Ask a Trooper by Troy Christianson

Question: I just purchased a kayak and had it delivered to my house. I did not think ahead about the length of it for transporting it. I was wondering if a kayak extender is legal in Minnesota?

 

Answer: A kayak extender could be legal if you meet the following requirements. Here is some information on extended or projecting loads according to Minnesota State Statutes.

M.S.S. 169.52 Rear: “When the load upon any vehicle extends to the rear four feet or more beyond the bed or body of such vehicle there shall be displayed at the extreme rear end of the load, at the times when lighted lamps on vehicles are required in this chapter (night or reduced visibility) a red light or lantern plainly visible from a distance of at least 500 feet to the sides and rear. The light or lantern required under this section shall be in addition to the rear light required upon every vehicle. At any time when no lights are required there shall be displayed at the extreme rear end of such load a red, yellow or orange flag or cloth not less than 16 inches square.”

M.S.S. 169.81 Front: “The load upon any vehicle operated alone, or the load upon the front vehicle of a combination of vehicles, shall not extend more than three feet beyond the front wheels of such vehicle or the front bumper of such vehicle if it is equipped with such a bumper.”

M.S.S. 169.80 Sides: “No passenger-type vehicle shall be operated on any highway with any load carried thereon extending beyond the line of the fenders on the left side of such vehicle nor extending more than six inches beyond the line of the fenders on the right side thereof.”

It is extremely important to properly secure a load at all times. Unsecured loads are very dangerous and in the past have caused injuries or even death to motorists. If it becomes detached for any reason, the driver is responsible.

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 St. NW, Rochester, MN, 55901-5848. Or reach him at Troy.Christianson@state.mn.us.

 

Troy Christianson is a sergeant with the Minnesota State Patrol.