Class 7 Winter Driving Conditions 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is black ice and why is it particularly dangerous on Alberta roads?
- Thick, dark ice that is easy to see on the road
- A thin, transparent layer of ice on the road that is nearly invisible and extremely slippery (Correct answer)
- Ice that only forms on black asphalt roads
- A type of road salt that looks like ice
Correct answer: A thin, transparent layer of ice on the road that is nearly invisible and extremely slippery
Black ice is a thin, nearly invisible layer of ice that forms on road surfaces. It is extremely dangerous because drivers often do not see it until their vehicle begins to slide. It commonly forms on bridges, shaded areas, and during temperature drops.
Question 2: In Alberta, what type of tires are recommended for winter driving?
- All-season tires are sufficient for Alberta winters
- Winter tires (marked with the mountain/snowflake symbol) are recommended for better traction (Correct answer)
- Summer performance tires with chains
- Any tire with deep tread is adequate
Correct answer: Winter tires (marked with the mountain/snowflake symbol) are recommended for better traction
Winter tires marked with the mountain/snowflake symbol are specifically designed for cold temperatures and winter conditions. They provide significantly better traction than all-season tires in Alberta's harsh winters.
Question 3: What is the recommended following distance when driving on icy or snow-covered roads in Alberta?
- The same two-second distance as in dry conditions
- At least six seconds or more behind the vehicle ahead (Correct answer)
- Three car lengths
- One second for every 10 km/h of speed
Correct answer: At least six seconds or more behind the vehicle ahead
On icy or snowy roads, increase your following distance to at least six seconds or more. Stopping distances on ice can be up to ten times longer than on dry pavement.
Question 4: What should you do if your vehicle begins to skid on an icy road in Alberta?
- Brake hard and turn the wheel in the opposite direction of the skid
- Ease off the gas, do not brake, and steer gently in the direction you want to go (Correct answer)
- Accelerate out of the skid
- Turn off the engine and coast to a stop
Correct answer: Ease off the gas, do not brake, and steer gently in the direction you want to go
If your vehicle skids, take your foot off the gas, avoid braking, and steer gently in the direction you want the front of the vehicle to go. This helps the tires regain traction and straighten the vehicle.
Question 5: Before driving in winter conditions in Alberta, what should you check on your vehicle?
- Only the gas level
- Battery, tires, antifreeze, windshield washer fluid, lights, and wiper blades (Correct answer)
- Only the tire pressure
- Just the engine oil level
Correct answer: Battery, tires, antifreeze, windshield washer fluid, lights, and wiper blades
Winter preparation includes checking your battery, tire condition and pressure, antifreeze levels, windshield washer fluid (winter-rated), all lights, and wiper blades. A winter emergency kit is also recommended.
Question 6: In Alberta, what should you keep in your vehicle as a winter emergency kit?
- Nothing extra is needed if the vehicle is well maintained
- A blanket, flashlight, shovel, sand or kitty litter, jumper cables, food, and water (Correct answer)
- Only a cellphone charger
- Only a first-aid kit
Correct answer: A blanket, flashlight, shovel, sand or kitty litter, jumper cables, food, and water
An Alberta winter emergency kit should include warm blankets, a flashlight, small shovel, sand or kitty litter for traction, jumper cables, non-perishable food, water, and extra warm clothing.
Class 7 Winter Driving Conditions 1
What is black ice and why is it particularly dangerous on Alberta roads?