Using mirrors in conjunction with the backup camera
Published on April 29, 2025 at 2:50pm GMT+0000 | Author: Tucker Henderson
0Ask A Trooper
Sgt. Jesse Grabow
Question: What is a safe routine when backing up using the mirrors in conjunction with the vehicle’s backup camera?
Answer: Backing up is not allowed on freeways or expressways, except for emergency vehicles on duty. Backing up on public roads can result in a charge of reckless or careless driving. If you must back out of a driveway onto a public road, back into the nearest lane and drive forward from there. Never back into or across lanes of traffic unless you are sure it is safe.
Before you back up:
• Walk around your vehicle to make sure nothing is behind it.
• Look to the front, sides, and rear.
• Continue looking out the rear window while backing up. Do not rely solely on your mirrors or back-up camera.
• Back slowly into the nearest traffic lane.
Question: In one day, Monday I had three incidents where cars did not yield right of way when they had a flashing left turn arrow. I have observed several other incidents involving other drives as well. It seems of late people seem to think the flashing arrow gives them the right of way.
Answer: A flashing yellow light or arrow means “caution.” Proceed through the intersection with caution. Yield the right of way to vehicles and pedestrians already in the intersection. If you are turning left or making a U-turn, you must yield to oncoming vehicles that are close enough to be an immediate hazard.
A portion of state statutes were used with permission from the Office of the Revisor of Statutes. If you have any questions concerning traffic related laws or issues in Minnesota, send your questions to Trp. Jesse Grabow – Minnesota State Patrol at 1000 Highway 10 West, Detroit Lakes, MN 56501-2205. (You can follow him on X @MSPPIO_NW or reach him at, jesse.grabow@state.mn.us).