Minnesota § 604.16 - LIABILITY FOR LOSS SUFFERED AS A RESULT OF PEACE OFFICER PURSUIT; PENALTIES
Full text of Minnesota Minnesota Statutes § 604.16 — LIABILITY FOR LOSS SUFFERED AS A RESULT OF PEACE OFFICER PURSUIT; PENALTIES, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 604.16. LIABILITY FOR LOSS SUFFERED AS A RESULT OF PEACE OFFICER PURSUIT; PENALTIES
Subdivision 1.Flee; definition.
For purposes of this section, the term "flee" means to increase speed, extinguish motor vehicle headlights or taillights, or to use other means with intent to attempt to elude a peace officer following a signal given by any peace officer to the driver of a motor vehicle.
Subd. 2.Peace officer; definition.
For purposes of this section, "peace officer" means an employee of a political subdivision or state law enforcement agency who is licensed by the Minnesota Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training, charged with the prevention and detection of crime and the enforcement of the general criminal laws of the state and who has the full power of arrest, and shall also include the Minnesota State Patrol and Minnesota conservation officers.
Subd. 3.Liability for loss.
If a peace officer is acting in the lawful discharge of an official duty, a person fleeing the peace officer by means of a motor vehicle or motorcycle is liable for all bodily injury and property damage suffered by any other person, except another person fleeing from a peace officer, arising out of the operation or use of a pursuing peace officer's vehicle, unless the peace officer is not exercising reasonable care.
History:
1981 c 37 s 2; 1981 c 312 s 3; 1984 c 445 s 1
Official Publication of the State of Minnesota
Revisor of Statutes
Source: official Minnesota text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Minnesota § 604.16
What does Minnesota Statutes § 604.16 cover?
Section 604.16 ("LIABILITY FOR LOSS SUFFERED AS A RESULT OF PEACE OFFICER PURSUIT; PENALTIES") is part of the Minnesota Statutes, the codified statutory law of Minnesota. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Minnesota § 604.16?
A common citation format is "Minnesota Statutes § 604.16" (Minnesota). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Minnesota law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Minnesota official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Minnesota attorney.
How does Minnesota § 604.16 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Minnesota can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Minnesota.