By Sgt. Troy Christianson Question: I have noticed cars that can’t be seen in the day when they fail to turn on their lights on during the recent fog. Can you please explain how dangerous it can be and what the law is that covers this? Answer: Minnesota law states that every vehicle on a roadway shall display lighted headlamps, lighted tail lamps, and illuminating devices … [Read more...]
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By Sgt. Troy Christianson Question: I was driving on the freeway during the worst part of a recent storm. Just had a question – are people supposed to use their emergency flashers when they are driving? So many cars on the freeway were, and it made it impossible to tell if someone was actually stopped or moving slowly (also, if they changed lanes, there was no way to tell). … [Read more...]
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By Sgt. Troy Christianson Question: I heard you on the radio the other day. You were talking about new, young drivers have some restrictions on their driver’s license. You mentioned something about a parent being able to take their license away. Could you explain more about that? Answer: I was talking about graduated driver license (GDLs) laws, which support a three-stage … [Read more...]
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Question: I have a question about people who are driving for food deliveries and ride-hailing app services using their personal vehicle. Are they supposed to have commercial insurance or any other special type of insurance? Back in the ’80s, I was working as an owner/operator using my personal vehicle and was told that I needed commercial insurance. Answer: Minnesota … [Read more...]
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Question: I am applying for a new job that will have questions about my driving record. Can I visit with someone from Law Enforcement to get a copy of that? Answer: No, this is not something that Law Enforcement agencies can provide. If you want to know what employers and insurers see, the Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) division has made it easier than ever to get a copy … [Read more...]
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Question: Can a parent with a revoked license still accompany a permit driver? Answer: No, they cannot. A permit holder may drive under the supervision of a parent, guardian or other licensed driver 21 or older occupying the seat beside them. • The permit holder must have the permit in possession to drive. • It’s illegal for drivers under age 18 to use a cell phone, … [Read more...]
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Question: I do a lot of over-the-road traveling for work. Can I stop and stretch my legs along the freeway? Answer: Do not stop on the interstate or along the roadway. The only time you can stop on the freeway is for emergencies. Use the freeway exits/off-ramps and pull off onto the shoulder and park. If you are in need, Minnesota offers several rest areas throughout our … [Read more...]
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Question: My question is why electric cars and trucks do not have front license plates? These are all from Minnesota, which is required by law. They are not from out of state. Answer: Electric vehicles are required to have a front license plate in Minnesota, this is a common equipment violation. Minnesota State Statute (M.S.S.) 169.79 states: “No person shall operate, drive … [Read more...]
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Question: I read your recent article about winter travel safety. Can you talk more in depth about what a person should have in their vehicle? Answer: Great topic to expand on. During the winter months, being prepared becomes even more important. Things happen: Crashes, stalled vehicles, being on the wrong side of a jackknifed semi or a whiteout blizzard that lasts for many … [Read more...]
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Question: I just saw something about a Minnesota traffic safety program that’s been around for 20 years. Can you talk more about that? Answer: Yes, here is some information we shared on our DPS blog: “Minnesota has seen a 32% reduction in traffic fatalities between 2003 and 2022, in part due to the Toward Zero Deaths (TZD) traffic safety program. The Department of Public … [Read more...]