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By Sgt. Troy Christianson

Question: Since I’ve moved to Minnesota, I’ve seen many drivers use right turn lanes as a bypass lane.  Is this legal or does the sign reading “lane must turn” mean exactly what it says?

Answer: White signs are regulatory and failing to comply can result in a citation for “fail to obey traffic control sign/signal.” “Right Turn Lanes” are what they are posted for, not passing or bypassing. The “Bypass Lane” is for bypassing (on the right.) Some areas where signs are posted, both of those would be permitted. A word of caution in those areas where both are allowed, remember who has the right of way and to use due care.

You can avoid a ticket — and a crash — if you simply buckle up, drive at safe speeds, pay attention and of course, 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 Trp. Troy Christianson – Minnesota State Patrol at 2900 48th Street NW, Rochester MN 55901-5848. or reach him at, Troy.Christianson@state.mn.us.