First of all, if you are reading this while driving, PLEASE STOP. You should never do anything while driving that could distract and put you at risk of an accident. We are all guilty of this on some level. Changing the radio station or talking with passengers while driving is distracting, but certainly not illegal. Talking on your phone while driving is not illegal in Minnesota, so what is legal and illegal?
Legal Uses
- Any use solely in voice-activated or other hands-free mode
- Making cellular phone calls
- Obtaining emergency assistance to either:
- Report a traffic accident, medical emergency, or serious traffic hazard; or
- Prevent a crime about to be committed
- In a reasonable belief that a person’s life or safety is in immediate danger
- In an authorized emergency vehicle while in the performance of official duties
- Receiving automatic notifications or updates
Illegal Uses
- E-mail – composing, reading, or sending while operating vehicle in motion or a part of traffic
- Text message – composing, reading, or sending while operating vehicle in motion or a part of traffic
- Instant message – composing, reading, or sending while operating vehicle in motion or a part of traffic
- Surfing the web while operating vehicle in motion or a part of traffic
Stay safe out there!