Question: Hello, I thought I read somewhere that rest areas help reduce crashes. I saw a trooper at a rest area the other day, and it got me thinking about that.
Can you write about that?
Answer: More than 20 million travelers stop at Minnesota rest areas annually.
Rest areas serve as an essential safety feature on the highway system by giving travelers a place to stop and rest. This helps address driver fatigue, a major cause of serious crashes.
Studies reveal a 15- to 20-minute break improves individual performance, even among sleep-deprived people.
According to the Minnesota Department of Transportation, rest areas serve as a practical way to provide motorists a convenient opportunity to stop, rest and refresh.
In addition, rest areas also:
• Reduce motorist need for shoulder stops.
• Reduce driver and passenger discomfort.
• Reduce driving under hazardous weather and road conditions.
• Offer customer services.
• Promote statewide tourism.
Any questions concerning traffic related laws or issues in Minnesota, send your questions to Trooper Troy Christianson, Minnesota State Patrol, 2900 48th St., NW, Rochester MN 55901-5848; or send an email to: Troy.Christianson@state.mn.us.