Question: I see vehicles go by with extended carriers attached to their hitch with several full gas cans. We discuss what could happen if a driver was not paying attention and ran into one such vehicle. How safe can this be? Is there any laws in place that makes this unlawful? Answer: There is no law against transporting fuel containers on an extended carrier for … [Read more...]

  Question: I can’t help to think of all the ways to be distracted while driving such as texting, using the phone, changing the radio, eating, smoking, etc. that in addition, having small pets on one’s shoulder or lap while driving can be legal. Not only cats and small dogs being positioned in the driver’s line of sight or blind spot, I have even seen ferrets and … [Read more...]

  Question: What is the rule for drivers of motorcycles for making left or right turns at intersections? Someone told me that because some vehicles are not heavy enough to trip the signal lights they are legally able to make a left or right turn at a red light when it is safe to do so, after the signal light has cycled once. Please advise, thanks! Answer: Minnesota … [Read more...]

Question: What are the most common vehicle equipment violations you see? Answer: I have witnessed and investigated numerous equipment violations over the course of my career as a Minnesota State Trooper. The most common violations I have seen are: • Window tint violations: Law prohibits tint on the front windshield. Passenger cars are limited to 50% on all side and … [Read more...]

  Question: I want to install a lift kit and put bigger tires on my pickup. I want to comply with all the state laws. What is a bumper height law and the law about tires that extend out past the fenders? Answer: Adding a lift kit and installing bigger tires and rims are very popular on pickup trucks. Anytime you make any type of modification or alterations to a … [Read more...]

Question: On most days I observe college students who are wearing dark jackets and hats, listening to “tunes” while walking, or walking in the same direction as motor traffic rather than facing that traffic. This street has no sidewalks so all the walking occurs close to the cars. I am concerned that these young people are putting themselves at risk of becoming victims of motor … [Read more...]

Question: I am interested in becoming a Minnesota State Trooper. Can you give me more information on joining the State Patrol? Answer: The Minnesota State Patrol provides for an exciting and meaningful career that goes beyond the highway. Nearly 600 State Troopers provide assistance, education and enforcement to the people of Minnesota, and provide for safe, efficient … [Read more...]

  Question: What do those words on the door of your squad car “L’ETOILE DU NORD” mean? Answer: Our squad car door badge displays the Seal of Minnesota, including the French phrase “L’Etoile du Nord,” meaning “The Star of the North.” This motto was chosen by our first governor, Henry Hastings Sibley and became the State Motto in 1861.  This was three years after … [Read more...]

Question: I was wondering if I needed to cover my spot light/light bar on top of my pickup before I hit the highway. Let me know what the rules are regarding a cover or no cover. The research I did before purchasing was only KC style or round lights needed a cover in the state of Minnesota. I have included a photograph. Answer: If a vehicle with auxiliary lamps is driven on a … [Read more...]

  Question: Is it legal for local police or highway patrol to make regular traffic stops with an unmarked vehicle (no markings at all) or does the vehicle have to have some kind of markings? Answer: The Minnesota State Patrol has 15 unmarked squad cars operated by troopers whose primary job function is road patrol.  Key words in the statute are “primary function.”  … [Read more...]