Winter Driving Manitoba Flashcards

What speed should you drive when the road is covered in packed snow in Manitoba?

Answer: Significantly below the posted limit — typically 50% or less of normal speed depending on conditions

Packed snow significantly reduces traction. Drivers should reduce speed to well below the posted limit — often 50% or less. Even winter tires cannot overcome the physics of reduced friction on snow-covered roads.

In Manitoba, what is the danger of driving through a snowplow's spray?

Answer: The snow spray can cause instant whiteout conditions, temporarily blinding you

Passing a working snowplow can create instant whiteout conditions as the displaced snow engulfs your vehicle. Visibility can drop to zero for several seconds. If possible, avoid passing snowplows; if you must pass, do so with extreme caution.

How should you handle a snow-covered stop sign or traffic light that you cannot see clearly?

Answer: Treat the intersection with caution — if you suspect a sign or signal is present, stop and proceed carefully

If a stop sign or traffic signal is obscured by snow, you should still obey it if you know or suspect it exists. Treat the intersection with extra caution — stop if there could be a sign, and proceed carefully.

What is the safest way to brake when approaching a stop on a slippery Manitoba road?

Answer: Begin braking well in advance, applying gentle steady pressure to avoid locking the wheels

On slippery roads, begin braking much earlier than you normally would and apply gentle, steady pressure. This gives the tires maximum opportunity to maintain grip. If you have ABS, maintain firm steady pressure.

During a Manitoba winter, why is it important to check that your exhaust pipe is clear of snow?

Answer: A snow-blocked exhaust can force carbon monoxide back into the vehicle cabin, which can be fatal

If the exhaust pipe is blocked by snow (such as from a snowbank or drift), carbon monoxide gas can build up inside the vehicle, potentially causing unconsciousness and death. Always check the exhaust pipe is clear before and during operation in snow.

What is the effect of cold temperatures on your vehicle's battery in Manitoba?

Answer: Batteries lose significant cranking power in extreme cold — they can be at 50% capacity at -30°C

Vehicle batteries lose cranking power dramatically in extreme cold. At -30°C (common in Manitoba), a battery may have only about 50% of its warm-weather capacity. Use a block heater or battery warmer, and have your battery tested before winter.