Missouri § 389.820 - Safety appliances — automatic couplers.
Full text of Missouri Revised Statutes of Missouri § 389.820 — Safety appliances — automatic couplers., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 389.820. Safety appliances — automatic couplers.
From and after the first day of January, 1908, it shall be unlawful for any person, persons, company or corporation, operating any line of railroad, in whole or in part, in this state, either as owner, lessee or receiver, to use or permit to be used or hauled between stations within this state, on said line of railroad, any locomotive, tender, car or other vehicle for moving persons or freight, which shall not be equipped with handholds, grab irons and couplers, coupling automatically by impact, and which can be coupled without the necessity of men going between the ends of the cars for the purpose of effecting such coupling.
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(RSMo 1939 § 5236)
Prior revisions: 1929 § 4779; 1919 § 9967; 1909 § 3166
---- end of effective 28 Aug 1939 ----
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Effective dates prior to 1940 may not be the actual effective date. See FAQ 'When do laws become effective?'
Source: official Missouri text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Missouri § 389.820
What does Revised Statutes of Missouri § 389.820 cover?
Section 389.820 ("Safety appliances — automatic couplers.") is part of the Revised Statutes of Missouri, the codified statutory law of Missouri. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Missouri § 389.820?
A common citation format is "Revised Statutes of Missouri § 389.820" (Missouri). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Missouri law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Missouri official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Missouri attorney.
How does Missouri § 389.820 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Missouri can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Missouri.