Question: In last week’s article you wrote about e-bikes. Can you also just provide a reminder on all around bicycle safety? Thank you. Answer: If you’re riding a bicycle, you must: •Obey all traffic control signs and signals, just as you would when driving. •The only exception is that bicyclists may treat stop signs as yield signs when the intersection is clear. •Use … [Read more...]
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Question: I am interested in getting an e-bike, but I do not know what the laws are. Can you get me some more information? Answer: Under Minnesota law, a legal electric-assisted bicycle must meet all of the following requirements: •The motor must not exceed 750 watts of power. •The maximum assisted speed must not exceed 28 miles per hour. •The bicycle must have fully … [Read more...]
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Question: Did I hear something about a new law about stopping for school buses? Answer: In March 2026, Minnesota law changed to require drivers to stop at least 20 feet away from a school bus whenever the red lights are flashing. The stop arm does not need to be fully extended. This new requirement aims to remove confusion and clarify expectations for every driver on the … [Read more...]
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Question: In my community and on my daily commute I encounter two roundabouts each morning, others that I work with will encounter three roundabouts in less than five minutes. Please use your platform to remind drivers how to safely and properly use a roundabout. I see, almost on a daily basis, drivers physically stop their vehicle for other drivers that have not even entered … [Read more...]
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Question: Like most people I travel everyday for work and I know that construction season is upon us. Can you write about getting people to understand the zipper merge? I still see a lot of people that can’t seem to figure this out. Answer: The zipper merge is a driving strategy that requires drivers to change their mindset about merging. Traditionally, drivers have been … [Read more...]
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Question: I know you talk about the importance of tires when it comes to the winter months but I think it’s just as important to talk about it in the spring with rain and wet roads. Thank you. Answer: It is always a good time to talk about tire safety. Tires must support your vehicle’s weight and grip the road properly. Inspect tires regularly for cuts, cracks, uneven wear, … [Read more...]
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Question: I have a question for you. We are looking at renting a moving truck and I noticed it doesn’t have a rearview mirror since the back in blocked by the box of the truck. What is the law in regards to this? Answer: All passenger vehicles must have rearview mirrors. When it comes to vehicles like rental moving trucks, which do not allow a view through a rear window, … [Read more...]
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Question: We are starting to see a lot more fog with spring time. Can you provide some advice for driving in those types of conditions. Answer: This is a great topic. Here is some information from the National Weather Service for driving in fog. If you must drive in foggy conditions, keep the following safety tips in mind: Slow down and allow extra time to reach your … [Read more...]
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Question: In your last Ask a Trooper article, you provided some information on pulling trailers. Can you talk a little more about trailer requirements? Answer: Here is some additional information on trailer requirements: Maximum length – 45 feet Maximum width – 8 feet 6 inches Maximum height – 13 feet 6 inches Tail lamps – two red Reflectors – two red … [Read more...]
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Question: I just purchased a pull-behind camper. I have never owned or pulled one before. I have been doing some research so I know what to do and expect. I thought it would be helpful as I know I am not alone in this situation. Can you write about this? Answer: If you pull a camper or trailer with your vehicle, you must maintain at least 500 feet of following distance from … [Read more...]