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1 week ago | 
fillmorecountyjournal.com | Troy Christianson
Question: I was just talking with someone the other day and they mentioned there is an age requirement for operating an “e-bike.” Can you get me more information on this? Answer: When it comes to e-bikes, a driver’s license or permit is not required. However, the minimum operator age is 15 years old. E-bikes are primarily regulated in the same manner as bicycles and nearly all bicycle laws apply.
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2 weeks ago | 
star-herald.com | Troy Christianson
Subhead Ask a Trooper By Sgt. Troy Christianson, Minnesota State Patrol Question: I read your last article about road construction and work zones. Can you talk about the zipper merge? It seems like a lot of people don’t know what it is or can’t figure it out. Thank you. Answer: The “Late Merge - Zipper Merge” is a driving strategy that requires drivers to change their mindset about merging. Traditionally, drivers have been taught to merge early when a lane is ending.
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2 weeks ago | 
fillmorecountyjournal.com | Troy Christianson
Question: I caught part of the news the other night and heard something about the 100 deadliest days. Can you get me more information on that? Answer: I certainly can. Here is some information we shared on the Minnesota Department of Safety blog. The Minnesota State Patrol is urging drivers to make smart, safe decisions as the state enters what is known as the “100 deadliest days” on the road.
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3 weeks ago | 
star-herald.com | Troy Christianson
Subhead Ask a Trooper By Sgt. Troy Christianson, Minnesota State Patrol By Sgt. Troy ChristiansonMinnesota State PatrolQuestion: I have been receiving text messages about an “E-Z Pass Final Reminder.” It’s something about having an outstanding toll and submitting payment. I was told it was a scam. Can you get me more information on this? Answer: Here is information from the Minnesota Department of Transportation E-ZPass page.
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1 month ago | 
fillmorecountyjournal.com | Troy Christianson
Question: I drive truck for a living. Can you write about people that cut us off? These big rigs can’t stop on a dime. It’s frustrating because when they do that it can cause a wreck. Answer: Changing lanes and cutting in too close in front of another vehicle is always dangerous, but it’s especially dangerous to cut off a commercial bus or truck. If you move in quickly from either side, you’re likely to be in a blind spot, so the driver may not see you in time.
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1 month ago | 
fillmorecountyjournal.com | Troy Christianson
Question: I read your last article about road construction and work zones. Can you talk about the zipper merge? It seems like a lot of people don’t know what it is or can’t figure it out. Thank you. Answer: The “Late Merge – Zipper Merge” is a driving strategy that requires drivers to change their mindset about merging. Traditionally, drivers have been taught to merge early when a lane is ending. Early merging leads to longer backups, more crashes and road rage incidents.
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1 month ago | 
fillmorecountyjournal.com | Troy Christianson
Question: In one day, Monday I had three incidents where cars did not yield right of way when they had a flashing left turn arrow. I have observed several other incidents involving other drives as well. It seems of late people seem to think the flashing arrow gives them the right of way. Answer: An A flashing yellow light or arrow means “caution.” Proceed through the intersection with caution. Yield the right of way to vehicles and pedestrians already in the intersection.
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2 months ago | 
fillmorecountyjournal.com | Troy Christianson
Question: The other day I came across a railroad crossing sign with the word “EXEMPT” placed on it. What is that all about? Answer: An X-shaped sign identifies a railroad crossing. If there is more than one track, a sign below the crossbuck indicates the number of tracks. Warning signs, pavement markings, gates and flashing red lights are positioned at most railroad crossings. Pavement markings include a stop line, an “X,” and the letters “RR” painted on the pavement in front of the crossing.
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2 months ago | 
fillmorecountyjournal.com | Troy Christianson
Question: Are trailer hitch load extenders legal? Occasionally I haul some lumber that sticks out beyond my tailgate and would like to know if I can use this. Answer: Yes you can. Note that when the load upon any vehicle extends to the rear four feet or more beyond the bed or body of such vehicle there are some requirements. At the extreme rear end of such load a red, yellow or orange flag or cloth not less than 16 inches square shall be displayed.
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2 months ago | 
fillmorecountyjournal.com | Troy Christianson
Question: What is a safe routine when backing up using the mirrors in conjunction with the vehicle’s backup camera? Answer: Backing up is not allowed on freeways or expressways, except for emergency vehicles on duty. Backing up on public roads can result in a charge of reckless or careless driving. If you must back out of a driveway onto a public road, back into the nearest lane and drive forward from there. Never back into or across lanes of traffic unless you are sure it is safe.
