Question: I heard something about kids needing to ride in the back seat if possible. What is the age on that? Answer: Back on August 1, 2024, there were new car seat guidelines put in place along with this. The back seat is the safest place in most vehicles. Children under 13 must ride in the back if it is available. •Children under 2 years of age must ride in a rear-facing … [Read more...]

Question: Can you write about airbags? I know you just wrote an article about it being best for kids to ride in the back seat. I know airbags are an issue for kids in the front seat so I thought this would be a good topic. Thank you. Answer: An airbag is a supplemental restraint system. Airbags work with seat belts to prevent injuries but are not designed to keep occupants … [Read more...]

Question: I thought I heard something about a new law in regards to caretaker information included on driver’s license or identification card record. Do you have any information on this? Answer: You can now use your Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) records to let law enforcement know if you’re the caretaker for someone else. That way, if you are involved in a crash, law … [Read more...]

Question: I was just talking with someone the other day and they mentioned there is an age requirement for operating an “e-bike.” Can you get me more information on this? Answer: When it comes to e-bikes, a driver’s license or permit is not required. However, the minimum operator age is 15 years old. E-bikes are primarily regulated in the same manner as bicycles and nearly … [Read more...]

Question: I caught part of the news the other night and heard something about the 100 deadliest days. Can you get me more information on that?  Answer: I certainly can. Here is some information we shared on the Minnesota Department of Safety blog. The Minnesota State Patrol is urging drivers to make smart, safe decisions as the state enters what is known as the “100 deadliest … [Read more...]

Question: I have been receiving text messages about an “E-Z Pass Final Reminder.” It’s something about having an outstanding toll and submitting payment. I was told it was a scam. Can you get me more information on this? Answer: Here is information from the Minnesota Department of Transportation E-ZPass page. www.dot.state.mn.us/ezpassmn/news.html. Scammers are sending fake … [Read more...]

Question: I drive truck for a living. Can you write about people that cut us off? These big rigs can’t stop on a dime. It’s frustrating because when they do that it can cause a wreck. Answer: Changing lanes and cutting in too close in front of another vehicle is always dangerous, but it’s especially dangerous to cut off a commercial bus or truck. If you move in quickly from … [Read more...]

Question: I read your last article about road construction and work zones. Can you talk about the zipper merge? It seems like a lot of people don’t know what it is or can’t figure it out. Thank you. Answer: The “Late Merge - Zipper Merge” is a driving strategy that requires drivers to change their mindset about merging. Traditionally, drivers have been taught to merge early … [Read more...]

Question: I notice a lot of people walking and running along the highway. The thing that concerns me is that they are moving in the same direction of traffic with their back to the potential hazard. Can you talk about pedestrian safety and what people should do when on the highway? Answer: Minnesota state law says that pedestrians along a roadway shall, when practicable, … [Read more...]

Question: In one day, Monday I had three incidents where cars did not yield right of way when they had a flashing left turn arrow. I have observed several other incidents involving other drives as well. It seems of late people seem to think the flashing arrow gives them the right of way.  Answer: An A flashing yellow light or arrow means “caution.” Proceed through the … [Read more...]

Question: The other day I came across a railroad crossing sign with the word “EXEMPT” placed on it. What is that all about? Answer: An X-shaped sign identifies a railroad crossing. If there is more than one track, a sign below the crossbuck indicates the number of tracks. Warning signs, pavement markings, gates and flashing red lights are positioned at most railroad … [Read more...]

Question: Are trailer hitch load extenders legal? Occasionally I haul some lumber that sticks out beyond my tailgate and would like to know if I can use this. Answer: Yes you can. Note that when the load upon any vehicle extends to the rear four feet or more beyond the bed or body of such vehicle there are some requirements. At the extreme rear end of such load a red, yellow … [Read more...]

Question: What is a safe routine when backing up using the mirrors in conjunction with the vehicle’s backup camera? Answer: Backing up is not allowed on freeways or expressways, except for emergency vehicles on duty. Backing up on public roads can result in a charge of reckless or careless driving. If you must back out of a driveway onto a public road, back into the nearest … [Read more...]

Question: I know there is a lot of discussion on distracted driving. I have a question how does the law apply to amateur radio devices? For example, trained storm spotters sometimes use hand-held and vehicle mobile radios during a weather emergency.  Answer: Devices such as amateur radio, two-way radio and citizens band (CB) radio are exempt under the hands-free law. The law … [Read more...]

Question: I have a new driver in the house. We were having some discussion on where a person needs to stop when coming to a stop sign and other situations. Can you please write about that? Thanks! Answer: Congratulation on the new driver. Here is what a person needs to know when it comes to stopping your vehicle. Stop Signs Come to a complete stop at stop signs. … [Read more...]