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Traffic Violations in Minnesota

A traffic violation is any act committed while operating a vehicle against the Minnesota state traffic code. This can include speeding, running a red light, or failing to yield to pedestrians. Traffic violations are typically enforced by Minnesota Law enforcement, who can issue tickets or make arrests as appropriate. Violators of traffic laws risk being fined, points added to their license, and even jail time in some cases. The state's traffic courts typically prosecute offenders and records of these offenses are detailed in the offender's Minnesota traffic records.

In Minnesota, traffic violations are classified as either petty misdemeanors or misdemeanors. Petty misdemeanors are the less serious of the two and carry a maximum fine of $300. Misdemeanors are more serious offenses that can result in fines of up to $1,000 and up to 90 days in jail. In addition, all traffic violators face the possibility of having points added to their driver's license. The number of points added depends on the severity of the offense, but too many points can lead to a license suspension.

Drivers who commit multiple traffic violations or those who commit severe offenses may also be required to attend traffic school or have their license suspended. In some cases, a traffic violation may even be considered a felony offense, resulting in much harsher penalties, including significant fines and jail time.

It is important to note that Minnesota has an "implied consent" law, which states that all drivers stopped for suspicion of drunk driving must submit to a chemical test to determine their blood alcohol content (BAC). Refusal to take the test can result in an automatic license suspension of at least one year.

Overall, traffic violators in Minnesota face various potential consequences depending on the severity of their offense. These can range from minor fines to more severe penalties like jail time or license suspension.

Types of Traffic Violations in Minnesota

Minnesota has a variety of traffic violations that drivers can commit. Some of the more common ones include speeding, running a red light, and driving without a license. More severe offenses include vehicular homicide, drunk driving, and reckless driving. In most cases, traffic violators are penalized with a fine and/or jail time.

Minnesota traffic violations can also be classified as either civil or criminal. Civil violations are less severe and typically result in a fine. However, criminal offenses can involve jail time and other penalties.

In Minnesota, not all violations will lead to the offender being charged with a crime. The police will sometimes issue a warning instead of a ticket. However, more serious offenses are typically penalized severely.

Minnesota Traffic Violation Code

Minnesota traffic code is a compilation of state laws governing the operation of vehicles on public roads. It includes rules for drivers, passengers, and pedestrians and regulations for commercial vehicles. The code also covers parking and traffic violations, driver's license requirements, and vehicle registration and insurance.

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS) is responsible for enforcing the state's traffic laws. DPS officers patrol the roads and investigate accidents.

The following statutes are outlined in the Minnesota traffic code according to the code section:

Section 169.011: Traffic regulations
This section contains general regulations governing the operation of vehicles on public roads. It includes provisions for driving on the right side of the road, turning, and stopping.

Section 169.12: Pedestrians' rights and duties
This section covers the rights and duties of pedestrians, including crossing streets at intersections and using sidewalks.

Section 169.221: Lane restrictions
This section prohibits certain types of vehicles from traveling in specific lanes, such as the left lane of a highway. It also requires that vehicles use turn signals when changing lanes.

Section 169.222: Passing and overtaking another vehicle
This section regulates how drivers must overtake or pass other vehicles on the road.

Section 169.223: Following too closely
This section prohibits drivers from following other vehicles too closely and sets minimum distances that must be maintained.

Section 169.224: Turns at intersections
This section describes how drivers must make turns at intersections.

Section 169.325: Operation of buses, taxicabs, and limousines
This section sets forth regulations governing the operation of buses, cabs, and limousines. It includes provisions for stopping, turning, and parking.

Section 169.41: Equipment required on vehicles
This section requires certain types of equipment to be installed on all motor vehicles operating on public roads in Minnesota. This equipment includes brakes, lights, and mirrors.

Section 169.451: Towing vehicles
This section describes the procedures that must be followed when towing a vehicle.

Section 169.452: Transporting passengers for hire
This section sets forth regulations governing the transportation of passengers for hire. It includes provisions for licensing and insurance requirements.

Section 169.454: Operation of motor carriers
This section regulates the operation of commercial motor vehicles, including weight restrictions and driver qualifications.

Section 169.463: Rules for bicyclists
This section sets forth the rules that bicyclists must follow when riding on public roads.

Violating any of these statutes can result in a traffic citation, which may carry a fine and/or points against the driver's license. To avoid receiving traffic citations, drivers should familiarize themselves with the Minnesota traffic code.

Minnesota Felony Traffic Violations

In Minnesota, there are several felony traffic violations that can result in criminal charges. Some of the most common include:

  • Vehicular homicide: This is the charge filed when a driver kills someone due to their actions behind the wheel. The charge may be increased if the victim was a police officer, firefighter, or a first responder.
  • Vehicular assault: This charge is filed when a driver causes serious bodily injury to another person due to their actions behind the wheel.
  • Reckless driving: Reckless driving is defined as driving in a manner that endangers the safety of others. This can include speeding, running red lights, and other dangerous behaviors.
  • Driving while impaired: This charge applies to drivers who are operating a vehicle while impaired by drugs or alcohol.
  • Leaving the scene of an accident: This charge applies to drivers who leave the scene of an accident without providing information or rendering aid.
  • Fleeing a police officer: This charge applies to drivers who attempt to flee from a police officer during a traffic stop.

The penalties for Minnesota felony traffic violations include jail time, fines, and other consequences.

Minnesota Traffic Misdemeanors

Minnesota traffic misdemeanors are crimes that are committed while driving a vehicle. These crimes are less severe than felony offenses, but they can still result in fines and jail time. Some of the most common traffic misdemeanors include driving without a license, driving without insurance, and speeding.

The penalties for Minnesota traffic misdemeanors include fines, jail time, and driver's license suspension. The fines for these offenses vary depending on the severity of the crime but can be as high as $1,000. Jail time for a traffic misdemeanor can range from one day to one year, and driver's license suspensions can last for 90 days.

Minnesota Traffic Infractions

Unlike traffic misdemeanors, Minnesota traffic infractions are not criminal offenses. Infractions are instead civil violations that can result in fines or other penalties. Common examples of traffic infractions include running a red light and parking illegally.

Motorists charged with a traffic infraction may be able to represent themselves in court. However, offenders are advised to speak to an attorney beforehand to learn how to best navigate the state's legal system.

The penalties for Minnesota traffic infractions include fines, community service, and driver's license suspension. The fines for these offenses vary depending on the severity of the crime but can be as high as $1,000. Community service for a traffic infraction can range from 10 to 40 hours, and driver's license suspensions can last for up to 90 days.

Motorists convicted of a traffic infraction in Minnesota will likely need to pay the fine. However, they may be able to negotiate a payment plan or reduce the fine amount.

Minnesota Traffic Violation Codes and Fines

Per Minnesota Statutes, section 169.14, traffic violations within state limits may be punishable by a fine, jail time, or both.

The following is a list of traffic offenses in Minnesota and the fines associated with each violation. This is not an exhaustive list of traffic offenses in Minnesota, nor are the fines listed guaranteed; this information is subject to change:

Speeding:

  • 1-10 mph over the limit: $120
  • 11-20 mph over the limit: $145
  • 21-30 mph over the limit: $175
  • 31+ mph over the limit: $280

Reckless driving:

  • First offense: $300
  • Second offense: $425 - $3,000
  • Third offense: $525 - $3,000 (jail time may also be imposed)

Driving without insurance:

  • First offense: $200 - $3,000
  • Second offense: $350 - $4,500
  • Third offense: $500 - $5,000 (jail time may also be imposed)

Driving while intoxicated (DWI):

  • First offense: $1,000 - $3,000
  • Second offense: $2,000 - $10,000
  • Third offense: $3,000 - $14,000 (jail time may also be imposed)

Driving with a suspended or revoked license:

  • First offense: $200 - $1,000
  • Second offense:$350 - $3,000
  • Third offense:$500 - 5,000 (jail time may also be imposed)

Illegal passing:

  • First offense: $50 - $300
  • Second offense: $200 - $1,000
  • Failure to yield: $30 - $300
  • Running a red light or stop sign: $100 - $300

Texting while driving:

  • First offense: $50 fine plus surcharge
  • Second offense: $275 fine plus surcharge
  • Third offense: $525 fine plus surcharge
  • Failure to wear a seatbelt: $25 fine for each violation (driver and passenger)
  • Failure to secure a child in a car seat: $25 - $100 fine plus surcharge

Racing:

  • First offense: $500 - $3,000
  • Second offense: $1,000 - $5,000
  • Driving in the left lane: $50 - $100 fine plus surcharge (if impeding traffic)

How to Pay a Traffic Violation Ticket in Minnesota

Motorists who have received a traffic violation ticket in Minnesota may pay the designated fine through a variety of means. First, they can pay online via the Minnesota Court Payment Center website. To do so, they will need to enter their case number and last name. Alternatively, they can call the court payment center at (800) 657-3611 to make a payment over the phone. Finally, they can mail a check or money order to:

Court Payment Center
P.O. Box 898
Willmar, MN 56201

Requestors must include their case number on the check or money order. Further questions regarding traffic ticket payment may be made to the court payment center or the local court.

To pay a ticket in person, the motorist must take the following to court:

  • The traffic citation or notice to appear
  • An acceptable form of payment (cash, check, or money order)

If the motorist fails to pay the fine or does not show up for their court date, a warrant may be issued for their arrest. Additionally, the motorist's driver's license may be suspended.

Traffic Violation Lookup in Minnesota

There are several options for looking up Minnesota traffic tickets or violation information. The most common is probably through the Minnesota Court Payment Center, which can be found online. Lookups can also be conducted by contacting the court where the ticket was issued or contacting the Minnesota Department of Public Safety.

Looking up a traffic ticket online is the most convenient way to do it. The requesting party will require their driver's license number and the date of the offense. Upon inputting this information, they will see all the traffic ticket details, including the fine amount and the court date. If they plan on contesting the ticket, they can also do so through the Minnesota Court Payment Center website.

To look up a traffic ticket in person or over the phone, requestors may contact the court clerk in the courthouse of the jurisdiction where the violation occurred. The clerk will then provide all the required information and answer any questions about contesting the ticket or paying the fine.

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety also keeps records of all traffic tickets issued in the state. Interested persons can contact them to look up a traffic ticket. However, requestors will be required to pay a fee for this service.

Offending motorists may also look up their tickets using third-party aggregate sites. While these websites are not affiliated with the state of Minnesota, they can still provide helpful information about traffic tickets.

To look up a ticket using a third-party site, requestors may enter their driver's license number and the date of the offense on the website. The site will then pull up all the information about the traffic ticket, including the fine amount and the court date. These websites usually also have a database of Minnesota courts that requestors may use to find contact information for the court where their ticket was issued.

How to Plead not Guilty to a Traffic Violation in Minnesota

Motorists cited for a traffic violation in Minnesota may choose to plead not guilty and contest the citation. To do so, the motorist must appear in court on the date specified on their citation. At the hearing, the judge will consider evidence from both sides and determine whether or not they are guilty of the violation.

The defendant must do well to present their case clearly and convincingly or employ the expertise of an experienced attorney to help navigate the legal process and ensure that their rights are protected. If the judge finds the defendant guilty, they will be required to pay the fine associated with the violation; otherwise, they will be acquitted.

The defendant may also choose to Plead not guilty by mail in Minnesota.

If opting to plead not guilty by mail, the requesting party must fill out the back of their citation where it says "not guilty" and "request a hearing". They must include their full name, address, driver's license number, and any other information the court may need to process the request. The defendant may then mail the plea and request a hearing to the address on the citation. The court will contact them with a date and time for the hearing.

When deciding whether or not to plead guilty by mail, defendants must keep in mind that they are waiving their right to a speedy trial. They may also inadvertently give up the opportunity to speak with the prosecutor before their hearing date. Typically, offenders are advised to hire an attorney if they plan on pleading not guilty by mail.

What Happens if You Plead No Contest to a Traffic Violation in Minnesota?

A person who pleads no contest to a traffic violation in Minnesota will have the same penalties as if they had been convicted of the offense. This means they will face the same fines, points on their license, and potential suspension or revocation of their license as if they had gone to court and been found guilty. In some cases, pleading no contest may be the best option for a person accused of a traffic violation, as it can avoid a criminal conviction on their record.

How Long Do Traffic Violations Stay on Your Record?

The length of time that a traffic violation stays on a motorist's records in Minnesota can vary depending on the jurisdiction in which they were cited. However, traffic violations will remain on a person's driving record for at least three years in most cases.

In some instances, traffic violations may stay on a person's record for up to seven years. Points will then be added to the driver's license after committing certain traffic violations. These points may lead to the suspension or revocation of a person's license if enough are accumulated. The number of points added for each violation also varies by jurisdiction.

The length of time that a traffic violation stays on a person's record in Minnesota also depends on the severity of the offense. For example, a speeding ticket will generally remain on a person's driving record for three years, while a more severe offense like DUI may stay on a person's record for up to 10 years. If the offender has multiple violations on their record, they will usually remain on the record for a more extended period.

Can Traffic Violations Be Expunged or Sealed in Minnesota?

Yes, traffic violations can be expunged or sealed in Minnesota. This process is called "expungement". Expungement means that the record of the violation will be removed from the offender's public driving record. The misdemeanor will still appear on their criminal record, but it will not be accessible to the general public.

To get a traffic violation expunged in Minnesota, the offending motorist must file a petition with the court. The court will then review the petition and decide whether or not to grant the request. If the court grants said request, the traffic violation would be expunged from the public driving record.

It is important to note that not all traffic violations can be expunged. For example, serious offenses such as DUI or hit and run cannot be expunged. Also, if the offender has multiple traffic violations on their record, they may not be eligible for expungement.

If the offender is not eligible for expungement, they may still be able to seal their record. Sealing the record means that the public will not have access to it. However, sealing the record does not mean that the record is completely erased. It will still appear on the offender's criminal record and can be accessed by law enforcement or other government agencies.

To get a traffic violation sealed in Minnesota, requestors must file a petition with the court. The court will then review their petition and decide whether or not to grant the request. If the court grants the request, the traffic violation will be sealed from the offender's public driving record.

What Happens if You Miss a Court Date for a Traffic Violation in Minnesota?

If a defendant misses their court date for a traffic violation in Minnesota, they may be subject to several penalties. These can include having their license suspended, being issued a warrant for their arrest, or paying additional fines. In some cases, the court may also decide to increase the severity of the original charge.