‘Ask A Trooper’

Question: I was told that motorists have to yield to a city bus when it enters the road from a bus stop, is this true?

Answer: There is a state law that says that a driver of a vehicle traveling in the right-hand lane of traffic shall yield the right-of-way to any transit bus attempting to enter that lane from a bus stop or shoulder, as indicated by a flashing left turn signal.

Always be extra cautious when passing or near any type of bus and be prepared to change lanes, if there is more than one lane in the same direction, or yield as needed. Keep in mind, bus drivers have a very important job in transporting people of all ages, and they are operating a very large vehicle, in high volume traffic areas with very little room to maneuver. We all have a responsibility to drive safely so all of us can make it to our destination safely.

You can avoid a ticket — and a crash — if you simply buckle up, drive at safe speeds, pay attention and always drive sober. Help us drive Minnesota Toward Zero Deaths.

Question: How do you determine if your tires are unsafe?

Answer: Over the years, I have investigated numerous crashes where worn tires were a contributing factor. Tires with inadequate tread depth may cause your vehicle to skid or slide out of control on a slippery or wet road surface. Although our area has seen more rain than snow this season, it is important to remember that unsafe tires can hydroplane on both wet and snowy roadways becoming a hazard. When losing control of your vehicle, you can easily go off the road and into the ditch, or into traffic.

If you have any questions concerning traffic related laws or issues in Minnesota send your questions to Sgt. Troy Christianson – Minnesota State Patrol at 2900 48th Street NW, Rochester MN 55901-5848.

(Or reach him at, Troy.Christianson@state.mn.us)