Question: What is the process for reporting an unsafe driver if you don’t have a particular incident to report? I’m concerned with a bunch of things I’ve been noticing getting worse over time. Thank you. Answer: There are several options for you to consider. • Write and sign a letter to Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) outlining specific concerns. DVS will contact the … [Read more...]
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Question: If I sell my vehicle to a private party, what do you recommend I do to protect myself in the event the new owner gets into a crash or is arrested prior to them transferring the title into their name? Answer: If the vehicle you sold is involved in a hit and run or pursuit and the driver flees the scene, law enforcement will contact the registered owner in an … [Read more...]
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Question: Can a person park their camper/RV in the ditch of a highway? What about staying in a RV at a Minnesota rest area? Answer: Leaving or parking a camper or travel trailer in the ditch or on any highway right-of-way is illegal. A highway right-of-way typically extends near the top of the outside slope. It would only be allowed where signs designate it as a … [Read more...]
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Question: How effective are the statewide extra enforcement projects that are announced from law enforcement? Answer: These campaigns are very effective in reducing the total number of crashes caused by speeding, driving under the influence, distracted driving and occupants not wearing a seatbelt. From our last extra enforcement speed campaign, more than 300 law … [Read more...]
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Question: Do I need an oversize or wideload permit to haul a boat lift that is over 9 feet wide to my cabin? Answer: You would need to obtain a permit because the width is over eight feet six inches. Hauling oversized items without a permit or escorts (if required) can be dangerous and is illegal. Troopers and private escort companies are required to be trained and … [Read more...]
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Question: Yesterday, I saw a guy go by my house on a motorcycle. He had his daughter sitting in front of him while he operated the motorcycle. This girl could not have been more than seven years old. What is the age for a child to legally ride as a passenger in Minnesota? A second question, is it legal for that child to sit in front of the actual operator? Answer: A passenger … [Read more...]
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Question: Can a young driver with a North Dakota Driving Permit legally drive in Minnesota? How about in other states? Answer: No, they cannot legally drive in Minnesota. In Minnesota, a nonresident who is at least 15 years old may drive here if they have in their immediate possession a valid driver’s license from their home state or country. If you are traveling in other … [Read more...]
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Minnesota State Patrol Question: When the speed limit changes on a road, does the new speed limit start at the sign, or does it start when you can see the sign? Answer: The speed zone becomes effective when you reach the sign. If the speed limit reduces, you must slow down before the sign. If the speed limit increases, you must wait until you reach the new speed limit sign … [Read more...]
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Question: How fast can I drive before getting stopped? Is there a tolerance? Answer: State Patrol policy does not allow for any speeds in excess of the posted limit. Officers use their departmental policy, the totality of circumstances, all other conditions (road, weather, lighting and traffic), and common sense. Speeding and driving too fast for conditions is discouraged … [Read more...]
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Question: I have a short box pick-up. A friend wanted me to carry two 12-foot aluminum boats he had purchased. Being as they would have extended far past my seven foot or less truck bed, I declined, thinking it was too long to be legal. Was I correct? What is the length limit for loads off the rear of a pick-up? Answer: According to Minnesota state law, no single vehicle may … [Read more...]