Question: I am puzzled as to why seat belts are mandatory in vehicles along with a fine for not complying but our precious cargo in school buses are not required to wear them?

Answer: School buses are one of the safest modes of transportation even without seatbelts. School buses are safer because of their large size and design. School bus interiors are designed on “compartmentalization,” which packs seats closely together and covers them with energy-absorbing pads. This minimizes their movement upon impact. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, less than 1% of all traffic fatalities involve children on school transportation vehicles.

Question: I bought a used boat dock; do I need a permit to get it to my lake house?

Answer: You can move a boat dock on Minnesota roads without a permit if the dock is no wider than 8’6“, no higher than 13’6” and no longer than 110′. The move must be done during day time hours. The rear corners must be flagged with 18″ squared red or orange flags. The dock sides will have to be flagged as well every 20′. If your dock is larger, then you need to contact MN permit at 651-296-3000.

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.