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 ban...

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: Congratulations on the new driver. Here is what a person needs to know when it comes to stopping your vehicle. Stop...

Question: My vehicle was recently involved with a crash with another vehicle. I had a car seat inside, but no child was present at the time of the crash. I am wondering if the car seat would still need to be replaced. My auto insurance company didn't want to replace it. Is there some state statute on this? Answer: I di...

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...

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,...

Question: In your last article you wrote about suspended drivers 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...

Question: I have a new driver. Can you give some advice on what a person should do if their windshield wipers quit or their car hood comes open while driving? Answer: If your windshield wipers suddenly fail in heavy rain or snow, slow down and activate your hazard warning lights. Do not brake suddenly if other vehicles...

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 st...

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 yo...

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 you...