Speed limits aren’t just numbers on a sign. They’re designed to create consistency so drivers know what to expect, especially when they’re in an unfamiliar area. When most people drive at a similar speed, the roads are safer for everyone, whether you’re in a car, on a motorcycle, or walking across the street.
In this post, we’ll go over how speed limits work in Minnesota, who decides them, and what can happen when someone doesn’t follow them. If you’ve ever driven through Minnesota, you know how quickly our weather and road conditions can change, which is why it’s so important to follow the speed limit in Minnesota.
At Meshbesher & Spence, we understand that not everyone follows the rules. When someone’s reckless speeding causes an accident, the results can be life-changing. If you or someone you know has been injured in a crash caused by speeding, reach out to our auto accident lawyers today by contacting us online or by calling (612) 339-9121.
Why Minnesota Speed Limits Are Important
Speed limits are designed to promote safety, reduce crashes, and help traffic flow more smoothly.
When drivers travel at similar speeds, the risk of accidents goes down. Large differences in speed between vehicles can lead to dangerous situations, such as sudden braking or risky passing.
By setting a consistent speed for most drivers to follow, speed limits help create a safer driving environment for everyone, so long as the majority of drivers consider the posted speeds reasonable. This approach is known as “voluntary compliance,” where drivers are more likely to follow speed limits they see as fair and consistent. To encourage this, speed limits must remain uniform across the state.
Speed limits are also especially helpful for people driving in unfamiliar areas. A clearly posted limit provides guidance and sets expectations for how fast you should drive on a particular road.
The Real Dangers of Speeding in Minnesota
Many people speed from time to time. Maybe you’re running late for work or trying to make it to an appointment. But the reality is that speeding is one of the most dangerous choices a driver can make.
Here are some important facts to know:
- Speeding is a major cause of fatal crashes. In 2021 alone, 12,330 people were killed in speeding-related crashes across the U.S. That’s 29% of all traffic deaths for the year, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
- The number of speed-related deaths is rising. Speeding fatalities went up by 8% from 2020 to 2021, and injuries in speeding crashes also increased by 7%.
- Motorcycle riders are especially at risk. In fatal crashes, 33% of motorcyclists were speeding, which is the highest rate among all vehicle types.
Speeding remains a serious issue here in Minnesota. According to the Department of Public Safety (DPS), our state saw the following number of speed-related deaths:
- 2021: 171 deaths
- 2022: 130 deaths
- 2023: 113 deaths
- 2024: 137 deaths
- As of early 2025, there have already been at least 15 speed-related deaths
The risk increases during summer. Law enforcement officials call the time between Memorial Day and Labor Day the “100 deadliest days” on Minnesota roads. In 2024, there were 151 fatal crashes during this period, with 44 of those related to speeding.
Minnesota’s speed limits are carefully planned. But just because the rules are in place doesn’t mean everyone will follow them. All it takes is one reckless driver ignoring the limit to cause a serious crash, and that can leave you or your loved ones facing painful injuries, medical bills, and a long road to recovery.
If you’ve been hurt in an accident caused by someone speeding or driving dangerously, the experienced attorneys at Meshbesher & Spence are here to protect your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve. Fill out our quick online form or call (612) 339-9121 to schedule a 100% free case review today.
Minnesota Speeding Laws
The Minnesota speed limit is set by state law Minn. Statute 169.14 and applies under normal driving conditions unless you see a posted sign that says otherwise.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the standard speed limits across the state:
- 10 miles per hour in alleys, mobile home parks, and campgrounds.
- 30 miles per hour on city streets in urban areas.
- 55 miles per hour on most roads that are not highways.
- 65 miles per hour on expressways and urban interstate highways.
- 70 miles per hour on rural interstate highways.
- 40 miles per hour is the minimum speed on interstate highways.
On two-lane highways that have a posted speed limit of 55 mph or higher, Minnesota law allows you to go up to 10 mph over the limit when safely passing another vehicle.
Who Decides the Speed Limit in Minnesota
The Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) is the main authority responsible for setting most speed limits in the state. While local cities, counties, or towns can request changes to speed limits on their roads, MnDOT has the final say.
When MnDOT sets a speed limit, it’s based on careful engineering and traffic studies. These studies look at several key factors, including:
- How fast most people are already driving. This is called the 85th percentile speed, meaning the speed at or below which 85% of drivers are traveling.
- The type and condition of the road.
- Crash history. If a road has a lot of accidents, it may need a lower speed limit or other safety improvements.
- Visibility and design. Things like curves, hills, intersections, pedestrian crossings, and how far ahead drivers can see all play a role.
Adjusted Zones With Different Minnesota Speed Limits
Minnesota has several special speed zones where limits are different from the usual default numbers. These zones are designed to protect people in areas where extra caution is needed:
- School Zones: Speed limits in school zones can be lowered to as little as 15 miles per hour.
- Work Zones: When at least one lane of traffic is closed and workers are present, speed limits usually drop to 45 miles per hour or less, even if the normal limit is 50 mph or higher. It’s also important to note that fines for speeding in work zones are often higher.
- Residential Areas: Cities and towns can lower speed limits on certain residential streets to 35 mph. A rural residential district refers to a stretch of city or town roadway where homes are located less than 300 feet apart over at least a quarter-mile distance.
- Park Roads, Bike Lanes, and Mobile Home Parks: Some areas have their own unique speed rules. For example, park roads may have speed limits set between 15 and 20 mph, while streets with bike lanes often require slower speeds to ensure cyclists’ safety. Mobile home parks usually have speed limits around 10 to 30 mph, depending on local regulations.
Speeding Fines in Minnesota
The penalties vary depending on how fast you were going and where the violation occurred. Some situations carry higher fines, and repeat offenses can even affect your ability to keep your license.
Here are the penalties for violating the Minnesota speed limit:
- If you’re only going a few miles over the limit, you’ll likely get a petty misdemeanor. These tickets usually come with a base fine between $40 and $150 and carry no prison sentence.
- If you’re caught speeding where road crews are working, you can expect a $300 fine, even if you’re only slightly over the speed limit.
- You’ll face double the fine if you’re speeding in a school zone, driving 20 or more mph over the posted limit, or passing a parked emergency vehicle with flashing lights without slowing down.
- If you’re caught driving over 100 mph, your driver’s license can be suspended for at least six months.
However, in some cases, if you’re only slightly over the speed limit, like less than 10 mph over in a 55 mph zone or less than 5 mph over in a 60 mph zone, the violation might not show up on your Department of Public Safety (DPS) driving record.
Unlike some states, Minnesota doesn’t track traffic offenses through a point-based system. However, too many violations in a short period can still get your license suspended.
When Speeding Leads to Harm, Meshbesher & Spence Is Here for You
If you or someone you love has been injured in a crash caused by a speeding driver, Meshbesher & Spence will support you in your recovery.
With over 60 years of proven results and more than $1.1 billion recovered for our clients, we have the experience, resources, and commitment to stand up for Minnesotans.
Contact Meshbesher & Spence today online or by calling (612) 339-9121 to schedule your free consultation. We’re here to protect your rights and make sure you’re not left facing the aftermath of someone else’s reckless driving alone.
Proudly Representing Minnesota Residents
| Related Resources |
| If you found this Minnesota speed limit content helpful, please view the related topics below: – Minnesota Auto Accident Lawyer – What to Do in a Minor Car Accident – Minnesota Car Seat Law: Everything You Need to Know Contact us if you have specific questions on the matter or if you’d like to schedule a free consultation. |