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Question: I know it was just National Fire Prevention Week. I’ve seen a few vehicle fires during my travels. Can you talk about what people can or should do in those situations?
Answer: If you notice smoke rising from beneath the hood of your vehicle, pull off the road, turn off the ignition, and exit the vehicle immediately. Do not use water to put out the fire—this will actually spread the blaze.
In 2023, Minnesota State Troopers responded to 848 vehicle fires around Minnesota. In addition, during that year Troopers also responded to 472 grass and structure fires, many of which were ignited after the vehicle had caught on fire.
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) states what to do if your vehicle is on fire:
• Pull over as quickly as it is safe to do so, be sure to use your signal as you make your way to a safe location off the road such as the breakdown lane or rest stop.
• Once you have stopped, TURN OFF the engine.
• GET everyone out of the car. Never return to a burning car for anything.
• MOVE everyone at least 100 feet from the burning car and well away from traffic.
• CALL 9-1-1.
Question: I have a medical condition that causes me to lose consciousness on occasion. I am hoping to get a driver’s license. Is there anything I need to do?
Answer: When applying for an instruction permit or driver’s license, you will be asked questions about medical conditions. Providing false information on the application could result in losing your driving privileges.
If you have a medical condition, you may need to provide a statement from a physician indicating whether or not the condition affects your ability to drive safely. If you already have a permit or license and are diagnosed with epilepsy or a condition that could cause loss of consciousness, you must submit a physician’s statement within 30 days of the diagnosis. The statement must indicate whether or not the condition interferes with your ability to drive safely.
Send medical statements to: Driver and Vehicle Services Driver Evaluation Unit 445 Minnesota Street, Suite 170 St. Paul, Minnesota 55101-5170 Question: I was driving through town the other day and a driver opened their car door as I passed by. I had to swerve to avoid hitting their car door. Obviously, it was a safety issue but isn’t there a law about this? I’d appreciate any info you can share. Thank you.
Answer: Correct, there is a Minnesota state law about this issue. When you are stopped or parked on the side of a road, do not open any doors until you have checked to make sure it is safe and will not interfere with other traffic. Look for vehicles, motorcycles, bicyclists, and pedestrians that may be approaching your vehicle. Do not leave any door on the side closest to moving traffic open longer than necessary to load or unload passengers.
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. You can also email him at: Troy.Christian-son@ state.mn.us.
