Ask a Trooper by Troy Christianson

Question: I do a lot of local driving for work, and every day I see an abundance of vehicles that roll through stops. This happens most frequently in a right on red situation. I have seen many near misses by vehicles rolling through a right on red. I was just wondering what our state law requires us to do at stop signs/red lights.

Answer: According to the Minnesota Driver’s Manual, when approaching a red light (solid or flashing) or a stop sign, motorists must come to a complete stop prior to reaching the nearest marked white line.

Minnesota law allows motorists to make a right turn on a red light after making a complete stop, unless there’s a sign indicating the turn is prohibited. Drivers must use caution and follow right-of-way rules.

Motorcyclists and bicyclists can proceed with caution through a red light after making a complete stop, if:

• The signal continued to show red for an “unreasonable time.”

• The signal apparently malfunctioned or failed to detect the bicycle or motorcycle.

• No vehicle or pedestrian was approaching or close enough so as to make going through the red signal dangerous.

Failing to come to a complete stop at a stop sign or a red light can result in a fine of $300 or more.

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.

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.