Question: I know you talk about the importance of tires when it comes to the winter months but I think it’s just as important to talk about it in the spring with rain and wet roads. Thank you. Answer: It is always a good time to talk about tire safety. Tires must support your vehicle’s weight and grip the road properly. Inspect tires regularly for cuts, cracks, uneven wear, … [Read more...]

Question: I have a question for you. We are looking at renting a moving truck and I noticed it doesn’t have a rearview mirror since the back in blocked by the box of the truck. What is the law in regards to this? Answer: All passenger vehicles must have rearview mirrors. When it comes to vehicles like rental moving trucks, which do not allow a view through a rear window, … [Read more...]

Question: We are starting to see a lot more fog with spring time. Can you provide some advice for driving in those types of conditions. Answer: This is a great topic. Here is some information from the National Weather Service for driving in fog. If you must drive in foggy conditions, keep the following safety tips in mind: Slow down and allow extra time to reach your … [Read more...]

Question: In your last Ask a Trooper article, you provided some information on pulling trailers. Can you talk a little more about trailer requirements? Answer: Here is some additional information on trailer requirements: Maximum length – 45 feet  Maximum width – 8 feet 6 inches  Maximum height – 13 feet 6 inches  Tail lamps – two red Reflectors – two red … [Read more...]

Question: I just purchased a pull-behind camper. I have never owned or pulled one before. I have been doing some research so I know what to do and expect. I thought it would be helpful as I know I am not alone in this situation. Can you write about this? Answer: If you pull a camper or trailer with your vehicle, you must maintain at least 500 feet of following distance from … [Read more...]

Question: Even with laws I still see a lot of motorists driving distracted. Can you get a reminder out there? Answer: Driver distraction or inattention is a leading factor in crashes in Minnesota, accounting for at least 25% of all crashes annually. Distracted drivers fail to recognize potential hazards on the road and react more slowly to traffic conditions, decreasing … [Read more...]

Question: I enjoy reading your column in the weekly newspaper.  I have a question I hope you can address. We’ve had some heavy fog recently and I get frustrated with the vehicles that do not have their lights on.  Sometimes the headlights are on and the rear lights are not.  What is the advice/law in using your lights during the daytime when there is fog/rain/snow? I think … [Read more...]

Question: The longer I’ve been driving the more issues I see on the highway. I’m certain there are a number of people that don’t understand on-ramps and merging onto the freeway. Can you talk about that? Answer: Entering the freeway. Entry ramps are short, one-way roads that provide access to freeways. At the end of most entry ramps, there is an acceleration lane that allows … [Read more...]

Question: Can you write about the laws on headlights on when they are to be used? It would probably be a good idea to mention the rules of dimming one’s bright lights. Thanks.  Answer: When you are within 1,000 feet of an oncoming vehicle or following another vehicle at a distance of 200 feet or less, your headlights must remain on low beam.  Your headlights must be … [Read more...]

Question:  I took my driver’s training course many years ago. One thing I remember from my training is the steps that goes into making a right-hand turn, including: Looking to my right to make sure no one/nothing is there. Putting on my right turn signal. Looking again for no obstacles.  Proceeding to move over to the curb to allow forward-moving traffic (behind … [Read more...]