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Law Overview

Law Overview

Laws

The Worthington Police Department is providing this short synopsis of State Laws for your convenience. It is not intended to represent all the Laws and Regulations. If you have any questions in regards to the laws mentioned in this brochure, please call the Law Enforcement Center at 295-5400.

Your cooperation with the local law enforcement is greatly appreciated.

— Worthington Police Chief
Troy Appel

911

911 is the telephone number to summon Police, Fire, Rescue, and Ambulance personnel in Nobles County and the City of Worthington. This number is for emergencies only. The number to call for non-emergency police business in 295-5400.

The Following Are Specific State Statutes

Auto Insurance - Minnesota Law requires that all motor vehicles be covered by a minimum liability insurance policy. Proof of the insurance coverage must be carried in the vehicle at all times and be available upon the request of a police officer. Insurance is required for all vehicles; this includes vehicles operated in Minnesota that are registered in another state.

Driver’s License - If you are a new resident of Minnesota, a 60-day grace period is granted for you to obtain a Minnesota Driver’s License. The same time period is set for registering your motor vehicles in Minnesota.

If you are a resident of Minnesota and you change your address, you have 30 days to change the address on your driver’s license.

Seat Belts - The State of Minnesota requires the use of seat belts for all occupants of a motor vehicle. Children up to the age of 8 years and under the height of 4'9" must be restrained in an appropriate child restraint. It is the driver’s responsibility to make sure occupants under the age of 15 years are restrained while in a motor vehicle.

Alcohol & Controlled Substance - The State of Minnesota prohibits drivers from operating motor vehicles while intoxicated by alcohol or controlled substances. Minnesota Law also forbids the presence of open containers of alcoholic beverages inside the driver and passenger areas of a motor vehicle. Because alcohol-related motor vehicle crashes are a leading cause of injury and death on our highways, the Worthington Police Department strictly enforces impaired driving. IF YOU DRINK, DON’T DRIVE!

Equipment - All vehicles on public streets must have all equipment in working order at all times. This includes all lights, mufflers, and all safety equipment.

Window Tinting - Minnesota Law forbids the use of window tinting on the windshield of any vehicle (unless it was part of the manufacturing process). Minnesota Law requires window tinting to allow at least 47% light transmittance on side or rear windows of passenger vehicles. Pick-up trucks and vans can have a higher amount of tinting on the windows to the rear of the driver’s seat. Materials used for tinting may not have a reflection rate of more than 23%. Just because a legitimate company installed the tinting material doesn’t mean the material complies with the law. Make sure you check the law before making a purchase.

Emergency Vehicles - Minnesota Emergency Vehicles have the right of way when operating red lights and sirens. This includes all Police, Fire, Rescue, and Ambulances. When you see these vehicles you must pull to the right side of the road and let them pass. This includes their right of way at intersections.

YOU MAY NOT FOLLOW A FIRE TRUCK TO OR ENTER THE AREAS WHERE THEY ARE!