Class 7 Winter Driving Conditions 3 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: In Alberta, what should you do if you get stuck in snow?
- Keep the wheels spinning at high speed until you get free
- Gently rock the vehicle between forward and reverse, clear snow from around the tires, and use sand or kitty litter for traction (Correct answer)
- Turn the engine off and wait for help
- Get out and push while someone keeps the gas pedal fully pressed
Correct answer: Gently rock the vehicle between forward and reverse, clear snow from around the tires, and use sand or kitty litter for traction
If stuck in snow, gently rock the vehicle by alternating between forward and reverse. Clear packed snow from around the tires and place sand, kitty litter, or floor mats under the drive wheels for traction.
Question 2: Why is it dangerous to warm up your car in an enclosed garage during Alberta winters?
- It wastes fuel
- Carbon monoxide from the exhaust can build up and cause poisoning or death (Correct answer)
- It damages the garage floor
- It overheats the engine
Correct answer: Carbon monoxide from the exhaust can build up and cause poisoning or death
Running a vehicle in an enclosed space allows carbon monoxide (an odourless, colourless gas) to accumulate to lethal levels. Always warm up your vehicle outdoors or with the garage door fully open.
Question 3: In Alberta winter conditions, what is the danger of driving through a large puddle of slush or water?
- It can wash your car
- It can splash onto your windshield and momentarily blind you, or cause hydroplaning (Correct answer)
- Slush puddles are harmless
- It only affects the paint on your vehicle
Correct answer: It can splash onto your windshield and momentarily blind you, or cause hydroplaning
Driving through slush puddles can splash onto your windshield, briefly blocking your vision. At speed, deep slush can also cause hydroplaning, pulling your vehicle in unexpected directions.
Question 4: What is 'wind chill' and why does it matter to Alberta drivers in winter?
- It is the cooling effect of wind, making exposed skin freeze faster — relevant if stranded (Correct answer)
- It only affects outdoor workers, not drivers
- It is a weather measurement with no practical impact on driving
- It only matters if your windows are open
Correct answer: It is the cooling effect of wind, making exposed skin freeze faster — relevant if stranded
Wind chill describes how cold it feels when wind combines with low temperatures, making exposed skin freeze faster. If you are stranded in an Alberta winter, wind chill can cause frostbite in minutes.
Question 5: When following a snowplow on an Alberta highway, what is the safest approach?
- Pass the snowplow immediately on the right
- Stay well behind the snowplow and do not attempt to pass unless it is safe and legal (Correct answer)
- Drive beside the snowplow in the adjacent lane
- Tailgate the snowplow to stay on the cleared section
Correct answer: Stay well behind the snowplow and do not attempt to pass unless it is safe and legal
Stay well behind snowplows as they throw snow, ice, and debris. They also have limited visibility to the rear. Only pass when it is safe, legal, and you can see clearly ahead.
Question 6: In Alberta, why is it important to clear all snow and ice from your vehicle before driving?
- It is only important for appearance
- Snow and ice can fly off and hit other vehicles, and it obstructs your visibility (Correct answer)
- It is not legally required
- It only matters for fuel efficiency
Correct answer: Snow and ice can fly off and hit other vehicles, and it obstructs your visibility
Failing to clear snow and ice from your vehicle is dangerous and can result in a fine. Snow and ice can fly off at speed, hitting other vehicles. It also obstructs your visibility through windows and mirrors.
Class 7 Winter Driving Conditions 3
In Alberta, what should you do if you get stuck in snow?