Do we get out? Stay in or vehicle? With all the enforcement projects officers are working it might be good for you to talk about this. Thanks.

Answer: Thanks for asking. First of all, always pay attention to your surroundings, especially looking in your rear view mirror every three to five seconds so you can be aware of any emergency vehicles approaching. At first sight of the red lights behind you, pull over to the right and stop as far off the road as possible, as soon as you can. Don’t keep driving. The officer probably knows the road very well and intends for you to stop right away and they will protect the scene with their squad car and lights.

Once you are pulled over, remain in the vehicle and keep your hands on the steering wheel. Do not make any sudden or suspicious movements. The officer(s) should approach the vehicle and let you know what they want you to do next, and will probably explain why you are being stopped. Pay attention to what the officer says and listen carefully to them and any instructions they may give. Always keep your driver license with you, and have your current proof of insurance card (for the vehicle you are driving) ready to display to the officer when they request it. A lot of our contacts last longer because drivers have to spend time looking for these items. You don’t have to have the vehicle registration unless you are driving a commercial vehicle of any type.

If you have any questions about what has taken place during the stop, just ask the officer after they seem to have completed their contact. In most cases, being courteous and polite to the officer can help too!

If you have any questions concerning traffic related laws in Minnesota, please send your questions to: Trooper Jesse Grabow – Minnesota State Patrol at 1000 Highway 10 West, Detroit Lakes, MN 56501. Or reach me at jesse.grabow@state.mn.us