DETROIT LAKES - The fishing
opener weekend of May 10-11 will be a busy traffic period, especially in
northern Minnesota.
According to Regional Public
Information Officer, Sgt. Jesse Grabow, “Some of the main concerns are drivers who
are not paying attention, following too closely and speeding, especially around
the lakes areas. Drivers are strongly encouraged to buckle up, take your time
and pay strict attention to your driving.”
Drivers are also asked to
keep an eye on their following distance and stay back far enough to prevent a
crash with the vehicle ahead. Sgt.
Grabow says, “Normally, the three-second following distance rule is taught, but
many northbound travelers during the fishing opener and all summer are pulling
trailers with boats or ATV’s, campers, and the like – all of which would
require following at a distance of at least 500 feet, which would be farther
back than the three-second rule.”
Motorists should be aware of all the safety rules for
trailers, trailer equipment and for all special mobile equipment they are
transporting to the area for recreation.
Safe operation begins with the driver taking personal responsibility for
their own actions behind the wheel as well as making sure that all vehicle
loads are secure.
Sgt. Grabow adds, “Just slow down, buckle up, drive sober
and pay attention, and we can all be a lot safer this fishing opener.”
