Sgt. Neil Dickenson of the Minnesota State Patrol | December 18, 2020
Question: It seems like I am still seeing drivers holding their phone. Has law enforcement seen any progress with the hands-free law? Answer: This is a great topic. Here is some information that was shared on the Department of Public Safety’s blog: “Complacency is a dangerous thing, and old habits are hard to break. Often, once the novelty wears off... READ MORE >
Sgt. Neil Dickenson of the Minnesota State Patrol | October 30, 2020
Question: Can I transport a loaded rifle or shotgun in a vehicle if I have a permit to carry? What are the rules if I am actively hunting? Answer: The permit to carry law applies only to handguns, so the answer is no, with some exceptions. Minnesota law says that a person may not transport a firearm in a motor... READ MORE >
Sgt. Neil Dickenson of the Minnesota State Patrol | August 14, 2020
Question: Can you talk about boat trailer safety with all the traffic we see pulling these things? Answer: State Troopers come across numerous motorists pulling trailers that experience breakdowns. Most often it involves a flat tire. Often it involves a trailer wheel bearing that has failed. A trailer’s wheel bearings are often neglected because they are out of sight. Basic... READ MORE >
Sgt. Neil Dickenson of the Minnesota State Patrol | July 03, 2020
Question: What should a driver do if they are driving and are stopped by law enforcement? Answer: When you first see the red lights behind you, safely pull over to the right and stop as far off the road as possible. Do not keep driving. The officer probably knows the area well and intends for you to stop right away... READ MORE >
Sgt. Neil Dickenson of the Minnesota State Patrol | January 24, 2020
Question: I have a 15-year-old son and we just signed him up for driver’s training. I was told that a State Trooper provides a presentation for the parents and new drivers. Can you explain what this presentation consists of and is this mandatory? Answer: There is a presentation called Point Of Impact and I am one of the troopers who... READ MORE >
Sgt. Neil Dickenson of the Minnesota State Patrol | January 03, 2020
Question: Can you provide some winter driving safety tips? Answer: Driving on the highway during the winter months requires more attention than ever. While summer months are the deadliest on Minnesota roads, wintertime leads to the most crashes and poses safety risks and hazards. Here are some winter driving tips: Avoid unnecessary travel if conditions are too poor. Buckle up,... READ MORE >
Sgt. Neil Dickenson of the Minnesota State Patrol | December 20, 2019
Question: In light of the fact that most drivers exceed the posted speed limit, especially on interstate freeways, will I get a citation for obstructing traffic if I drive the speed limit? This is especially a concern in and around the Twin Cities freeways like I94, etc. Answer: You will not get a citation if you are driving the speed... READ MORE >
Sgt. Neil Dickenson of the Minnesota State Patrol | December 13, 2019
Question: Minnesota just recently enacted a hands-free while driving law, but many states do not have such a law. How is this enforced when people from out of state are traveling on our Interstate highways? I have not seen any signs go up stating that Minnesota is Hands-Free. Would violators just be issued a warning? Answer: The law will be... READ MORE >
Sgt. Neil Dickenson of the Minnesota State Patrol | October 11, 2019
Question: Now that Minnesota’s hands free law is in effect it seems there are numerous vehicles pulled over on the shoulder with the driver talking or texting on the phone. This seems unsafe. Is it legal and if not what is the recommended procedure upon receiving a call or text that needs a prompt response and hands free options are... READ MORE >
Sgt. Neil Dickenson of the Minnesota State Patrol | September 20, 2019
Question: As we are ending the motorcycle season I heard of an individual near Rochester who was killed by going off the road and struck a sign head on. He was not wearing a helmet. Being an individual who has been in a motorcycle accident with the helmet likely saving my life, why are helmets not required in the State... READ MORE >
