Statewide Enhanced Distracted Driving Enforcement Today

Statewide Enhanced Distracted Driving Enforcement Thursday

• Nearly 400 Minnesota law enforcement agencies will increase distracted driving patrols today (Thursday, April 19) to encourage motorists to pay attention behind the wheel. Driver distraction is a contributing factor in one-quarter of all Minnesota vehicle crashes annually, resulting in 208 deaths and nearly 26,000 injuries in the last three years. 

• In Minnesota, it is illegal for drivers to read, compose or send texts/emails, and access the Web on a wireless device while the vehicle is in motion or a part of traffic — even at a stoplight/stop sign, or stuck in traffic. It is also illegal for drivers under age 18 to use a cell phone at any time.