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...]

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...]