Class 7 Winter Driving Conditions 4

Question 1

In Alberta, what are chinook conditions and how do they affect driving?

Accepted Answer

Warm, dry winds that can rapidly melt snow and create icy refreezing conditions on roads

Answer

Chinooks are warm, dry winds common in Southern Alberta that can rapidly raise temperatures. While the warmth melts snow, the meltwater can refreeze as temperatures drop again, creating dangerous icy conditions.

Question 2

When driving in Alberta winter conditions, why should you avoid using cruise control?

Accepted Answer

On slippery surfaces, cruise control may cause the vehicle to accelerate when the wheels lose traction, increasing the risk of a skid

Answer

Cruise control on slippery roads is dangerous because if the drive wheels lose traction, the system may apply more power to maintain the set speed, causing the wheels to spin and the vehicle to skid.

Question 3

What is the safest way to handle a curve on an icy road in Alberta?

Accepted Answer

Reduce speed well before the curve, do not brake in the curve, and accelerate gently when straightening

Answer

On icy roads, reduce your speed before the curve. Braking, accelerating, or steering sharply in a curve on ice can cause a loss of traction. Gentle, smooth movements are essential.

Question 4

In Alberta, what should you do if freezing rain begins while you are driving?

Accepted Answer

Reduce speed immediately, increase following distance, and consider pulling over if conditions worsen

Answer

Freezing rain coats roads with a layer of ice almost instantly. Reduce speed, greatly increase your following distance, and seriously consider finding a safe place to stop until conditions improve.

Question 5

Why are Alberta winter mornings particularly dangerous for driving, even when roads appear clear?

Accepted Answer

Overnight temperatures can create frost and black ice on roads that look dry

Answer

Overnight temperatures often drop below zero, causing moisture on road surfaces to freeze into frost or black ice. Roads that appear dry and clear can actually be extremely slippery until the sun warms them.

Alberta Class 7 Practice Test

Alberta Class 7 Practice Test

Class 7 Winter Driving Conditions 4