Scrolling through social media on your cell phone. Unwrapping that delicious cheeseburger. Checking that work email that someone just sent. Those are all fine — from the comfort of your couch. Behind the wheel? They could be deadly. Distraction can involve your cell phone or any activity that takes your eyes, hands and mind off of driving.

Hands-free cell phone use is the law

The hands-free cell phone use law means drivers can’t hold their phone in their hand. Accessing or posting on social media, streaming videos, checking that box score or Googling information on a device while driving are against the law in Minnesota, even in hands-free mode. Learn more about the law and get your questions answered at HandsFreeMN.org.

Distracted driving consequences

• Hands-free cell phone law: The law allows a driver to use their cell phone to make calls, text, listen to music or podcasts and get directions, but only by voice commands or single-touch activation without holding the phone. Remember, hands-free is not necessarily distraction-free.  
  • $100 or more including court fees for a first offense.
  • $300 or more including court fees for a second and/or subsequent offense.
• If you injure or kill someone while violating the hands-free law, it is considered reckless and careless driving and is against the law. You can face a felony charge of criminal vehicular operation or homicide.

Drive smart and join Minnesotans driving distraction-free

• Cell phones — Park the phone by putting it down, activating the “Do Not Disturb” feature, silencing notifications, turning it off, placing it out of reach or going hands-free.
• Music and other controls — Pre-program radio stations and arrange music in an easy-to-access spot. Adjust mirrors and ventilation before traveling.
• Navigation — Map out the destination and enter the GPS route in advance.
• Eating and drinking — Avoid messy foods and secure drinks.
• Children — Teach children the importance of good behavior in a vehicle and model proper driving behavior.
• Passengers — Speak up to stop drivers from distracted driving behavior and offer to help with anything that takes the driver’s attention off the road.
• Distracted drivers can be ticketed for reckless or careless driving when their actions demonstrate a disregard for the safety or rights of others.