Sgt. Jesse Grabow, Ask A Trooper

ASK A TROOPER

Ask a Trooper

Ask a Trooper

Question: The other day I came across a railroad crossing sign with the word “EXEMPT” placed on it. What is that all about?

Question: Are trailer hitch load extenders legal? Occasionally I haul some lumber that sticks out beyond my tailgate and would like to know if I can use this.

Question: What is a safe routine when backing up using the mirrors in conjunction with the vehicle’s backup camera?

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.

Question: I have a new driver in the house. We were having some discussion on where a person needs to stop when coming to a stop sign and other situations. Can you please write about that? Thanks!

Question: The other day I was going down the freeway and I saw a vehicle that must’ve missed their exit as they were backing up near an exit ramp. This didn’t appear safe and I’m going to guess illegal. What do you say sir?

Question: Hello, we read your column every week. I’ve noticed more often lately on numerous occasions that when a school bus is stopped and dropping-off or picking-up kids, they do NOT have their red lights flashing or their STOP arm extended. The bus will only have the yellow lights flashing. When searching the internet for school bus rules/regulations I can only find information related to how other drivers are required to respond, rather I’m interested in what the bus driver is required to do. I was unaware that there are potential scenarios where the bus driver is not required to force traffic to stop.