MN HF3249

Drivers approaching parked or stopped authorized emergency vehicles with activated emergency lights must move to the farthest lane on two-lane roads, or leave a full vacant lane on roads with more than two lanes, if possible.

When a lane change is impossible or on one-lane roads, drivers must reduce speed to reasonable and prudent levels until completely passing the emergency vehicle, if possible.

Peace officers may issue citations within four hours of an incident if they have probable cause to believe a driver violated passing requirements, including based on timely crew reports containing vehicle description and license plate number.

Towing vehicles with activated flashing lights authorized under Minnesota law are included in the definition of "authorized emergency vehicle" for purposes of these passing requirements.

Similar passing requirements apply to freeway service patrol vehicles, road maintenance vehicles, utility company vehicles, and construction vehicles with activated warning lights.

Both sections become effective August 1, 2018, and apply to offenses committed on or after that date.