At long last, Christmas Day is here! For those fortunate enough to experience a white Christmas this year, remember that safety comes first. If you are traveling soon, be sure you are informed of all traffic laws and regulations, and that you comply with them. For example, Minnesota bans this light color for cars during winter, and some lighting is only meant for snow plows, and not for you. These laws and regulations are there for a reason, and failure to comply could result in significant penalties.
Addressing road safety concerns during winter
Driving in Minnesota over the course of the winter can be tricky. This is why road safety has become an increased concern, especially considering the high prevalence of accidents resulting from weather-related factors. According to TSR Injury Law, accidents increase by 10% due to snowy and icy conditions. State troopers added that they responded to more than 800 incidents during a single major winter storm.
During such winter incidents, it is of utmost importance to obey traffic laws, especially when it comes to your car’s lighting. Minnesota has very specific laws when it comes to a car’s lighting. By being fully informed of Minnesota’s statutes, you can avoid unnecessary penalties, as well as ensure the safety of not only yourself, but also that of others. Find out more below.
Minnesota bans this light color for cars during winter
Several states, including Pennsylvania, have made it specifically clear that you are banned from driving around with ‘trending decoration cars’ during the festive season. Meanwhile, Minnesota has specifically outlined its laws concerning lighting in general, including the banning of a particular light color for cars during winter. According to the 2025 Minnesota Statutes, the following light color has restricted use:
- Blue lights are banned on all cars except for
- Snow removal and road maintenance equipment
- Permitted emergency vehicles
Red, flashing, and white lights are also prohibited except for certain exceptions, such as emergency vehicle use or when moving in reverse. However, when it comes to snow plows, some things are meant just for snow plows, and not for you. Sergeant Troy Christianson, a Minnesota State Trooper, has clarified a few things during an interview with The Free Press.
Just for snow plows, not for you
According to Sgt. Christianson, some things are permissible during the winter, such as removing a pickup plow truck’s headlights if they don’t interfere with or obstruct the stock headlights. If snowplow headlights are utilised, they must be used in a manner that does not blind oncoming traffic.
“Most pickup plow trucks that I see on the road have lights that are attached to the plow and are used instead of the original headlights.” – Sgt Christianson
Sgt. Christianson added that Minnesota law allows any service vehicle to be equipped with flashing amber lights, but they must be approved by the commissioner of public safety. So, if your snowplow vehicle’s roof is mounted with flashing amber lights, you still comply with the law. However, the law also highlights that a service vehicle is only allowed to display these flashing amber lights under the following conditions:
- When at the scene of a disabled car, or
- While engaging in road maintenance or snow removal
Failure to comply with the 2025 Minnesota Statutes will result in penalties ranging from $300 fines to misdemeanor charges with $1,000 fines and jail time. So, the best advice is always to ensure that you comply with the respective states’ traffic laws, as this will not only ensure public road safety for all but also help you avoid hefty fines and penalties. Also, remember that some cities have adopted 20 mph on their roads, which may impact your travel time. If you are travelling, be safe. Lastly, Merry Christmas!