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Ask a Trooper by Troy Christianson

Question: I know there is a lot of discussion on distracted driving. I have a question: How does the law apply to amateur radio devices? For example, trained storm spotters sometimes use hand-held and vehicle mobile radios during a weather emergency.

Answer: Devices such as amateur radio, two-way radio and citizens band (CB) radio are exempt under the hands-free law. The law does not define their transmissions as electronic messages, but users are still required to operate them with due care in a safe manner.

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

Troy Christianson is a sergeant with the Minnesota State Patrol.