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...]
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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...]
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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...]
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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...]
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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...]
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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...]
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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...]
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Question: When does the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) get involved with crashes? Answer: The Minnesota State Patrol notifies the NTSB on the following types of crashes. • School bus injuries or death to student passengers. • Public or charter bus crashes resulting in death or injury to occupants. • Railway crossing crashes resulting in two or more deaths, or … [Read more...]
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Question: I noticed a dog that was in a vehicle the other day at a local business parking lot and the occupants were not around. I was wondering what I should have done. With the recent warm weather, I can imagine the temperature inside the car must have been dangerously high for that dog. Is there a law against this? Answer: The law states that a person may not leave a pet … [Read more...]
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Question: Can you be cited for illegal window tint if you recently purchased the vehicle through a dealer? Can the auto dealer can be charged with the violation? Answer: Citations may be issued to you and the dealer that sold you the vehicle with the illegal window tint. The law states a new motor vehicle dealer, used motor vehicle dealer, or motor vehicle lessor may not … [Read more...]