Emergency Situations and Defensive Driving in Minnesota

1. What is the legal blood alcohol limit in Minnesota for operating a vehicle?


In Minnesota, the legal blood alcohol limit for operating a vehicle is 0.08%.

2. What are the rules for passing a stopped school bus in Minnesota?


In Minnesota, when approaching a school bus that has stopped to pick up or drop off passengers, drivers must stop at least 20 feet away from the bus and wait until the school bus resumes motion before proceeding. This applies on any roadway with two or more lanes of traffic, regardless of whether the driver is traveling in the same direction as the bus or in the opposite direction.

3. In what situations should a driver yield the right of way in Minnesota?


In Minnesota, drivers should yield the right of way in the following situations:

1. When approaching a yield sign.
2. When turning left at an intersection with oncoming traffic.
3. When a pedestrian is crossing the street.
4. When another driver is merging onto the road.
5. When directed by a traffic signal or police officer.
6. When a vehicle already in the intersection has the right of way.
7. When approaching a vehicle stopped at a crosswalk.

4. What is Minnesota’s distracted driving law?


Under Minnesota’s distracted driving law, drivers are prohibited from using any electronic device (like a cell phone, laptop, gaming system, etc.) while operating a motor vehicle, except for hands-free devices. In addition to this, drivers cannot read or compose materials that are not related to operating the vehicle while they are driving. Drivers under 18 are prohibited from using any electronic device for any reason while driving, regardless of whether it is hands-free.

5. Is it legal to use a cell phone while driving in Minnesota?


No, it is illegal to use a cell phone while driving in Minnesota.

6. When should a driver use high beams in Minnesota?


In Minnesota, drivers should use high beams when it is dark and no other cars are visible. High beams should be dimmed when there is approaching traffic or when following another vehicle.

7. What is the speed limit on highways in Minnesota?


The speed limit on highways in Minnesota is generally 65 mph.

8. How long are drivers allowed to drive without taking a break in Minnesota?


Drivers in Minnesota are not subject to any specific break requirements, however, they are required to take sufficient breaks to ensure they can remain alert and safe while driving.

9. What should drivers do when approaching a railroad crossing in Minnesota?


When approaching a railroad crossing in Minnesota, drivers should be sure to reduce their speed, look both ways for an oncoming train, and always obey any warning signals or signs. They should also never try to go around a lowered gate.

10. How should drivers react if they encounter an aggressive driver on the road in Minnesota?


If a driver encounters an aggressive driver on the road in Minnesota, they should remain calm and not engage in any aggressive behavior. If the situation becomes unsafe, they should pull over and call 911. The driver should also try to remain out of the aggressive driver’s way, and if possible, take a different route or adjust their speed to avoid further conflict.

11. How should drivers react to a flooded roadway in Minnesota?


Drivers should never attempt to drive through a flooded roadway. Driving through floodwaters can cause engine failure, stalling, and can even cause the car to float away. Instead, drivers should turn around and find an alternate route. It is also important to remember that the road may be weakened or washed out underneath the water, so it is best to avoid a flooded roadway altogether.

12. How can drivers prepare their vehicles for winter driving in Minnesota?


First, drivers should make sure their vehicle is well maintained throughout the year. This includes regularly checking and changing oil, checking the tire pressure, and inspecting the brakes, battery, and cooling system. Additionally, drivers should equip their car with winter tires and use non-freezing windshield washer fluid. To make sure they don’t get stranded in a blizzard, drivers should make sure to have a winter emergency kit that includes items such as a snow brush/ice scraper, jumper cables, a flashlight with extra batteries, a blanket, flares, non-perishable snacks and water, a small shovel, and a bag of sand or cat litter for traction.

13. What is the legal age for operating a vehicle in Minnesota?


The legal age for operating a vehicle in Minnesota is 16 years old.

14. What are the rules for stopping at a stop sign in Minnesota?


At a stop sign, all drivers must come to a complete stop before the stop line, if present, or before entering the crosswalk or intersection. Drivers must yield the right-of-way to any vehicles in the intersection or approaching so closely as to constitute an immediate hazard. Once it is safe to proceed, drivers may enter the intersection and proceed straight, turn right, or turn left.

15. Who has the right of way at an uncontrolled intersection in Minnesota?


At an uncontrolled intersection in Minnesota, vehicles approaching from the right have the right of way.

16. What are the rules for using emergency lanes on highways in Minnesota?


Emergency lanes on highways in Minnesota are for use in an emergency only. When using an emergency lane, you must drive at a safe and prudent speed, no faster than 35 mph or the posted speed limit, whichever is lower. Unless it is unsafe to do so, you must move into a regular lane when an emergency vehicle is approaching. If you must remain in the emergency lane due to traffic, you must pull as far to the right as possible. You may only use the emergency lane for three miles at a time.

17. How should drivers manage their speed on curvy roads in Minnesota?


Drivers should slow down and increase the distance between themselves and other vehicles when driving on curvy roads in Minnesota. Drivers should also pay close attention to the posted speed limit signs and be aware of any changes in the speed limit as they travel along a curvy road. Additionally, it is important to drive with caution and be prepared to slow down quickly if necessary.

18. What is the minimum age for having a learner’s permit in Minnesota?


In Minnesota, the minimum age for having a learner’s permit is 15 years old.

19. What is the rule for yielding to pedestrians at crosswalks in Minnesota?


In Minnesota, drivers must stop for pedestrians who are in a marked or unmarked crosswalk. Drivers must also yield to pedestrians when making a turn at an intersection. The law also states that drivers must not pass another vehicle that is stopped at a crosswalk to allow a pedestrian to cross the street. Additionally, motorists must use caution and reduce speed when approaching a crosswalk.

20. When should drivers use headlights during daylight hours in Minnesota?


In Minnesota, drivers should use headlights during daylight hours whenever their visibility is reduced due to weather, smoke, fog, or other conditions.