Hands-Free Law: Mn's New Rules For Safe Driving

On August 1, 2019, Minnesota implemented a hands-free cell phone law, which prohibits motorists from holding a cellphone or other wireless device while driving. The law requires drivers to use voice commands or single-touch activation to make calls, send texts, listen to music or podcasts, and get directions. This law aims to improve road safety and reduce traffic fatalities, with additional restrictions on activities such as video calling, live-streaming, gaming, and reading texts while driving.

What the law allows

On August 1, 2019, Minnesota implemented a hands-free cell phone law, becoming the 16th state to enforce such a law. The law requires drivers to use their cell phones only through voice commands or single-touch activation without holding their phones.

The law allows drivers to use a handheld phone to obtain emergency assistance, navigate using GPS, and make calls, send texts, listen to music or podcasts, and get directions. However, these activities can only be performed using voice commands or by activating the function with a single touch without holding the phone.

In-car screens and systems are exempt from the law, and motorists are allowed to make emergency calls if necessary. Additionally, drivers are permitted to use a single earphone with a microphone, as long as only one ear is used. Using earphones in both ears while driving is illegal in Minnesota.

The law also allows drivers to pair their phones with their vehicles via Bluetooth or an auxiliary cable, enabling hands-free talking on the phone. Alternatively, a phone can be mounted on the dashboard using a clip or holder, allowing for hands-free navigation and phone conversations.

The goal of the hands-free law is to improve road safety and reduce traffic fatalities. According to the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, in 12 of the 15 states with similar laws, traffic fatalities have decreased by an average of 15%.

What the law prohibits

On August 1, 2019, Minnesota enacted a hands-free cell phone law while driving, becoming the 16th state to implement such legislation. The law is explicit in prohibiting motorists from holding a cell phone or any other wireless device while operating a vehicle. This includes using the device for video calling, live-streaming, Snapchat, gaming, looking at videos or photos, using non-navigation apps, reading or sending texts, and scrolling or typing on the phone. Essentially, the law prohibits any use of a handheld device while the vehicle is in motion, even when stopped at a stoplight or stop sign.

Smartwatches are also considered communication devices and are subject to the same restrictions as cell phones, except when being used for checking the time. In-car screens and systems, as well as GPS and other navigation systems, are exempt from the law, as they often lock when the vehicle is in motion. Motorists are still permitted to make emergency 911 calls if needed.

The law is designed to improve road safety and reduce traffic fatalities caused by distracted driving. By enforcing this law, law enforcement officers can take immediate action and help keep Minnesotans safe on the roads. The penalties for violating the hands-free law are a $50 fine plus court fees for the first offence, and $275 plus court fees for any subsequent violations.

To comply with the law, drivers are encouraged to use voice commands or single-touch activation to make calls, send texts, listen to music or podcasts, and get directions. Additionally, drivers can use a single earphone with a microphone, but it is important to note that using earphones in both ears while driving is illegal in Minnesota.

Penalties for breaking the law

On August 1, 2019, the hands-free cell phone law came into effect in Minnesota, restricting drivers to using voice commands or single-touch activation when performing smartphone functions. Breaking the hands-free law for the first time is considered a petty misdemeanor and carries a $50 base fine, which increases to around $135 with surcharges. First-time offenders will also see an increase in their auto insurance premiums.

For second and subsequent offences, the base fine increases to $275, which jumps to about $360 with surcharges. Again, there will also be an increase in auto insurance premiums.

School bus drivers face harsher penalties for violating the hands-free law. Such an offence is punishable by a fine of up to $1,000 and a jail sentence of up to 90 days. Additionally, a conviction will result in the immediate revocation of the offender's bus driving privileges.

How to go hands-free

On August 1, 2019, a hands-free cell phone law came into effect in Minnesota, joining many other states with similar laws. Here are some ways you can go hands-free while driving:

Bluetooth Speaker Clip

This is a small, discrete gadget that neatly clips onto your sun visor, allowing you to take calls while driving without holding your phone. It connects to your phone via Bluetooth and has a built-in motion sensor to turn on automatically when you get a call.

Universal Magnetic Phone/GPS Mount

This device lets you mount your phone on your car's dashboard, so you don't have to look down in your lap for directions or notifications. It features an integrated cable clip to secure the charging cable and an open cradle-free design for easy access to controls and ports.

Car Speakerphone with Bluetooth

If your car doesn't have built-in Bluetooth, this device can be placed on the sun visor, allowing you to take calls while keeping your hands on the wheel. You can set your phone to automatically connect to the speakerphone when you get in the car.

Bluetooth Headset

A Bluetooth headset, or earpiece, is a comfortable and lightweight option that connects to your phone's Bluetooth. This allows you to take calls and listen to music without holding your phone.

Universal Wireless FM Transmitter with Hands-Free Function

This device transmits music or voice calls wirelessly from your phone to your car stereo system using FM radio. It also has an extra USB charging port.

Bluetooth Car Adapter

A Bluetooth car adapter lets you connect two Bluetooth devices at once and switch music between them seamlessly. It also has a built-in microphone for hands-free calls and can charge your phone via a dual USB car charger.

Cup Cell Phone Car Mount with Adjustable Gooseneck

This device fits securely into your car's cup holder and has a flexible gooseneck design that can be swivelled up to 360 degrees for the best viewing angle. It's very useful when using your phone's GPS function.

Bluetooth Hands-Free Car Kit for Cars with Aux Input Jack

This device allows you to answer and receive calls and stream music seamlessly from your Bluetooth-enabled smartphone. It has a built-in microphone and sleek, minimal design.

The impact of the law

On August 1, 2019, a new law came into effect in Minnesota, requiring drivers to use their cell phones in hands-free mode while driving. This law has had a significant impact on road safety and driver behaviour in the state.

The hands-free cell phone law prohibits drivers from manually dialling a phone number, typing an address into a GPS device, or holding their phone while driving. Instead, drivers can only use their cell phones to make calls, send texts, or get directions via voice commands or single-touch activation. This means that drivers must plan their route and enter any necessary information into their phones before starting their journey. For example, if a driver needs to use a GPS, they must set their destination before beginning to drive and can only interact with the device through voice commands while driving.

The law also applies to drivers who are stopped at traffic lights or stop signs. While these drivers are allowed to use their phones, they must still follow the hands-free guidelines. This includes teenagers under 18 with a driver's permit or provisional license. These drivers are expected to abide by the same rules as adult drivers and can only use their phones in hands-free mode.

The hands-free cell phone law has had a positive impact on road safety in Minnesota. By requiring drivers to use their cell phones in a hands-free manner, the law helps to reduce distracted driving and improve overall driver focus. This, in turn, leads to safer roads and a reduced risk of accidents. While there may still be other distractions within a vehicle, such as eating or grooming, the law takes a significant step towards mitigating the dangers of cell phone use while driving.

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