Manitoba Class 5 Learner's Driving Test Winter Driving Manitoba 3 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the correct way to use ABS (anti-lock braking system) brakes on icy Manitoba roads?
- Pump the brake pedal rapidly
- Apply firm, continuous pressure to the brake pedal — the ABS system will prevent wheel lock-up automatically (Correct answer)
- Tap the brakes lightly and steer
- Stomp the brake pedal once and release
Correct answer: Apply firm, continuous pressure to the brake pedal — the ABS system will prevent wheel lock-up automatically
With ABS brakes, apply firm, steady pressure and do not pump the pedal. The ABS system pulses the brakes automatically to prevent wheel lock-up while allowing you to maintain steering control. You may feel vibration — this is normal.
Question 2: In Manitoba, what should you clear from your vehicle before driving in winter?
- Just the windshield
- All snow and ice from the entire vehicle — including roof, hood, trunk, all windows, lights, and licence plates (Correct answer)
- Only the windows
- Just the headlights and windshield
Correct answer: All snow and ice from the entire vehicle — including roof, hood, trunk, all windows, lights, and licence plates
You must clear all snow and ice from your entire vehicle. Snow flying off the roof can blind drivers behind you. Ice-covered lights reduce visibility. Obstructed licence plates and windows are illegal. Clear everything before driving.
Question 3: What is the effect of wind chill on winter driving in Manitoba?
- It only affects people outside the vehicle
- Extreme wind chill can freeze exposed skin in minutes, making any roadside emergency life-threatening — always dress for the weather even in the car (Correct answer)
- It makes the road colder and icier
- Wind chill has no effect on driving
Correct answer: Extreme wind chill can freeze exposed skin in minutes, making any roadside emergency life-threatening — always dress for the weather even in the car
Manitoba wind chill can reach -50°C or lower, freezing exposed skin in minutes. If you must exit your vehicle due to a breakdown, extreme cold can become life-threatening quickly. Always dress warmly and carry extra warm clothing.
Question 4: When driving on a snow-covered Manitoba road, why should you avoid sudden steering movements?
- It damages the power steering system
- Sudden movements can break traction on the reduced-grip surface, causing a skid or spin (Correct answer)
- It is uncomfortable for passengers
- Snow-covered roads have the same grip as dry roads
Correct answer: Sudden movements can break traction on the reduced-grip surface, causing a skid or spin
On snow-covered roads, traction is greatly reduced. Sudden steering inputs can exceed the available grip, causing the vehicle to skid or spin. All inputs — steering, braking, and accelerating — should be smooth and gradual.
Question 5: What is the 'Manitoba 511' service used for?
- Emergency roadside assistance
- Real-time highway road conditions, closures, and travel information (Correct answer)
- Traffic ticket payment
- Vehicle registration renewal
Correct answer: Real-time highway road conditions, closures, and travel information
Manitoba 511 provides real-time information on highway conditions, road closures, construction zones, and travel advisories. It is available by phone (dialing 511) and online. Always check before winter highway travel.
Question 6: Why should you keep your fuel tank at least half full during Manitoba winters?
- Cold weather uses more fuel
- A fuller tank reduces condensation inside the tank, prevents fuel line freeze-up, and ensures you have enough fuel if stranded (Correct answer)
- Half a tank weighs more and provides better traction
- Fuel stations close during blizzards
Correct answer: A fuller tank reduces condensation inside the tank, prevents fuel line freeze-up, and ensures you have enough fuel if stranded
Keeping the tank at least half full reduces moisture condensation inside the tank (which can freeze fuel lines) and ensures you have enough fuel to run the heater if you become stranded in cold weather.
What is the correct way to use ABS (anti-lock braking system) brakes on icy Manitoba roads?