Purpose of the Bill

The purpose of this bill is to change the current legal status surrounding the use of seat belts and child passenger restraint systems in cases of personal injury or property damage resulting from motor vehicle operation in Minnesota.

Main Provisions

• The bill seeks to repeal a specific part of the Minnesota Statutes, precisely section 169.685 subdivision 4. This part of the law currently influences how evidence related to seat belt and child restraint system use can be presented in court cases.
• By repealing this section, the bill aims to allow for the use or non-use of seat belts and child passenger restraint systems to be admitted as evidence in lawsuits involving personal injuries or property damage resulting from motor vehicle accidents.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• Current Law: Under the existing statute, evidence showing whether seat belts or child restraint systems were used or properly installed is generally not admissible in court cases dealing with personal injury or property damage, except in particular cases involving defective equipment.
• Change Introduced: The bill removes this restriction, thereby making it possible for such evidence to be considered in determining liability or damages in relevant lawsuits. This could potentially impact the outcomes of personal injury litigation related to car accidents by allowing parties to introduce evidence of seat belt and child restraint use or non-use.

Relevant Terms

seat belt, child passenger restraint system, evidence admissibility, car accidents, personal injury, litigation, Minnesota Statutes, repeal, motor vehicle operation.