By Sgt. Troy Christianson Minnesota State Patrol Question: It’s so cold in the winter, I am thinking about getting one of those fuzzy steering wheel covers. I think they will help keep my hands warm while driving. But my question is, are they legal? Answer: Steering wheel covers are legal. A quick reminder though – it’s always the driver’s responsibility to keep control of … [Read more...]

We all know the dangers of driving with snow and ice on the roads, but driving with snow and ice on your vehicle is also a hazard. Always take time to remove all snow and ice from your vehicle before traveling. This is for your safety and the safety of other drivers. Snow and ice left on your hood, roof and trunk can shift and blow off – blinding you or the driver behind you. … [Read more...]

Minnesota State Patrol Question: I have a friend who drives around with a scanner in his vehicle. He says because he has a ham radio license it’s legal, is that true? Answer: Your friend is correct. Peace officers, the State Patrol, and people with an amateur radio license issued by the Federal Communications Commission are allowed to have a scanner in their vehicle. … [Read more...]

By Sgt. Troy Christianson Minnesota State Patrol Question: My wife slid off the state highway this morning. She came to a stop in the median ditch, unhurt but rattled - only needing to be pulled out. When she called me I told her to call the State Patrol and stay in the car until you arrived. What is the right procedure to follow when a driver ends up stuck in the ditch? Do … [Read more...]

Minnesota State Patrol Question: Now that winter is here, can you talk about winter travel safety? Answer: Snow and ice can make driving a bit more challenging, even if you grew up here. It not only involves knowing what to do while your vehicle is in motion, but preparing carefully before you leave the house and being ready in case of a crash. Based on the typical … [Read more...]

Minnesota State Patrol Eggnog.  Mulled wine. Seasonal beers and festive cocktails. The holidays can pose tough choices. But there’s one choice that’s not only easy to make; it will save lives. That’s the choice not to drive if you’ve been drinking. For people who make the wrong choice, though, there are extra DWI patrols on Minnesota roads. The campaign started November 24 … [Read more...]

Minnesota State Patrol Question: I watched a news report which involved a carjacking in St. Paul, Minn.  I live in Minnesota.  The carjacker was apprehended when they attempted to burglarize the victim’s home using the address found on insurance paperwork located in the victim’s car. I am writing to find out if I could take a picture (using my phone) of my insurance paperwork … [Read more...]

By Sgt. Troy Christianson Minnesota State Patrol Question: I called in a driving complaint of a possible drunk driver and received a call back and was told the driver was tired. Can the driver be cited for this? Answer:  Yes, the drowsy driver could be cited for inattentive driving and additional serious charges could be incurred if the drowsy driver causes a crash. A … [Read more...]

Minnesota State Patrol Question: I have a question about headlights, it seems that drivers are using their high-beams to compensate for their cloudy headlights.  Is this an equipment problem? Answer: Using high beams to compensate for cloudy headlights is a hazard to oncoming traffic.  If your headlights are cloudy it is recommended that you clean them. If they are still … [Read more...]