Driver’s

Handbook
Working with drivers
to make our roads safer
Table of Contents
Establishing your identity 5
The Class Licence System Foldout
Basic Class 5 licensing requirements Foldout
Test appointments 7
Scheduling your knowledge or road test 7
Test locations 7
Key points about your tests 8
Graduated Driver Licensing Foldout
Graduated Driver Licensing Class 5 Foldout
Authorized Instruction (A Stage) (non-GDL Learner Stage) 9
Manitoba’s one-piece driver’s licence 10
About the renewal process 11
Keep your licence valid 11
Illegal use of driver’s licence 12
Operating heavy and agricultural equipment 12
Occupant restraints 13
Seatbelts 13
Infant and child car seats 13

Section 1 — Safe and legal driving practices

1. Signs and signals 18
Sign shapes and colours 18
Warning signs 19
Construction and maintenance signs 22
Regulatory signs 23
Guide and information signs 25
Stop signs 26
Four-way stop signs 26
Yield right-of-way signs 27
Traffic control signals 27
Transit priority signal 29
Pavement markings 30
Reserved lanes 31
Cycling pavement markings 33

Driver’s Handbook 1
2. Starting from a parked position, lane changing,
curves and turning 35
Starting out 35
Starting 38
Lane changing 38
Blind spots 38
Hand signals 39
Curves 39
General rules of turning 39
Right turns 40
Left turns 43
U-turns 51
Roundabouts 52
3. Driving responsibly 53
Speed 53
Following safely 53
Passing 54
No-zone around large vehicles 55
Entering and leaving an expressway 56
Right-of-way 57
Emergency vehicles 58
School buses 59
Transit buses 60
Construction zones 64
Railway crossings 65
4. Pedestrian safety 67
Crosswalks 67
Pedestrian corridors 69
People who are blind 70
School and playground areas 71
5. Sharing the road — drivers and cyclists 72
Understanding a cyclist’s position on the road 73
Passing a cyclist 74
Cyclist signals 75
6. Backing up 76
Three-point turn 76
Three-point turn around on a dead end street 78

2 Driver’s Handbook
7. Parking 79
Parallel parking 79
Backing skill test 81
Angle parking 82
Parking on a hill or incline 83
Parking pointers 84
Illegal parking 84
8. Vehicle equipment 85
Circle check — exterior of vehicle 85
Required equipment 85
Other equipment 88
9. Poor driving conditions 89
Ice, sleet or snow 89
Daytime use of headlights 89
Reduced visibility 89
Night driving 90
Drowsiness or fatigue 91
Distractions 91
Gravel road driving 92
Winter road driving 93
Hills 94
Farm equipment on roads 95
Pilot vehicles 96
10. Driving emergencies 97
Running off the pavement 97
Blowouts 97
Losing a wheel 98
Skid control 98
Emergency braking 99
Flooded engine 99
Wet brakes 99
Disabled vehicle 100
Direct collision course 100
Vehicle on fire 101
Vehicle plunging into water 101
Vehicle in contact with electrical wires 102
Suggested emergency equipment 102
11. Collisions 103
Upon arriving at the scene of a collision 103
If you are involved in a collision 104

Driver’s Handbook 3
Section 2 — Consequences of impaired driving, unsafe
driving and driving while suspended/disqualified
1. Driving while impaired 108
Alcohol 108
Drugs 108
What can you do? 109
Impaired driving is a crime 110
What are the consequences? 111
2. Licence suspension for other Criminal Code convictions 113
3. Driving while suspended — consequences 114
4. Driver Improvement and Control Program 115
Interventions apply to all drivers 115
How it works 116

Section 3 — Driver Safety Rating and safe

driving programs
1. Driver Safety Rating 118
How the scale works 118
2. Safe driving programs 119
Mature Driver Program 119
Parking entitlement for people with physical disabilities 119
Vehicle modifications for people with physical disabilities 120
Environmental consequences of driving 121
Fuel efficient driving techniques 122
3. Driver training 124

Section 4 — Forms
Organ and tissue donation 126
Parental or legal guardian approval (Learner’s licence) 129
Collision report 131
Claim reporting 135
Metric converter 137

This handbook is for general information only. For specific information, see The Highway
Traffic Act and/or The Drivers and Vehicles Act and regulations. All charges, additional
premiums and fines in this handbook are subject to change.

4 Driver’s Handbook
Establishing your identity
The first time you apply for a Manitoba driver’s licence, identification
card or enhanced identification card you will be asked to show
documents that prove your identity.

This requirement under Manitoba law is aligned with North American

standards. Verifying identity before we issue a driver’s licence or
identification card helps to protect all Manitobans from identity theft.
It also ensures that Manitoba drivers’ licences or identification cards
are issued only to those who are in our country legally, whether as
citizens, permanent residents or visitors.

To prove your identity, you will need to produce supporting documents

that satisfy the following six key requirements:

• birth date
• legal names
• signature
• photograph
• Manitoba residence
• entitlement to be in Canada

For more information on the documents required to prove your

identity, please the Establishing Your Identity brochure at [Link].

Driver’s Handbook 5
 The Class Licence System
Manitoba Licence Class Allows the Licence Holder to Operate Minimum Age Medical Requirements Requirements Test Charges

1 semi-trailer1 trucks including all vehicles in Classes 2, 3, 4 and 5

Class 1 Road Test
$50

2
buses2 having a seating capacity of over 24 passengers (while Class 2 Road Test
3
carrying passengers), school buses having a seating capacity over must meet
36 passengers (while carrying passengers), includes all vehicles in medical and • must hold a minimum Class 5I (Intermediate Stage) licence or Class 5A $45
Classes 3, 4 and 5 vision standards (Authorized Instruction Stage) licence to obtain authorized instruction
medical report in Classes 1–4
• must pass knowledge test Class 3 Road Test
18 required on

3
trucks with more than two axles, including any combination of
initial application • requires supervising driver for Authorized Instruction $45
vehicles, OR a truck with two axles towing a vehicle with a registered • must pass road test [For Classes 1, 2, 3 or 4 (buses and trucks only),
+4,540 kg and periodically
gross vehicle weight of more than 4,540 kilograms (but does not the test includes a pre-trip inspection of vehicle (and air brake system
1 thereafter based
include a semi-trailer truck ), includes all vehicles in Classes 4 and 5 if applicable) by the applicant]
on the age of Class 4 Road Test
the driver
2
$35
taxis, ambulances and other emergency vehicles, buses with a

4
seating capacity between 10 and 24 passengers (while carrying
3
passengers) and school buses with a seating capacity between
Knowledge Test
10 and 36 passengers (while carrying passengers), includes all
vehicles in Class 5 $10

passenger cars, a bus while not carrying passengers, trucks with

two axles, and any combination of vehicles consisting of a truck
with two axles and a towed vehicle with a registered gross vehicle
weight of up to 4,540 kilograms
16 • must pass knowledge test for Class 5L (Learner Stage) licence Class 5 Road Test
(must wait seven days for re-tests) $30
may operate Class 3 vehicles if registered as a farm truck and the driver medical report • requires supervising driver for Class 5L (Learner Stage) or Class 5A

5
required when
holds a Class 5I (Intermediate Stage) licence or 5F (Full Stage) licence
may operate a moped4, if 16 years of age or older
15M
or requested
(Authorized Instruction) license
• requires supervising driver for a Class 5I (Intermediate Stage) licence
if enrolled
Note: A person must hold a valid minimum Class 5I (Intermediate must meet if carrying more than one passenger between the hours of midnight
in high school
Stage) licence to operate a special mobile machine, implement vision standards and 5 a.m.
driver education
of husbandry or tractor on a provincial highway, or a highway • must pass road test to advance to the Intermediate Stage (minimum Knowledge Test
course currently
within the municipal boundaries of a city, town, village or urban 15 months) (must wait 14 days for re-test) $10
in progress
municipality. For further information please call 204–985–7000 or
toll-free 1–800–665–2410.

• driver must hold a valid licence of any class and stage

• must pass knowledge test (must wait seven days for re-tests) Class 6 Road Test
medical report • must obtain Class 6M (Motorcycle Training Course Stage) licence in order $30

6
required when to complete motorcycle training course [The course is required before Class
motorcycles 16 requested 6L (Learner Stage) licence is issued. Contact Safety Services Manitoba for
must meet motorcycle course scheduling and fees.]
• minimum nine-month Learner Stage Knowledge Test
vision standards
• must pass road test to advance to the Intermediate Stage (minimum $10
15 months) (must wait 14 days for re-test)
Endorsement

• must pass knowledge test Practical Test

air brake endorsement — permits the holder to drive vehicles
Air Brake

equipped with air brakes in the class of vehicle for which the • must pass Air Brake practical test for “A” (Authorized) endorsement $30
person is licensed • must pass adjustment of the manual slack adjusters for “S”
(Slack Adjuster) endorsement
Note: Drivers of a Class 3 truck registered as a farm Knowledge Test
• no additional charge for the Air Brake practical test if it is completed
truck equipped with air brakes are exempt from this requirement.
at the same time you are road-tested for a higher class of licence $10
1. A semi-trailer truck is a truck tractor and semi-trailer combined. All charges are
2. A bus is any vehicle with a seating capacity of at least 11 persons (including the driver) used primarily to carry passengers. It excludes vehicles used for personal transportation by the owner or with the owner’s permission. subject to change.
3. School bus certificate is required. For further information contact Manitoba Education, Training and Youth, Pupil Transportation at 204–945–6900.
4. Mopeds are not allowed to be driven on highways with a speed limit exceeding 80 km/h but may cross these highways.
 Basic Class 5 licensing requirements
Who must take a driver test A) Knowledge test C) Road test
You must take a driver test for the class of vehicle you wish to i) For a Class 5 licence: Before taking the test, you must register as a The Class 5 road test not only measures your ability to operate a Class 5
drive if you: Manitoba Public Insurance customer and provide proper identification vehicle, it also identifies errors that need to be corrected. You will be required
documents. The most convenient way to register is through an Autopac to operate your vehicle in typical traffic situations in a safe and legal
• have never been licensed for that class of vehicle manner. You will be judged on your driving skills.
agent. The test assesses your knowledge of traffic laws, safe driving
• have not held a Manitoba licence within the past four years practices and recognition of road signs. (It is not an open book test and Only authorized Manitoba Public Insurance employees may ride with you
cellular phones or electronic devices cannot be used during the test.) during the test.
• hold a licence from outside Canada, the United States or
The test charge is $10 per test.*
other jurisdictions whose licences are not exchangeable Please ensure you check in 15 minutes before your appointment time.
If an applicant is under 18 years of age, parent or legal guardian
You may be required to be re-tested if you: You must supply a vehicle in good working order and a Vehicle Registration
approval is required to take the knowledge test. (See Forms section.)
• have been involved in traffic accidents or convictions Driver education students under the age of 16 must provide a Certificate confirming the vehicle is properly registered and insured.
completed driver education form before taking the knowledge test The vehicle must have adequate seating for the driver examiner. Failure
• have had your licence suspended
for a driver’s licence. to do so will result in the cancellation of the road test with your fees
• have a disease or disability that may affect your ability not being refunded. Road tests will not be conducted in heavy or
to drive safely ii) After passing the knowledge test and meeting the visual and medical agricultural equipment.
standards, in order to drive you will be required to purchase a licence
Applicants for a driver’s licence who have not held a driver’s licence any time
Graduated Driver Licensing for $20 plus base driver premium charges of up to $45, plus any
applicable additional driver premium. prior to April 1, 2002, from any jurisdiction, are subject to a nine-month
Drivers who applied for their first Class 5 driver’s licence on or after learning period before they are eligible to take a road test. Applicants who
April 1, 2002 are in the Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) Program *Charges for the Driver Education Program include one knowledge test. demonstrate dangerous driving during their road test may have to obtain
and are subject to the GDL stages and restrictions. permission from the Registrar of Motor Vehicles before attempting another
B) Visual and medical requirements
road test.
Manitoba Class 5 driver’s licence stages are: Applicants who fail to meet minimum vision standards, with or without
corrective lenses, cannot obtain a driver’s licence. If corrective lenses are The following process applies to applicants who currently hold an out-of-
L Learner Stage (minimum 9 months)*
required for driving, this will be indicated on your licence. Applicants country licence:
I Intermediate Stage (minimum 15 months)**
F Full Stage who fail to meet the minimum medical or vision standards may have 1. You can hold an out-of-country licence and operate a vehicle under the
their licence suspended until further information is filed. A vision and/or conditions of that licence for the shorter of three months or until the
*Supervising driver must be a fully licensed driver for at least 36 months and have less
medical report may be required. home licence expires or until you receive your Manitoba Class 5 Learner’s
than .05 blood alcohol concentration.
Before taking a knowledge test, an applicant for a driver’s licence who (5L) or Authorized Instruction (5A) Stage licence.
**A driver is only required to complete the Intermediate Stage once. Therefore, time
has a disease or disability that may affect their ability to drive safely 2. Once the 5L or 5A Stage licence has been issued, you must surrender
served in the Intermediate Stage in Class 6 will be applied to the Intermediate Stage
must inform Medical Compliance and Assessments, Box 6300, Winnipeg, the out-of-country licence and drive according to the conditions of the
in Class 5.
Manitoba, R3C 4A4, 204–985–1900 or toll-free at 1–866–617–6676. Manitoba licence stage. This means you will require a supervising driver.

Application and test requirements If a medical report is required, it must be approved by Medical Compliance
Change of name or address
and Assessments before you can take the knowledge test or enrol in the
An applicant for a Class 5L licence (Learner Stage) must be a You are required to notify your Autopac agent or Manitoba Public Insurance
driver education course.
minimum of 16 years of age. At age 15 1/2, an applicant may within 15 days of any change in your name or address.
apply for a Class 5L licence if enrolled in a high school driver Manitoba Health will not pay for third party requests for a medical
report including any related examinations, tests or telephone calls to For more information visit [Link] or call us at 204–985–7000
education course that is currently in progress.
the physician. Applicants are responsible for these costs. (in Winnipeg) or 1–800–665–2410 (outside Winnipeg).
Consent of either a parent or legal guardian is required if the
applicant is under 18 years of age.
Notes

6 Driver’s Handbook
Test appointments
Scheduling your knowledge or road test
• All knowledge and road tests are by appointment only. Visit
any Autopac agent* to pay for your test and to schedule your
test appointment.

• Both knowledge and road tests are conducted during weekdays only
(with the exception of holidays) at the locations below. Saturday
appointments are available in Winnipeg at the Barnes Street,
Lexington Park and Main Street locations. For hours of operation
please visit [Link] or contact an Autopac agent.

• Your Autopac agent can provide you with details of available

appointments at any testing location.

• You can schedule your test appointment up to eight weeks in advance.

• Knowledge and road tests are available in English and French.

Knowledge tests for Class 5 licences are also available in more than
20 other languages. Specify your language preference when booking
your appointment.

*For a list of Autopac agents, visit [Link].

Test locations
Winnipeg
• 15 Barnes Street (at Bison Drive)
• 125 King Edward Street East
• 40 Lexington Park (at Gateway Road)
• 1284 Main Street
• 1103 Pacific Avenue
• 930 St. Mary’s Road (French Language Services available)

Outside Winnipeg
• Arborg | 323 Sunset Boulevard
• Beausejour | 848 Park Avenue
• Brandon | 731 1st Street
• Dauphin | 217 Industrial Road
• Portage la Prairie | 2007 Saskatchewan Avenue West
• Selkirk | 1008 Manitoba Avenue
• Steinbach | 91 North Front Drive (French Language Services available)
• The Pas | 424 Fischer Avenue
• Thompson | 53 Commercial Place
• Winkler | 355 Boundary Trail

Driver’s Handbook 7
Mobile Test Units
Mobile Test Units serve rural customers living outside the previously
listed locations. Mobile Test Unit locations and schedules are available
from any Autopac agent or online at [Link].

Key points about your tests

Cost*
• A knowledge test costs $10.
• Costs for road tests:
• Class 1 licence: $50 • Class 5 licence: $30
• Class 2 or 3 licence: $45 • Class 6 licence: $30
• Class 4 licence: $35 • Air brake: $30**
*Cost may change.
**There is no additional charge for the air brake test if you are taking a road test for a Class
1, 2, 3, 4 or 5 licence and the vehicle you are using for the test is equipped with air brakes.

General testing information

• Please check in 15 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment time.
• There is a 30-minute time limit to complete a knowledge test.
• The knowledge test is not an open book test.
• Cellular phones and electronic devices are not allowed in the test area.
• Only one knowledge or road test of the same class may be completed
per day.
• There is a 14-day waiting period between the issuance date of
your Learner Stage licence and the road test date for Class 1, 2, 3
and 4 licences.
• If you are in the Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) Program and are
not successful on your knowledge test, there is a seven-day waiting
period before you may take the test again.
• If you are not successful on your road test, there is a 14-day waiting
period before you may take the test again.

For additional information or assistance, call your Autopac agent

or the following numbers:
• in Winnipeg call 204–985–7000
• outside Winnipeg call 1–800–665–2410

Note:
• For specific testing information on motorcycles, please see the Motorcycle Handbook.
• For specific testing information on commercial vehicles, please see the Professional
Driver’s Manual.
• For specific testing information on air brakes, please see the Air Brake Manual.

8 Driver’s Handbook
 Graduated Driver Licensing
Graduated Driver Licensing Class 5I Licence (Intermediate Stage) (minimum 15 months)* Class 5F Licence (Full Stage)
The Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) Program is a three-stage licensing To graduate to this stage, you must pass a road test. While in the After spending a minimum of 15 months in the Intermediate Stage,
process that is designed to help new drivers, regardless of age, acquire Intermediate Stage, you must follow these restrictions: you will graduate to the Full Stage. For the first 36 months you
the knowledge and skill needed to safely operate a motor vehicle. must continue to maintain zero blood alcohol concentration. You are
• maintain zero blood alcohol concentration
eligible for a Full Class 1–4 driver’s licence after passing appropriate
Whether you are 16 or 60 years old, GDL enables new drivers to gain • restrict passengers between 5 a.m. to midnight to one passenger in tests, are at least 18 years of age and meet medical standards. You
experience under conditions where the risk of having a collision is lower. the front seat and passengers in the back seat(s) up to the number of may supervise novice drivers after three years in the Full Stage.
The three stages of GDL are the Learner Stage, the Intermediate Stage functioning seatbelts in the back seat of the vehicle
and the Full Stage. Each stage has specific restrictions for new drivers • restrict passengers between midnight to 5 a.m. to either one passenger
that reduce the opportunity and likelihood for risky driving behaviour. or a qualified supervising driver in the front seat and passengers in the
back seat(s) up to the number of functioning seatbelts in the back seat of
Class 5L Licence (Learner Stage) (minimum 9 months) the vehicle
The first licence for a new driver is a Learner Stage licence. To be eligible
Drivers in the Intermediate Stage may tow vehicles, operate a Class 3
to apply for a Learner licence, you must be at least 16 years of age, or
motor vehicle registered as a farm truck, and operate ORVs along or
a minimum of 15 1/2 years of age and enrolled in a high school driver
across highways.
education course that is currently in progress. Parental consent is
required if you are under 18 years of age. You must pass a knowledge *A driver is only required to complete the Intermediate Stage once. Therefore, time served
test and meet the vision and medical standards. in the Intermediate Stage in Class 5 will be applied to the Intermediate Stage in Class 6
and vice-versa.
Learner drivers must follow these restrictions:

• maintain zero blood alcohol concentration

• be accompanied by a qualified supervising driver as the only front seat

passenger (The supervising driver must hold a valid licence and have
held a Class 5F licence for at least three years. The supervising driver
must have less than .05 blood alcohol concentration.)

• restrict other passengers to the back seat(s) up to the number of

functioning seatbelts in the back seat of the vehicle

• no towing of vehicles

• no operating of Class 3 motor vehicles registered as a farm truck

• no operating of off-road vehicles (ORVs) along or across highways

 Graduated Driver Licensing Class 5
Zero Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) Restriction

Class 5L (Learner) Class 5I (Intermediate) Class 5F (Full)

Minimum 9 months Minimum 15 months 36 months

pass knowledge test pass road test graduate to Full Stage

Learner Stage Intermediate Stage* Full Stage

• minimum age 16 (15 1/2 if in a high school driver education course • must pass Class 5 road test • zero BAC for first 36 months
currently in progress) • minimum 15 months in this stage, excluding licence interruptions • may upgrade to Class 1F–4F after passing appropriate tests
• must pass knowledge test • may supervise after three years in Full Stage
• zero BAC
• minimum nine months in this stage, excluding licence interruptions • passenger limits:
• zero BAC • from 5 a.m. to midnight: one passenger in the front seat and additional
• only supervising driver as front seat passenger passengers in the back seat(s) up to the number of functioning seatbelts
• from midnight to 5 a.m.: one passenger or, when accompanied by a qualified
• supervising driver must be a fully licensed driver for at least three
supervising driver in the front seat, additional passengers up to the number of
years and must have less than .05 BAC
functioning seatbelts in the back seat(s)
• may carry passengers up to the number of functioning seatbelts in
• towing permitted
the rear of the vehicle
• may operate heavy and agricultural equipment
• no towing permitted
• may operate a Class 3 motor vehicle registered as a farm truck
• may not operate a Class 3 motor vehicle registered as a farm truck
• may operate off-road vehicles along or across highway
• may not operate off-road vehicles along or across highway
• may apply for Authorized Instruction in Class 1–4 if at least 18 years of age
• may not obtain Authorized Instruction in Classes 1–4
and meet medical standards
• may operate heavy and agricultural equipment while accompanied
by a supervising driver
* Time served in the Intermediate Stage in Class 6 will be applied to the Intermediate Stage in
Class 5. Therefore, a driver is only required to complete the Intermediate Stage once.

Keep your licence valid!

The Manitoba driver’s licence is valid for up to five years. The driver’s anniversary date is Jan. 20. If drivers in the Learner or Intermediate Stage do not
licence charge and base driver premium are assessed annually and due keep their licence active, they will not earn credit for the period of time they are
for payment on your anniversary date, which is four months less one not licensed. If you own a vehicle, your Autopac will be renewed and expire at
day after your birthday. For example, if your birthday is Sept. 21, your the same time as your driver's licence.
Authorized Instruction (A Stage) (non-GDL Learner Stage)
An Authorized Instruction Stage applies to:
• drivers who held a Learner’s licence prior to April 1, 2002
• experienced drivers whose licence has been de-classed
• experienced drivers transferring to Manitoba and requiring
driver examinations
• drivers who are learning to operate Class 1–4 vehicles
• operators of heavy and agricultural equipment

Drivers with a Class 5A licence must:

• be at least 16 years of age
• maintain zero blood alcohol concentration
• be accompanied by a qualified supervising driver, as the only front
seat passenger (The supervising driver must hold a valid licence and
have held a Class 5F licence for at least three years. The supervising
driver must have less than .05 blood alcohol concentration.)

• not operate a Class 3 motor vehicle registered as a farm truck

• not operate off-road vehicles along or across highways

For Classes 1–4 Authorized Instruction, you must hold a minimum

Class 5A or a Class 5I licence and:

• be a minimum of 18 years of age

• pass the knowledge test and meet the vision and medical standards

• complete a minimum two week learning period

• maintain zero blood alcohol concentration if you are restricted to

zero blood alcohol concentration in Class 5

• be accompanied by a qualified supervising driver who holds a

valid licence, has held a Class 5F licence for at least three years,
and a licence in the class of vehicle being driven for at least
two years (The supervising driver must have less than .05 blood
alcohol concentration.)

Driver’s Handbook 9
Manitoba’s one-piece driver’s licence
When you are issued a new Manitoba driver’s licence, you will be
provided with a temporary driver’s licence certificate (valid for up to
45 days). You must carry your temporary driver’s licence certificate with
you at all times until you receive your permanent, one-piece driver’s
licence in the mail. When you get your first driver’s licence, you will be
photographed at your Autopac agent or at a Manitoba Public Insurance
Service Centre. You’ll need a new photo every five years.

Please note: The Manitoba one-piece driver’s licence cannot be used

to cross the United States border. If you are seeking a licence to drive
that you can also use to cross the United States border (by land or
water only), you will require the Manitoba Enhanced Driver’s Licence.
Information is available at [Link].

Your driver’s licence must be in your possession at all times while

driving and must be produced, along with the vehicle registration
certificate, when requested by a peace officer.

Manitoba’s one-piece driver’s licence

Drivers under the age of 18 years are issued driver’s licences

that show the exact date of the driver’s 18th birthday.

10 Driver’s Handbook
About the renewal process
With our convenient driver’s licences and Autopac policies, you’ll only
need to visit an Autopac agent once every five years, unless you want to
change or cancel your driver’s licence or policy between renewals.

You will receive a renewal notice once every five years when it’s time
to renew your driver’s licence and/or vehicle insurance. You need to
visit an Autopac agent to review your coverage and renew your driver’s
licence and/or vehicle insurance before it lapses.

However, you still pay for your driver’s licence and vehicle insurance
every year. In years between renewals (reassessment years), you will
receive an annual statement of account, telling you what you owe.

In your reassessment years, you can choose to pay:

• online at [Link] with VISA or MasterCard

• online or by telephone through your financial institution

• in person with cash, cheque, debit, VISA or MasterCard wherever

Autopac is sold

Keep your licence valid

Your licence expiry date is printed on the front of your licence. It is your
responsibility to know when your licence expires and when to renew it.

Each year your licence will be reassessed. You will be required to pay
for your driver’s licence every year on your anniversary date, which
is four months less a day after your birthday. For example, if your
birthday is Sept. 21, your anniversary date is Jan. 20.

If you do not pay the assessed charges for your licence by the
anniversary date, your licence can be suspended. You will also not
earn credit in the Learner or Intermediate Stage for the period of
time you are not licensed.

Illegal use of driver’s licence

You may be fined and your driver’s licence suspended if you misuse
a driver’s licence by:

• allowing someone else to use your driver’s licence

• misrepresenting yourself when applying for a driver’s licence

Driver’s Handbook 11
• using an outdated or otherwise invalid driver’s licence

• altering, in any way, a registration certficate, a driver’s licence, a

motor vehicle liability insurance card or a certificate of insurance

• providing false identification when applying for a driver’s licence

or permit

• holding, at any time, more than one valid driver’s licence from
Canada or the United States

Operating heavy and

agricultural equipment
A valid Class 5I licence (Intermediate Stage) or higher is required to
operate heavy and agricultural equipment on provincial highways
and roads in urban areas. These types of vehicles include tractors,
self-propelled farm equipment such as combines, and heavy equipment
such as front-end loaders, cranes, forklifts and graders. Provincial
highways and urban roads do not include rural municipal roads, service
roads or winter roads controlled or maintained by a local government,
such as a rural municipality.

Any person whose driver’s licence is prohibited, suspended and/or

disqualified for any reason can be charged with driving while
suspended/disqualified if they are operating heavy or agricultural
equipment on provincial highways and roads in urban areas.
A conviction for this offence may result in a further suspension of
their driving privileges for up to and including lifetime.

Any driver who is subject to a zero blood alcohol concentration

restriction while operating a Class 1–5 motor vehicle will also be
subject to this restriction while operating heavy and agricultural
equipment on any roadway.

If you have any questions about operating heavy or agricultural

equipment, please contact:

Driver Records and Suspensions

Telephone: 204–985–0980
Toll-free: 1–866–323–0543

12 Driver’s Handbook
Occupant restraints
Seatbelts
All drivers and passengers must wear the complete seatbelt assembly,
where a seatbelt assembly is provided, unless exempted by law.

Ensure the seatbelt is worn properly:

• It must be snug over the shoulder and across the hips.

• The seatbelt fabric must be flat and not twisted.

• The seatbelt must be kept over the shoulder and not under the arm as
this could cause serious injury in a collision.

It is the driver’s responsibility to ensure that every minor in the vehicle

is properly secured.

Automatic seatbelt assemblies should not be used to restrain children

in infant/child car seats or booster seats situated in the front passenger
seat. This refers to a seatbelt that automatically locks into place
when the door is closed. Consult your owner’s manual regarding the
securement of infant or child restraints in this seating position.

No person shall operate a motor vehicle where the seatbelt assembly has
been removed or has been modified to reduce its effectiveness.

Vehicle accidents are the leading cause of the head injuries suffered by
thousands of Manitobans every year. Seatbelts play a significant role in
reducing head injuries and saving lives.

Infant and child car seats

Rear-facing infant car seats
Use a rear-facing seat from birth until your baby reaches the maximum
weight and height limits listed in the car seat manual. Some car seats
are made for children up to 20 kg (45 lb.).

Rear-facing seats offer the best protection because they distribute the
impact of a collision along the back of the car seat, which protects your
baby’s fragile head and neck.

Installation
• The safest position for a car seat is the vehicle’s rear middle seat.
If you have more than one child, place the youngest in the middle as
their smaller bodies are not strong enough to withstand the impact
of a crash.

Driver’s Handbook 13
• Use a seatbelt or Universal Anchorage System (UAS) to install the seat.
Do not use both.

• Check the tension where the UAS or seatbelt is routed through the
car seat. You should not be able to move it more than one inch in
any direction.

• At least 80 per cent of the infant car seat must be in contact with
the vehicle seat.

• Check the level indicators to ensure the infant car seat is at a

45 degree angle.

Check the fit

✓ The harness straps should be in the slot that is level with or below
your child’s shoulders and fit snugly so you can fit only one finger
between your baby’s collarbone and the straps. The straps should
lay flat.

✓ The straps should be at or below the shoulders to prevent your baby

from sliding out of the car seat.

✓ The chest clip should be at armpit level.

Forward-facing child car seats

Once your child reaches the weight and height limits of their
rear-facing seat, they can move into a forward-facing seat. Look for
a forward-facing seat that will meet the weight and height
requirements of your child for as long as possible. Some seats are
made for children up to 30 kg (65 lb.).

The harness straps in a forward-facing seat are designed so the impact

is taken where your child’s body is strongest — the shoulders and chest,
and then directed down to the hips.

Installation
• The safest position for a car seat is the vehicle’s rear middle seat.
If you have more than one child, place the youngest in the middle,
as their smaller bodies are not strong enough to withstand the impact
of a crash.

• The tether strap must always be used to secure the top of the car seat
to the vehicle.

• Use a seatbelt or UAS to install the seat. Do not use both.

• Check the tension where the seatbelt or UAS is routed through the car
seat. You should not be able to move the car seat more than one inch
in any direction.

14 Driver’s Handbook
Check the fit
✓ The harness straps should be in the slot that is level with or above
your child’s shoulders and fit snugly so that you can fit only one
finger between your child’s chest and the straps. The straps should
lay flat.

✓ The middle of your child’s ears should not come past the top of
the seat.

✓ The chest clip should be at armpit level.

Booster seats
Once your child reaches the weight and height limits of their
forward-facing seat, they can move into a booster seat. Because weight
limits can vary among forward-facing seats (some can accommodate
children up to 30 kg or 65 lb.), please check the manual for the weight
limits of your specific car seat.

Provincial law requires children to remain in booster seats until they

are at least 145 cm (4'9"), 36 kg (80 lb.) or nine years old.

Without a booster seat, a seatbelt rides too high on a child’s stomach

and neck and can cause serious injuries. Research shows that booster
seats protect children from serious injury by more than 60 per cent.

How to choose a booster seat

If your vehicle does not have a head rest, choose either:

• a high-back booster seat that provides head and neck support. Some
models convert from a forward-facing seat with a harness to a high-
back booster seat.

• an adjustable booster seat that provides adjustable head and neck

support as your child grows

If your vehicle has a head rest, choose a backless booster seat, an

adjustable booster seat or a backless booster seat that has a seat base
and arm rests.

Installation
• The safest position for a car seat is the vehicle’s rear middle seat. If
you have more than one child, place the youngest in the middle, as
their smaller bodies are not strong enough to withstand the impact
of a crash.

• Keep an empty booster seat buckled up to prevent it from moving and

hitting you in a sudden stop or crash.

Driver’s Handbook 15
Check the fit
✓ The shoulder strap should fit over the shoulder and across your
child’s chest.

✓ The lap belt should sit snug on their hips.

✓ The middle of your child’s ears should not come past the top of the
vehicle’s head restraint. The head restraint ensures your child has
adequate head and neck protection in a collision.

✓ The bend of your child’s knees should be in line with the vehicle seat.

✓ Never use just a lap belt to secure a child in a booster seat. Always use
a shoulder and lap belt.

✓ Never allow your child to place the shoulder belt under their arm or
behind their back as this can cause serious injury.

Seatbelts
For your child’s safety, provincial law requires children to remain in
booster seats until they are at least 145 cm (4'9"), 36 kg (80 lb.) or nine
years old.

It’s important not to rush to using a seatbelt alone because it’s not
designed for a child — the shoulder strap rides too high and could cause
serious injuries.

Check the fit

✓ Sitting up straight, the seatbelt should fit across your child’s shoulder
and chest and sit low across the hips.

✓ The middle of your child’s ears should not come past the top of the
vehicle’s head restraint. Adjust the head restraint to ensure your
child has adequate head and neck protection in a collision.

✓ The bend of your child’s knees should be in line with the vehicle seat.

✓ Never allow your child to place the shoulder belt under their arm or
behind their back as this can cause serious injury.

The chances of being fatally injured in an accident can be

decreased by as much as 70 per cent if you wear a seatbelt.
Shoulder belts further increase your safety.

16 Driver’s Handbook
 Section 1
Safe and legal
driving practices
1. Signs and signals
Signs, signals and pavement markings help indicate the rules of the
road designed for the safe movement of vehicles, pedestrians and
cyclists. As a driver, you are required to know them. The shapes of signs
enable you to identify them in darkness, fading light, fog, rain or snow.

Sign shapes and colours

Fluorescent yellow-green pentagon indicates school area.

Drive cautiously. Children could be crossing the street.

Diamond warns you of possible dangerous conditions,

either on or near the roadway (e.g., a sharp curve, turn,
side road, intersection, narrow bridge). Slow down to keep
full control of your vehicle.

Octagon is used only for stop signs. Always come to a

complete stop.

Triangle with the tip pointing down means you must yield
the right-of-way. Slow down and, if necessary, stop.

Triangle with each tip cut off indicates a slow-moving vehicle.

Crossbuck indicates a railway crossing. Always slow down

and look both ways for trains before crossing the tracks.
You must yield the right-of-way to trains.

Square or Rectangular signs regulate traffic and direct

the driver.

Note: Times listed on signs follow the 24-hour clock so that:

0:00 = midnight 15:00 = 3 p.m. 20:00 = 8 p.m.
1 a.m. to noon 16:00 = 4 p.m. 21:00 = 9 p.m.
remains the same. 17:00 = 5 p.m. 22:00 = 10 p.m.
13:00 = 1 p.m. 18:00 = 6 p.m. 23:00 = 11 p.m.
14:00 = 2 p.m. 19:00 = 7 p.m.

18 Driver’s Handbook
Warning signs
These signs warn of possible dangerous conditions immediately ahead.

Very sharp right Divided highway

turn ahead begins ahead

Sharp right curve,

maximum recommended Divided highway
speed 40 km/h ends ahead

Pedestrian crosswalk Two-way

ahead traffic ahead

Winding road ahead Right lane

ends ahead

Road ends, Left lane

exit right or left ends ahead

Bump ahead Merging

roadways ahead

Hidden
Steep hill ahead intersection
ahead

Driver’s Handbook 19
Warning signs

School area indicated

Bridge ices by fluorescent
yellow-green pentagon

Hazard marker showing

Narrow bridge ahead
an obstruction

Low structure
Stop ahead
clearance 4.1 metres

Traffic signals ahead Right curve ahead

Playground ahead School crosswalk ahead

Railway crossing
advance warning,
Deer crossing track position indicates
area ahead the angle the railway
tracks cross the road

Road slippery
Traffic island ahead
when wet

Roundabout ahead Pavement ends

20 Driver’s Handbook
Maximum recommended speed
on exit 40 km/h

Maximum speed limit change ahead

Reserved Bus Lane ahead

Reserved Lane located in curb lane

of cross-street, if turning right, enter
the second lane from the curb

Reserved Lane located in median

lane of cross-street, if turning right,
enter the curb lane

Prepare to stop. When the amber lights on the

sign are flashing, approaching drivers should
be prepared to stop, as the traffic signal ahead
is red or about to turn red.

Railway Crossing Sign: This railway crossing

sign is equipped with warning lights and bells.
When the lights are flashing and the bells are
ringing, be prepared to stop as they warn you
of an approaching train.

The number on the square sign under the

railway crossing sign indicates the number
of train tracks. Refer to the Railway Crossing
section for further information.

Driver’s Handbook 21
Construction and maintenance signs
These signs warn you of road construction and maintenance areas
ahead. Slow down to a safe speed. At some locations maximum speed
limits are posted.

Drivers must watch for and obey the instructions of flag persons.

Designated
Construction
construction zone:
zone ends
speed fines double

Maximum speed
40 km/h when Detour ahead
meeting traffic

Overhead wires Barricade ahead

Flying stones Part of roadway

has been removed

Trucks entering
Construction area
on the right

Flagperson ahead Road work

Pavement edge
Bump ahead
drop-off

22 Driver’s Handbook
Regulatory signs
These signs regulate your driving, informing you about speed limits,
permitted turns, stopping and parking rules.

No turns allowed No U-turn allowed

No right turn All traffic must

turn right

No left turn No trucks allowed

Do not enter Truck route

All traffic must

No right turn on turn left
red signal

No right turn during

Keep right of the times shown
this sign

Maximum speed
60 km/h ahead

Reduced speed
school zone
Maximum speed
90 km/h

Reduced speed school

zone ends
Reduced speed
school zone
(restricted hours)

Driver’s Handbook 23
Regulatory signs

Parking permitted Parking is prohibited

as indicated

Do not stop to wait

Parking for disabled
persons only

Pedestrian Corridor
Snow Route:
No stopping during a
declared “snow
emergency” Pedestrian Crosswalk

Do not enter
Except buses and
cyclists School Crosswalk

Two-way traffic Stop here for

red traffic signal

Do not pass
This lane of traffic must turn
right during the times shown,
except buses and cyclists
Passing permitted

This lane of traffic must

Overhead mounted turn left
sign indicating that the
curb lane is reserved
This lane of traffic may go
for buses and cyclists
through or turn right only
during the times shown

Through traffic is not

Slower traffic permitted to use this lane.
keep right Traffic, having entered this
lane, must turn left at the
next intersecting private
Keep right except approach or public street.
to pass
One Way: Proceed in
direction of arrow only
Speed fines are
doubled in designated Buses only
construction zones

24 Driver’s Handbook
Guide and information signs
These tell you where you are, what road you are on or how to get to
certain places. There are many different types of these signs, such as
service signs, location signs, route marker information and distance
signs. They vary in size and colour.

Eastbound Trans-
Hospital
Canada Highway

“A” indicates an
alternative route
that will return Camping site
to the route you
are on

Westbound
Provincial Trunk Travel Information
Highway

Southbound
Picnic site
Provincial Road

Northbound City Access for

Route turns right disabled persons

Cul-de-sac
(Dead end with
turnaround)
Stop for school bus
when signals flashing

Airport with
scheduled service

Driver’s Handbook 25
Stop signs
At a stop sign, you must come to a complete stop at the appropriate
places illustrated below. Before proceeding from a stopped position,
you must check and yield the right-of-way to pedestrians wanting to
cross the street. When pedestrians are clear, you may then slowly move
forward for a better view of traffic and, when safe to do so, you may
then proceed to turn or cross the street.

The following diagrams indicate the correct places for stopping.

Stop before the stop line.

Where there is no stop line,

stop just before the sidewalk.

If there is no stop line or

sidewalk at the intersection,
stop just before the
intersecting highway.

Four-way stop signs

At an intersection controlled by a four-way
stop sign, the vehicle that stops first should
go first. After stopping and yielding to any
pedestrians wanting to cross, roll slowly
forward to show your intent to proceed.
If two or more vehicles stop at the same
time, the vehicle on the left should yield to
the vehicle on the right.

26 Driver’s Handbook
Yield right-of-way signs
A yield sign means slow down as you near
an intersection. Check for pedestrians and
traffic. If there is traffic or pedestrians,
stop and yield right-of-way.

Yield signs are usually located where a

lane or road merges with another lane
or road. You must slow down and be prepared to stop. Be careful when
checking for traffic so that you do not run into the car ahead of you.

Traffic control signals

Red — Stop in front of the marked crosswalk or, if there is no marked
crosswalk, before the sidewalk out of the way of pedestrians and
vehicles. Unless a sign shows otherwise or vehicle/pedestrian traffic
does not permit, you may, after stopping completely, turn right.
You may also turn right or left from a one-way street to another
one-way street.

Amber — An amber light is a warning that the light is going to

turn red. Slow down and stop — never accelerate to “make the light.”
If you are already in the intersection when the light turns amber,
continue through.

Green — You may proceed, but you must yield the right-of-way to
pedestrians in the crosswalk and to other vehicles already in the
intersection. To turn left, you may enter the intersection on a green
light, but you must yield to pedestrians and oncoming traffic. You may
have to complete the turn during an amber or red light.

Horizontal Vertical

Driver’s Handbook 27
 Flashing Red — Come to a complete stop, proceeding
only when safe.

Flashing Amber — Slow down and be prepared to

stop. You must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians.

Amber Arrow — A steady amber arrow may be

shown after a green arrow. The amber arrow is a
warning that oncoming traffic may next receive a
green signal. Slow down and stop. If you are already
in the intersection when the amber signal appears,
continue and complete your turn.

Green Arrow — You may proceed only in the

direction of the arrow, either steady or flashing,
providing you are in the proper lane.

Flashing Green Left-Arrow — You may proceed

only to make a left turn, unless facing another
signal that indicates other movements are allowed.
(Flashing left-arrows may be shown together with
steady red, amber or green lights.)

Green U-Turn Arrow — You may proceed to make

a U-turn after yielding to pedestrians and other
vehicles already in the intersection.

Green Left-Arrow with Red Light — When a green

left-arrow is shown with a red light together you
may proceed and make a left turn only. It is illegal
to make a right turn at an intersection when a green
left-arrow is shown with a red light, even if there
is no sign indicating a right turn is prohibited on a
red light. Under no circumstances are you allowed
to turn right or drive straight through when a green
left-arrow is illuminated with a red light. If a green
left-arrow is illuminated alone (the red light is not
on) you may turn right if it is safe to do so and no
sign prohibits it.

28 Driver’s Handbook
Transit priority signal
A signal light with a white vertical bar on a black
background allows transit buses to proceed before
other traffic. Only public-transit vehicles (buses)
may proceed when the Transit Priority Signal is
shown, while other vehicles must remain stopped.
(The Transit Priority signal is always accompanied
by a steady red light).

Driver’s Handbook 29
Pavement markings
A solid line on the left of your lane means you must not pass or change
lanes. A broken line means you may pass or change lanes if safe from
both front and rear to do so. It is permissible to turn left over a single or
double solid line onto a public thoroughfare, private road or driveway.

Yellow lines
Yellow lines indicate traffic moving in opposite directions.

Broken line —
Passing is permitted.

Solid and broken line together —

Passing is not permitted if the solid
line is on your side of the highway.

Double solid line — Passing is

prohibited for traffic going either way.

White lines
White lines indicate traffic moving in the same direction.

Solid line —
Lane changing is not permitted.

Broken line —
Lane changing is permitted.

Stop line —
You must stop before this line.

30 Driver’s Handbook
 No traffic is permitted within Painted
Left-Turn Islands, which are commonly
used in rural areas to channel traffic
into turning lanes.

Reserved lanes
In some urban centres, to improve the safety and flow
of designated vehicles, certain traffic lanes have been
reserved for specific uses. Traffic signs identify the
vehicles or actions that the lanes are reserved for. The
reserved lanes are marked by double broken lines and
white diamond patterns.

The following are some examples of how reserved

lanes are used:

1. With-Flow Reserved Lane

A curb lane is reserved for use by
designated vehicles only. Motorists
making right turns are permitted to
enter the reserved lane at any point
in the block preceding their turn.
Pavement Markings
Double broken white lane lines and
diamond symbols designate the
reserved lane.

Turning Right onto a Reserved Lane

If you are turning right onto a street with
a Diamond Lane in the curb lane, you
must turn as close as practicable to the
curb and into the first lane. You should
then signal, check and change lanes out
of the Diamond Lane into the adjacent
lane as soon as it is safe to do so. If you are driving
parallel to a Diamond Lane and need to turn right, you
can enter the Diamond Lane but you must turn right at
the next intersection. Always be watchful and respect
the rights of cyclists using the Diamond Lanes.

Driver’s Handbook 31
 2. Contra-Flow Reserved Lane
A curb lane on a one-way street
is reserved for use by designated
vehicles only. Designated
vehicles travel in the opposite
direction of traffic.
Pavement Markings
Double solid yellow lane lines
and white diamond symbols
designate the contra-flow lane.

32 Driver’s Handbook
Cycling pavement markings
1. Bicycle lanes
These on-road painted lanes are intended to provide cyclists with a
defined space and help organize the flow of traffic. They are also a
visual sign to motorists that cyclists have a right to the road.

Motor vehicles can occupy space on both sides of the bike lane and
are able to cross the lane at any time. Most bike lanes are located to
the left of the parking lane and as such require motorists to cross
the bike lane when entering or leaving a parking spot. Motorists also
must cross the bike lane when turning at an intersection, lane or
driveway. Motorists need to be alert for cyclists already in the lane,
in particular at intersections.

Cyclists are not limited to the use of a bike lane when it is provided.
While the bike lane offers a defined space for cyclists, there are times
when they may have to leave the bike lane in order to change lanes,
make a turn or leave the roadway. Motorists should always be aware
of cyclists on the road and note that the solid line on each side of the
lane does not mean the cyclist cannot leave the bike lane.

Pavement markings
White lane lines and a diamond symbol with a bicycle designate a
bicycle lane.

Driver’s Handbook 33
2. Sharrows
Sharrows are pavement markings painted on a roadway to encourage
cyclists and motorists to share the road. They are generally intended
for use on roadways with lanes that are wide enough for side-by-side
bicycle and vehicle operation. However, motorists should always pass
cyclists at a safe distance and should not assume that the sharrow
indicates that they can pass within the travel lane. Depending on
the positioning of the cyclist, it may be necessary to change lanes in
order to pass safely.

Sharrows do not designate a bicycle lane and should not be treated as

such. While some cyclists will ride down the center of the arrow, in
many locations, the sharrow marking simply indicates cyclists and
motorists are to share the lane and is not an indication of where a
cyclist rides within the lane.

Pavement markings
A chevron and bicycle symbol designate a sharrow lane.

34 Driver’s Handbook
2. Starting from a parked position,
lane changing, curves and turning
Starting Out
Steering — Hand Position
Most vehicles are equipped with power steering and adjustable steering
wheels that make operating the vehicle easier and more comfortable for
the driver. It is recommended that the steering wheel be held with your
hands at the 9 o’clock and 3 o’clock positions. This will allow for good
control and, in the event of an accident and the vehicle is equipped
with an airbag, it will inflate without injuring or being obstructed by
the driver’s arms. The driver of a vehicle should never turn the steering
wheel with one hand (palming the wheel) or with one finger as they
may not have full control of the vehicle.

Accelerator
To set a vehicle in motion, you have to accelerate smoothly and
gradually to avoid jerking the vehicle. The driver’s foot should lie
flat on the accelerator with the heel on the floor. For optimal engine
performance, the driver should avoid abruptly applying and releasing
the accelerator.

Drivers should accelerate slowly and steadily when starting from a stop.
By doing this, drivers have more control over the vehicle. If the vehicle
is over-accelerated, particularly on poor or slippery road surfaces, the
wheels can lose traction, which could cause loss of control.

Automatic transmission
Many vehicles have transmissions that change gears automatically in
response to speed and acceleration, by means of mechanical, electrical
or hydraulic controls.

Drivers of such vehicles can also shift down to a lower gear for
increased braking power when descending a hill. Downshifting
prevents the transmission from automatically changing into a higher
gear, keeping the vehicle speed slower. This can be very helpful in
keeping the vehicle’s brakes cooler as they will not have to be used as
often when descending a steep hill.

Driver’s Handbook 35
This is an example of how the gears on an automatic transmission
could be used:
• P (park): for starting the engine, stopping for an extended length of
time and parking
• N (neutral): for starting the engine, disengages the engine from the
drive wheels
• R (reverse): for backing up (bring the vehicle to a complete stop before
changing from a forward gear to reverse and vice versa)
• D (drive) or 2–5: for normal forward driving conditions
• 2–3/2–4: lower gears for driving with heavy loads
• 2: for driving on slippery surfaces or up or down steep inclines
• 1: for driving very slowly when off the highway

Manual (standard) transmission

Shifting gears in a vehicle equipped with a manual transmission is a
skill which requires considerable practice. The driver operates a clutch
pedal with the left foot while manually selecting the desired gear range
by moving a gear shift lever with the right hand.

The clutch is used to make, or break, the connection between the

vehicle’s engine and its transmission. When the pedal is up, the
connection is engaged and the power of the engine can then be
transmitted to the drive wheels of the vehicle.

When the clutch pedal is pressed down, the connection is disengaged

which prevents the transfer of engine power. It is while the connection
is disengaged that the driver will change gears.

As the driver begins to let up on the clutch pedal, the re-establishment

of the connection will be felt before the pedal is fully released. The
point where this first occurs is called the “friction point.”

It is at this friction point that the driver must coordinate the further
release of the clutch pedal with the use of the gas pedal to achieve a
smooth shift and prevent engine stalling.

Shifting patterns vary as do the number of available gears. Your

owner’s manual will describe the shifting pattern for your vehicle.

With the ignition switch in the off position, you can practice moving
the gear shift lever into its various positions until you are sure of the
locations and can find each gear without looking.

36 Driver’s Handbook
When starting the engine of a vehicle equipped with a manual
transmission, your selector lever should be in the neutral position and
your clutch pedal should be fully depressed.

When driving manual-transmission vehicles, it is important to select

the proper gear so your engine neither lugs (moves the vehicle in rough,
bumpy fashion) nor races (revs the engine but does not move the car
effectively). If the engine begins lugging, you must shift to a lower gear.
If it starts to race, a higher gear range must be selected. Your owner’s
manual will provide you with the approximate speeds at which you
should shift.

Once you have the vehicle in motion and have completed shifting gears,
be sure to remove your foot from the clutch pedal. Leaving your foot
on the clutch pedal unnecessarily is called “riding the clutch” and can
cause excessive clutch wear.

When you are required to brake or come to a stop, you should avoid
depressing the clutch too soon to avoid coasting to your stop.

When turning corners, be sure that your vehicle is in the proper gear
for the speed at which you are turning.

Clutch
The clutch makes it possible to disengage the transmission and the
engine. By pressing the clutch pedal, the connection is broken between
these two components, allowing the driver to change gears. The clutch
pedal must be pressed with the left foot and held to move the gear lever.
Avoid releasing the clutch too quickly. This can damage components
leaving the vehicle inoperable. Also, do not let the clutch out too
slowly or release it only enough to hold the vehicle from rolling on
a hill when stopped. This will cause the clutch to heat excessively and
wear out prematurely.

Driver’s Handbook 37
Starting
Before starting out from a parked position on a street, the driver must
first turn on the signal furthest from the curb or use the appropriate
hand signal and then shoulder check before moving. This warns drivers
about to turn into that lane that the parked car intends to move from
a parked position. These cars have sometimes been struck by other cars
whose drivers were surprised by the parked car suddenly moving.

Lane changing
Before changing lanes, check your rearview mirror for traffic and signal
your intention to move to the right or left. Check blind spots by shoulder
checking before changing lanes. Move into another lane only when
safe. When changing across multiple lanes, it is acceptable to make
one shoulder check and signal to change over a number of lanes at one
time, as long as the movement can be completed safely. If you must use
mirrors only to check to the side and rear (unable to shoulder check),
you can only change one lane at a time.

Remember:

• Never change lanes at intersections.

• Signals and checks are required before moving away from a straight
line such as when maneuvering past parked vehicles.

Blind spots
1. With the inside
B C rearview mirror:
You can see A.
You can’t see B or C.
A

2. With the sideview mirror:

C You can see B.
B You can’t see A or C.

A
3. With both mirrors and

B C a shoulder check:
You can see A.
You can see B.
A You can see C.

38 Driver’s Handbook
Hand signals
If your vehicle signals don’t work, use these hand signals:

Left Turn:
left arm extended straight out

Right Turn:
left arm out and bent upwards

Stop:
left arm extended out and bent downwards

Curves
Slow down before entering a curve and avoid braking in the curve.
If you do enter a curve too fast, don’t jam on the brakes. Instead,
apply them carefully to keep control. When entering a left-hand curve,
steer toward, but not over, the centre of the road. When entering
a right-hand curve, steer toward the right side of the road.

Beware of drivers who may have strayed into part of your lane.

General rules of turning

1. Decide well in advance where you are going to turn and move into
the appropriate lane, following the correct lane-change rules.

2. Once you are in the proper lane, signal at least 30 metres before the
turn. Outside cities, towns or villages, signal at least 150 metres
before turning.

3. For cars with manual transmissions, shift to the proper gear

before turning.

Driver’s Handbook 39
Right turns
Right turns must be made from the right lane nearest the curb into the
right lane nearest the curb of the other road, unless it is blocked within
30 metres of the intersection. In that case, you can turn into the next
lane nearest the right if no other traffic is approaching in that lane,
such as a vehicle coming from the opposite direction also turning onto
that street.

Making right turns correctly

Parked car

40 Driver’s Handbook
Making right turns correctly

Parked
car
Wait here
until the car
has passed

Making right turns in towns and villages

Some communities have a white line on the right side of the road. The
area to the right of this line is the shoulder of the road. Stay to the left of
the white line to make your turn (refer to Figure A). Extra caution should
be taken when turning right as there may be someone driving illegally
on the shoulder. On wide roads without white lines on the right side,
keep well over to the right if you are turning right (refer to Figure B).

Figure A Figure B

Driver’s Handbook 41
Making right turns on highways in high-speed areas
On highways outside towns and villages, solid white pavement markings
identify the edge of the road, and the area to the right of this line is
identified as the shoulder. The shoulder may be gravel or pavement. Do
not drive on shoulders as they are intended as a safe place for stopped or
disabled vehicles. A careful driver, however, should make a reasonable
effort to get off the travel lanes as quickly as possible when turning right
while being followed by high-speed through vehicles.

42 Driver’s Handbook
Left turns
Left turns are more dangerous than right turns because of oncoming
traffic. Different types of streets require different left turn procedures.
Only make a left turn when it is legal and safe.

When approaching the intersection, check for signs that may prohibit or
restrict turns. Before making a left turn, enter the proper lane well
before the intersection.

When approaching the intersection, signal for the turn and watch for:

• pedestrians at the crosswalk

• traffic coming from your left and right

• any vehicles established in or blocking the intersection

• traffic approaching from the opposite direction

Never enter any intersection:

• if it is not safe to do so

• if you will not be able to clear the intersection because traffic is backed
up in the lane you wish to enter

• if the intersection is blocked

Making left turns on a green light

If you have stopped at a red light, when the light turns green, you
must move into the intersection if it is safe. Before moving ahead, you
must check:

• for pedestrians crossing in front of you

• for traffic coming from left and right (watch for vehicles attempting to
race the amber light)

If you are approaching an intersection and the light is green, you

must check:

• to make sure the intersection is clear

• that it is safe for you to enter

• that the light is still green

When it is safe, move ahead to just before the centre of the intersection
and just to the right of the directional oncoming line.

Driver’s Handbook 43
Making left turns on a green light
Once established in the intersection, you may clear the intersection
when it is safe and if:
• there is no pedestrian traffic crossing the lanes you wish to turn into
• there is a break in traffic big enough to complete your turn safely
without interfering with oncoming vehicles
• no other vehicles are approaching

If the light turns yellow or red while you are established in the
intersection, watch for traffic slowing down to stop and complete your
turn when it is safe. Always be alert to drivers attempting to race an
amber light. (If you are not already established in the intersection, you
must not attempt the left turn when the light changes from green.)

Established
(wait here until
safe to complete
left turn)

44 Driver’s Handbook
Making left turns from two-way onto another two-way street
• Well ahead of the turn, look for any following vehicles, signal and
move close to the centre line.
• Slow down and look both ways before starting turn.
• Enter the intersection to the right of the directional dividing line.
• Make your turn to the left of the centre of the intersection.
• If turning onto a four-lane highway outside a city, town or village,
move to the right after completing the turn, if traffic permits.

Driver’s Handbook 45
Making left turns when two lanes can turn
Complete this turn the same as any other turn except when two lanes
are allowed to turn left at the same time. The vehicle closest to the
median must complete the turn and stay in the lane closest to the
median on the street being turned onto. The vehicle second from the
median must turn into the second lane from the median on the street
being turned onto. When turning with vehicles beside you that are
also turning, watch for vehicles that may not stay in their own lane
and be prepared to avoid them.

46 Driver’s Handbook
Making left turns from a street with a stop sign onto a street
with a boulevard

• Make a complete stop.

• Check traffic and when there is no traffic coming from the left or
traffic turning in front of you and it is safe, proceed. If traffic is
approaching from the right establish your vehicle in the intersection.
• Complete your turn when it is safe, to the left of the centre of the
intersection in the boulevard area.

Driver’s Handbook 47
Making left turns from one-way onto another one-way street

• Signal well ahead of the turn and, when safe, move into the far left
lane of the street.
• Slow down and begin your left turn after checking for traffic.
• Turn into the lane closest to the left curb unless blocked within
30 metres of the intersection.
• Unless otherwise indicated, you may turn left from a one-way street
to a one-way street on a red traffic light, after stopping and yielding
the right-of-way to pedestrians and other traffic.

48 Driver’s Handbook
Making left turns from one-way onto two-way street

• Signal well ahead of the turn and, when safe, move into the left
lane closest to the left curb.
• Slow down and begin the left turn from a point as close as possible
to the left curb or edge of the roadway.
• When entering the two-way street, turn into the lane immediately
to the right of the centre line.

Driver’s Handbook 49
Making left turns from two-way onto one-way street

• Signal and, when safe, move into the lane next to the centre line in
preparation for the turn.
• Slow down before entering the intersection, check for traffic ahead
and to the right and, when safe, begin the turn.
• Turn from the lane next to the centre line into the lane nearest the
left curb unless it is blocked within 30 metres of the intersection.

50 Driver’s Handbook
Making left turns onto driveways and lanes
To make a left turn onto a driveway or back lane, signal and move into
the proper lane before turning left.

U-turns
Although under certain situations it is legal to make a U-turn, we
advise against it unless it is at an intersection controlled by a U-turn
traffic signal. Instead, in cities, you should go around the block to
change directions. In rural areas, continue ahead until you can turn
onto a side road from which you can then make a regular turn onto the
highway in the desired direction. With the higher speeds prevailing on
highways, it is extremely dangerous to make a U-turn.

U-turns are prohibited at:

• curves
• approaches to or near the crest of a hill where there is not at least
150 metres of clear view of oncoming traffic
• places where a sign prohibits U-turns

Driver’s Handbook 51
Roundabouts
When approaching a roundabout you will see a roundabout sign.

Reduce your speed to the posted speed limit or slower and

be prepared to yield to pedestrians/cyclists and vehicles
in the roundabout. When no traffic is approaching
from the left you may proceed into the roundabout.
When on the roundabout you have the right-of-way
over vehicles entering. Continue until you reach the
street you wish to exit, signaling your intentions to exit
before you reach the street you wish to exit on to. As you exit, watch for
pedestrians within the pedestrian corridor and yield the right-of-way
to pedestrians/cyclists.

52 Driver’s Handbook
3. Driving responsibly
Speed
A safe speed allows you to stop safely in emergency situations. Unless
otherwise posted, the maximum speed limit is 90 km/h in rural areas
and 50 km/h in urban areas. Poor driving conditions will require you to
drive more slowly. At no time should you exceed the posted maximum
speed limit.

Driving safely can also mean not driving too slowly. You should not
drive at such a slow speed that you hold back or block the normal and
reasonable flow of traffic.

Following safely
You are responsible for maintaining a safe following distance — one
which provides you with sufficient time to stop in an emergency.

Use a four-second following distance when following under ideal driving

conditions — allow more time under adverse conditions.

Calculating safe following distance:

1. The rear of the vehicle ahead has

just passed the sign you have
decided to use as your marker.
Begin counting.

2. Count: One thousand and one,

one thousand and two, one thousand
and three.

3. Count: One thousand and four (four

seconds). If it takes less than four
seconds for the front of your vehicle
to reach the marker, you are too
close. Four seconds is correct. The
safety factor is even greater if it takes
more than four seconds.

If you are being followed too closely, slow down gradually to give the
driver behind you time to react. This can reduce your chances of being
struck from behind should you need to stop.

Driver’s Handbook 53
Passing
Care must be taken when passing because it is extremely difficult to
judge the speed of approaching vehicles. You might think you have
plenty of time and distance to pass, but don’t forget you are closing the
gap between you and the approaching vehicle at twice your own rate of
speed — and sometimes by more than that.

On highways, beware of vehicles parked on the opposite side, as they

may suddenly pull out onto the highway. It is illegal to exceed the speed
limit when passing.

The basic steps for passing are:

1. Check ahead for oncoming vehicles.
2. Check your side and rearview mirrors for vehicles approaching
from behind.
3. Signal.
4. Check the blind spot on your left for vehicles beside you.
5. Check again that the road is clear before passing.

Once the vehicle you have passed is visible in your rearview mirror,
check your blind spot on the right, signal to the right and return to the
proper lane.

When being passed, slow down and move as close as possible to the right
side of the road.

Drivers must be aware of wind turbulence caused by passing

semi-trailer trucks or other large motor vehicles.
You must never pass:
• by driving off the road (e.g. on the shoulder)
• where a vehicle is slowing or has stopped to yield the right-of-way
to a pedestrian or other vehicle
• in a school area within 15 minutes of the opening or closing of
morning and afternoon classes, or while children are near a school
or playground
• on the left side of the road if it is not sufficiently clear ahead
• where highway construction is taking place
Passing on the right is permitted only:
• when overtaking a vehicle making a left turn
• on one-way streets
• on streets with marked lanes

54 Driver’s Handbook
No-zone around large vehicles
Big trucks have big blind spots and to stay safe, you should avoid
them. The No-Zone refers to blind spot areas around big trucks, where
collisions are more likely to occur.

Rear
Trucks have deep rear blind spots. A truck driver can’t see you if you’re
in this No-Zone — especially if you’re tailgating. If you can’t see the
truck’s mirrors, the driver can’t see you. Stay well back of big trucks
to avoid a rear-end collision.

Side
Trucks have large blind spots on both sides. If you stay in these
blind spots, that can mean trouble if the truck driver decides to
change lanes.

Front
Truck drivers sit up high, and the hood of the cab obscures part of the
road ahead. When you pass a big truck, make sure you can see the
entire truck cab in your rear-view mirror before pulling in front. When
vehicles cut in too soon, then abruptly slow down, truck drivers are
forced to react with little time or room to spare.

Backing
Never pass close behind a truck that is preparing to back up or is in the
process of backing up. Most trailers are 21 /@ metres wide and completely
hide objects behind them.

Wide Turns
Truck drivers must sometimes swing wide to the left in order to make a
right turn. They can’t see cars directly behind or beside them. If you cut
in between the truck and the right curb, you might cause a collision.

No-Zone

6m 60 m
No-Zone No-Zone
No-Zone

Driver’s Handbook 55
Entering and leaving an expressway
Entering
Rear-end collisions are the leading type of accidents at entrances to
expressways. Not only do you face the possibility of being rear-ended
by traffic behind you in the entrance lane or on the expressway, you
might rear-end a vehicle while your attention is focused on traffic in
the expressway. The following advice will help minimize the risk of
rear-end collisions:

1. As you enter the entrance lane, adjust your speed to match traffic and
keep plenty of space between you and the vehicle ahead, so that you
and the vehicle behind you will have more time and distance to stop
in an emergency.

2. Check expressway traffic to determine if it will be necessary for you to

slow down or stop at the point immediately before the entrance of the
merge lane. (See diagram.) Keep in mind that the decision could be
made for you by the driver immediately ahead of you.

If you’re not entirely sure if you’ll have to slow down or stop, touch
your brakes lightly to alert drivers behind that you may have to do so.
The place to stop is just before the entrance of the merge lane.

3. Use the merge lane to match your speed with expressway traffic, so as
to merge without having to stop. If you stop at the end of the entrance
lane, you sharply increase the risk of being struck from behind.

1. Plan

2. Stop here if 3. Speed up

necessary and merge

56 Driver’s Handbook
Leaving
1. Give yourself plenty of time to move over to the lane closest to the
exit. (Follow the instructions given earlier for making lane changes.)

2. Maintain your speed until you are completely in the exit ramp,
and then slow down smoothly to whatever speed is posted or to the
prevailing speed in the exit ramp (whichever is slower).

1. Change lane 2. Go at *Do not stop

and slow down ramp speed or back up

If you pass your exit on an expressway, never stop to back up.

Continue on to the next exit.

Right-of-way
Uncontrolled intersections
When two vehicles approach an intersection with no traffic signals or
signs, both must slow down. The vehicle on the left must always yield
the right-of-way to the vehicle on the right. Nevertheless, the driver
with the “right-of-way” must still exercise proper care and attention
to avoid a collision.

Private entrances to public thoroughfares

When entering a street, Provincial Road or Provincial Trunk Highway
from a private road, lane, driveway or parking lot, you must stop before
crossing the sidewalk and yield the right-of-way to all pedestrians and
traffic. Proceed when safe.

Funeral processions
Drivers of vehicles in a funeral procession with lighted headlights and
following a lead car may, if traffic conditions and local bylaws permit,
go through a red light or stop sign with caution. The drivers of all other
vehicles must yield the right-of-way to the procession.

The lead car in the funeral procession may be equipped with a flashing
purple light.

Driver’s Handbook 57
Emergency vehicles, tow trucks and other
designated vehicles
Motorists can be fined under provisions of The Highway Traffic Act for
failing to use caution when passing emergency or designated vehicles
working at roadside. You must slow down to the following reduced
maximum speeds, passing only when it is safe to do so:

• 40 km/h on highways with posted maximum speed limits

under 80 km/h

• 60 km/h on highways with posted maximum speed limits

of 80 km/h or higher

If you are caught driving faster than the reduced speed limits,
you could face a significant fine and move down the Driver Safety
Rating scale.

An emergency vehicle, when responding to an emergency call, will

sound an alarm and use flashing lights. The alarm may be a horn,
gong, bell or siren. The lights may consist of any of the following:
a flashing red light, flashing red and blue lights or alternating
flashing headlights.

When an emergency vehicle (ambulance, fire or police), sounding an

alarm and flashing lights, is approaching from any direction you must
yield right-of-way by:

• immediately moving clear of an intersection if you are stopped for a

red light or stop sign (If
blocking the path of an
emergency vehicle, you
must proceed through a
red light or stop sign with
caution, to clear the way.)

• driving as closely as
possible to the right curb
or edge of roadway
Pull over and stop for emergency vehicles.
• remaining stopped at the
edge of the road until the
emergency vehicles have passed

Note: On one-way streets, pull right or left to the nearest curb so as

not to block the emergency vehicle.

58 Driver’s Handbook
When passing a stopped emergency vehicle or other designated vehicle
(tow truck or other roadside assistance vehicle, or vehicle used by
government enforcement officers) that has its warning lights activated,
slow down and proceed with caution, passing only if it is safe to do so.
When two or more lanes of traffic in the same direction are available,
you must move to the lane farthest from the emergency or designated
vehicle, provided it is safe to do so. This applies to drivers on either side
of an undivided highway.

School buses
Whenever you approach a school bus with flashing lights or other
warning device, whether you are approaching it from the front or rear,
you must stop at least five metres from the bus and remain stopped
until the signal is turned off or the bus starts moving again.

A school bus with flashing amber lights means it is about to stop.

You must prepare to stop.

You need not stop when approaching a school bus from the opposite
direction of a divided highway, providing there is a physical separation
such as a median between the two roads. However, you must slow
down and watch out for children. A double solid line is not a
physical separation.

5m

5m

You must stop your

vehicle not less than
five metres from the
bus when approaching
from either direction.

Driver’s Handbook 59
Transit buses
A number of collisions involving transit buses result from vehicles rear-
ending the bus, either in the bus stop location or at intersections. Be
aware of their travel and maintain a safe following/stopping distance.

Buses do not necessarily stop at all bus stops.

Some stops are designated for special routes such
as express and sporting events. If a stop is coming
up, do not assume the bus is going to stop.

Transit buses display a decal on the rear of the

buses requesting motorists to “Please Yield.”
A bus operating on the street will be moving around parked vehicles
or out of bus bays. If a transit bus is signaling its intention to change
lanes to the left, a motorist can increase the safety of this manoeuvre
by allowing sufficient time and space for the bus to enter the lane. At
times, a bus may be required to change multiple lanes in order to move
from a right hand curb lane to a left hand turn storage lane.

Buses are wider than most cars and light trucks, and consequently, they
occupy more roadway space. Buses operate on a wide variety of street
types, including residential streets and busy downtown streets. When
exiting a parked vehicle, shoulder check before opening your door to
avoid contacting a passing bus or other large vehicle.

Transit bus situation #1

When making a right turn, it must be done in the extreme right lane.
Making a right turn from the second lane in front of a transit bus
not only places you at risk of being struck if the bus pulls away, but is
also illegal. Pull behind and wait until the bus completes loading and
unloading and pulls away from the stop or intersection.

60 Driver’s Handbook
If the bus has its hazard lights activated and is sitting a short distance
from the intersection, communicate your intentions by signaling and
tapping your horn prior to pulling around the front of the bus.

Transit bus situation #2

There are numerous locations where the stop line of an intersection
is set back farther than normal from the crosswalk. This is to
accommodate large vehicles such as trucks and transit buses to
be able to physically negotiate the turn.

Driver’s Handbook 61
Transit bus situation #3
At many times, there may be passengers standing on transit buses.

Conducting a sudden, unexpected manoeuvre in front of a bus, such as

a lane change or pulling out in front, may force the bus to stop or brake
suddenly causing passengers on board the bus to fall down and possibly
be injured.

Please drive cautiously around transit buses and be aware that they
carry standing passengers.

Transit bus situation #4

The blind spot of a 12.2 metre transit bus is 4.3 metres on the right side
and 1.5 metres on the left, as well as 12.2 metres to the rear.

If you are driving in this area, the bus operator may not see you.

62 Driver’s Handbook
Transit bus situation #5
Transit buses are given special turning privileges at certain identified
intersections. Be aware of these locations and watch for buses turning
with you.

Driver’s Handbook 63
Construction zones
Passing vehicles can pose a serious threat to the safety of construction
workers on or near the roadway.

When driving through construction zones, slow down, watch for

workers and drive with caution, as lanes may be closed and traffic may
be redirected. Keep enough space between you and the vehicle ahead of
you and be ready to make a sudden stop.

Construction zones will be marked by traffic

control devices, including pylons or signage, at their
beginning and end. A flagperson may also be in the
construction zone to help direct the flow of traffic.
You must obey the directions of the flagperson,
including slowing down or stopping.

In a designated construction zone, identified at

the start and the end by a special sign, the set fines
for speeding over the posted speed limit will be
doubled, regardless of whether workers or equipment
are present, and regardless of whether the speed
limit has been reduced.

Failing to use caution or exceeding the maximum

speed limit while driving through a construction
zone can result in severe consequences under The
Highway Traffic Act. In addition to a significant fine,
you may also move down the Driver Safety Rating
scale, which affects how much you pay for your
driver’s licence and vehicle registration, and receive
possible driver improvement action up to and
including driver’s licence suspension.

64 Driver’s Handbook
Railway crossings
The signs below indicate a railway crossing ahead. Slow down, check
to the right and left along the angle of the track shown in the sign,
and proceed only when safe.
The actual crossing is marked by a railway crossing sign.
When approaching railway crossings, check both ways for trains and
remember that they always have the right-of-way.
When stopping at a crossing, keep at least five metres away from the
nearest rail in a restricted speed area and at least 15 metres away in a
non-restricted speed area. A restricted speed area means any area within
a city, town or village. It also includes any municipality or part of a
municipality or any highway or portion of a highway designated by
The Highway Traffic Board.
If you see a train approaching, be prepared to stop. Motorists can
seriously misjudge the speed of trains, believing they’re travelling much
slower than they actually are or incorrectly assuming that trains must
slow down at railway crossings.
Since most railway crossings do not have electronic signals warning
you when to stop, the most important rule to recognize is that trains
automatically have the right-of-way at all railway crossings. In other
words, at railway crossings, the safety of you and your passengers
depends entirely on you, the driver.

Other safety pointers include:

• When there is more than one set of tracks, don’t start across when
the train passes. Make sure there isn’t another train coming on the
other track.
• Half of all night rail/highway crossing collisions involve vehicles
hitting trains. To avoid that, slow down when you see the advance
warning sign so that you can stop in time if you have to.
• Never move onto the track unless you’re sure there is plenty of room
on the other side. If traffic is backed up so that you can’t get across the
tracks, stop and wait at least five metres from the crossing, until the
traffic jam clears and it is safe to cross.
• Some vehicles may stop at all
crossings. These may include
regular buses, school buses
and vehicles carrying
hazardous materials. If you’re
following such a vehicle, be
prepared to stop. Railway Crossing Railway
Ahead Crossing

Driver’s Handbook 65
It is illegal to:

• cross a railway crossing when warning signals are on (except as

explained below)

• shift gears when crossing railway tracks

• drive a vehicle through, around or under a crossing gate or barrier

that is closed or being opened or closed

• drive a vehicle onto a railway crossing unless there is sufficient space

at the other side of the crossing to accommodate your vehicle without
obstructing the passage of trains

• park within 30 metres of the nearest rail of a railway crossing unless

otherwise posted

Drivers may cross a railway crossing when the warning lights are
flashing if:
• the vehicle is brought to a complete stop prior to crossing

• the crossing is not protected by gates or barriers

• the crossing is within a restricted speed area

• the train is stopped or is a safe distance away

• the crossing may be done safely

For railway crossing procedures, drivers of for-hire vehicles, school buses

and vehicles capable of transporting flammable liquid or gas should
consult the Professional Driver’s Handbook.

If there is any doubt, stop and wait for the train to cross or for the
warning lights to stop flashing.

66 Driver’s Handbook
4. Pedestrian safety
Crosswalks
Pedestrians have the right-of-way at both marked and
unmarked crosswalks.

Unmarked crosswalks — These are extensions of sidewalks across

a road at an intersection. No markings or signs are required.
However, precaution should be taken at all times.

Marked crosswalks — These include crosswalks at intersections

controlled by traffic lights, school crosswalks and pedestrian crosswalks.

As a driver
You must stop and yield the right-of-way to pedestrians who are about
to cross, unless they are on the opposite side of a divided highway
separated by a median. A double solid line is not a physical separation.

• It is illegal to pass traffic ahead of you that is slowing down or stopped

for pedestrians.
• Proceed only when the pedestrians have safely crossed the street
or have safely reached the median of a divided roadway.
• No parking or stopping is allowed within three metres of a crosswalk.
• All pedestrians have the right to use school crosswalks.

Crosswalk Signs

School Pedestrian
Crosswalk Crosswalk
Sign Sign

Driver’s Handbook 67
As a pedestrian
The Walking Figure
This indication permits you to leave the curb and enter
the roadway. For reasons of efficiency, this indication is
only displayed for a relatively short period of time.

The Orange Hand

This indication immediately follows the Walking Figure indication.
The Orange Hand provides sufficient time for those pedestrians already
in the roadway (pedestrian clearance interval) to complete their
crossing. At certain intersections the orange hand may flash during
the interval provided for pedestrians to complete their crossing and
clear the roadway. Pedestrians facing the Orange Hand indication must
not begin to cross the roadway, as there may not be sufficient time to
do so safely.

When pedestrians are in a crosswalk facing either the

Walking Figure or the Orange Hand indication, they have
the right-of-way over all vehicles. However, if the vehicle
operator does not yield the right-of-way, the pedestrian
will come off second best in any resulting collision.
Regardless of the pedestrian signal displayed, the safest
practice is for the pedestrian to be sure that all approaching vehicles
are stopped before proceeding into or across the roadway. In particular,
even if cross-street traffic is stopped, pedestrians should check for
turning vehicles.

The length of the pedestrian clearance interval is based upon average

walking speed. Consequently, pedestrians must cross the roadway as
quickly as possible.

Pedestrian push buttons

At many intersections controlled by traffic signal
lights, pedestrian activity is intermittent. For reasons
of intersection operating efficiency, the Walking Figure
indication will not be displayed automatically during each
signal cycle. To ensure that the Walking Figure indication
is displayed and to provide sufficient clearance time to
cross the entire roadway, the pedestrian must activate the
correct push button. Signs with arrows pointing in the direction of the
crosswalk are provided to indicate which push button is associated
with each crosswalk.

68 Driver’s Handbook
Pedestrian Safety Tips
The pedestrian signals give you certain rights while you are in
an intersection. However, they will not protect you from careless
motorists. It is therefore important to be cautious when crossing busy
intersections and to follow these safety tips:
• Do not leave the curb unless you are sure that approaching vehicles on
the cross street have stopped or will stop.
• Cross the street as quickly as possible.
• Always watch for turning vehicles.
• Do not leave the curb when the Walking Figure is not displayed.
• Always activate the pedestrian push button if there is one present.
• Do not cross at places where a Pedestrian Prohibited sign is posted.

Pedestrian
Prohibited

Pedestrian corridors
These feature large, illuminated overhead signs, with alternating
flashing amber lights on top. Large rectangular bars are painted on
the crossing.

As a driver
• It is illegal to pass traffic ahead of you that is slowing down or
has stopped for pedestrians.
• Make sure the pedestrians have safely crossed the street or have
safely reached the median of a divided roadway before proceeding.
• No parking or stopping is allowed within 15 metres of a
pedestrian corridor.

Driver’s Handbook 69
It is illegal to pass traffic that has slowed down or stopped
for a pedestrian.

As a pedestrian
• You should signal your intention to cross a pedestrian corridor by
pushing the control button to activate the warning lights (if available)
and also by extending your arm forward. Do not begin to cross unless
traffic has stopped or is a safe distance away.

People who are blind

Whenever you see a person who is blind near a roadway, drive carefully
and be prepared to stop. Often, a blind or partially blind person will
raise their cane when uncertain of crossing the street safely. That is
your signal to stop and give them the right-of-way. Learn to recognize
a guide dog by its special harness which allows the person to hold
on firmly. Don’t startle the animal by racing your engine or honking
your horn.

If you drive a hybrid vehicle there may be no sound from your engine to
let a blind person know that you are nearby. Exercise extreme caution
in this situation.

70 Driver’s Handbook
School and playground areas
You must drive slowly and be prepared to stop suddenly when a child is
on or near a road, or close to a school or playground. It is illegal to pass
another moving vehicle in a school area, within 15 minutes of either
the opening or closing of classes or at any time when children are on
the school grounds or near the road.

Watch for reduced-speed school zones, where lower speed

limits may be in effect during school hours, or at all times,
according to the posted signs. The maximum speed may be as
low as 30 km/h where the regularly-posted speed is less than
80km/h, and as low as 50 km/h where the regularly-posted
speed is 80 km/h or above. If you are caught going faster than
the posted speed limit you could face a significant fine and
move down the Driver Safety Rating scale.

Watch for school safety patrols because they indicate that children
are nearby. The patrols are easily recognized by their high visibility
vests and flags. They play an extremely important role in directing
children across streets.

Watch for members of the school safety patrol. Children are

near the roadway.

Driver’s Handbook 71
5. Sharing the road —
motorists and cyclists
Through cooperation and respect, drivers and cyclists can share the
road safely. When encountering cyclists on our roadways you should be
aware of the three R’s that apply to drivers and cyclists:

• Same Roads: Motor vehicles and bicycles share the same roads.

• Same Rights: When on the road, cyclists have the same rights
and duties as a driver, and must obey all signs and traffic
control devices.

• Same Rules: Other than the difference in a cyclist’s position on the

road, cyclists are expected to follow the same rules of the road as
a drivers.

Your responsibilities as a driver:

• Take extra caution as some cyclists may not know

or follow all the traffic safety rules.

• Reduce your speed when encountering cyclists.

• Leave a safe following distance should the cyclist need

to stop suddenly.

• Recognize the hazards that cyclists may face (e.g. debris on the road)
and give them plenty of space. Cycling advocacy groups suggest
providing at least one metre of clearance when travelling alongside or
passing cyclists. Depending on the position of the cyclist in the lane,
this may mean changing lanes in order to pass safely.

• When turning left, watch for and yield to oncoming cyclists, just as
you would to oncoming drivers.

• When turning right, yield to any cyclist travelling on your right. Do

not try to pass a cyclist if you are planning to turn right at the next
intersection or driveway.

• Children on bicycles are often unpredictable. Expect the unexpected

and slow down.

• Look for cyclists before opening your car doors.

• At night, always dim your lights when approaching an

oncoming cyclist.

• Drivers should always be cautious and respectful and provide adequate

space to prevent potential collisions with cyclists.

72 Driver’s Handbook
Cyclists are expected to:

• Ride respectfully — the same traffic laws that apply to drivers also
apply to cyclists.

• Use hand signals and eye contact to communicate their actions

to motorists.

• Obey traffic control signals and signs.

• Ride in a straight line and refrain from weaving between parked cars.

• Dismount on sidewalks.

• Ride single file when riding with other cyclists.

• Ride as closely as practicable to the right hand boundary of the road.

• Wear a certified helmet.

• Increase their visibility by wearing brightly coloured clothing.

• Use a white front light and a red rear light in

low light conditions.

• Not cycle in places where a Cycling Prohibited

sign is posted.

Understanding a cyclist’s position on the road

The Highway Traffic Act indicates that cyclists should position themselves
“as close as is practicable” to the right side of the roadway. This means
that cyclists are required to exercise good judgment when determining
their positioning on the roadway. Drivers need to be aware that a
cyclist’s position on the road may be affected by traffic volume, road
conditions, weather hazards and municipal lane restrictions.

Drivers can help reduce the number of bicycle and motor vehicle
crashes, injuries and fatalities by understanding a cyclist’s positioning
on the road. There are certain situations when a cyclist may choose
to be further away from the right side of the road or ride closer to the
middle of the lane.

Drivers should be aware of these situations, which may include:

• adverse road conditions such as potholes, puddles or construction

• when passing parked vehicles and additional space is required to stay

clear of the door zone

Driver’s Handbook 73
• when making a left turn (The cyclist should be positioned closer to the
centre of the turning lane and following the path of a vehicle as they
make the turn.)

• when the right lane

is intended for right
turns only and the
cyclist intends to
go straight (Cyclists
Right most lane
in these situations
will carry on in a
straight line through
the intersection.)

• when there is slower moving or stopped traffic in the right hand lane
(Cyclists are allowed to pass on the left as long as it is safe to do so,
however after completing the pass, the cyclist would then return to the
right edge of the lane.)

• when cycling on one-way streets with more than three lanes of traffic

Passing a cyclist
Drivers should pass a cyclist only when it is safe to do so. Cycling
advocacy groups suggest providing at least one metre of clearance. This
may require drivers to change lanes in order to pass safely. Extra caution
must be exercised and additional space may be required when passing
cyclists in highway travel situations.

1 Metre

There are some situations where it is not safe to pass a cyclist including:

• in construction zones where traffic is reduced to one narrow lane

• in lanes with narrow widths that do not permit passing at a

safe distance

• in a yield lane

74 Driver’s Handbook
Caution and additional space may be required when passing cyclists at
high rates of speed.

The Highway Traffic Act does not specify how close cyclists should ride
near the right edge of the roadway or the clearance drivers must give a
cyclist when travelling alongside or passing them. By using common
sense and following the rules of the road, cyclists and drivers can make
streets safer for everyone.

Cyclist signals
Watch for these hand signals that indicate the cyclist’s intentions.
Remember: Many children fail to signal, so always be extra cautious
when approaching young cyclists. Their lives are in your hands.

Stopping Turning Left

or

Turning Right Moving Within Your Lane

For more information how to safely and responsibly share the road
with cyclists visit [Link].

Driver’s Handbook 75
6. Backing up
Before backing up, check for anyone or anything behind you, both by
looking in your mirrors and over your shoulder. This includes checking
carefully for children who may be too small to be in your direct line of
vision. With your foot on the brake, put the vehicle in reverse. If you
are reversing straight back or to the right, check your mirrors and
look over your right shoulder. If reversing to the left, use your mirrors
and look over your left shoulder. Take your foot off the brake and, if
you’re turning as you reverse, ensure that you don’t strike anything
to the sides.

Look over your Look over your

left shoulder right shoulder
for a clear when reversing
view when straight or to
reversing to the right.
the left.

Three-point turn
A three-point turn is when you:

1. Pull over to the right side of the street, stop, check mirrors and
shoulder check.

2. Back up into an intersection or driveway. Check mirrors and shoulder

check before backing up.

3. Turn left and proceed forward in the direction you came from.

Traffic check
Before slowing down, check traffic in front and behind you. Check your
blind spot before pulling over to the right side of the road to stop.

76 Driver’s Handbook
Signal
Turn on your right signal before slowing down unless there are
vehicles waiting to enter the road from side roads or driveways between
you and your stopping point (see diagram below). Wait until you have
passed these entrances so that drivers will not think you are turning.

Speed
Gradually reduce speed. In a vehicle with a manual transmission, you
may down shift into a lower gear as you slow down. Do not coast with
your foot on the clutch pedal.

Position
Stop so you are parallel to
the curb and not more than
3
45 centimeters away (Position 1).
Where there is no curb stop as far 1
as possible off the travelled part
of the road. Do not stop where
you will block an entrance, an
2
intersection or other traffic.

Traffic check
Check your mirrors and shoulder check to the right before starting the
turn. Wait until the way is clear. Each time you stop while turning,
check traffic in both directions.

Signal
Turn your right signal or four-way flasher on.

Turn around
With the steering wheel turned sharply right, reverse your vehicle
slowly and smoothly, backing into the lane or driveway (Position 2).
Back up far enough so you can have a clear view of the roadway and
are behind the sidewalk and stop. Turn your left signal on, shift to a
forward gear, turn your steering wheel to the left and make sure that
you check in both directions. Then move your vehicle into the traffic
lane (Position 3).

Speed
Return to normal traffic speed by accelerating smoothly to blend in
with the traffic around you. In light traffic accelerate moderately.
In heavier traffic you may have to accelerate more quickly. In a vehicle
with a manual transmission, shift gears as you increase your speed.

Driver’s Handbook 77
Three-point turn on a dead end street
Traffic check
Before slowing down, check traffic in front
and behind you. Check your blind spot before
pulling over to the right side of the road to stop.
3
Signal 2
Turn on your right signal before slowing down.

Speed 1
Gradually reduce speed. In a vehicle with a
manual transmission, you may down shift into
a lower gear as you slow down. Do not coast with
your foot on the clutch pedal.

Position
Stop so you are parallel to the curb and not more than 45 centimetres
away. Where there is no curb, stop as far as possible off the travelled
part of the road. Do not stop where you will block an entrance, an
intersection or other traffic (Position 1).

Traffic check
Check your mirrors and shoulder check to the left just before starting
the turn. Wait until the way is clear. Check traffic in both directions as
you proceed to make the turn. Each time you stop while turning, check
traffic in both directions.

Signal
Turn on your left signal before starting to turn.

Turn around
With the steering wheel turned sharply left, move slowly and smoothly
across the road. When you have reached the far left side of the road, stop
and put your vehicle in reverse. With the steering wheel turned sharply
right, move in reverse so the vehicle is facing in the new direction
(Position 2). Stop and shift into forward gear to drive ahead. Use the
whole road to make your turn, reversing only once. Do not reverse over
the edge or shoulder of the road or onto the curb (Position 3).

Speed
Return to normal traffic speed by accelerating smoothly to blend in
with the traffic around you. In light traffic accelerate moderately.
In heavier traffic you may have to accelerate more quickly. In a vehicle
with a manual transmission, shift gears as you increase your speed.

78 Driver’s Handbook
7. Parking
Parallel parking
1. Check your mirrors for traffic. Don’t stop suddenly if a vehicle is
close behind you. Signal your stop by flashing your brake lights
approximately three times or by using a hand signal and then turn
on your right signal. Drive alongside Vehicle B about one metre away.
Stop when your vehicle’s (Vehicle A) rear bumper is even with the
rear bumper of Vehicle B.

B C

2. When you have checked your mirrors and blind spots and you are
sure the way is clear, start backing into the space very slowly. As you
reverse, you should steer sharply to the right until your vehicle is at a
45 degree angle from the curb. Watch for vehicles passing you. Stop
when your steering wheel is in line with the rear bumper of Vehicle B.

B C

3. Straighten the wheels and continue to back into the space. The
turn signal can be turned off. Stop when the right end of your front
bumper is in line with and past the rear bumper of Vehicle B.

B C
A

Driver’s Handbook 79
4. Turn the steering wheel sharply to the left as you continue to back
slowly. Make sure the front of your vehicle does not hit the parked
vehicle ahead. Your right rear wheel should be close to the curb.
Stop moving the vehicle.

B A C

5. Put the vehicle into forward gear. Turning the steering wheel to the
right as you do so, drive slowly forward. This should bring your
vehicle parallel to and not more than 45 centimetres away from the
curb. Stop the vehicle when it is centred between Vehicles B and C.

B A C

80 Driver’s Handbook
Backing skill test
During the road test, you will be required to demonstrate your ability to
back up your vehicle. This will be done by successfully backing a vehicle
within a space measuring approximately 1.85 metres by 7.5 metres as
outlined by testing poles.

During the road test you will be asked to stop before the backing area
to be given an explanation of the test. You will have three attempts
to complete this portion of the test, each attempt consists of three
movements of the vehicle (backwards, forward and then backward again).

At this point the vehicle must be parked satisfactorily. In this portion of

the road test, the following actions will result in an automatic failure:

• The vehicle touches one of the poles.

• You drive over the curb (although your tires can touch the curb).

• You drive between the poles that represent the front or the back
of a vehicle.

• You commit a dangerous act such as backing up or moving forward

while a vehicle is passing close by.

Driver’s Handbook 81
Angle parking
This type of parking commonly occurs in parking lots, shopping centres
and on very wide streets in some communities.

Steps in angle parking

1. Signal your intention to park and slow down.

2. Check for approaching traffic from the front and rear.
3. Approach the stall approximately one vehicle width from the
parked vehicles.
4. When your vehicle’s front end is even with the rear of the stall you
want to park in, begin steering sharply to the right while slowly driving
towards the centre of the stall. Remember as you are turning into the
stall to check that you will not hit the vehicle on either side of the stall.
5. Once your vehicle is centred in the stall, straighten your wheels and
continue driving forward until you are completely in the parking stall.

Although it is easy to park, backing out from this position can be

hazardous. Shoulder check sides and rear — don’t just rely on your
rearview mirror. Make sure it is clear behind and on both sides before
backing up. If your vision is blocked, for example, by a truck parked
beside you, move back cautiously and watch for pedestrians or vehicles
that you may not have seen.

82 Driver’s Handbook
Parking on a hill or incline
Vehicles with automatic transmission should be placed in the Park
position. Vehicles with manual transmission should be placed in reverse
or low gear. In both cases, always set your parking brake firmly.

Uphill parking — turn the wheels away from the curb.

Downhill parking — turn the wheels toward the curb so the position
of the wheel will help hold the car.

If there is no curb, whether you are parking up or downhill, turn

wheels slightly to the right so that if the car begins rolling, it will
move off the roadway.

Uphill with curb.

Turn wheels away from curb.

Up

Downhill with curb.

Turn wheels towards the curb.

Down

Without curb.
Turn wheels to the right.
Up or
Down

Driver’s Handbook 83
Parking pointers
• Always look for traffic including other vehicles or cyclists before
opening a vehicle door.
• By law you may leave your vehicle unattended when the motor is
running only for reasons such as warming the vehicle and defrosting
the windshield. It is recommended that you have a spare key and you
lock your door if you leave the vehicle. Utility and delivery service
vehicles are exempt from this law.
• When leaving from a parked position, signal and wait until it is
safe before pulling out.

Illegal parking
It is illegal to park:
• on a sidewalk
• across the entrance to any driveway, back lane or intersection
• within three metres from the point on the curb or edge of the
roadway immediately opposite a fire hydrant
• on a crosswalk or within three metres of a crosswalk
• within 15 metres of a pedestrian corridor
• within nine metres of a stop sign or other traffic sign or signal posted
at an intersection
• within 30 metres of the nearest rail of a railway crossing, unless
otherwise posted
• within six metres of a driveway entrance to a fire station, unless
otherwise posted
• on a roadway beside another vehicle that is already parked
• at a curve on the highway outside a city, town or village, when
the vehicle cannot be clearly seen from at least 60 metres in each
direction upon the highway
• in such a manner that it becomes a hazard or that is contrary to
any section of The Highway Traffic Act or any municipal bylaw

84 Driver’s Handbook
 8. Vehicle equipment
As a driver, you are responsible for ensuring that your vehicle is
safe to drive. Vehicles should be thoroughly checked at least twice
a year. A police officer can order you to have defective equipment
repaired immediately. If you fail to comply, your vehicle registration
may be suspended until a qualified mechanic certifies the defects have
been repaired.

Is your vehicle safe to drive? Check:

Circle check — exterior of vehicle

rear view centre
mirror high-
mounted
stoplight rear and
side
windshield wiper, windshield windows
washer and
defrost systems
tail lights
head lights turn signals
parking lights
hazard lights
turn signals
door
handles
check
licence side muffler
secondary plates view
hold look mirror
latch for under tires
forward vehicle check tread, brakes
opening bulges and Others
for fluid
hood leaks turn cuts horn
signals park brake
seatbelts
speedometer
steering mechanism
air bags

Required equipment
The following equipment must be in safe working condition:

Brakes
Brakes must be able to stop passenger vehicles travelling at 30 km/h
within 7.6 metres. Other motor vehicles, such as trucks and vans under
4,540 kg, must be able to stop within nine metres. All brakes should be
periodically checked and, if necessary, adjusted.

Driver’s Handbook 85
Lights
All motor vehicles, except motorcycles, must have:

• two to four headlights, including a high beam and low beam on each
side, in good working order (Vehicles must also have a high-beam
indicator light. When operating your vehicle, headlights must be
switched on a half hour before sunset until a half hour after sunrise
and when visibility is reduced to 60 metres. A recommended safe
driving practice is to drive with headlights on all the time.)
• functional daytime running lights, if manufactured on or after
Dec. 1, 1989 (For motorcycles and mopeds, model year 1975 or later,
a headlamp must be on at all times when being operated.)
• turn signals — amber or white lights at the front, red or amber lights
at the rear (Motorcycles of the model or make of the year 1974 or
earlier and mopeds are not required to be equipped with signal lights.
Trailers require signal lights on the rear only.)
• at least two rear red lights or, for vehicles dated 1967 or earlier, at
least one rear red light
• one functional centre high-mounted stop light, in addition to the
regular stop lights, if it is a passenger car manufactured after 1986
• one white light for the rear number plate
• at least one red light on the rear plus a stop light, if a trailer is
attached (Towed vehicles with a width exceeding 2.05 metres, except
passenger cars, must have clearance lights and reflectors at the front
and rear.)
• a red flag clearly visible at the end of a load during daylight and a red
light or reflector at the end of a load at night, if the load extends one
metre or more past the rear of the vehicle

Tires
To maximize the safety and life of your tires:

• Use tires of the same construction and size. Your owner’s manual
should inform you which is best for your vehicle.
• Using an accurate tire pressure gauge, check the air pressure of your
tires at least once a month and after long trips. The best time to
inflate tires is when they are cool.

86 Driver’s Handbook
• Check your owner’s manual to determine if and when you should
rotate tires.
• Always replace tires when the tread is less than 1.6 millimetres. After
replacing tires, have the wheels balanced.
• Studded tires are illegal between April 30 and Oct. 1.

Remember: A tire with deep cuts, cracks, blisters or bulges is

dangerous and should be replaced.

1) Normal wear 2) Under-inflation 3) Over-inflation

exposes the will cause a tire causes the tire
wear indicators to wear out to wear out
between two or at the edges in the centre
more adjacent first. This tire’s first. This tire
grooves. Replace smooth edges is dangerously
the tire when the may cause skids worn and must
wear indicators on wet curves be replaced.
become visible. and must be
replaced.

Mirrors
All motor vehicles must be equipped with a mirror, providing a clear
rear view. Vehicles such as vans, buses, trucks, campers, cars pulling
trailers and other vehicles must have outside mirrors on the right and
left sides. Extended mirrors must be removed when a trailer is not
being towed.

Horn
All motor vehicles must have a horn that can be heard for at least
60 metres. A horn should be sounded only when necessary.

Windshield and windows

There must be a clear view from the front windshield, side and rear
windows. From Nov. 1 to March 31 inclusive, your vehicle must be
capable of keeping the windshield, the rear window and the windows
at both sides free from frost.

Driver’s Handbook 87
Windshield wipers and washers
Front windows must have windshield wipers in good working condition
and every motor vehicle dating from 1971 (except motorcycles or mopeds)
must have a functioning windshield washer with the fluid container
topped up as necessary.

Speedometer and odometer

A motor vehicle must have a speedometer and odometer in good working
order. It is illegal to alter the distance shown on an odometer.

Muffler
All motor vehicles must have a muffler capable of preventing excessive
noise. A leaky muffler can cause carbon monoxide poisoning. It is illegal to
use a muffler cut-out, straight exhaust, gutted muffler, hollywood muffler,
bypass or any device that reduces the effectiveness of a noise muffler.

Bumper
Every passenger car must have a bumper at the front and rear.

Suspension
It is illegal to raise or lower the original suspension of a passenger car.

Other equipment
Oil pressure gauge
This gauge shows if there is sufficient oil pressure to motor parts where
it is needed.

Temperature gauge
This gauge shows the temperature of the engine. Do not operate the
vehicle if this gauge shows a high temperature.

Ammeter/voltmeter
This gauge shows when the battery is being charged or discharged.

Fuel gauge
This gauge identifies the amount of fuel left in the fuel tank.

Warning light
Most vehicles are equipped with warning lights to notify the driver
of problems with certain operating systems on the vehicle. If a light
is illuminated, consult your vehicle operating manual.

Airbags
Airbags are built into steering wheels, dashboards and in the sides of
some vehicles. They launch automatically when there is a very fast
deceleration such as a crash. They give drivers and passengers extra
protection, especially during head on and side impact crashes.

88 Driver’s Handbook
9. Poor driving conditions
You are responsible for keeping full control of your vehicle at all times,
even under poor driving conditions.

Ice, sleet or snow

• Start out slowly and gently test steering and braking conditions.
• Reduce your speed to suit ice and snow conditions, and remember that
even snow tires can slide on ice or packed snow.
• If your vehicle does not have anti-lock brakes, apply steady brake
pressure without locking the wheels and losing steering control. This
is sometimes referred to as threshold braking. If your vehicle does
have anti-lock brakes, apply full brake pressure and hold. You will still
have some steering control. Check your owner’s manual for the best
advice to follow for your specific braking system.
• Increase the distance between you and the vehicle ahead of you
according to road conditions. Remember that in winter your vehicle
requires a greater stopping distance.
• Be alert to pedestrians at all times as well as slippery patches, bridges
(which may have slippery surfaces), blind intersections, snow plows,
graders, etc.
• Keep windows and windshields clear of ice and snow, and make sure
your defroster and windshield wipers are working properly.
• Keep your lights on.

Daytime use of headlights

Using headlights during the day can significantly reduce the chances
of a collision because your vehicle is easier to see.

Reduced visibility
By law, while driving a vehicle, you are required to switch on
headlights a half hour before sunset until a half hour after sunrise
and when visibility is reduced to 60 metres.

Other recommended practices include:

• sharply reducing your normal driving speed

• turning your headlights on low beam to reduce the glaring reflection
from dense fog or snow (Fog lamps are even better.)
• reducing your speed further on seeing headlights or taillights (The
headlights may be on a vehicle being driven down the centre of the
road, and the taillights may be a vehicle stopped on the road or just
barely moving.)

Driver’s Handbook 89
• if driving at a greatly reduced speed, turning your hazard/emergency
flashing lights on (This will make you more visible and warn other
drivers that you are travelling at a reduced rate of speed.)
• being prepared for emergency stops (If the visibility becomes so poor
that you can barely see, cautiously pull off the pavement and stop.
Wait until visibility improves.)

Night driving
One of the major reasons why driving at night is more dangerous than
driving during the day is that you cannot see as far. Never drive so fast
that you can’t stop within the distance you can see in front of you with
your lights. That means driving slower than usual, since under normal
conditions you can see only 30 metres ahead on low beam and 110 metres
ahead on high beam.

To reduce glare, do not look directly at the headlights of oncoming

traffic; instead, look to the right edge of the roadway. To cut glare from
the rear, adjust your mirror or use a day-night mirror. Reduce your
speed until your eyes have recovered from the glare. Some additional
pointers to minimize the hazards of night driving include:

• ensuring your low beams reveal objects at least 30 metres ahead

without blinding oncoming drivers
• dimming your lights at least 450 metres from oncoming vehicles,
and 60 metres when following vehicles
• keeping headlights clean
• keeping the interior lights off so that your eyes will remain adapted
to the dark
• watching for pedestrians and vehicles stopped at the edge of the road
• if you must stop, pulling off onto the shoulder and using your emergency
flashing lights or other approved warning devices such as flares
• watching for highway signs — they’re more difficult to see and read
at night
• keeping both the inside and outside of the windshield clean

Daytime Night – Low Beams Night – High Beams

90 Driver’s Handbook
 Always use low beams when approaching other
vehicles. High beams will blind the other driver.

Use high beams only when driving in open country

without other vehicles near.

Use low beams when driving by street light, in fog

and when following another vehicle closely.

Drowsiness or fatigue
Being drowsy or “half asleep” can be compared to a drugged condition
which can result in a fatal collision. It usually occurs from steady
driving or from having started out tired. Be well rested before you
begin your trip. If you start to feel sleepy, stop your vehicle and rest.
If you must park by the side of the road, pull well over and put on your
four-way flashers to prevent being struck. If possible, stop at a rest area,
motel or hotel.

Distractions
The most important thing to think about while driving is… driving.
Distracted driving means any activity that diverts your attention from
the road. Being distracted, even for just a few seconds, is all it takes to
cause a fatal crash. Each year, on average, on Manitoba roads 28 people
are killed in collisions linked to distracted driving.*

*Source: Traffic Accident Report Database, 2008–2012

Driver’s Handbook 91
One of the most dangerous of distractions is using a hand-held phone
while driving. That means texting, emailing or talking on the phone.
In Manitoba, it’s against the law and being convicted of using a hand-
held electronic device behind the wheel will result in a $200 fine and
moving five levels down the Driver Safety Rating scale.

Distractions can be anything that takes your eyes off the road, hands
off the wheel or mind off the job of driving. Texting while driving, for
example, is extremely dangerous because it does all three. Distractions
can happen both inside and outside your vehicle. Some of the most
common are using hand-held electronic devices such as cellphones and
MP3 players, passengers, eating, drinking, smoking, commercial signs,
pedestrians and other drivers.

Gravel road driving

Gravel roads present special driving challenges as evidenced by the
high number of rollover accidents. Following are some safety tips to
minimize the safety hazards when operating a vehicle on gravel roads:

• When driving onto a gravel surface, slow down and drive carefully.
• As a driver you should always drive at a speed that will allow you to
stop safely for any hazard.
• On gravel, sudden changes in direction such as a swerve to avoid an
object or animal on the road, can be dangerous.
• Stopping or speeding up too quickly can result in loss of control.
• Know your braking system (refer to your owner’s manual):
— If your vehicle has anti-lock brakes, you should be able to apply full
brake pressure and still have steering control.
— If your vehicle does not have anti-lock brakes, apply steady brake
pressure without locking the wheels and losing steering control.
This is sometimes referred to as threshold braking.
• Remember that stopping distances are increased because your tires
have reduced traction to the road surface (loose gravel surface).
• Following distance is very important. You should stay a minimum
of six seconds behind other vehicles. This distance should be
increased when road conditions are less than ideal (washboard,
potholes and loose gravel). This will reduce the danger from clouds
of dust obscuring vision and flying rocks damaging head lights
and windshields.
• Rollovers are of particular concern in rural driving, whether on gravel
or pavement. It is very easy for a distracted driver to allow the tires
on one side of the vehicle to wander off the road while travelling at
higher speeds. Many drivers will try to get back on track by quickly

92 Driver’s Handbook
 turning the steering wheel and jamming on the brakes. This can cause
the vehicle to start into a skid, where it may tip and rollover several
times before stopping.
• To avoid a rollover take your foot off the gas and steer the vehicle so
it follows the edge of the roadway, slowly turn the steering wheel to
gradually guide the vehicle back onto the road.

Winter road driving

The winter road systems in Manitoba are basic access routes to remote
northern communities and have no alignment standards. There are
no posted speed limit signs and the recommended speed limit for
vehicles with a maximum gross vehicle weight of seven tonnes or greater
is 15 km/h on all ice roads. Winter roads are constructed on the natural
terrain of the land and ice. They cross muskeg, rock ridges, streams,
rivers and lakes. The road surface can get worse quickly due to changes
in the weather. The chance of an accident increases if you do not drive
according to the road conditions.

Here are some safety tips and information to help reduce the hazards
when operating a vehicle on winter roads:

• Travel is not approved until a section officially opens. No regular

inspection of maintenance is provided along the route before opening
or after closing, increasing the potential risk to drivers. (A 24-hour voice
report for winter road information to access remote isolated northern
Manitoba communities is available by calling Highway Information
Services at 204–945–3704 or toll-free 1–877–627–6237.)
• The road surface is packed snow or ice and the stopping distance of
all vehicles is longer than on land roads. As a driver, you should be
travelling at a speed that will allow you to safely slow down or stop
if you come upon a hazard or approaching vehicle.
• Winter roads are primarily used by heavy truck traffic delivering
fuel, freight, groceries, machinery and building products. The
contractor’s maintenance equipment is slow moving and can pose
hazards on blind corners. The season may be shortened due to weather
conditions and the traffic volumes may increase. Night travel is
recommended for better visibility of traffic.
• Ice road failures, sudden storms, ground drifting and whiteout
conditions preventing travel can occur in subzero temperatures.
Wilderness survival training and ice road driving courses
are recommended.
• Passing or meeting other vehicles should be done with great
care because swirling snow can reduce visibility.

Driver’s Handbook 93
• The results of an unexpected delay, breakdown or accident when
travelling in an isolated area can be life threatening if you are not
prepared. It may take a long time for help to arrive if there is trouble.
Proper clothing, personal medication, fuel to reach your destination,
vehicle and survival equipment, cellular or satellite phone and/or
Citizen Band communication are recommended for every vehicle
travelling on the winter road system.
• Always let someone at your destination know when you expect to
arrive prior to starting your trip.
• Environmental guidelines require road users to be responsible for
their own abandoned vehicle and garbage removal.

Hills
Slow down at the top of
a hill to make up for the
increased braking distance
required on the down slope.
Before starting down a
steep hill, shift to a lower
gear to let your engine
assist you as a braking
force. Never coast down
hills in neutral or with the
clutch disengaged because
you’ll be relying too much
on your brakes and they
may not hold.

Don’t pass near the crest

of a hill because your sight
distance ends at the hilltop.

It may be irritating to follow slow-moving vehicles up a hill but because

your sight distance is limited, you should remain patient and follow all
the way over the crest before passing. Observe the pavement markings
and road signs.

94 Driver’s Handbook
Farm equipment on roads
When outside of cities, drivers need to be watching for farm equipment
that might be moving between fields. Many farm implements are
very large and oddly shaped, and farm tractors, combines and other
equipment move very slowly, with a maximum speed of 40 km/h.
Drivers need to be aware that at highway speeds, you will approach
a piece of farm equipment faster than expected. As well, farm
implements can sometimes take up more than half of the road width,
or if they are crossing a bridge, can take up the full width of the bridge.
The most important thing to remember when approaching farm
equipment on the road is to slow down well ahead of time, and to look
closely at the implement when passing or meeting it to make sure you
know how wide and how long it is.

Remember a valid Class 5 Intermediate Stage licence or higher is

required to operate heavy and agricultural equipment on provincial
highways and roads in urban areas. These types of vehicles include
tractors, self-propelled farm equipment such as combines, and heavy
equipment such as front-end loaders, cranes, forklifts and graders.
Provincial highways and urban roads do not include rural municipal
roads, service roads or winter roads controlled or maintained by a local
government such as a rural municipality.

Driver’s Handbook 95
Pilot vehicles
Pilot vehicles are used to warn drivers they are approaching an oversize
vehicle or load.

When an oversize or overload permit requires a pilot vehicle for escort

purposes, the pilot vehicle shall be equipped with a yellow flashing
light and shall display an illuminated “WIDE LOAD” or “D” sign.

When escorting an oversize vehicle or load:

• on a two-lane or four-lane highway — The pilot vehicle shall precede
and follow the oversize vehicle or load at a distance of not less than
100 metres and not more than 500 metres.
• on a four-lane divided highway — The pilot vehicle shall follow the
oversize vehicle or load at a distance of not less than 100 metres and
not more than 500 metres.

Drivers should be aware that the oversize vehicle or load may pose
a threat to normal traffic patterns, particularly when passing the
oversize vehicle or load on a two-way highway.

96 Driver’s Handbook
10. Driving emergencies
Running off the pavement
If your vehicle goes onto the shoulder of the road:

1. Stay on the shoulder and steer in a straight line.

2. Take your foot off the accelerator.

3. Apply the brakes very gently.

4. After slowing down, and if traffic permits, ease back onto the
pavement, being careful not to overshoot the centre line.

Blowouts
A front-tire blowout tends to cause the vehicle to swerve to the side of
the blowout, making steering very difficult. In the case of a rear-tire
blowout, the rear end of the vehicle sways from side to side.

Should a blowout occur:

• Hold the steering wheel firmly and take your foot off the accelerator,
allowing your vehicle to slow down gradually.
• Brake only when the speed is sufficiently reduced to maintain control.
• Do not turn onto the shoulder of the road until you have your vehicle
under control. If the blowout causes your vehicle to swerve onto the
shoulder, don’t try to get back onto the pavement. Let the vehicle coast
to a stop.
• Drive your vehicle off the roadway to a safe spot to change a tire.
Note: If you regularly inspect your tires for under inflation, cuts or
bulges, you may be able to avoid a blowout. When driving, you may
be warned by a thumping sound caused by a bulge in the tire or your
vehicle may be pulling sideways because the tire is losing air rapidly.
Power steering gives you more power to resist the side pull from a front
tire blowout.

Driver’s Handbook 97
Losing a wheel
The rules are basically the same as for a blowout.

Skid control
Driving too fast often results in skidding, regardless of weather
conditions. In fact, more people are killed or injured in dry-surface
skids than in wet-surface skids.

To get control of your vehicle while skidding, you should simultaneously:

• Take your foot off the accelerator or the brake.
• Look and steer in the direction you would like to go.

As the vehicle straightens out (assuming the brakes haven’t locked),

the front wheels should also be straightened out to prevent a skid in
the opposite direction.

To keep from skidding, slow down as you approach danger spots and
do not accelerate, brake or change direction quickly.

98 Driver’s Handbook
Emergency braking
If you must stop in the shortest distance for an emergency, depress the
brake pedal to its maximum. However, with this method you will lose
your steering control.

Without anti-lock brakes

If your vehicle doesn’t have anti-lock brakes, slamming on the brakes
will lock your wheels. If all four wheels are locked, the vehicle will
likely slide in the direction it was already going. Remember, without an
anti-lock braking system, when your brakes are locked, you have very
little steering control (if any at all), so do this only in an emergency.

An alternative method is to apply steady brake pressure without locking

up the wheels. This is called threshold braking and requires practice
and skill in order to perform properly. The advantage here is you
maintain steering control as you come to a stop and you may be able to
steer around an object rather than having a collision.

With anti-lock brakes

Anti-lock braking systems will provide some degree of steering control
when the brakes are fully applied. The amount of control will depend
on the specific system, so check your owner’s manual for the best
advice to follow.

Flooded engine
Your engine floods when you have too much gas and not enough air
in your car’s combustion chamber, making it impossible for the gas to
ignite. Check your owner’s manual for directions.

Wet brakes
Your brakes may fail when you go through a large puddle of water.
To be sure that they’re working:
• Always test the brakes lightly after driving through deep water.
They may pull to one side or may not work at all.
• You can “dry” the brakes by driving slowly and applying them lightly.

Driver’s Handbook 99
Disabled vehicle
Following are some safety tips to help minimize safety hazards if your
vehicle stalls or is involved in an accident:
• If possible, move the vehicle clear of traffic and park all four wheels
off the travelled portion of the highway.
• Use the starter and low gear to pull your vehicle to the shoulder if you
have a standard shift.
• If your vehicle is stalled on a highway or if your speed is well below
the speed limit, use the four-way flashers when your vehicle is
coming to a stop.
• If you have reflectorized signs and/or flares, place them 60 metres in
front and behind the vehicle, so that the danger may be seen by
approaching drivers.
• If you cannot move your vehicle off the road, raise the hood to
warn other motorists.

Direct collision course

If a vehicle suddenly approaches from the opposite direction in
your lane:
• Brake hard. If speed can be reduced before the collision, the impact
will be less severe.
• Head for the shoulder on the right-hand side of the road and sound
the horn. The other driver may suddenly realize their actions and
steer back onto their side of the road. Never swerve to the left to
avoid a collision. You may then be in the path of oncoming traffic.
• Drive into the ditch if necessary. Many collisions are more serious
than they have to be, simply because some drivers don’t accept the
reality of a collision happening to them and “freeze.” Better to be in
the ditch than be involved in a collision.
• Head for something that is capable of energy absorption to reduce
the force on impact — for example, a bush, shrub or snowbank.
Better to hit an object with a glancing blow rather than head-on.
Sideswiping a guardrail, for instance, and bouncing off (some of the
impact being absorbed), with the driver regaining control, has avoided
more serious collisions.

By being alert at all times behind the wheel, you may gain that
fraction of a second you would not otherwise have to determine your
escape route.

100 Driver’s Handbook

Vehicle on fire
Since this usually results from an electrical short circuit, turn off the
ignition immediately. It’s wise to keep a hand fire extinguisher in the
passenger compartment of your vehicle. If it is a small fire, use the fire
extinguisher or smother flames with earth, sand or large articles of
clothing. If it is a large fire, move away from the vehicle and call the
nearest fire department.

Vehicle plunging into water

If a vehicle ends up in water with the windows closed and intact (not
broken), it will float for between 30 seconds and a few minutes. Vehicle
occupants have only about one minute to exit before escape becomes
impossible. As the vehicle sinks, water is higher on the outside than
the inside, therefore water pressure prevents doors from being opened.
Once the water rises above the windows, the windows cannot be
opened because the water presses the window against the door frame.

If you ever find yourself in this situation, follow these important steps:

1. Do not panic.

2. Take seatbelts off. Children or others who need help must be

released from their seatbelts (starting from the oldest to the
youngest, since the older children can help themselves while you
attend to the younger ones).

3. Open or break windows. If they’re power windows, roll them down

immediately because water will cause a short circuit in the electrical
system. If the electric windows don’t work, break them by hitting or
kicking the window on the edge nearest the front of the car.

4. Get out immediately, sending children out before you.

Driver’s Handbook 101

Vehicle in contact with electrical wires
If you step out from a vehicle in contact with live electrical wires,
you could be seriously injured or killed when your feet touch the
ground — even if you’re wearing rubber boots. Should your vehicle ever
be in contact with electrical wires:

1. Stay inside and try to drive away from the wires.

2. If you cannot free your vehicle from the wires, turn on your hazard
lights, move off the road as far as you can and remain inside. Warn
potential rescuers to stay away from the vehicle and the wires and
ask them to contact the police.

3. If your vehicle is on fire and you must leave it, only do so by jumping
out so as not to come in contact with both the vehicle and the ground
at the same time. Also make sure to jump free of any wires.

Suggested emergency equipment

1. Standard Emergency Equipment — shovel, tow rope or chain,
booster cables, flashlight, first-aid kit, basic tool kit, flares and
fire extinguisher

2. Winter Emergency Equipment — all of #1 plus hatchet, chains or

metal mats, windshield scraper, snow brush, gas line anti-freeze,
winter clothing, winter boots, winter hat, mitts and blankets

3. Winter Survival Kit — all of #1 and #2 plus waterproof matches,

compact stove with fuel, candles, sheet of plastic or canvas, light
rope, blaze orange flag, carbon dioxide indicator, aluminum foil,
tissues, 1.5 kg metal cans with plastic lids, dry foods and soups
and plastic utensils

Always ensure your vehicle’s fuel tank is full when driving in winter
conditions. If you become stranded, your chances of survival are better
when you stay with your vehicle.

102 Driver’s Handbook

11. Collisions
Upon arriving at the scene of a collision:
• Park your vehicle off the roadway to prevent a collision with
another vehicle.
• In case of serious injury, call 911 or the nearest police station
and ambulance.
• Turn off the ignition of vehicles involved in the collision to
prevent a fire.
• If a person is pinned in a vehicle, but unhurt, crawl into the vehicle
and try to release them. If an individual is hurt, however, do
not attempt to move them unless the vehicle is on fire. Should
the person have to be moved, ensure that the head and spine are
firmly supported.
• If you have flares or reflective signs, place them 60 metres in front
and behind the collision scene as a warning to approaching drivers.
Otherwise, use your four-way flashers. Occupants of your vehicle or
bystanders should be positioned at both approaches to the collision,
standing off the roadway, to warn vehicles.
• Exstinguish the flares when they are no longer needed.
Even if you have not been trained in first aid, you may give the
following assistance:
• If a person is unconscious, be sure their air passage is clear of foreign
material. False teeth, chewing gum, vomit or mucus can block the air
passage. If possible, gently turn their head to the side. If the victim is
not breathing and you are familiar with mouth-to-mouth or artificial
respiration, begin the procedure immediately.
• Stop bleeding by applying direct pressure with a clean piece of material
over the wound. If there is a serious head injury, pressure should not
be applied.
• Reassure the injured and stay with them until an ambulance or other
vehicle is available to take them to the hospital.
• Give all information on the assistance you have provided to the
ambulance attendant and to the police, who in turn can inform
the hospital.

Driver’s Handbook 103

If you are involved in a collision
A collision can be between two or more vehicles, between a vehicle
and a person, object or animal, or an event in which a person is injured
or killed by a vehicle in motion.
If you are involved in a collision:
• Stop your vehicle immediately.
• Check to see if anyone is injured. If someone is, you must:
— Get help. In Winnipeg, Brandon and most rural areas, dial 911.
In other areas, contact your local police or the RCMP by dialing 0
and asking for the police.
— If anyone is seriously injured (meaning someone was hospitalized)
or if a fatality occurs, you must report the collision to the police
within seven days, if you do not make a report to an officer at
the scene.
• You must also report to police within seven days if the collision
involves unlicensed drivers, unregistered or unidentified vehicles,
failure to obtain particulars from the other party, or if you suspect
the use of drugs or alcohol on the part of the other driver was a
contributing factor in the collision.

You do not have to report to the police if only property damage is

sustained in a collision, no matter what the value of the damage.

• In the case of a collision without serious injury or damage, you should

move the vehicles from a major thoroughfare as soon as possible in
order to prevent further collisions.
• In all cases, as the driver, you must:
— Give your name and address to anyone whose vehicle or property
is damaged.
— Indicate whether you have a valid driver’s licence or out-of-province
driving permit and provide your licence or permit number and
expiry date.
— Indicate whether the vehicle being driven is validly registered and
provide the licence number and expiry date.
— Give your vehicle insurance policy number and, if an out-of-province
vehicle, the name of insurer.
— If you are not the vehicle owner, give the name and address of the
registered owner and the number of that person’s vehicle insurance
policy and name of insurer, if applicable, and if known.

104 Driver’s Handbook

• If you collide with and damage an unattended vehicle or other
property, you must take reasonable steps to find and notify the owner
of the unattended vehicle or property. If you are unable to exchange
names and addresses or identify yourself personally with the driver of
the other vehicle or the owner of the property at the collision scene,
you must leave your name and address on the vehicle or property.
• If you collide with a domestic (owned) animal, causing it injury or
death, you (or a passenger if you are not able to do so) must report
the collision to police if the animal is not removed from the road.
If the animal has been removed from the road and the collision is
not reported to police, you are required to report the collision to the
animal owner, if known, and if not, to the clerk of the municipality
in which the collision occurred.

See Collision Report Form in the Forms section.

Driver’s Handbook 105

Notes

106 Driver’s Handbook

 Section 2
Consequences of
impaired driving,
unsafe driving
and driving while
suspended/disqualified
1. Driving while impaired
Alcohol
Alcohol is a depressant, not a stimulant. It reduces alertness and slows
normal reflexes. If you’ve had too much to drink, black coffee, food,
a cold shower or fresh air won’t sober you up — only time will eliminate
alcohol from your body.

Impaired drivers are among the most dangerous, unpredictable

individuals on our roads and account for about half of all traffic
fatalities in Manitoba. That explains why, in this province, the
penalties for impaired driving are severe.

If your ability to drive is impaired, a charge of impaired driving can

be laid regardless of what level of alcohol is found in your blood.
Accordingly, the safest rule to follow is: if you drink — don’t drive.

Impaired drivers usually fail to recognize they are impaired. Alcohol

or drug impairment delays reaction times, distorts vision and
impairs judgment.

Drugs
Prescription drugs
Tranquilizers, antidepressants, sleeping pills and similar drugs can
affect your driving ability even if taken in the prescribed dosage.
Accordingly, if you continue to drive while impaired by any medication,
you can be charged with driving while impaired. This will result in
the same consequences as if you were impaired by alcohol. Discuss the
possible effects of any medication with your doctor or pharmacist.

Illegal drugs
Illicit drugs may cause hallucinations, hostility and aggressiveness
in addition to dulling normal thought processes and slowing down
eye-hand coordination. If you are found to be driving while under the
influence of illegal drugs, you will be charged with impaired driving.

Never mix drugs and alcohol — even in small quantities.

108 Driver’s Handbook

For information contact:

Addictions Foundation of Manitoba

Northern Region: 1–866–291–7774
Western Region: 1–866–767–3838
Winnipeg Region: 1–866–638–2561
Website: [Link]
Email: library@[Link]

What can you do to prevent other people from

driving while impaired?
When you host a party, you can take steps to discourage guests
from driving home if they have had too much to drink. Here are
some suggestions:

• Set up “house rules” that make driving home after drinking not
acceptable. Tell your guests about these rules before they arrive.
Then they can make alternative plans for going home if they plan
to drink.
• Offer guests fruit juices, mineral water and soft drinks as alternatives
to alcoholic beverages.
• Don’t serve “one for the road.” It’s a good idea to close the bar at least
one hour before the party ends. Encourage guests to stay for a while
by serving food and tea, coffee or other non-alcoholic beverages.
• Have enough spare cash on hand to lend to friends for taxi fare.
• Be prepared to have some guests stay overnight if necessary. A little
inconvenience and embarrassment (theirs, not yours) are far better
than risking impaired driving.

You don’t have to stop with just yourself or family and friends. Those
who belong to groups or clubs can challenge other members to share
a leading role in preventing impaired driving. Many groups and
organizations sponsor parties and other social events where alcohol
is served. All members can participate in making sure no one drives
after drinking. People can take turns not drinking so they may drive
others home.

Driver’s Handbook 109

Impaired driving is a crime
Impaired driving threatens everyone’s safety. Manitoba’s tough laws
on driving while impaired apply to all motor vehicles* as well as to
situations where a person operates a vessel, an aircraft or railway
equipment while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
*Motor vehicles include implements of husbandry, special mobile machines,
tractors and off-road vehicles.
An off-road vehicle is any motorized vehicle designed and adapted for
cross-country travel on land, water, ice, snow, marsh or other natural
terrain. Some examples are:
• snowmobiles
• all-terrain vehicles
• dirt bikes

Special mobile machines are heavy or agricultural equipment such as:

• front-end loaders
• cranes
• forklifts
• graders
• tractors
• combines

To operate a special mobile machine, implement of husbandry or

tractor, a person must hold a valid minimum Class 5 Intermediate
Stage driver’s licence. This requirement applies on all provincial trunk
highways, provincial roads and highways within the boundaries of a
city, town or village.

110 Driver’s Handbook

What are the consequences?
Manitoba continues to have among the toughest penalties for driving
under the influence of alcohol or drugs in Canada.

Zero blood alcohol concentration restriction

Novice drivers who violate the zero blood alcohol concentration
restriction will:

• receive an immediate 24-hour roadside suspension

• be required to attend a show cause hearing with Driver Improvement

and Control to determine further sanctions

Tiered Administrative Licence Suspensions

Anyone who operates a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol
concentration between .05 and .08 or who fails a physical coordination
test or drug recognition evaluation is subject to an immediate Tiered
Administrative Licence Suspension.

Tiered Administrative Licence Suspensions are progressively longer

suspensions ranging from 72 hours to 60 days depending on how
many previous suspensions have been issued to the driver within a
10-year period:

• 72-hour driver’s licence suspension for a first occurrence

• 7-day driver’s licence suspension for a first occurrence with a

person under the age of 16 in the vehicle

• 15-day driver’s licence suspension for a second occurrence

• 30-day driver’s licence suspension for a third occurrence

• 60-day driver’s licence suspension for a fourth and

subsequent occurrences

Drivers who receive a Tiered Administrative Licence Suspension move

five levels down the Driver Safety Rating scale. Drivers who receive this
suspension may also be subject to a Driver Improvement and Control
intervention. This could range from a warning letter to a show cause
hearing, at which time a further driver’s licence suspension would
be considered. They would also be required to pay a driver’s licence
reinstatement charge.

Drivers receiving two or more suspensions within a 10-year period

are also required to complete an Impaired Driver Assessment at the
Addictions Foundation of Manitoba at their own expense.

Driver’s Handbook 111

Three-month Administrative Licence Suspension
Drivers found with a blood alcohol concentration over .08, who refuse
to provide a breath or blood sample to police, who refuse to perform a
physical coordination test or drug recognition evaluation, or who refuse
to follow a police officer’s instructions regarding either test will receive
an immediate three-month Administrative Licence Suspension. Drivers
who receive this suspension move five levels down the Driver Safety
Rating scale and are required to pay a driver’s licence reinstatement
charge. Additional consequences may include:

• being charged under the Criminal Code

• vehicle impoundment (except special mobile machines)

• a mandatory Impaired Driver Assessment at the driver’s expense

• participation in Manitoba’s Ignition Interlock Program

Criminal Code offences

Driving any vehicle while impaired, having a blood alcohol
concentration over .08, refusing to provide a breath or blood sample
to the police, refusing to perform a physical coordination test or
drug recognition evaluation, or refusing to follow a police officer’s
instructions regarding either test, are Criminal Code offences.

Other related Criminal Code offences include:

• impaired driving causing bodily harm or death

• driving or having care or control of a vehicle while impaired

by drugs or alcohol

If a driver is convicted* of an impaired driving offence under the Criminal

Code, their driver’s licence will be suspended, they will move down
the Driver Safety Rating scale an additional five or 10 levels and they
will be disqualified from driving any type of vehicle. A conviction may
result in a number of sanctions including:

• a court-imposed minimum one-year driving prohibition

• participation in Manitoba’s Ignition Interlock Program

• a minimum fine of $1,000 for a first offence

• up to five years imprisonment for impaired driving

• up to life imprisonment and a court-imposed prohibition from driving

any type of vehicle for up to life if you cause an accident that results
in the death or bodily harm of another person

*A discharge under the Criminal Code for certain driving related offences may be
treated as a conviction under The Highway Traffic Act.

112 Driver’s Handbook

2. Licence suspension for other
Criminal Code convictions
Driving a vehicle in Manitoba is a privilege. People convicted of certain
offences under the Criminal Code will lose that privilege. Some examples
of these offences are dangerous driving, criminal negligence, flight
from police, auto arson, auto vandalism, taking a vehicle without the
owner’s consent, auto theft, possession of property obtained by crime,
and possession, selling or purchasing master keys.

A conviction of any of these offences results in an automatic driver’s

licence suspension or eligibility to obtain a licence. It also disqualifies
you from operating an off-road vehicle. Anyone convicted of any such
offence faces a driver’s licence suspension ranging from one year to life.
Offenders under 16 years of age will have their suspension start
on their 16th birthday.

Note: A discharge under the Criminal Code for certain driving related
offenses may be treated as a conviction under The Highway Traffic Act.

Driver’s Handbook 113

3. Driving while suspended —
the consequences
Vehicles and off-road vehicles (ORVs) will be immediately impounded
for a minimum of 30 days for driving while the person is suspended or
prohibited from driving, or if the person is disqualified from operating
an ORV.

The vehicle will be impounded even if it is owned or registered by

someone other than the operator at the time of the offence. It is
the owner’s responsibility to ensure that the user is not suspended,
prohibited or disqualified. Vehicle owners will be responsible for the
costs of towing and storage, plus an impoundment fee, which must
be paid before a vehicle is released.

Additional consequences of driving while suspended can include:

• imprisonment for up to five years and/or fines of up to $2,000

• a non-appealable licence prohibition under the Criminal Code,

which means that a work licence cannot be obtained

• a lifetime driver’s licence suspension under The Highway Traffic Act

• additional driver’s licence premiums once the driver’s licence

is reinstated

114 Driver’s Handbook

4. Driver Improvement and
Control Program
The Driver Improvement and Control (DI&C) Program aims to make
Manitoba’s roads safer for all. It encourages Manitobans to make safe
driving behaviour a habit for a lifetime.

The DI&C Program strives to:

• prevent unsafe driving from becoming a habit
• break unsafe driving habits that are already established

Early intervention is key.

The program can intervene in different ways. How it intervenes

depends on the driver and his or her unsafe driving behaviour.

Interventions apply to all drivers

Interventions are based on driver experience and the severity and
frequency of the driver’s involvement.

The DI&C Program interventions may include:

• sending you an advisory letter about your driving

• sending you a warning letter about your driving

• requiring you to complete a driver course

• requiring you to attend a show cause hearing

The possible outcomes from a show cause hearing include:

• a driver’s licence suspension

• required completion of a driver course or driver examination

• further restrictions on your driver’s licence

Drivers who don’t complete a required course or exam will have their
driver’s licence cancelled and their driver’s licence charges refunded.

Driver’s Handbook 115

How it works
The DI&C Program defines two categories of drivers: novice
and experienced.

A novice driver is a driver who has not held a Full Stage driver’s licence
for more than three years. This includes drivers who hold Learner or
Intermediate Stage licences or are in the first three years of a Full Stage
licence under the Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) Program. It also
includes learner drivers not under GDL who have never held a Full
Stage licence.

An experienced driver is a driver who has held a Full Stage driver’s licence
for at least three years.

Different interventions may apply for novice or experienced drivers,

depending on how serious the unsafe driving was and how often it
occurred. For novice drivers, the interventions begin earlier than for
experienced drivers.

For both novice and experienced drivers, the following driving

behaviours may lead to interventions under the DI&C Program:

• at-fault collisions

• traffic convictions

• serious driving offence charges

• twenty-four-hour roadside suspensions

• tiered Administrative Licence Suspensions

None of the interventions under the DI&C Program are based on your
age or gender — only on your driving behaviour.

116 Driver’s Handbook

 Section 3
Driver Safety Rating and
safe driving programs

Driver’s Handbook 117

1. Driver Safety Rating
Your Driver Safety Rating is your position on a scale with 36 active levels.
Which level you’re on depends on your driving record and will affect
how much you pay for your Autopac and driver’s licence premiums.

If you’re a new Manitoba driver with your first driver’s licence, you’ll be
at the “base” level on the Driver Safety Rating scale for both vehicle and
driver’s licence premiums. After that, for each year you
drive safely, you’ll move up the scale and start saving.

How the scale works

Each year, we’ll send you a notice showing you where
you are on the scale and what you owe for the next year.
We place you on the scale using your driving record for
the past year.

Safe driving behaviour will move you up the scale. High-

risk driving, including traffic convictions, at-fault claims
or alcohol- or drug-related administrative suspensions,
will move you down the scale.

Moving up the scale means more merits, which usually

results in lower premiums. Moving down the scale
means fewer merits (or more demerits), along with
higher premiums, in most cases.

Remember, each year of safe driving = one level up

the scale.

Safe driving results

in more merits and
lower premiums.

Higher risk driving

results in more
demerits and
higher premiums.

118 Driver’s Handbook

2. Safe driving programs
Mature Driver Program
Mature Driver is an educational program designed to help the senior
driver to continue to drive safely. A qualified senior driving instructor,
who knows the effects of aging on driving ability, teaches how to
compensate for these effects.

The Mature Driver Program focuses on updating driving knowledge,

sharpening driving skills and providing techniques to compensate
for normal age-related changes that affect driving ability.

Safety Services Manitoba delivers the Mature Driver Program. Courses

are available in the Winnipeg, Central, Interlake, Eastman, Westman
and Parkland regions of the province.

For more information, contact:

Safety Services Manitoba

Telephone: 204–949–1085
Website: [Link]

Parking entitlement for people with physical disabilities

You may apply for a parking permit that allows you to park in spaces
designated for people with disabilities if you have a permanent or
temporary physical disability:

• requiring the full-time assistance of a mobility aid such as a

wheelchair, cane, crutches or walker

• if your disability restricts you from walking more than 50 metres

without great difficulty or danger to your health or safety

An application form may be obtained from any Society for Manitobans

with Disabilities regional office, your medical practitioner or local
municipal office.

There is a fee for a permit or permit renewal. If your disability is

permanent, the permit is valid for 36 months. Temporary permits are
available for the anticipated length of the disability as certified by a
medical practitioner, up to 36 months.

Non-profit organizations can apply for permits for vehicles used to

transport people with physical disabilities.

Parking permits must be displayed on the rearview mirror of a

vehicle so they are clearly visible from outside the vehicle for
enforcement purposes.

Driver’s Handbook 119

Parking permits are to be displayed only when the vehicle is parked in
specially designated parking, not while the vehicle is being driven.

To apply for a permit or for further information, contact:

Parking Permit Program

1111 Winnipeg Avenue
Winnipeg, Manitoba R3E 0S2
Telephone: 204–975–3257
Toll-free: 1–800–836–5551
TTY: 204–975–3239
Fax: 204–975–3240
Email: info@[Link]
Website: [Link]/parking_permit_program.aspx

Remember: It is illegal to park in a space designated for people with

disabilities unless you are disabled or you are transporting a person
with a disability and a valid parking permit is prominently displayed
in your vehicle.

Vehicle modifications for people with physical disabilities

If you are a driver with a disability holding a valid Manitoba driver’s
licence, you may obtain a wide range of vehicle modifications at
no cost through the Health Sciences Centre Rehabilitation
Engineering Department.

For specific information regarding vehicle modifications, contact:

Health Sciences Centre

Rehab Engineering Department
Special Devices Program
59 Pearl Street
Winnipeg, Manitoba R3E 3L7
Website: [Link]/re/

120 Driver’s Handbook

 Environmental consequences of driving
If you keep a vehicle well tuned and maintained, it will help control
the emission of pollutants. However, even the best maintained vehicles
will continue to emit gases such as carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide,
nitrogen oxides and sulphur dioxide, and volatile organic compounds.

These gases adversely affect our health and are significant enough to
affect the environment.

The following are some things drivers can do to reduce these effects:

1. Keep your vehicle well tuned and maintained and tires properly
inflated. Check pollution controls regularly.

2. Drive only when you must and consider walking when relatively
short distances are involved.

3. Don’t let your engine idle while your car is parked.

4. Before buying or leasing a vehicle, check its fuel efficiency. The less
fuel a vehicle burns, the less pollution it creates and the more money
you save at the gas pump.

Consider taking the bus as much as possible. Cars produce 50 per cent
of the carbon dioxide emitted by vehicles. The carbon dioxide per rider
produced by the average family car is almost four times that produced
per rider by a half-empty bus.

3
Transit or Auto?
Carbon Dioxide Emissions
2
kg/rider

from Cars and Buses (per rider)

0
Family Car Sub-compact Car Bus

Driver’s Handbook 121

Fuel efficient driving techniques
Safety should be your number one concern every time you get behind
the wheel of a vehicle. The good news is that practicing defensive
driving techniques not only improves road safety, it also reduces fuel
consumption and cuts exhaust emissions that contribute to climate
change and urban smog. Depending on your driving habits and how
often you drive, these basic techniques and useful tips could save you
hundreds of dollars a year in fuel and maintenance costs:
• It is both safer and more fuel-efficient to maintain a steady speed on
the road. Speed up smoothly when passing or merging with faster
traffic and avoid hard braking. European tests have shown that
aggressive driving — frequent, rapid speeding up and hard braking —
can increase fuel consumption by up to 25 per cent.
• Never drive faster than the posted speed limit. Increasing your
highway cruising speed from 100 km/h to 120 km/h will increase
fuel consumption by up to 20 per cent.
• Plan your trips to combine errands and to avoid traffic jams, steep
hills, road construction, etc. Combining a number of short trips
into one longer one allows your engine and drivetrain to reach peak
operating temperature, which is not possible on trips of less than
five kms. Avoiding trouble spots shortens your travel time and reduces
unnecessary idling.
• If you are driving a vehicle with a manual transmission, learn how
to use it properly for maximum fuel savings. A tachometer can help
you shift the transmission at the most fuel efficient engine speeds
(the owner’s manual will indicate these speeds).
• If you have cruise control, use it for highway driving to maintain
a constant safe speed and save fuel. The exception is on hilly terrain,
where it’s a good idea to allow the vehicle’s speed to drop slightly
going uphill and then let gravity help you build up speed again (to a
safe level) going down the other side. Avoid using cruise control while
driving on slippery or winter roads.
• In summer, minimize your use of air conditioning. Operating an air
conditioner in hot weather can increase fuel consumption by more
than 20 per cent in city driving. A more fuel-efficient option for
staying cool is to open a window. However, at highway speeds, use
your car’s flow-through ventilation — open windows and sunroofs
increase aerodynamic drag, which makes the engine work harder and
consume more fuel. If you must use your vehicle’s air conditioning,
avoid running it continuously. Shut it off after the interior is cool or
set the controls to a comfort level that allows the system to cycle.

122 Driver’s Handbook

• Check tire pressure at least once a month when the tires are cold
(i.e. the vehicle had been parked for at least three hours or had not
been driven more than two kms). If you have to drive more than
two km to add air, check the tires before you leave and then add the
amount of air that is missing from this reading. Inflate the tires to
the recommended pressure, usually indicated on the car door, glove
compartment or in the owner’s manual. With proper tire inflation,
your car will burn less fuel and be safer to drive. Operating a vehicle
with just one tire under inflated by 56 kilopascals (eight pounds
per square inch) can reduce the life of the tire by 15,000 km and
can increase the vehicle’s fuel consumption by four per cent
(Transport Canada).
• Use a block heater in the winter to warm the engine oil and make cold
starts easier on your engine parts. Your vehicle’s oil does not freeze
when the temperature dips below 0°Celcius, but it does get much
thicker. This means your engine has to work harder and use more
fuel. Use a timer to switch the block heater on two hours before you
plan to drive. Proper use of a block heater can improve your vehicle’s
overall fuel economy by as much as 10 per cent. Don’t leave your block
heater on overnight or your energy savings will disappear in a higher
electricity bill.
• Follow the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended operating procedures
and maintenance schedule in your owner’s manual. Regular
maintenance such as oil and filter changes will not only prevent
early breakdown of your vehicle’s parts, it will also keep them
operating at their most fuel-efficient level. A clogged air filter can
increase fuel consumption by up to 10 per cent. Regular maintenance
will keep your vehicle operating safely, save you money and help
the environment.
• Remote car starters are handy on cold winter mornings, but don’t
start your car too soon. In most driving conditions, engines need to
warm up for only 30 seconds, even on cold mornings. Also, allowing
your car to idle too long wastes gas and produces unnecessary
exhaust emissions.
• Idling for more than 10 seconds, except in traffic, wastes more fuel
than stopping your engine and restarting it again. At the end of the
day, stopping unnecessary idling will benefit the environment and
save you money.

You will find other useful tips and tools at [Link]/

transportation/[Link].

Driver’s Handbook 123

3. Driver training
All new drivers should consider taking lessons from a driver training
school with a valid permit. Driver training schools are issued permits
by Manitoba Public Insurance on behalf of the Province of Manitoba.
Driving schools are a good resource to assist with teaching new drivers
the basics of safe driving techniques in accordance with the rules of
the road.

For further information about our driver licensing and

driver education programs, visit [Link].

124 Driver’s Handbook

Section 4
Forms
Organ and tissue donation
Every year in Canada, thousands of people wait for organ and
tissue transplants. You can make the difference in some of those
lives. Everyone has the potential to be an organ and tissue donor —
generally, donors are healthy people of any age who have suffered
an irreversible brain injury, as in a motor vehicle accident or a brain
hemorrhage. Organs and tissues that can be donated include kidneys,
heart, lungs, liver, pancreas, small bowel, corneas, bones and joints,
skin and heart valves.

Here’s what you can do:

• Transplant Manitoba and Tissue Bank Manitoba offer an online

organ donation registry at [Link]. When you register your
intent to be an organ and tissue donor, your decision is recorded
in a Manitoba eHealth database. At the appropriate time, your
donation decision will be shared with your family so they can
honour your decision.

• Sign a donor card. Simply cut out the card on the following page,
complete the information, and keep it with your Manitoba Health
Registration Certificate or driver’s licence so it’s visible for law
enforcement and hospital officials. Drivers under 18 years of age
require the signature of a parent or guardian.

You are encouraged to use the online registry even if you carry a signed
donor card. Information on a signed card is not recorded in a Manitoba
eHealth database and so may not be available when needed.

It is important that you discuss your wishes regarding organ and tissue
donation with your family. Other people you may want to inform are
your clergy and family doctor. A Living Will is another place where you
can record your wishes.

126 Driver’s Handbook

 DONOR CARD
Direction under The Human Tissue Gift Act C.C.S.M. c. H180
I,
direct the use, after my death (please check ✓) of:
q any needed organs or parts of my body; or
q the following specified organs or parts of my body, namely:

for the following purposes:

q transplant and other therapeutic purposes;
q medical education; q scientific research.

Donor Signature Date

Co-signature of parent or guardian Date

where donor is under 18 years of age.

Driver’s Handbook 127

 ORGAN AND TISSUE DONATION
If you wish to donate organ(s) or tissue after death, complete the
attached donor card and KEEP IT WITH YOUR MANITOBA HEALTH
REGISTRATION CERTIFICATE OR DRIVER’S LICENCE SO IT IS VISIBLE
FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT AND HOSPITAL OFFICIALS.

IT IS EXTREMELY IMPORTANT TO DISCUSS YOUR DECISION WITH

YOUR FAMILY TO ENSURE YOUR WISHES ARE FULFILLED.

For more information on organ and tissue donation, please

contact one of the Human Tissue Gift Agencies listed below:
Transplant Manitoba–Gift of Life Program 204–787–1897
Tissue Bank Manitoba 204–940–1750
Lions Eye Bank of Manitoba and
Northwest Ontario Inc. 204–788–8419

(R-09/09)

128 Driver’s Handbook

Parental or Legal Guardian Approval for a Person
Under 18 Years of Age to Apply for a Driver’s Licence
Note: This form must be submitted to supervising staff before
a driver’s licence applicant under 18 years of age will be allowed
to take a knowledge test. Proof of age and identity are required
before a knowledge test can be taken.

I/We, the undersigned, being the parent(s) or legal guardian(s) of:

(Child’s full name)

whose date of birth is:

(dd/mm/yyyy)

do hereby approve said applicant for a driver’s licence, including a

digital photograph, in accordance with The Drivers and Vehicles Act.

The person approving an application of a minor for a driver’s licence

has the right to submit, in writing, a request to the Registrar to cancel
the licence, and the Registrar must comply with such request and
cancel said licence while the applicant is a minor.

Parent signature

Signature of Legal Guardian(s)

(Only ONE signature is required)

For office use only:

Driver’s Handbook 129

130 Driver’s Handbook
Collision report
The following collision checklist shows you what information is
required in reporting a collision:

Details of the Collision

Date: Time: (a.m./p.m.)

Weather: Light:

Exact Location:

City and Province:

Road Conditions: (dry, wet, muddy, snowy, icy, loose snow)

Speed: Yours: km/h Other’s: km/h

Direction of Travel:

Yours: km/h Other’s: km/h

Nature of Vehicle Damage

Yours:

Other’s:

Nature of Damage to Property:

Your Vehicle Plate #:

Name and Licence Number of the Other Driver

Name:

Address:

Driver’s Licence #:

Expiry Date: No. of Passengers:

Owner of Other Vehicle or Property

Name:

Address:

Vehicle Plate #:

Make/Model/Year:

Driver’s Handbook 131

Insurance Company:

Policy #:

Insurance Agent:

Address:

Remember: You must report the collision to the police within seven
days if it involves: a fatality, serious injury (meaning someone was
hospitalized), unlicensed drivers, unregistered or unidentified vehicles,
failure to obtain particulars from the other party, or suspected use
of drugs or alcohol. You do NOT need to report to police if only
property damage is sustained in a collision, no matter the value
of the damage.

Injured Person

1. Name:

Address:

Age: Sex:

Nature of Injuries:

Taken to:

Injured Person

2. Name:

Address:

Age: Sex:

Nature of Injuries:

Taken to:

Injured Person

3. Name:

Address:

Age: Sex:

Nature of Injuries:

Taken to:

132 Driver’s Handbook

Witnesses

1. Name:

Address:

Phone No.:

2. Name:

Address:

Phone No.:

Police Officer’s Name and/or Badge Number:

Police File #:

Detachment Phone No.:

Driver’s Handbook 133

Collision Diagram
In this space:

• outline roadway with solid lines

• indicate centre line of road
• identify all streets
• indicate North by arrow
• indicate all measurements (skid marks, road widths, etc.)

134 Driver’s Handbook

Claim reporting
For fast, convenient service, Manitoba motorists can report their
Autopac claims over the telephone. When you call, please have available
your driver’s licence, vehicle registration and any information you have
about the accident.

Hours
Monday to Friday: 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Saturday: 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Closed Sunday

Reporting glass claims

Inside Winnipeg: 204–985–7000
Outside Winnipeg (toll-free): 1–800–665–2410
TTY: 204–985–8832

Reporting damage claims other than glass

Inside Winnipeg: 204–985–7000
Outside Winnipeg (toll-free): 1–800–665–2410
TTY: 204–985–8832

Winnipeg
We’ll give you the first available estimate appointment at one of the
following locations:

• 15 Barnes Street (at Bison Drive)

• 1284 Main Street

• 40 Lexington Park (at Gateway Road)

• 125 King Edward Street East

• 930 St. Mary’s Road (service available in French)

• 1103 Pacific Avenue

Driver’s Handbook 135

Outside Winnipeg
We’ll give you the first available appointment at one of the
following locations:

(Note: an estimator may be available to attend some remote areas to complete the
estimate on-site there.)

• Arborg | 323 Sunset Boulevard

• Beausejour | 848 Park Avenue

• Brandon | 731 1st Street

• Dauphin | 217 Industrial Road

• Flin Flon | 8 Timber Lane Road

• Portage la Prairie | 2007 Saskatchewan Avenue West

• Selkirk | 1008 Manitoba Avenue

• Steinbach | 91 North Front Drive (service available in French)

• Swan River | 125 4th Avenue North

• The Pas | 424 Fischer Avenue

• Thompson | 53 Commercial Place

• Winkler | 355 Boundary Trail

136 Driver’s Handbook

Metric converter

MAXIMUM MAXIMUM
mph
30 60
0 10 20 mph 40 50 mph 70 80 90 100 110

0 20 MAXIMUM 70 MAXIMUM 110 130 150 170

km/h 50 90
km/h km/h

Weight
1 gram (g) = .03 ounce
1 kilogram (kg) = 2.2 pounds
1 metric ton (t) = 1.09 ton

Length
1 millimetre (mm) = .0394 inch
1 centimetre (cm) = .3937 inch
1 metre (m) = 39.3 inches or 3.2 feet
1 metre (m) = 1.09 yards
1 kilometre (km) = .621 mile

mm = millimetres
cm = centimetres
km = kilometres
km/h = kilometres per hour
mph = miles per hour

Driver’s Handbook 137

Notes

138 Driver’s Handbook

Notes

Driver’s Handbook 139

Notes

140 Driver’s Handbook

 $5.00
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