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ST. PAUL, Minn. – Speed is one of the leading causes of death and serious injuries on Minnesota highways, and this summer, the Minnesota Department of Transportation and partners throughout the state are helping make highways safer by installing more than 300 Vehicle Speed Feedback Signs. These signs are proven to lower speeds when installed in strategic locations.
In consultation with the Advisory Council on Traffic Safety, MnDOT purchased more than 300 of the signs for installation along rural highways. These signs detect and display speeds as drivers approach a town or a reduced speed zone. Minnesota Department of Public Safety law enforcement liaisons, local law enforcement and MnDOT worked together to identify locations for the signs, as well as other complementary strategies. After installation, the city or local agency where signs are located will own, operate and maintain the signs.
Speed feedback signs are one tool MnDOT uses to improve highway safety. During the Walz-Flanagan Administration, MnDOT has installed hundreds of safety improvements on Minnesota’s highways, including 82 roundabouts, 83 J-Turns and 115 miles of high-tension cable barrier. This summer, MnDOT is launching a work zone speed safety camera pilot project to look at ways to reduce speeds in highway work zones.
“Slowing down saves lives. It's that simple,” said MnDOT Commissioner Nancy Daubenberger. “By deploying speed feedback signs, MnDOT is working with our local partners to help make Minnesota roads safer for all travelers. But safety is everyone’s responsibility. Drivers, please pay attention to your speed and follow the posted speed limit.”
Obeying the speed limit gives drivers more control over their vehicle, allows them to respond to changing road conditions and makes crashes less deadly. Speeding even a small amount over the limit increases the risk of a crash and makes crashes more dangerous overall. Preliminary 2025 data shows there were 388 speed-related serious injuries and 102 speed-related fatalities in Minnesota, and that approximately 65 percent of speed-related deaths had at least one driver going just 10 mph or more over the speed limit.
Cities can install these speed feedback signs at their own cost on any road with owner permission and should contact their local MnDOT office to start the process.
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www.mndot.gov
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