Minnesota Traffic Laws: Frequently Asked Questions

1. When Do I Have to Use My Headlights in Minnesota?

Probably more often than you think. Minnesota Statute 169.48 requires drivers to turn on their headlights:

• From sunset to sunrise
• During any precipitation (rain, snow, sleet, or hail)
• When visibility is less than 500 feet due to fog, smoke, or other conditions
  

Not following this rule can lead to a traffic stop and citation. In fact, in State v. McCabe (A16-1024), a Minnesota court ruled that police had the right to stop a driver for failing to use headlights in light drizzle. If you’re in an accident and your headlights weren’t on in poor conditions, it could be considered a contributing factor to the crash.

2. Is Texting While Driving Illegal in Minnesota?

Yes – and so is holding your phone for any reason. Minnesota’s hands-free law makes holding a phone while driving illegal, even when stopped at a red light. You can use voice commands or a single touch to:

• Make calls
• Send texts
• Adjust GPS

But scrolling, typing, or holding your phone while driving is strictly prohibited. For drivers under 18 with permits or provisional licenses, phone use is even stricter – they can’t use their phone at all, except for hands-free GPS or in an emergency. Violating this law can result in hefty fines and potential license suspension.

3. Can I Drive Barefoot in Minnesota?

Yes, driving barefoot is legal in Minnesota. However, that doesn’t mean it’s a good idea. If driving without shoes affects your control of the pedals and causes an accident, you could be cited for careless or reckless driving under Minnesota Statute 169.13.

For safety, we strongly recommend always wearing shoes when driving – especially ones with good grip that won’t slip off the pedals.

4. Is the Zipper Merge Mandatory?

No, but it’s strongly recommended. The Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) promotes the zipper merge as the safest and most efficient way to merge in construction zones or traffic backups. This means:

• Drivers should use both lanes until the merge point
• At the merge point, drivers take turns moving into the open lane

While not legally required, failure to merge properly could impact fault in an accident. If one driver merges aggressively or unsafely and causes a crash, they could be liable for damages.

5. Do I Have to Yield to Funeral Processions?

Yes. Minnesota Statute 169.20 requires drivers to yield to funeral processions, even if they would otherwise have the right-of-way. Violating this law can result in a traffic citation, and if an accident occurs, the at-fault driver could be held financially responsible for damages.

6. Are Seat Belts Required in Minnesota?

Absolutely – and for everyone in the vehicle. Minnesota Statute 169.686 mandates that all passengers wear a properly fastened seat belt. The driver is responsible for ensuring all passengers under 15 years old are buckled up. Passengers aged 15 and older are responsible for wearing their seat belts themselves and can be fined directly for non-compliance.

7. Is Passing on the Shoulder Allowed?

Almost never. Minnesota Statute 169.18 strictly prohibits passing on the shoulder, except when:

• Avoiding an obstacle on the road
• Yielding to an emergency vehicle
• Traveling on a designated bypass lane

Passing on the shoulder just to get around slower traffic can result in a ticket. If it causes an accident – especially near pedestrians or cyclists – the driver could be held liable for any damages or injuries.

8. Do I Need to Clear Snow and Ice Off My Car?

Yes, Minnesota law requires drivers to clear snow and ice from their vehicles before driving. Operating a vehicle with obstructed windows or mirrors can reduce visibility, increasing the risk of accidents. Moreover, snow or ice flying off your car can endanger other road users. While there isn't a specific statute addressing snow and ice removal, driving with an obstructed view or causing debris to fly onto the roadway can result in fines under Minnesota Statutes Section 169.71.

9. What Is the Speed Limit Without a Sign?

In Minnesota, if there are no posted speed limit signs, the default speed limits are:​

• 30 mph in urban districts.
• 55 mph in other locations, such as rural areas

These defaults are outlined in Minnesota Statutes Section 169.14. Always adjust your speed based on road, weather, and traffic conditions, even if it means driving below the posted or default speed limit.

10. Can I Turn Right on Red?

Yes, Minnesota law allows drivers to turn right at a red traffic signal after coming to a complete stop and ensuring the way is clear of pedestrians and other vehicles. However, always look for signs that may prohibit right turns on red at specific intersections. Failing to observe such signs can result in traffic violations.

11. Do I Have to Use a Car Seat or Booster Seat?

Absolutely. Minnesota law mandates that all children under the age of 8 and shorter than 4’9” must be secured in an appropriate child safety seat or booster seat. The seat must meet federal safety standards and be used according to the manufacturer's instructions. Using the right car and booster seats will help you protect the little ones you hold dear.

12. Is Driving Too Slow Illegal?

Yes, driving significantly below the posted speed limit can be illegal if it impedes the normal and reasonable traffic flow. Minnesota Statutes Section 169.15 addresses impeding traffic, stating that no person shall drive at such a slow speed as to impede or block the normal and reasonable movement of traffic except when reduced speed is necessary for safe operation or compliance with the law.

13. Can I Leave My Car Running Unattended?

While Minnesota has no statewide law explicitly prohibiting this practice, some local ordinances may address it. Additionally, idling for extended periods can have environmental impacts and may be regulated in certain areas. Leaving your vehicle running while unattended is generally discouraged due to safety and theft concerns.

14. Can I Leave My Child or Pet in a Vehicle Unattended?

Leaving a child or pet unattended in a vehicle is strongly discouraged and can be illegal in certain situations. Minnesota law does not have a specific statute prohibiting leaving children in cars, but if doing so endangers the child’s safety, caregivers can face child neglect or endangerment charges under Minnesota Statute 609.378.

Similarly, leaving a pet in a hot or cold car can result in animal cruelty charges. Law enforcement and good Samaritans may legally intervene if they believe a child or pet is in distress. Never leave a child or pet unattended in a vehicle to avoid serious risks and legal consequences.

15. Are Studded Tires Allowed in Minnesota?

No, the use of studded tires is prohibited in Minnesota. According to Minnesota Statutes Section 169.72, operating a vehicle with any metal studs or protruding metal on the tire tread is unlawful. This law aims to prevent road damage caused by studded tires.

16. Do I Have to Stop for a School Bus?

Yes, when a school bus displays red flashing lights and has its stop arm extended, all drivers must stop at least 20 feet from the bus, regardless of the direction they are approaching. This rule applies on all roads except those separated by a physical barrier. Failing to stop for a school bus can result in significant fines and driver's license suspension.

17. Are U-Turns Legal in Minnesota?

U-turns are legal in Minnesota, provided they can be made safely and without disrupting other traffic. However, U-turns are prohibited on curves, near the crest of a hill where visibility is limited, and where signs specifically prohibit them. Always ensure there's sufficient visibility and no oncoming traffic before executing a U-turn.

18. Do I Have to Pull Over for Emergency Vehicles?

Yes, Minnesota law requires drivers to yield the right-of-way to emergency vehicles with activated sirens and lights. Upon approaching such a vehicle, drivers must pull over to the right-hand edge or curb of the roadway and stop until the emergency vehicle has passed. Failure to do so can result in fines and other penalties.

Get Help from a Team of Attorneys You Can Trust

Understanding Minnesota's driving laws is essential for ensuring your safety and protecting your rights on the road. At SiebenCarey, we've advocated for Minnesotans for over 70 years, handling more than 65,000 cases involving injury victims.

If you have been injured in an auto accident, our experienced attorneys are here to provide the support you need. We offer free consultations and operate on a contingency basis, meaning you won’t owe us a dime unless we secure compensation for you.