Question: Winter is here. Can we talk about tire safety and how a person can tell if their tires are still good? Answer: Winter season is a good time to remind motorists about the importance of installing and maintaining good tires. Tires must be able to carry your vehicle’s weight and grip the surface of the road properly. Inspect tires regularly for cuts, cracks, uneven … [Read more...]

Question: Who is responsible for making sure the roadway is cleaned up and free from spilled liquids, glass and other car parts from a crash? Answer: I have noticed that responding agencies and tow companies usually work as a team to treat the injured, direct traffic, investigate the crash and clear the scene as soon as possible for everyone’s safety. This is especially … [Read more...]

Question: I have some new drivers in our house. We got talking the other day and they didn’t know what “hand signals” were. Can you write about that to help inform others that might not be aware? Answer:  Congratulations on the new drivers. That is an exciting and concerning time as you help them get more experience and confidence as they undergo the process.  When the … [Read more...]

Question:  As a visitor from Canada, can I use my studded tires in Minnesota? Specifically, driving from Canada to Minneapolis to catch a plane, then to drive home again a week later.   Answer:  According to Minnesota State Statute 169.72, “Every solid rubber tire on a vehicle must have rubber on its entire traction surface at least one inch thick above the edge of the … [Read more...]

Question: I can’t help but notice but it seems like a lot of people are following each other too close out on the highways. It’s been many years since I was in driver’s education but what is the recommendation for following distance? Answer: Here is information that is shared in the Minnesota Driver’s Manual. Applying the “Three-Second Rule” helps you keep a safe distance … [Read more...]

Question: Every once in a while, I notice some vehicles stop in the road at the railroad tracks when nothing is coming. Can I pass them when they do this? Answer: Some vehicles, such as passenger vans, buses, and larger trucks, are required to stop at all railroad tracks, whether or not a train is present. Do not pass these vehicles. It is illegal to pass any vehicle within … [Read more...]

Question: My vehicle is equipped with airbags. Do I need to wear my seat belt? Answer: Yes, seat belt use is required. An airbag is a supplemental restraint system. Airbags work with seat belts to prevent injuries but are not designed to keep occupants from being ejected. For safety reasons, children under age 13 must ride in the back seat if it is available. Try to keep … [Read more...]

Question: I was driving through town the other day and a driver opened their car door as I passed by. I had to swerve to avoid hitting their car door. Obviously, it was a safety issue but isn’t there a law about this? I’d appreciate any info you can share. Thank you.  Answer: Correct, there is a Minnesota state law about this issue.  When you are stopped or parked on the … [Read more...]

Question: I know it was just National Fire Prevention Week. I’ve seen a few vehicle fires during my travels. Can you talk about what people can or should do in those situations? Answer: If you notice smoke rising from beneath the hood of your vehicle, pull off the road, turn off the ignition, and exit the vehicle immediately. Do not use water to put out the fire – this will … [Read more...]

Question: Hello, we read your column every week. I’ve noticed more often lately on numerous occasions that when a school bus is stopped and dropping off or picking up kids, they do NOT have their red lights flashing or their STOP arm extended. The bus will only have the yellow lights flashing. When searching the internet for school bus rules/regulations I can only find … [Read more...]