Currently, there is no law in Missouri that specifically prohibits vaping while driving. E-cigarettes and other vaping devices are legal to use in the state, and there are no statutes that make it a crime to vape behind the wheel—whether you are driving a car or riding as a passenger.
Distracted Driving Considerations
While vaping itself is not illegal while driving, it can be considered a form of distracted driving. Missouri’s distracted driving laws are relatively lenient compared to other states. The main restrictions focus on:
- Texting or using handheld devices: Prohibited for drivers under 21 and commercial drivers, but not for drivers 21 and older.
- Other distractions: There are no explicit laws against eating, drinking, or vaping while driving for any age group.
However, if vaping causes you to drive erratically, lose visibility (for example, due to large vapor clouds), or otherwise distracts you to the point of causing an accident, you can be held legally responsible. If an officer believes your vaping contributed to reckless or inattentive driving, you could be cited under general traffic safety or distracted driving laws.
Potential Consequences
- Causing an Accident: If you are involved in a crash and vaping is determined to be a contributing factor (such as blocking your view with vapor or handling your device while driving), you may be found at fault and liable for damages.
- Traffic Citations: While you cannot be ticketed just for vaping, you can be cited if your driving is impaired or distracted as a result.
Summary Table: Vaping and Driving in Missouri
| Action | Legal Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Vaping while driving | Legal | No specific prohibition |
| Vaping causing distraction/accident | Illegal consequences | Can be cited or found at fault if it leads to unsafe driving |
| Vaping as a passenger | Legal | No restrictions |
| Vaping by drivers under 21 | Legal | No vaping-specific law, but distracted driving laws apply |
- Vaping while driving is not illegal in Missouri.
- You can be held responsible if vaping distracts you and leads to unsafe driving or an accident.
- Missouri’s distracted driving laws are among the most lenient in the U.S., but all drivers are expected to operate their vehicles safely.
If you choose to vape while driving, do so with caution and be aware that any distraction—vaping included—can have legal and safety consequences if it interferes with your ability to drive responsibly.
Sources
- https://atc.dps.mo.gov/enforcement/tobacco/faqs_tobacco.php
- https://www.hoffmannpersonalinjury.com/vaping-while-driving-st-louis-car-accident-lawyer/
- https://www.dmlawusa.com/st-louis/car-accident/distracted-driving-accidents/
- https://www.trustedchoice.com/distracted-driving/missouri-laws/
- https://www.enjuris.com/missouri/car-crashes/distracted-driving-accidents/
