Minnesota Trooper Explains Law on Passengers Watching Movies

Ever wondered if it's legal to watch a movie on your tablet while you're cruising down the highway? You know you can't use your phone or tablet while behind the wheel, but what about the passengers—are they allowed to watch movies in a moving vehicle?

While it might seem like a harmless way to pass the time, there are specific rules in Minnesota. Sergeant Troy Christianson from the Minnesota State Patrol provided the explanation below about the law regarding the use of screens in vehicles.

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Christianson says, one in four crashes in Minnesota is caused by distractions, leading to dozens of deaths and hundreds of serious injuries each year.

According to the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration, "Distracted driving is any activity that diverts attention from driving. You cannot drive safely unless the task of driving has your full attention. Any non-driving activity you engage in is a potential distraction and increases your risk of crashing."

What Minnesota Law Says About Passengers Watching Movies

This law exists to help prevent accidents and keep drivers' attention focused on the road and Trooper Christianson said, "Law enforcement is committed to reducing these preventable crashes."

The Minnesota State Trooper said it is everyone's job to keep the roads safe,  "We need everyone’s help—drivers, passengers, and everyone on the road. So, please, put away your phones, tablets, and anything else that could distract you or the driver.

Christianson explained that state law prohibits video screens from being visible to the driver, and for good reason—distracted driving is a serious safety issue.

"Minnesota state law says that a television screen shall not be installed or used in any motor vehicle where images from the screen are visible to the driver while operating the motor vehicle."

The Minnesota Trooper said that certain exceptions exist—like screens used in law enforcement vehicles or for things like rearview cameras—but in general, the rule is simple: if the screen is visible to the driver, it’s a no-go.

If you're like me and your kids are glued to movies in the backseat on those long road trips—don't worry, you're good to go.