Question: I can’t help but notice but it seems like a lot of people are following each other too close out on the highways. It’s been many years since I was in driver’s education but what is the recommendation for following distance? Answer: Here is information that is shared in the Minnesota Driver’s Manual. Applying the “Three-Second Rule” helps you keep a safe distance … [Read more...]

Question: Every once in a while, I notice some vehicles stop in the road at the railroad tracks when nothing is coming. Can I pass them when they do this? Answer: Some vehicles, such as passenger vans, buses, and larger trucks, are required to stop at all railroad tracks, whether or not a train is present. Do not pass these vehicles. It is illegal to pass any vehicle within … [Read more...]

Question: My vehicle is equipped with airbags. Do I need to wear my seat belt? Answer: Yes, seat belt use is required. An airbag is a supplemental restraint system. Airbags work with seat belts to prevent injuries but are not designed to keep occupants from being ejected. For safety reasons, children under age 13 must ride in the back seat if it is available. Try to keep … [Read more...]

Question: I was driving through town the other day and a driver opened their car door as I passed by. I had to swerve to avoid hitting their car door. Obviously, it was a safety issue but isn’t there a law about this? I’d appreciate any info you can share. Thank you.  Answer: Correct, there is a Minnesota state law about this issue.  When you are stopped or parked on the … [Read more...]

Question: I know it was just National Fire Prevention Week. I’ve seen a few vehicle fires during my travels. Can you talk about what people can or should do in those situations? Answer: If you notice smoke rising from beneath the hood of your vehicle, pull off the road, turn off the ignition, and exit the vehicle immediately. Do not use water to put out the fire – this will … [Read more...]

Question: Hello, we read your column every week. I’ve noticed more often lately on numerous occasions that when a school bus is stopped and dropping off or picking up kids, they do NOT have their red lights flashing or their STOP arm extended. The bus will only have the yellow lights flashing. When searching the internet for school bus rules/regulations I can only find … [Read more...]

Question: I have a medical condition that causes me to lose consciousness on occasion. I am hoping to get a driver’s license. Is there anything I need to do? Answer: When applying for an instruction permit or driver’s license, you will be asked questions about medical conditions. Providing false information on the application could result in losing your driving … [Read more...]

Question: This week it has been extremely foggy on the morning commutes, can you give some advice on driving in fog? Answer: Driving when the weather limits your visibility can be a challenge for all of us on the road. You can reduce your chances of being involved in a crash by eliminating distractions and by following a few safety tips. Minnesota law states that every … [Read more...]

Question: I heard some talk about new car seat laws and how kids are to be seat belted. Can you explain it in depth please? Answer: Yes, I can and as a matter of fact it is National Child Passenger Safety Week. Here is some information that we shared on our Minnesota Department of Public Safety Blog. Figuring out the best way to keep kids safe in your vehicle can be … [Read more...]

Question: I dropped off my grandchildren at school the other day and I encountered someone waving a flag around the school buses. Do you know what that would be about? Answer: I am guessing it was a school bus flagger. Some schools have people in place to assist with school buses exiting their school zones and parking lots. If you encounter one, you must stop for a school bus … [Read more...]