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What is an Open Container Violation in Missouri?
Missouri’s open container law is frequently debated. Many individuals even question the existence of one, while others believe it has limited implications. The state does, in fact, have one – and it’s solely for drivers. After all, no matter how lenient Missouri’s open container laws may appear, they do not permit drinking and driving. Under Missouri Revised Statute § 577.017, drivers are prohibited from holding or consuming alcohol while operating a vehicle, as well as from drinking prior to getting behind the wheel.
You don't have to go through this alone. Contact one of our lawyers today at (314) 900-HELP to protect your future.
For a driver already facing a DWI charge, the presence of an open container can be used as evidence of probable cause and gives law enforcement grounds to conduct additional tests or searches. This can significantly complicate your legal defense and lead to harsher penalties if convicted. A Combs Waterkotte DWI/DUI defense lawyer can help minimize the damage, getting your charges reduced or even dismissed altogether. Our legal team has over 40 years of experience successfully handling cases just like yours.
Missouri does not have a statewide open container law prohibiting non-driving passengers ages 21 and older from having open containers in vehicles. However, many cities and municipalities across the state prohibit it through local ordinances. A few examples include:
It’s also key to remember that open container laws extend to public areas beyond your car, like sidewalks, streets, parks, and public transportation. You should make sure of your local laws prior to driving a vehicle with an open container located anywhere, just to be safe.
Call Combs Waterkotte for the Best Defense of Open Container Violations in Missouri
When facing open container violation charges in Missouri, you need a defense attorney with the expertise, resources, and personalized approach to defend your case effectively. Don’t roll the dice with your future. Call Combs Waterkotte now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online for a confidential consultation with an expert DWI defense attorney.
See below for more information on Combs Waterkotte's Missouri DWI/DUI defense and types of cases:
- Aggravated DWI
- Celebrity and Public Official/High Profile DWI Cases
- DWI With Child Endangerment
- Unlawful Police Stops
- DWI Resulting in Death
- DWI Assault
- DWI Serious Injury
- Boating While Intoxicated
- DWI/DUI
- Hit and Run DWI
- Felony DWI
- CDL DWIs
- DWI First Offense
- DWI Second Offense
- DWI Accidents
- DWI With Drugs
- DWI With Marijuana
