Distracted Driving Crackdown Underway In MN: Laws Drivers Should Know

ST. PAUL, MN — Drivers across Minnesota can expect increased enforcement of distracted driving laws throughout April, as state officials roll out a monthlong campaign aimed at reducing crashes and saving lives.

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety Office of Traffic Safety is coordinating the April 1–30 effort, which includes extra law enforcement patrols, education, and statewide advertising funded in part by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Officials say the push comes amid thousands of crashes tied to distracted driving in recent years, including deadly incidents that continue to impact families across the state.

One of those tragedies involved Ashley Lehman, who was seriously injured in a crash last July and later died. Her family is now urging drivers to stay focused behind the wheel.

"All of our lives changed instantly and have been turned upside down ever since. I talk to God and Ashley daily," said Matt Lehman, Ashley’s father-in-law.

"Both tell me to use my 40 years of automotive experience and decades on racetracks to help educate and prevent the loss of innocent lives, to help other families navigate the forever nightmare and family destruction from distracted, impaired and reckless driving."

State data shows the scope of the issue. From 2020 to 2026, distracted driving crashes in Minnesota led to 162 deaths and 888 serious injuries. In 2025 alone, officials reported at least 21 fatalities and 159 serious injuries tied to distracted driving.

"Almost every crash that happens is an avoidable tragedy," said Office of Traffic Safety Director Mike Hanson. "We want to protect families by reminding drivers to focus on the road. Lives really do depend on how much attention you give the road."

Here’s what Minnesota drivers need to know:

Minnesota’s hands-free law

Drivers are not allowed to hold a phone while driving. That includes texting, using social media, streaming video, or searching for information.

Drivers can only use voice commands or single-touch activation without holding the phone for calls, texts, music, or navigation. Officials emphasize that even hands-free use can still be distracting.

Penalties

A first offense can cost $100 or more with fees. Subsequent violations can cost $300 or more.

If distracted driving leads to serious injury or death, drivers can face felony charges, including criminal vehicular operation or homicide.

Tips to avoid distracted driving

Officials recommend putting phones out of reach or using “Do Not Disturb,” setting navigation before driving, avoiding eating messy foods, and minimizing other distractions inside the vehicle. Passengers are also encouraged to speak up if a driver becomes distracted.

The enforcement campaign runs through April 30, with officials urging Minnesotans to stay focused behind the wheel and help prevent avoidable tragedies.