Question: I drive truck for a living. Can you write about people that cut us off? These big rigs can’t stop on a dime. It’s frustrating because when they do that it can cause a wreck. Answer: Changing lanes and cutting in too close in front of another vehicle is always dangerous, but it’s especially dangerous to cut off a commercial bus or truck. If you move in quickly from … [Read more...]

Question: I read your last article about road construction and work zones. Can you talk about the zipper merge? It seems like a lot of people don’t know what it is or can’t figure it out. Thank you. Answer: The “Late Merge - Zipper Merge” is a driving strategy that requires drivers to change their mindset about merging. Traditionally, drivers have been taught to merge early … [Read more...]

Question: I notice a lot of people walking and running along the highway. The thing that concerns me is that they are moving in the same direction of traffic with their back to the potential hazard. Can you talk about pedestrian safety and what people should do when on the highway? Answer: Minnesota state law says that pedestrians along a roadway shall, when practicable, … [Read more...]

Question: In one day, Monday I had three incidents where cars did not yield right of way when they had a flashing left turn arrow. I have observed several other incidents involving other drives as well. It seems of late people seem to think the flashing arrow gives them the right of way.  Answer: An A flashing yellow light or arrow means “caution.” Proceed through the … [Read more...]

Question: The other day I came across a railroad crossing sign with the word “EXEMPT” placed on it. What is that all about? Answer: An X-shaped sign identifies a railroad crossing. If there is more than one track, a sign below the crossbuck indicates the number of tracks. Warning signs, pavement markings, gates and flashing red lights are positioned at most railroad … [Read more...]

Question: Are trailer hitch load extenders legal? Occasionally I haul some lumber that sticks out beyond my tailgate and would like to know if I can use this. Answer: Yes you can. Note that when the load upon any vehicle extends to the rear four feet or more beyond the bed or body of such vehicle there are some requirements. At the extreme rear end of such load a red, yellow … [Read more...]

Question: What is a safe routine when backing up using the mirrors in conjunction with the vehicle’s backup camera? Answer: Backing up is not allowed on freeways or expressways, except for emergency vehicles on duty. Backing up on public roads can result in a charge of reckless or careless driving. If you must back out of a driveway onto a public road, back into the nearest … [Read more...]

Question: I know there is a lot of discussion on distracted driving. I have a question how does the law apply to amateur radio devices? For example, trained storm spotters sometimes use hand-held and vehicle mobile radios during a weather emergency.  Answer: Devices such as amateur radio, two-way radio and citizens band (CB) radio are exempt under the hands-free law. The law … [Read more...]

Question: I have a new driver in the house. We were having some discussion on where a person needs to stop when coming to a stop sign and other situations. Can you please write about that? Thanks! Answer: Congratulation on the new driver. Here is what a person needs to know when it comes to stopping your vehicle. Stop Signs Come to a complete stop at stop signs. … [Read more...]

Question: The other day I was going down the freeway and I saw a vehicle that must’ve missed their exit as they were backing up near an exit ramp. This didn’t appear safe and I’m going to guess illegal. What do you say sir? Answer: Backing up is not allowed on freeways or expressways, except for emergency vehicles. If someone missed their exit they would need to continue … [Read more...]