Question: Hello, I live in “cabin country” and it never fails, during the summer months with the influx of traffic, there are always arguments regarding traffic “laws” or “it’s just being Minnesota nice.” There’s been several near misses and I can see both sides of the argument and wondering if you can help clear up an ongoing discussion. At a single-lane intersection, the … [Read more...]
Ask a Trooper
Question: My kid just received their driver’s license. It was during this time that I found out they are limited on their passengers. They want to give their friends a ride but I think more people should know about this on the limitations. Answer: Teen drivers are only allowed to have one passenger under the age of 20 for the first six months they have their provisional … [Read more...]
Ask A Trooper
Question: I bought a boat and the width is 10 feet wide, how can I legally haul it to different lakes? Answer: The maximum length cannot 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 maximum height is 13 feet 6 inches. If you exceed the height or width, then you would have to … [Read more...]
Ask a Trooper
Question: I have a new driver in my house. What advice should I give them when encountering a road rage type situation? Answer: Stay safe if you encounter an aggressive driver. You can only control what you do and how you respond. •Get out of their way. •Stay calm – safely reaching your destination is your goal. •Do not challenge them. •Avoid eye contact. •Ignore their … [Read more...]
Ask a Trooper
Question: I would like more information on trailer hitch ball sizes and why they have different sizes? Answer: There are four different trailer hitch ball sizes. Each size has a different weight rating related to the trailer you are pulling. It is very important to make sure you always use the proper ball size with the trailer you are pulling. The ball size required for the … [Read more...]
Ask a Trooper
Question: With summer being upon us, can you get some information out in regards to motorcycle safety? Answer: Operating a motorcycle requires different skills than driving a car, so there are some additional requirements for motorcycle riders: •Motorcyclists are entitled to the full use of their lanes and have all the rights and duties of other drivers. •Operators must have … [Read more...]
Ask a Trooper
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...]
Ask a Trooper
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...]
Ask a Trooper
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...]
Ask a Trooper
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...]