Speed In MN This Summer? You're Basically Asking To Get Caught, Here's Why

ST. PAUL, MN — Law enforcement officers across Minnesota are stepping up patrols this summer to stop dangerous driving behaviors, particularly speeding, which continues to be one of the top causes of fatal crashes in the state.

From now through Sept. 2, nearly 300 agencies will take part in an extra enforcement campaign aimed at slowing drivers down and saving lives. The effort, led by the Minnesota Department of Public Safety’s Office of Traffic Safety (OTS), coincides with the 100 deadliest days on the roads, between Memorial Day and Labor Day.

“It's so frightening seeing a car come whizzing past your rear-view mirror,” said OTS Director Mike Hanson. “Everyone knows that speeding is wrong, and yet so many people still do it. Trust me, you won’t get there faster if you’re in a fatal crash.”

Speeding Still Deadly In Minnesota

As of early May, at least 15 people in Minnesota have died in speed-related crashes in 2025. Recent years have also seen persistently high numbers:

• 2024: 137 speed-related deaths
• 2023: 113
• 2022: 130
• 2021: 171
• 2020: 122

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the vast majority, 87 percent, of speeding-related traffic fatalities in 2022 occurred on non-interstate roads.

Enforcement During The '100 Deadliest Days'

Troopers, deputies, and officers will be watching not only for speeders but also for seat belt violations, distracted driving, and impairment, which make up the four biggest contributors to traffic deaths.

“Our troopers are always working to prevent traffic fatalities, but as we enter this time period, our efforts intensify,” said Col. Christina Bogojevic, chief of the Minnesota State Patrol. “Every year, we deliver heartbreaking news to families. That’s why we’re focusing on enforcement and education to change behavior. Drivers, slow down. We want everyone getting home safely.”

During last summer’s 100 deadliest days, 151 people died on Minnesota roads, 44 of them in speed-related crashes. Between 2017 and 2024, there were 1,188 traffic deaths during this seasonal window.

Speeding Comes At A Cost

Officials are urging drivers to plan ahead and obey speed limits, not only to stay safe but also to avoid costly penalties. A typical speeding ticket for going 10 mph over the limit will run more than $110 with court fees. The fine doubles for drivers caught going 20 mph over, and anyone clocked at 100 mph or more can lose their license for six months.

“Speed is the one thing you have absolute control of behind the wheel,” Hanson said.