Question: I am in the process of restoring a classic car. I have a question regarding windshield wipers. Do I have to install them on my ride? I am concerned they will take away from the aesthetics. Everything from how they look on the windshield to the motor under the hood that operates them. I thought I would check with you. Answer: Yes, you must have working windshield … [Read more...]

Question: I’ve read your last couple of “Ask A Trooper” articles and with all this talk about driver’s license suspensions and revocation, can you talk about people needing or getting a work permit for driving? Answer: Minnesota does have what is called a “limited license.” Under some circumstances, a limited license may be issued to a person whose driving privileges are … [Read more...]

Question: In your last article you wrote about suspended driver’s licenses. I know a person who had theirs revoked. Can you explain how this happens? Answer: Your driver’s license may be revoked if you: Refuse to take a test to determine whether you are under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance, or if you fail the test. Are convicted of manslaughter or … [Read more...]

Question: I was just talking with someone the other day and they were telling me they had their driver’s license suspended for too many speeding tickets. They also mentioned other ways a person can have their license suspended that I was not aware about. Can you write about that? Answer: Your driver’s license may be suspended if you: Repeatedly violate traffic laws. … [Read more...]

Question: Can you talk about railroad crossing safety and the laws that cover it? Answer: I have responded to and investigated a number of train/vehicle crashes in my career.  A majority of them resulted in fatal or serious injuries to the vehicle occupants.  In Minnesota, failure to yield the right of way, disregard of a traffic control device, improper turn and inattention … [Read more...]

Question: What allows private for-profit ambulance companies to run tax-exempt license plates on their vehicles?  Answer: Vehicles owned by ambulance services specifically intended for emergency response or providing ambulance services are exempt under the Minnesota State statutes. All services must have a valid license issued by the board. The license shall specify the base … [Read more...]

Question: I have seen numerous times where a bicyclist will not stop at a stop sign, if they are sharing the road with automobiles.  I have seen a couple of close incidents where the bicyclist is almost hit as well.  Are bicyclists under the same rules if they are sharing the road with automobiles? Answer: There was a state law change back in August of 2023. It states, “a … [Read more...]

Question: I’m wondering about a light that seems to only be on at night on the traffic lights. It’s a small purple or blueish light that’s near the traffic lights. I’ve tried to figure out what its use is or if it’s a camera. I’ve asked other people what it means and I’ve never met anyone who knows what it is. Thank you! Answer: What you are talking about is a blue light and … [Read more...]

Question: Do you have any advice on what a person should do if they are driving along in the dark and their headlights go out? Answer: If your headlights suddenly go out, try using your parking lights, hazard warning lights or turn signals - one of them may work and give you enough light to guide you off the road. If your headlights fail on a busy or lighted road, you will … [Read more...]

Question: I see the sign boards along the highway with different messages posted. Do they use these for Amber Alerts? I know I get the alert on my phone and was just curious. Answer: Message and lane-use signs on some freeways warn drivers of traffic crashes, stalled vehicles, or other traffic conditions ahead. Message signs may also be activated when the state issues an … [Read more...]