Minnesota’s new hands-free law applies to all drivers—including employees—anytime, anywhere. It does not matter who owns the phone.
Employees may use their phones while driving, but only in hands-free or one-touch activation mode. No typing or scrolling is allowed while driving or as part of traffic. Hands-free or hand-held is allowed, however, when there is an immediate threat to life and safety.
The law for commercial vehicle drivers remains the same: hands-free and one touch.
Organizations should update their traffic policies and develop and communicate clear rules and regulations for mobile phones. Employer policies can be stricter than the law.
The website HandsFreeMN.org has a range of resources, including a "Hands-Free How To For Employers" and a list of education ideas for your workplace (see below for a sampling).
Hands-free educational ideas for your workplace
- Conduct hands-free learning sessions. Review the new law’s requirements and any additional company rules.
- Demonstrate how to go hands-free on a variety of cell phone operating systems or vehicle Bluetooth systems.
- Acquire and sell hands-free support accessories (AUX cables, phone holders, earbuds) or offer rebates for employees who demonstrate proof of purchase.
- Incorporate hands-free knowledge into regularly scheduled safety training sessions by offering brown-bag lunch seminars, distracted driving online training, or five-minute safety talks.
- Post informational materials in breakrooms or other common areas.
- More at HandsFreeMN.org
