Question: I travel a lot and I see a number of people making some poor choices when it comes to passing semis and large vehicles. There is no way these big rigs can stop in time when people do these unsafe maneuvers. Can you write about this? Answer: A commercial vehicle is a motor vehicle or a combination of motor vehicles that weighs more than 26,000 pounds and is used to … [Read more...]

Question:  I listened to your radio show the other day and you were talking about fatal crashes were lower last year, what was the break down on the numbers? Answer: In 2025, Minnesota saw a significant improvement in road safety, recording 370 traffic-related deaths. This marks the lowest fatality count since 2019 and reflects a 22% decrease from 2024 and 8% percent less … [Read more...]

Question: My husband always used to say “never use your cruise control during the winter months”. Is that still true with advances on tires and technology? Answer: He is correct, cruise control should never be used on wet or icy roadways. If your wheels lose traction, the cruise control will continue to accelerate, causing the vehicle to skid. By the time you realize you are … [Read more...]

Question: During one of the recent winter storms, I encountered numerous vehicles driving on a 4-lane highway with their four-way hazard lights on.  The vehicles were not driving significantly slower than the other traffic, as nearly everyone had slowed considerably due to the low visibility. Is it legal in Minnesota and is it ever suggested to drive with your four-way flashers … [Read more...]

Question: I’ve heard about some snow plows getting hit out on the highway this winter. Can you remind people what they should be doing when sharing the roads with our plow drivers? Answer: For people to stay safe around plows, they just need to practice good common sense and have some patience. •Give Space: Stay at least 10 car lengths (about 200 feet) behind a plow. •Avoid … [Read more...]

Question: I know you were talking about winter safety tips in your last article. Can you go over the items a person should have in their vehicle when traveling in the winter? Answer: When assembling a winter travel survival kit, it’s best to include a variety of items that prepare you for cold, isolation, and unexpected delays. Even if you keep the kit in your vehicle … [Read more...]

Question: I’ve seen the traffic safety information you share on your X account when it comes to dealing with winter weather and slippery roads. Can you write about winter driving safety here for all of us? I’d like for you to share some basic winter driving tips. Thank you and be safe.  Answer: While summer months are the deadliest on Minnesota roads for fatal crashes, … [Read more...]

Question: I’m pregnant and I’ve seen seat belt attachments that clip under the seat and say they make belts safer for pregnant people. Are these safe to use? Answer: I contacted the expert who is the Community Programs and Occupant Protection Manager for the Minnesota Safety Council and here is what I was advised.  Seat belt adjusters, also called seat belt positioners, … [Read more...]

Question: Is it illegal for a vehicle pulling a trailer to have a ladder or ramp hanging from the side of the trailer? Answer: You are able to have ladders or ramps secured to the side of an enclosed trailer as long as you do not exceed the width of 8 feet 6 inches.  This is the maximum dimension that may be operated on Minnesota roadways without a special permit.  The … [Read more...]

Question: I want to make sure my child is safe in the car, but I’ve heard that some car seats sold online are fake or don’t meet U.S. safety standards. How can I tell if a car seat is unsafe? Answer: Good question. I reached out to the expert who is the Community Programs and Occupant Protection Manager for the Minnesota Safety Council and here is what I found out.  Fake, … [Read more...]