Ask a Trooper

Sgt. Jesse Grabow of the Minnesota State Patrol

Question: My vehicle is equipped with airbags. Do I need to wear my seat belt?
Answer: Yes, seat belt use is required. An airbag is a supplemental restraint system. Airbags work with seat belts to prevent injuries but are not designed to keep occupants from being ejected. For safety reasons, children under age 13 must ride in the back seat if it is available.
Try to keep at least 10 inches between yourself and the steering wheel. Keep your hands at the 8 and 4 o’clock or 9 and 3 o’clock positions on the steering wheel.
Move front passenger seats as far back as possible. Read your operator’s manual before driving or riding in a vehicle with airbags.
For more information about seat belts, airbags, and car safety seats, visit the Department of Public Safety Office of Traffic Safety website at https://dps.mn.gov/divisions/ots/seat-belts-air-bags/Pages/default.aspx

A portion of state statutes were used with permission from the Office of the Revisor of Statutes. If you have any questions concerning traffic related laws or issues in Minnesota, send your questions to Trp. Jesse Grabow – Minnesota State Patrol at 1000 Highway 10 West, Detroit Lakes, MN 56501-2205. (You can follow him on Twitter @MSPPIO_NW or reach him at, jesse.grabow@state.mn.us).