,600
21
48,800
22
50,000
23
51,000
24
52,000
25
53,000
26
54,000
27
55,000
28
56,000
29
57,000
30
58,000
31
59,000
32
60,000
33
61,100
34
62,200
35
63,500
36
64,600
37
65,900
38
67,100
39
68,300
40
69,700
41
70,800
42
72,000
43 or over
73,280
E. 
Provided however, subject to the limit upon the weight imposed through any one axle, through any tandem axle, as provided in Subsection (D) of this Section, the total gross weight with load imposed upon any bridges generally considered by the State Highways and Transportation Commission to be on the supplementary system or upon any bridges which are under the jurisdiction of and maintained by counties, townships or cities shall not exceed the gross weight given for the respective distance between the first and last axle of the total group of axles measured longitudinally to the nearest foot as set forth in the following table:
Distance in feet between the extreme axles
Maximum load in pounds
4
32,000
5
32,000
6
32,000
7
32,000
8
32,610
9
33,580
10
34,550
11
35,510
12
36,470
13
37,420
14
38,360
15
39,300
16
40,230
17
41,160
18
42,080
19
42,990
20
43,900
21
44,800
22
45,700
23
46,590
24
47,470
25
48,350
26
49,220
27
50,090
28
50,950
29
51,800
30
52,650
31
53,490
32
54,330
33
55,160
34
55,980
35
56,800
36
57,610
37
58,420
38
59,220
39
60,010
40
60,800
41
61,580
42
62,360
42
63,130
44
63,890
45 or over
64,650
 
The State Highways and Transportation Commission, with respect to bridges on the supplementary system, or the person in charge of supervision or maintenance of the bridges on the county, township or City roads and streets may determine and by official order declare that certain designated bridges do not appear susceptible to unreasonable and unusual damage by reason of such higher weight limits and may legally be subjected to the higher limits in this Section.
F. 
Nothing in this Section shall be construed as permitting lawful axle loads, tandem axle loads or gross loads in excess of those permitted under the provisions of Section 127 of Title 23 of the United States Code.
G. 
Additional routes may be designated by the State Highways and Transportation Commission for movement or operation by vehicles or combinations of vehicles having the weights described in Subsections (A) and (C) of this Section.
H. 
Notwithstanding the weight limitations contained in this Section, any vehicle or combination of vehicles operating on highways other than the interstate highway system may exceed single axle, tandem axle and gross weight limitations in an amount not to exceed two thousand (2,000) pounds. However, total gross weight shall not exceed eighty thousand (80,000) pounds.
A. 
No vehicle operated upon the highways of this City shall have a width, including load, in excess of ninety-six (96) inches, except clearance lights, rearview mirrors or other accessories required by Federal, State or City law or regulation; except that, vehicles having a width, including load, not in excess of one hundred two (102) inches, exclusive of clearance lights, rearview mirrors or other accessories required by law or regulations, may be operated on the interstate highways and such other highways as may be designated by the highways and transportation commission for the operation of such vehicles plus a distance not to exceed ten (10) miles from such interstate or designated highway.
B. 
No vehicle operated upon the interstate highway system or upon any route designated by the Chief Engineer of the State Highways and Transportation Department shall have a height, including load, in excess of fourteen (14) feet. On all other highways, no vehicle shall have a height, including load, in excess of thirteen and one-half (13½) feet, except that any vehicle or combination of vehicles transporting automobiles or other motor vehicles may have a height, including load, of not more than fourteen (14) feet.
C. 
No single motor vehicle operated upon the highways of this City shall have a length, including load, in excess of forty (40) feet, except as otherwise provided in this Section.
D. 
No bus or trackless trolley coach operated upon the highways of this City shall have a length in excess of forty-five (45) feet, except that such vehicles may exceed the forty-five (45) feet length when such excess length is caused by the projection of a front safety bumper or a rear safety bumper or both. Such safety bumper shall not cause the length of the bus to exceed the forty-five (45) feet length limit by more than one (1) foot in the front and one (1) foot in the rear. The term "safety bumper" means any device which may be fitted on an existing bumper or which replaces the bumper and is so constructed, treated, or manufactured that it absorbs energy upon impact.
E. 
No combination of truck-tractor and semitrailer operated upon the highways of this State shall have a length, including load, in excess of sixty (60) feet; except that in order to comply with the provisions of Title 23 of the United States Code (Public Law 97-424), no combination of truck-tractor and semitrailer operated upon the interstate highway system of this State shall have an overall length, including load, in excess of the length of the truck-tractor plus the semitrailer, the length of which shall not exceed fifty-three (53) feet.
F. 
In order to comply with the provisions of Title 23 of the United States Code (Public Law 97-424), no combination of truck-tractor, semitrailer and trailer operated upon the interstate highway system of this State shall have an overall length, including load, in excess of the length of the truck-tractor plus the semitrailer and trailer, neither of which semitrailer or trailer shall exceed twenty-eight (28) feet in length, except that any existing semitrailer or trailer up to twenty-eight and one-half (28½) feet in length actually and lawfully operated on December 1, 1982, within a sixty-five (65) foot overall length limit in any State, may continue to be operated upon the interstate highways of this State. On those primary highways not designated by the State Highways and Transportation Commission as provided in Subsection (J) of this Section, no combination of truck-tractor, semitrailer and trailer shall have an overall length, including load, in excess of sixty-five (65) feet; provided, however, the State Highways and Transportation Commission may designate additional routes for such sixty-five (65) foot combinations.
G. 
Automobile transporters, boat transporters and truck-trailer boat transporter combinations having a length not in excess of sixty-five (65) feet and stinger-steered combination automobile transporters and stinger-steered combination boat transporters having a length not in excess of seventy-five (65) feet may be operated on the interstate highways of this State and such other highways as may be designated by the Highways and Transportation Commission for the operation of such vehicles plus a distance not to exceed ten (10) miles from such interstate or designated highway. All length provisions regarding automobile or boat transporters, truck-trailer boat transporter combinations and stinger-steered combinations are exclusive of front and rear overhang, which shall be no greater than a three (3) foot front overhang and no greater than a four (4) foot rear overhang.
H. 
Driveaway saddlemount combinations having a length not in excess of seventy-five (75) feet may be operated on the interstate highways of this State and such other highways as may be designated by the Highways and Transportation Commission for the operation of such vehicles plus a distance not to exceed ten (10) miles from such interstate or designated highway. Saddlemount combinations must comply with the safety requirements of Section 393.71 of Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations and may contain no more than three (3) saddlemounted vehicles and one (1) fullmount.
I. 
No truck-tractor semitrailer-semitrailer combination vehicles operated upon the interstate and designated primary highway system of this State shall have a semitrailer length in excess of twenty-eight (28) feet or twenty-eight and one-half (28½) feet if the semitrailer was in actual and lawful operation in any State on December 1, 1982, operating in a truck-tractor semitrailer-semitrailer combination. The B-train assembly is excluded from the measurement of semitrailer length when used between the first and second semitrailer of a truck-tractor semitrailer-semitrailer combination, except that when there is no semitrailer mounted to the B-train assembly, it shall be included in the length measurement of the semitrailer.
J. 
The Highways and Transportation Commission is authorized to designate routes on the State highway system other than the interstate system over which those combinations of vehicles of the lengths specified in Subsections (E), (F), (G), (H) and (I) of this Section may be operated. Combinations of vehicles operated under the provisions of Subsections (E), (F), (G), (H) and (I) of this Section may be operated at a distance not to exceed ten (10) miles from the interstate system and such routes as designated under the provisions of this Subsection.
K. 
Except as provided in Subsections (E), (F), (G), (H), (I) and (J) of this Section, no other combination of vehicles operated upon the primary or interstate highways of this State plus a distance of ten (10) miles from a primary or interstate highway shall have an overall length, unladen or with load, in excess of sixty-five (65) feet or in excess of fifty-five (55) feet on any other highway, except the State Highways and Transportation Commission may designate additional routes for use by sixty-five (65) foot combinations, seventy-five (75) foot stinger-steered combinations or seventy-five (75) foot saddlemount combinations. Any vehicle or combination of vehicles transporting automobiles, boats or other motor vehicles may carry a load which extends no more than three (3) feet beyond the front and four (4) feet beyond the rear of the transporting vehicle or combination of vehicles.
L. 
Exceptions.
1. 
Except as hereinafter provided, these restrictions shall not apply to agricultural implements operating occasionally on the highways for short distances, or to self-propelled hay-hauling equipment or to implements of husbandry, or to vehicles temporarily transporting agricultural implements or implements of husbandry or roadmaking machinery, or road materials or towing for repair purposes vehicles that have become disabled upon the highways; or to implement dealers delivering or moving farm machinery for repairs on any State highway other than the interstate system.
2. 
Implements of husbandry and vehicles transporting such machinery or equipment may be operated occasionally for short distances on State highways when operated between the hours of sunrise and sunset by a driver licensed as an operator or chauffeur.
M. 
As used in this Chapter the term "implements of husbandry" means all self-propelled machinery operated at speeds of less than thirty (30) miles per hour, specifically designed for, or especially adapted to be capable of, incidental over-the-road and primary off-road usage and used exclusively for the application of commercial plant food materials or agricultural chemicals and not specifically designed or intended for transportation of such chemicals and materials. No implement of husbandry may exceed a width of eleven (11) feet, six (6) inches.
N. 
The purpose of this Section is to permit a single trip per day by the implement of husbandry from the source of supply to a given farm.
O. 
Sludge disposal units may be operated on all State highways other than the interstate system. Such units shall not exceed one hundred thirty-eight (138) inches in width and may be equipped with over-width tires. Such units shall observe all axle weight limits. The Chief Engineer of the State Highways and Transportation Department shall issue special permits for the movement of such disposal units and may by such permits restrict the movements to specified routes, days and hours.
[R.O. 2006 §340.290; Ord. No. 923 §I, 2-18-1997]
It shall be unlawful for the operator of any motor vehicle to drive and operate a motor vehicle into, across and over private property, private drives, public property or public drives for the purpose of avoiding any traffic control signal.