Winter Driving Beltrami County Blizzard Conditions and Driving Conduct

Bemidji, Minn. – (1:45 p.m.) The Minnesota Department of Transportation and the Minnesota State Patrol opened Highway 2 from Crookston to East Grand Forks. Although the road is open, high winds can limit visibility and have the potential to create scattered white out conditions.

In addition, we would like to remind our citizens that winter driving conditions continue to be dangerous. We are seeing horrific crashes, particularly on Hwy 2 just west of the Airport, as well as the Hwy 2 Bypass near Bemidji this year, with life changing serious injuries DAILY! The rate of speed and impatience that drivers are exhibiting, particularly between the hours of 4:00 and 7:00 PM have greatly contributed to these tragedies. We urge everyone to slow down, watch for other drivers, allow people to make their turns onto side roads and be aware of black ice conditions. Particularly dangerous are the bridge decks. In addition, headlights should be turned on to alert other drivers to your presence.

One more very important topic for discussion:

REMEMBER the Ted Foss Move Over Law -

In Honor of Fallen Minnesota State Patrol Trooper Ted Foss:

• When traveling on a road with two or more lanes, drivers must keep over one full lane away from stopped emergency vehicles with flashing lights activated — ambulance, fire, law enforcement, maintenance and construction vehicles.

• Failing to take these actions endangers personnel who provide critical and life-saving services. Fines can exceed $100.

Ted Foss Move Over Law — M.S. 169.18 Subd. 11