Highway and Expressway Driving Flashcards

What is the recommended way to scan for hazards while driving on a Manitoba highway?

Answer: Continuously scan ahead, to the sides, and check mirrors every 5 to 8 seconds

Effective highway scanning involves looking well ahead (12 to 15 seconds down the road), checking mirrors every 5 to 8 seconds, and scanning to the sides for entering traffic or hazards. This gives maximum warning time.

On a Manitoba highway, what does a 'WEIGH STATION' sign mean for commercial truck drivers?

Answer: Commercial vehicles must enter for weight and safety inspection unless the station is closed

Weigh stations are mandatory stops for commercial vehicles. Trucks must enter for weight checks and potential safety inspections unless the station is posted as closed. Bypassing an open weigh station is illegal.

What should you do when approaching a highway work zone with a flag person in Manitoba?

Answer: Obey the flag person's directions — they have the legal authority to direct traffic in work zones

Flag persons in construction zones have legal authority to direct traffic. You must obey their signals, which include stop (red/orange flag or paddle) and slow/proceed (green flag or slow paddle). Ignoring them is illegal.

On a Manitoba highway, why is it dangerous to follow a large vehicle too closely?

Answer: It severely limits your forward visibility and reduces your reaction time for hazards ahead

Following a large vehicle too closely blocks your view of the road ahead, so you cannot see hazards, stopped traffic, or road conditions. It also reduces your reaction time and stopping distance. Increase your following distance behind large vehicles.

What is the purpose of rumble strips on Manitoba highways?

Answer: To alert drivers through vibration and noise when they drift onto the shoulder or cross the centre line

Rumble strips create vibration and noise to alert drivers who drift out of their lane — either onto the shoulder or across the centre line. They are an effective countermeasure against drowsy and distracted driving.

On a Manitoba highway, when should you use your hazard lights (four-way flashers)?

Answer: When your vehicle is stopped or moving very slowly due to an emergency or hazard, to warn other traffic

Hazard lights should be used when your vehicle is stopped on or near the road due to a breakdown, or when you are moving significantly slower than traffic due to an emergency. They warn approaching drivers of a potential hazard.