Question: I know that Minnesota has made a lot of progress for traffic safety and less people are dying on our roads but what are other states doing? Answer: The first time in nearly a decade, preliminary data from the National Safety Council estimates that as many as 40,000 people died in motor vehicle crashes in 2016 across the United States. That’s a 6% increase over 2015 … [Read more...]
Ask a Trooper
Question: Can you talk about the law that covers a driver’s ability to watch a movie, video or broadcast on a cellphone, tablet or computer while driving? What if the passenger is in possession of the device? Answer: Minnesota state law says that a television screen shall not be installed or used in any motor vehicle where images from the screen are visible to the driver … [Read more...]
Ask a Trooper
Question: If you are 15 years old and have a farm permit to drive a farm truck, how late at night can you drive? Answer: A Minnesota Farm Work license allows a 15-year-old to drive alone only to perform farm work for his or her parent during daylight hours, within 20 miles of the farmhouse and in cities with populations of less than 100,000. The parent must complete a Farm … [Read more...]
Ask a Trooper
Question: Are drivers required to use turn signals when entering or exiting a roundabout? With a newly constructed roundabout very recently opened in town, I have not once observed a turn signal used. What is the law? Answer: This is a great question as we are seeing more roundabouts in the state of Minnesota. Minnesota state law says that a signal of intention to turn … [Read more...]
Ask a Trooper
Question: Is it legal to wear earplugs or headphones driving a vehicle in Minnesota? Does the decibel rating matter? Answer: State statue says that no person, while operating a motor vehicle, shall wear headphones or earphones that are used in both ears simultaneously for purposes of receiving or listening to broadcasts or reproductions from radios or other sound-producing … [Read more...]
Ask a Trooper
Question: I have a question about the Minnesota State Patrol Blood Relays. Recently, one was performed from the twin cities to Red Wing, Minn. Why did it involve three patrol officers? I know this isn’t a great distance and have just been wondering what rules or regulations dictate how this is handled. Answer: The story you are referring to was recently shared on our … [Read more...]
Ask a Trooper
Question: Which states have handgun carry permit laws similar to Minnesota’s permit to carry law? Answer: Out of state permits valid in Minnesota: Alaska, Delaware, Idaho, Illinois, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Dakota, Rhode Island, South Carolina and South Dakota. States with laws not similar to Minnesota (not valid in … [Read more...]
Ask a Trooper
Question: My wife and I love to ride our Honda 1800 Goldwing trike. Can our granddaughter ride between us on short rides? She is seven and loves to ride too. Answer: Your motorcycle owner’s manual states, “Your motorcycle is designed to carry you and one passenger.” Based on that and laws below, it is illegal and unsafe to allow a third passenger. When it comes to motorcycle … [Read more...]
Ask a Trooper
Question: Can you drive in a bike lane? For instance, use it for a right turn lane? Answer: No, motorists are not allowed to drive in the bike lanes. The solid white lines on any road mean do not cross. There are designated areas where the solid white line is converted to dashed lines and this is where motor vehicles are allowed to enter a bike lane to make a turn. Before … [Read more...]
Ask a Trooper
Question: I read that the fine for going through a school bus stop arm will increase in Minnesota. Can you talk about the fine amount and school bus safety? Answer: State law requires all vehicles to stop for school buses when the bus driver activates the flashing lights and has the crossing arm fully extended. As of Aug. 1, drivers who violate that law will face a larger … [Read more...]