Question: Somebody was trying to tell me the other day that it’s ok to throw out their fruit peels along the highway as they break down fairly quick and it shouldn’t be an issue. I disagreed and told them garbage is garbage. I asked if they would want someone to throw that stuff in their yard. What does the law say? Answer: You are correct. That would not be allowed. It is … [Read more...]

Question: I heard some talk about a new law of July 1 that allows motorcycles to drive through traffic. Can you explain this as a lot of my friends are talking but I can’t get the same answer from any of them. Answer: Motorcycle lane splitting and filtering are legal on Minnesota roads as of July 1. The new law, passed by the Legislature in 2024, allows motorcycles to share … [Read more...]

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...]