alberta drivers guide

8/13/2019 Alberta Drivers Guide

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to Operation, Safetyand LicensingCARS & LIGHT TRUCKS

DRIVER’SGUIDE



2 A Driver’s Guide to Operation, Safety and Licensing

Introduction

When you are in the driver’s seat, a wholenew world opens to you. For drivers ofall ages, getting an operator’s licencecan be a rite of passage, providingopportunities for employment, mobilityand independence.

Driving involves responsibility

and risk. The following are the key skillsyou must develop to prepare yourself forthis responsibility.

ATTITUDE:Develop an attitude of safe andresponsible driving every time you drive.

AWARENESS:Be aware of what is happening aroundyou as you drive, and always makeresponsible decisions about hazards andproblems.

KNOWLEDGE:

Learn and understand trafc laws andrules of the road.

SKILL:Enrol in driver education programs tolearn more about operating a motorvehicle safely.

It takes education, training andpractice to develop this awareness,knowledge and skill. Your attitude showsin the decisions you make about beinga responsible driver. Be prepared to becourteous with other road users. Alwaysdrive proactively.

Along with all the benets that motorvehicles provide, there are also costs.Beyond the direct costs of building andmaintaining our roadways, there areenvironmental and human costs. Recentstatistics on road safety in Alberta showthat in 2008 there were 158,055 collisions

reported. In this year, 410 people werekilled in those collisions and 22,015 wereinjured. Most collisions can be prevented.

The Ofce of Trafc Safety recommendthat you obtain training and educationfrom a licensed driving school toenhance your knowledge and skill.Driver education courses are availablefor the operation of passenger vehicles,commercial vehicles, and motorcycles.

If you require information aboutschools that provide driver education, orinformation about the testing process toobtain an operator’s licence:• refer to your local directory

• visit www.transportation.alberta.ca (under Drivers and Vehicles)

• contact a Driver Programs Administrator in Edmonton 780–427–8901 or Calgary 403–297–6679. Youcan reach Alberta Government ofcestoll-free from anywhere in the province

by rst calling 310–0000



INTRODUCTION 3

The following guides provide informationabout the safe operation of cars andlight trucks, commercial vehicles,and motorcycles, and the licensing ofdrivers and riders. These guides provideinformation for all classes of operatorlicences in Alberta, and will help you obtainan Alberta operator’s licence. Considerkeeping the guides in your vehicle as areference.

A DRIVER’S GUIDE TO OPERATION,

SAFETY AND LICENSINGCars and Light Trucks

This guide provides informationfor all drivers.

A COMMERCIAL DRIVER’S GUIDETO OPERATION, SAFETY AND

LICENSING Trucks, Buses, Emergency Responders,and Taxis

This guide provides information aboutdriving commercial vehicles. It is usedwith A Driver’s Guide to Operation, Safetyand Licensing. Both of these guidesshould be used when preparing for the

knowledge test and when learning tooperate trucks, emergency responsevehicles, taxis, buses as well as whenhandling dangerous goods.

A RIDER’S GUIDE TO OPERATION,SAFETY AND LICENSINGMotorcycles, Mopeds and Power-

Assisted Bicycles This guide provides information on thesafe operation of motorcycles, mopedsand power-assisted bicycles. It is used

with A Driver’s Guide to Operation,Safety and Licensing.

GEARED TO GO: A WORKBOOKFOR COACHING NEW DRIVERS

This guide assists coaches who areproviding supervision to new drivers

as they gain experience and skills.

Guides available:

Geared to Go

A Workbook forCoaching New Drivers




The information in these guidesexplains best practices for drivinga vehicle, but cannot cover allcircumstances. You must use judgmentand a safety-rst attitude to makedecisions in real on-road situations.

These guides interpret the laws that

govern the movement of vehicles andpeople on Alberta roadways. They areguides only and have no legal authority.

The laws that apply to driving a vehiclecan be found in the Trafc Safety Act andits related regulations. These documentsare available at www.qp.alberta.ca/ Laws_Online.cfm, and: Queen’s Printer BookstoreMain Floor, Park Plaza10611–98 AvenueEdmonton, Alberta T5K 2P7

Tel: 780–427–4952

Fax: 780–452–0668For toll free service anywhere in Alberta,call 310–0000, then the number.

For more driver andvehicle information

Some registry agent ofces provideknowledge tests and arrange roadtests with driver examiners. The driverexaminers operate independently and are

not employees of the registry. To nd testing services, and

information about driver licensing andvehicle registration:• visit www.servicealberta.ca/1641.cfm• visit the Association of Alberta

Registries at www.e-registry.ca• refer to your local directory under

License and Registry Services• call 780–427–7013 (Service Alberta)



Contents Licensing

Information

10 Graduated Driver Licensing11 Knowledge test

12 Vision requirements

12 Class 5 road tests

13 Types of vehicles for licenceclass

14 For hire – operator licencerequirements

15 Air brake endorsement (Q)

15 Licensed driver examiner

15 Operator’s licence

15 Applying for your Albertaoperator’s licence

16 Non-Alberta licence for touristsand visitors

16 New Alberta residents

18 Medical requirements

18 Condition codes andendorsements

19 Re-classing your licence

19 Replacing your Albertaoperator’s licence

20 Renewing your Albertaoperator’s licence

20 Updating your Albertaoperator’s licence

20 Registration and insurance

TrafcControl

22 Trafc control signals

23 Pedestrian signals and signs

24 Lane reversal signals

25 Sign shapes and colours

26 Trafc regulatory signs

27 Trafc direction signs

27 Speed limit signs

28 Designated lane signs

29 Permissive signs

29 Prohibitive signs

30 School zones and areas

31 Playground zones and areas

32 Parking services for persons

with disabilities32 TTY capabilities

33 Warning signs

36 Information and guide signs

37 Other signs

37 Construction

38 Pavement markings

39 Shared-use lanes

40 Other roadway markings

1 2




The Basicsof Driving

42 Pre-drive basics

43 Driving a vehicle with an

automatic transmission44 Driving a vehicle with a

manual (standard) transmission

45 Steering

46 Signalling

47 Accelerating

47 Stopping time and distance

48 Reversing

49 Parking

Intersectionsand Turns

56 Right-of-way

56 Intersections

57 Uncontrolled intersections

58 Keep intersections clear

59 Trafc Circles and Roundabouts

61 Turning

64 Turning lanes65 U-turns

Highwaysand Freeways

68 Lane selection and position in

your lane69 Passing

70 Emergency stopping lane

71 Entering and exiting a majorroadway

Emergency Situationsand ChallengingConditions

76 Emergency braking

76 Loss of control

78 Vehicle mechanical problems

79 Challenging conditions

82 Emergency supplies

82 Animals

82 Collisions

83 Emergency responsevehicles and tow trucks

83 Emergency vehicles

84 Maintenance and constructionvehicles

ResponsibleDriving

88 Proactive driving

89 Cellular phones and otherdistractions

90 Securing passengers

92 Fuel efciency and helping ourenvironment

93 Trafc laws

Sharingthe Road

96 Vulnerable road users

98 Commercial vehicles

99 Log hauling vehicles

99 School buses

101 Snowplows

101 Railway crossings

103 Vehicles carrying passengers ordangerous goods

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4

5

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INTRODUCTION 7

103 Light rail transit

104 Off-highway vehicles

104 Funeral processions

Driving Withinthe Law

106 Driver tness

107 Driving responsibly

109 Driving laws – Federal:Criminal Code of Canada

110 Provincial: Trafc Safety Act112 Operator’s licence suspensions

and disqualications

114 Alberta Transportation SafetyBoard (ATSB)

Towinga Trailer

116 Registration and licence plate

116 Equipment

116 Towing a trailer

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1

LicensingInformation




Graduated driverlicensingRegardless of age, all new drivers arepart of the Graduated Driver Licensing

(GDL) program. This program ensuresnew drivers get the support, skills andexperience they need to handle thecomplex task of driving. GDL improvesroad safety by creating a safe andcontrolled environment for all new drivers.

As a GDL driver, you will hold one of

the following operator’s licence:• Stage One: Class 7

(Learner’s Operator’s Licence)• Stage Two: Class 5-GDL

(Probationary Licence)

The following information highlights thekey features of the Learner (Stage One)and Probationary (Stage Two) phases ofthe Graduated Driver Licensing program.

Stage 1: Learner (Class 7)

To obtain a class 7 learner’s operator’slicence you must:

be 14 years of age or older pass a vision screening pass a knowledge test on the rulesof the road

have parental consent if you areunder 18 years of age

have valid identication

LEARNER’S CONDITIONS:• You must hold a learner’s operator’s

licence (class 7) for at least one year.• You must be accompanied by a fully

licensed (non-GDL probationary) driverwho is 18 years of age or older and isseated next to you.

• You are not permitted to drive frommidnight to 5 a.m.

• You are not permitted to have morepassengers than seat belts.

• You will be suspended if you

accumulate eight or more demeritpoints.

• You must have a zero alcohol levelwhen driving (or riding a motorcycle).

Stage 2: GDL Probationary (Class 5-GDL)

To become a probationary driver youmust:

hold your class 7 operator’s licencefor a year (this time will be extendedif you receive a suspension of yourdriving privileges)

be 16 years of age or older pass the basic Alberta class 5 roadtest

PROBATIONARY CONDITIONS:• You must be a probationary driver for a

minimum of two years.• You must have no more passengers

than seat belts.• You will be suspended if you

accumulate 8 or more demerit points.• You must have a zero alcohol level

when driving.• You are not able to re-class your

licence to a commercial operator’s

licence (classes 1, 2, 3 or 4).• You cannot serve as an accompanying

driver to a learner.



LICENSING INFORMATION 11CHAPTER ONE

Stage 3: Full , non-GDLoperator’s licence (Class 5)

To become a fully licensed driver youmust:

have been suspension free for thelast twelve months of the two-yearprobationary stage

pass the advanced road test

It will take a minimum of three yearsto complete both the learner’s and

probationary stages of the program.

Exiting the GDL program

Exiting the GDL program is notmandatory. However, if you do exit fromGDL you will:• move from a class 5-GDL to a full

class 5 operator’s licence• qualify to re-class to a class 1, 2, 3,

or 4 operator’s licence• increase the number of demerits

you are allowed• remove the zero alcohol tolerance

condition

• be able to be an accompanyingdriver to a learner

To exit the GDL program you must: be in the probationary stage fora minimum of two years

be suspension free for the last

twelve months of the two-yearprobationary stage

pass the advanced road test

Knowledge test To obtain your learner’s operator’s licence,you will need to pass a knowledge test.

You can take your knowledge test at

most Alberta Registry Agent ofces. Thetest is based on questions taken fromthis guide. You will be asked about safedriving practices, driving laws and roadsigns.

The test is 30 multiple choicequestions and you must score a minimum

of 25 correct responses out of 30 topass the test. You will do the test on acomputer.

When you pass the knowledge testyou must take the knowledge test permityou purchased to do the test to a registryagent to ensure your operator licenceis updated. The test permit is not anoperator’s licence.

The electronic driver knowledge test isavailable in the following 10 languages:• English• Arabic• Chinese (Traditional)• Farsi

• French• Hindi• Punjabi• Spanish• Tagalog (Philippines)• Vietnamese

There is a fee for each knowledge testthat you take, and you can take only onetest per day.




Vision requirements A vision assessment is required beforeyou are eligible to obtain an AlbertaOperator’s Licence. If you do not

meet the vision standards, you willbe referred to an optometrist or anophthalmologist to have a Vision Referralform completed. If you have correctiveglasses or contact lenses, bring themwith you for your vision assessment.

Class 5 road testsClass 5 is the most commonly heldoperator’s licence, allowing drivers tooperate cars and other light vehicles.

The basic road test

Passing the basic road test allows GDLdrivers to move from a class 7 (Learner)to a class 5-GDL operator’s licence. Thistest determines whether a learner hasdeveloped the driving skills necessarylike safe vehicle handling, judgment and

knowledge of the rules of the road tobecome a class 5-GDL probationarydriver.

When you pass the basic road testyou must take the road test permit youpurchased to do the test to a registryagent to ensure your operator licence

is updated. The test permit is not anoperator’s licence.

During the probationary stage youwill have a minimum of two years tofurther develop the skills necessary totake the advanced road test and exit theGDL program.

This road test is approximately25 to 30 minutes. This will include thedriver examiners pre-test instructionsand summary of your results. You willbe required to demonstrate the ability

to operate your vehicle safely withoutsupervision while interacting with otherroad users.

The vehicle for your road test must bein acceptable working condition and musthave the following:• a valid licence plate and insurance

• headlights, brake lights and signallights

• horn• speedometer• brakes/park brake• unobstructed windshield/wipers• tires• driver and passenger doors• vehicle seats/seat belts• exhaust system/mufer• mirrors• enough fuel for a road test

The test will include identifying

and operating your vehicle’s controls.

In addition you will be required todemonstrate your knowledge and skill in:• handling the vehicle (steering, braking

and speed control)• selecting the proper lane for turns• observing and obeying speed zones• determining right of way at

intersections and while changing lanes• demonstrating knowledge and skill at

intersections with and without sign andsignal controls

• interacting with other road users in anon-obstructive manner

• parking – parallel and on a hill




The advanced road test

The advanced road test determineswhether a probationary driver has gainedthe necessary advanced driving skills and

experience under challenging conditionsto become a fully licensed driver. Youwill need to pass this test to exit theGraduated Licensing Program and be afull class 5 (non-GDL) driver.

This road test is approximately60 minutes, including your driver

examiner’s pre-test instructions andsummary of your results. The advancedroad test will also include:• a variety of intersection types,

including uncontrolled ‘T’ intersections• high speed roadways of 80 to 100 km/hr• merging on the highway, with

acceleration and deceleration lanes• high volume trafc areas• parking – an angle or perpendicular

park. The advanced test does includea parallel and hill park

Some common reasons fornot passing the road tests

• Exceeding the minimum number ofpoints for errors.

Regardless of the number of pointsfor errors, the following are some of thereasons for automatic failure:

• Exceeding the speed limit or drivingtoo fast for the conditions.

• Failing to stop completely beforeproceeding through an intersectioncontrolled by a stop sign, or beforeturning right on a red light.

• Failing to yield the right of way at anintersection or during a lane change.

• Obstructing trafc by driving tooslowly or stopping unnecessarily.

• Climbing over the curb while parking,or being unable to park legally inthree attempts.

• Failing to slow or observe adequatelyat uncontrolled intersections (you mustbe prepared to yield to drivers to yourright).

When you pass the advanced roadtest you must take the road test permit

you purchased to do the test to a registryagent to ensure your operator licenceis updated. The test permit is not anoperator’s licence.

Types of vehicles

for licence class Class 7 (GDL)

A person 14 years of age or older mayapply for a Learners Operator’s Licence.

A parent or guardian must give

consent on the application if the personapplying is under 18 years of age. Forlearning and while accompanied by afull licensed driver, the holder of a class7 operator’s licence may operate, thefollowing:• a vehicle or vehicle-trailer combination

that the holder of a Class 5 operator’slicence may operate

• a motorcycle (must be 16 years ofage or older when learning with asupervisor who holds a Class 6 non-GDL licence)

• a moped




when the vehicle operator is party toan agreement to provide transportationfor compensation only to:

• the operator’s family members• members of the operator’s household

• persons for whom the operator is alegal guardian

Air brakeendorsement (Q)When a person successfully completesan approved Alberta air brake coursethrough an authorized agency, an airbrake endorsement (the letter Q) will beplaced on that driver’s operator’s licence,for any licence class other than Class 1.

NOTE: Drivers with a Class 1 operator’s licence automatically have an air brakeendorsement although it will not appearon the operator’s licence. A Class 1operator licence cannot be obtainedwithout the holder rst having

successfully completed an approved air brake course. Therefore, the air brake

endorsement is implied with the Class 1operator licence.

An air brake endorsement is requiredfor drivers of vehicles with:• an air-only braking system, or• a combination of air and hydraulic

braking system

For information on taking an approvedair brake course, please refer to our website: www.transportation.alberta.ca/4474.

htm .

Licensed driverexaminer

A licensed driver examiner is a personwho conducts road tests on behalf

of the Alberta government. Theseare private sector individuals trained,licensed, monitored and audited by thegovernment and who provide examiningthrough a registry agent ofce.

Operator’s licence An operator’s licence is a licence tooperate a motor vehicle issued pursuantto the Trafc Safety Act . A person shallnot drive a motor vehicle on a highwayunless that person’s operator’s licenceis in that person’s possession. On therequest of a peace ofcer, a persondriving a motor vehicle shall produce theirsubsisting operator’s licence, insuranceand registration. Ensure that thesedocuments are with you every time youoperate a motor vehicle.

Applying for your Alberta operator’slicenceOperator licensing services are provided

through the Alberta registry agentnetwork.

When applying for an Albertaoperator’s licence you must provideidentication.




For information on the identicationrequirements visit www.servicealberta.

gov.ab.ca/1305.cfm, or contact a registryagent at www.servicealberta.gov.ab.ca.

An operator’s licence may only be

issued to residents of Alberta. A residentis a person lawfully entitled to be inCanada, who makes their home in Albertaand is ordinarily present in Alberta.

Applicants originating from outsideCanada or the United States mustproduce suitable immigration documents

to be considered as residents.

Parental consentrequirement

If you are under the age of 18, and areapplying for an operator’s licence for therst time, your parent or legal guardian,who must show proof of guardianship,must accompany you to a registryofce to sign a consent on your licenceapplication.

Parents or legal guardians have theright to withdraw their consent in writingat any time until the person reaches the

age of 18 years. If they do, the operator’slicence privileges will be suspended.

The signature of your parent or legalguardian is not required if you can providedocumentation that you are married orself-supporting.

Non-Albertalicense for touristsand visitors

A person visiting Alberta who is authorizedto drive a motor vehicle of a particularclass or type under a valid licence orpermit issued outside Alberta is notrequired to hold a current and validoperator’s licence if the person drives thesame type or class of motor vehicle while

visiting in Alberta.

New AlbertaresidentsFrom other places in Canada

People who have recently moved to Alberta may use their valid operator’slicence from outside of Alberta for the rst90 days of their residency.

They must apply for an Albertaoperator’s licence and give their oldlicence to an Alberta registry agent ofce

within those 90 days. It is illegal to holdmore than one operator’s licence.

An operator’s licence from another jurisdiction within Canada is accepted asthe same class without testing. Applicantsfor class 1, 2 or 4 licences must providea medical report and pass a vision

screening.

From the United States

• Licence holders from the UnitedStates, other than those in theclass 5, 6 and 7, must complete allrequirements.




When you apply, you may be requiredto provide documents to prove residency.For details, inquire at your local registryagent ofce.

Countries with reciprocallicensing agreements

Alberta has Reciprocal Licensing Agreements with the following countries:• Austria• Australia

• Belgium• England• France• Germany• Isle of Man• Japan• Republic of Korea• Scotland• Switzerland• United States• Wales

A valid licence from a country that hasa Reciprocal Licensing Agreement with

Alberta can be exchanged for a Class 5

licence when the applicant presents avalid licence of equivalent class.

The reciprocal licensing agreementswith Switzerland and Japan includethe exchange of a class 6 (motorcycle)licence when the applicant presents avalid licence of equivalent class.

NOTE: Japanese licence exchanges must be completed at an approved registry agent ofce. Parental consentfor applicants under 18 years of age

is required.

All other licence classes require testingand vision screening. The applicantsmust disclose all medical conditions andphysical disabilities that may affect theirability to safely operate a motor vehicle.

All applicants must produce immigrationand residency documentation alongwith acceptable identication.

Countries without reciprocallicensing agreements

A person coming to Alberta from outsideCanada may apply to have their previousdriving history credited to their Albertadriving record. A successful applicationwill grant exemption from the GraduatedDriver Licensing (GDL) program and allowfor Class 5 road testing without beingrequired to hold a Class 7 driver’s licencefor one year. More information about theprocess for exchanging a licence from anon-reciprocal country is available at anyregistry agent ofce.

Students

A student is not required to obtain an Alberta operator’s licence when operatinga motor vehicle if the following apply:• The student is authorized to operate a

motor vehicle of the same type or classby the laws of the jurisdiction in whichthe student ordinarily resides.

• The documents required by the lawsof the jurisdiction where the studentordinarily resides are carried by thestudent or are in the vehicle.

• The student must carry proof showingthat he or she is a full time student inthis province.




MedicalrequirementsIt is your responsibility and legal obligationto disclose any medical or physical

condition that may interfere with the safeoperation of a motor vehicle. If you have amedical or physical condition, you will berequired to provide a completed MedicalExamination for Motor Vehicle Operatorsform. Medical Examination forms canbe obtained from an Alberta Registry

Agent ofce or your doctor. Your doctormust complete this form. The MedicalExamination form must be returned to an

Alberta Registry Agent ofce. A person 75 years of age or older, who

applies for an operator’s licence, or isrenewing their existing operator’s licence,must provide a Medical Examinationfor Motor Vehicle Operators form, andhave their vision assessed at an AlbertaRegistry Agent ofce. The MedicalExamination for Motor Vehicle Operatorsform must be completed and signed by aphysician.

You may be requested to provide a

medical report, regardless of your age, todetermine your medical tness to operatea motor vehicle.

The basic road test may be requested,for any driver, if there are concerns abouttheir medical tness.

Operator Licence classes1, 2 or 4

A person who applies for, or renews, aclass 1, 2 or 4 operator’s licence mustprovide a completed Medical Examinationfor Motor Vehicle Operators form. Thiswill be required every ve years to age 45,

then every two years until the age of 65,and annually thereafter.

Condition codesand endorsements Condition codes

A condition code may be added to aperson’s operator’s licence to ensure

that person meets the requirements tooperate a motor vehicle. For example,all drivers must meet specic visionrequirements to operate a vehicle. Ifyou require glasses or contact lensesto improve your vision to these specicstandards, you will have a Conditioncode placed on your operator’s licenceindicating this requirement. Also, aperson can be required to have a healthexamination by a doctor periodically to beallowed to drive, and this will be indicatedon the operator’s licence.

In more extreme situations, a changein a person’s situation can make it

impossible for him or her to safely operatea vehicle. These situations are notcommon, but do mean that the personis not able to be licensed to operate avehicle.

Endorsement codes

An endorsement code on an operator’slicence shows that the person hashad specic education or training, likecompleting a novice driver educationcourse or a course specic to operatinga school bus. An endorsement may alsoindicate that the person is permitted to




drive a vehicle that has a specic feature,like a vehicle with air brakes.

Each condition or endorsement hasa letter code attached to it and may beshown on the operator’s licence. Conditions

and endorsements specic to you areplaced on the front of the licence, in theCond/End section. Some of the conditioncodes and endorsements have anexplanation on the back of the operator’slicence.

OPERATOR LICENCECONDITION CODES: A Adequate Lenses B Special Conditions C Periodic Medical D Periodic Vision Report* E Periodic Driver Examination* F Valid Temporary Licence G Valid without Photo H Daylight Driving Only J Outside Mirrors K Automatic Transmission L Hand Controls M Under Alberta Transportation

Safety Board Review *

N Excludes Class 2 and 4 P Testing to be conducted by

Provincial Examiner only* T Special Medical*

OPERATOR LICENCEENDORSEMENTS:

Q Air Brakes S School Bus V Extended Length Vehicle

Combinations U Completed Driver

Education Course * *Do not appear on the operator’s licence

Re-classing yourlicenceWhen re-classing your operator’s licence(excluding class 7 to class 5), you must

present proof that you have completed aknowledge test and vision test through aregistry agent ofce.

Re-classing your operator’s licencefrom your current class to a class 1, 2or 4 licence will also require a medicalreport. See the medical requirements

section for more information. A fee is charged for each knowledge

test, road test, and for the nal licencere-classication service. For informationregarding current fees, contact a registryagent ofce or driver examiner. Road testfees may vary between registry agentofces.

Driving with the wrong licence class isagainst the law. It is an offence for vehicleowners to allow their vehicle to be usedby someone who does not have theproper class of licence for that vehicle.

Replacing your Alberta operator’slicenceIf your operator’s licence is lost, stolen,destroyed or is unreadable, you must

apply for a replacement immediately at aregistry agent ofce.

If your operator licence is stolen,you must report it to the police, andprovide a copy of the police report tothe registry agent when you apply foryour replacement. All services for youroperator’s licence must be done in person.



2

Trafc Control




proceed in that direction. A pedestrian facing a trafc signal where

a word or symbol indicates DON’T WALKmust not enter the crosswalk or roadway.Pedestrians who have begun crossing when

the word or symbol appears may continuecrossing and clear the crosswalk. Somepedestrian signals include a countdowntimer to show how much time remains

before the light changes. Yellow lights on a sign with a symbol

indicate that caution is required becauseof school zones or areas, playgroundzones or areas, school crossings, andpedestrian crossings. When the yellowlights are ashing, the driver must reducespeed to a maximum of 30 km/h and

yield or stop for pedestrians. At intersections with trafc control

signals, but without pedestrian WALK andDON’T WALK signals, pedestrians mustobey the rules for the colour of light they arefacing.• Solid red light Do not enter

the intersection.• Solid yellow light Clear the

intersection if already crossing,or do not enter the intersection.

• Solid green light Proceed across

the road within any marked orunmarked crosswalk.

Pedestrians should check for vehiclesbefore starting to cross.

Lane reversal signalsLane reversal signals are used to controlthe direction of trafc on specic lanes ofa roadway. A common use of this controlis reversible lanes that change the ow oftrafc during different times of the day.

The signal(s) over one or more laneschange between a red X and a greenarrow.

SOLID RED X:When a red X is displayed over a drivinglane, the driver does not enter or remainin that lane. This signal indicates that thelane is being used by oncoming trafc.Move safely into a lane with a greenarrow.

DOWNWARD POINTING

GREEN ARROW: A driver facing the downward pointing

Pedestrian signal indicating “WALK”

Pedestrian signal indicating “DON’TWALK” or “WAIT”

Pedestrian crossing signs with yellow lights(above) and without

yellow lights (at right).



TRAFFIC CONTROL 25CHAPTER TWO

green arrow is permitted to travel in thatlane.

SIGN SHAPES AND COLOURS The word or symbol on trafc regulationsigns tell the driver what can or cannotbe done at a specic location or time,and provide information. The shape andcolour will vary depending on the type

of message. Trafc regulation signs include those

that show right-of-way and road accessthat is permitted or prohibited. They alsoshow control of speed, turns, directionof travel, passing, trafc lanes, parkingand crosswalks.

Action or activity within the circle isnot permitted.

Action or activity within circle is permitted.

Regulatory message such as speed limit

Indicates school zone/area or schoolcrosswalk.

Indicates lane control.

Provides construction area information.

Vehicle moving from red X lane to green arrow lane.

Square shape

Red circle and slashon white background

Green circle on white background

Square shape

Fluorescent yellow green background

Pentagon shape

White message on black background

Square shape

Information or pictureon orange background

Diamond shape

Regulatory messageon white background

Rectangle shape




YIELD: Yield the right of way to trafc not facingthe sign and to all pedestrians waitingto cross and within the crosswalk orintersection.

WRONG WAY:

Indicates trafc is moving in anoncoming direction.

DO NOT ENTER:

RAILWAY CROSSING:

Provides information such as distanceto destination.

Indicates place for fuel, food, lodgingor assistance.

Indicates caution or warning of hazarddisplayed on sign.

Trafc regulatory signsSTOP:Come to a complete stop and do notproceed until safe.

White message on blue background

Square shape

White message on brown background

Square shape

Black lettering on yellow background

Diamond shape

White message on green background

Rectangle shape




Unless otherwise posted:• 100 km/h is the maximum speed

limit ona provincial highwaylocated outside an urban area.

• 80 km/h is the maximum speed

limit ona provincial highwaylocated inside a corporate limit ofa city.

• 80 km/h is the maximum speedlimit ona roadway that is locatedoutside an urban area.

A local road generally would not have aroute marker but could be identied by aname, such as Irricana Road, a townshiproad, such as TWP RD 52, or a rangeroad, such as RGE RD 252.• 50 km/h is the maximum speed

limit on a roadway that islocated within an urban area.

Trafc direction signsPROCEED IN DIRECTIONOF ARROW ONLY:

TWO WAY TRAFFIC:

DIVIDER AHEAD – KEEP RIGHT:

Speed limit signsSpeed limits do not indicate themaximum speed drivers should travel.

They are the maximum speed permittedwhen conditions are ideal. Any speedthat is unsafe for the current conditions is

illegal.

A provincial highway is identied by either a single-digit, two-digit or three-digit highway route marker.

Speed limit signs are in kilometres per hour(km/h).




Designated lanesigns

The message or symbol on these signsindicates the direction(s) a vehicle must

travel in the lane.

RIGHT TURN: LEFT TURN:

STRAIGHT OR STRAIGHT ORRIGHT TURN: LEFT TURN:

STRAIGHT LEFT TURNONLY: LANE CONTROL:

Some intersections allow morethan one vehicle travelling in the samedirection to turn at the same time.Maintain your lane position during and

after the turn.

DUAL DUALRIGHT TURN: LEFT TURN:

LEFT LANE TURN LEFT,RIGHT LANE STRAIGHTOR TURN LEFT:

LEFT LANE TURN LEFT,RIGHT LANE STRAIGHT:

LEFT LANE TURN LEFT,CENTRE LANE STRAIGHT,RIGHT LANE STRAIGHTOR TURN RIGHT:

Indicated lanes are reserved for

specic vehicles like buses, taxis andbicycles. The symbol on the sign willidentify the vehicles permitted to travelin this lane. Reserved lanes may operateat all times or only some of the time.Reserved lanes that operate only someof the time will show the hours of the day

and the days of the week when the laneis reserved.




Permissive signsPermission signs are a green circle on awhite square. The action within the greencircle is permitted.

TURN LEFT ONLY:

TURN RIGHT ONLY:

STRAIGHT ONLY:

DANGEROUS MOTORIZEDGOODS: SNOW

VEHICLES:

TRUCKS: BICYCLES:

PASSING PERMITTED:

Prohibitive signs The symbol prohibiting an action is a redcircle and diagonal red bar on a white

square. The action within the red circle isnot permitted.

NO LEFT TURN: NO RIGHT TURN:

NO U-TURN: DO NOT PASS:

DO NOT PASS BICYCLES




NO NO MOTORIZEDPEDESTRIANS: SNOW VEHICLES:

NO TRUCKS: NO BICYCLES:

NO DANGEROUS GOODS:

PARKING AND STOPPINGNOT PERMITTED:The arrow under the symbol indicateswhere the action indicated on the sign

is not permitted.

NO PARKING ON THE DAYS ANDTIMES SHOWN::

NO STOPPING ON THE DAYS AND TIMES SHOWN:

School zonesand areas

SCHOOL ZONE:

When you approacha school sign, witha maximum speedposted with it, youare entering a schoolzone. You must notexceed the posted

speed when the zoneis in effect.

Times (school days only) are:• 8:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.• 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.• 3:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.




These hours may vary for differenttowns and cities according to municipalbylaws. If a municipality does establishtimes different from these, the times willbe posted beneath the school sign.

You are not permitted to pass orattempt to pass another vehicle travellingin the same direction within a schoolzone, when the zone is in effect.

The speed limit for both urban andrural school zones is 30 km/h unlessotherwise posted.

SCHOOL ZONE ENDS: A school zone ends where a trafcsign indicates:1. a higher maximum speed, or2. the end of the school zone.

SCHOOL AREA:When you approach a school sign

without a speed sign attached to it, youare entering a school area. This sign is toalert drivers that children may be walkingor crossing the road and you must usecaution when driving through the schoolarea.

SCHOOL CROSSWALK This sign alerts drivers to watchfor pedestrians.

Playground zonesand areas

PLAYGROUND ZONE:When you approacha playground sign witha maximum speed signattached to it, you areentering a playgroundzone. You must notexceed the postedspeed, when the zoneis in effect.

Playground restrictions are in effectevery day from 8:30 a.m. to one hourafter sunset.

You are not permitted to passor attempt to pass another vehicletravelling in the same direction withina playground zone when the speed

restriction is in effect. The speed limit for both urban

and rural playground zones, when thetimes are in effect, is 30 km/h unlessotherwise posted.




Warning signsWarning signs give drivers advancenotice of actions required, or potentiallyhazardous conditions on or near a road.

Some of these signs warn of:• a trafc regulation, such as stop

or yield• features or physical conditions

of the road• hazards that may require a driver

to respond

TRAFFIC REGULATIONS:

STOP AT TRAFFIC LIGHTS AHEADWHEN YELLOW LIGHTS FLASHING:

This warning sign is placed in advanceof some intersections with trafccontrol signals. When the yellow lightsare ashing, drivers approaching the

intersection must prepare to stop becausethe trafc control signal light will be turningfrom green to yellow or yellow to red, or iscurrently red.

TURN OR CURVE AHEAD:

Recommended maximum speed through this curveunder ideal driving conditions

Sharp turn right Curve right

Road turns left/right

Road curves leftSharp turn left

Winding road

Stop ahead Yield ahead

School bus stop aheadTrafc control signals ahead




CROSSINGS AHEAD:

INTERSECTIONS AHEAD:

ROADWAYS AHEAD SIDE-BY-SIDEBUT DO NOT JOIN:

Pedestrian crossing Animal crossing

Moose crossing Bicycle crossing

School crosswalk Motorized snowvehicles crossing

Hidden road right

Hidden road Y intersection

Hidden road left

T intersection T intersection

Railway crossing Trucks entering from right

Dead end Roundabout

Merging trafc

ROADWAYS AHEAD THAT JOIN:

Free ow (added lane)




SINGLELINE

Road narrows both sides

Left lane narrowsto right

Left lane ends Right lane ends

Right lane narrowsto left

Narrow passage

NARROW ROADWAYS AHEAD:

Divided highway begins Divided highway ends

DIVIDED HIGHWAY:

Hill Bump

Pavement ends Slippery when wet

Hazard markerobject on right

Hazard markerobject on left

Rumble strips Falling rock

Chevron sign indicates a sharp bend in the road

Warns motorists to provide space forcyclists

Warns that cyclists are allowed full use of the lane ahead and that the lane is too narrow for

side-by-side driving.

CHANGING ROAD CONDITIONS:

SHARED-USE




OFF-ROAD SERVICES AND FACILITIES:Signs for off-road facilities indicateavailability and direction to the servicesor recreational areas.

Hospital Airport

Parking Fuel

Food Trailer campground

Telephone Accommodation

RCMP or city police

Recreation area ahead

Information andguide signsInformation and guide signs provideinformation about routes, off-road

facilities, and geographical featuresand points of interest.

ROUTE MARKERS:Route markers indicate numbers,names or other designations of roads.

HIGHWAY INFORMATION:Destination signs provide directionand distance to a destination.

Directional

Distance

Combination of direction and distance

Trans-Canada highway

Bicycle route marker

Yellowhead highway

Highway route marker Highway route marker




Other signsSLOW MOVING VEHICLE:

A slow-moving vehicle sign is placed onthe back of vehicles that travel less than

40 km/h, such as farm tractors,machinery or construction equipment.

This sign warns drivers to be prepared toreduce their speed.

OVER SIZED LOADS: This sign indicates a wide load is beingtransported. Use caution when passingvehicles displaying this sign.

People working Flag person

Survey crew ahead Uneven pavement

Detour next ___ km

Construction zone ends

Construction The speed limit in construction zonesmust be obeyed at all times. This applieseven when people and equipment are

not working, since hazards like bumps,fresh oil and loose gravel may be present.If workers are present, the nes in theseareas will be doubled.• Obey the ag person’s signal.• Be prepared to slow down and stop

if required.

The following are some of the warningsigns about road construction:




YELLOW LINE MARKINGS: Yellow lines mean that vehicles on eachside of the yellow line must travel inopposite directions. A yellow line shouldalways be on the driver’s left side.

WHITE LINE MARKINGS:White lines mean that vehicles on eachside of the white line are travelling in thesame direction.

Solid yellow lines, single or double, indicatethat passing is not permitted.

Broken yellow lines indicate that passing is permitted. Be sure that the lane is clear andthe pass can be completed safely.

Pavement markingsMarkings on the roadway can provide thefollowing information:• lane identication separating

opposing trafc• trafc movement in the same direction• trafc movement in the opposite

direction• passing zones and no passing zones• lane use and designation• pedestrian crosswalks

• stop lines• parking areas• word or symbol messages

In some cases pavement markingsare used along with other trafc controlsigns or signals.

Lane markings

Lane markings can be yellow or white,single or double, solid or broken. Theselines provide important information aboutdirection of trafc ow, lane changing,lane restrictions and passing.

SOLID LINE MARKINGS:Solid lines mean that crossing the solidline to pass or change lanes is notpermitted.

BROKEN LINE MARKINGS:

Broken lines mean that crossing thebroken line to pass or change lanesis permitted.

A solid yellow line and a broken yellow linetogether indicate that a pass is permitted forthe driver who has the broken line on his or her

side of the roadway. Passing is not permittedfor the driver with the solid yellow line on their

side of the roadway.




Other roadwaymarkings

CROSSWALKS:

Crosswalk lines mark pedestriancrosswalks. Crosswalks also existat intersections even when they areunmarked, unless a sign indicatesno crossing. Stop lines indicate wherevehicles must stop at intersections orrailway crossings.

Drivers should not stop in a ‘nostopping zone’ because they may interferewith other vehicles that are turning fromone roadway to another. This is usually

where large vehicles need extra room toturn.

This lane is reserved for cyclists. Itis separated from trafc and parking bysolid white lines and is marked with animage of a bicycle and diamond.

The image of a bicycle capped by apair of arrows guides cyclists and reminds

drivers to expect cyclists in the same travellane.

X MARKINGS: X markings on rural highways indicatethe approach to a railway crossing. Anadvanced warning sign will also indicatethe approach to a railway crossing.

PAINTED ISLAND:Painted islands indicate that this area isnot to be used for travel by any roadusers. Motorists can cross painted

islands for the purpose of entering orleaving a driveway, alleyway or privatedrive.

Do not park or stop in this area.

Crosswalk lines

Stop line

No stopping zone



3

The Basicsof Driving




Pre-drive basicsWalk around your vehicle before enteringto check for children, pedestrians, andanything in your vehicle’s path. Check

your tires for proper ination, as well asaround and under your vehicle for uidleaks and other problems that may affectthe safe operation of your vehicle. Whenyou are doing this while parked along aroadway, walk in a direction that allowsyou to see trafc coming toward you in

the lane next to you. After you have completed this check,

you will be ready to take your place inthe driver’s seat and prepare yourself forsafe driving.

Before driving do the following basichabits in this order:1 Lock your doors.2 Adjust your seat and seat back.3 Adjust your head restraint.4 Adjust your inside and outside

rear view mirrors.5 Fasten your seat belt.

Lock your doors

Lock your doors to prevent unwantedpersons from opening your door orentering your vehicle. Locking the doorsalso reduces the possibility of the doorsopening if you are involved in a collision.

Adjust your seatand seat back

Adjust your seat and seat back supportproperly so that you are at least 25centimeters (10 inches) away from thesteering wheel. This is the distance

recommended by Transport Canada.Be sure you can see over the steeringwheel. Many vehicles have a steeringwheel that can be tilted or movedback and forth. Find a position that is

comfortable for you and that does notblock your view of the instrument panel.

Your elbows should be slightly bent whenyour hands are properly positioned onthe steering wheel. Placing your left handat about the 9 o’clock position and yourright hand at about the 3 o’clock position

is recommended. (See Steering in thischapter for more information.) As well,your position must allow you to operatethe brake pedal and the accelerator. In astandard transmission vehicle, you mustalso be able to push the clutch pedal allthe way to the oor.

Be sure you can reach all the controlsand can relax your arms when you holdthe steering wheel.

Note: Newer vehicles are equippedwith a driver-side air bag system that

is part of the steering wheel.

Adjust your head restraintUse your head restraint correctly. Headrestraints in the proper position greatlyreduce the risk of injuries due to collisionsand sudden vehicle movements.• If your vehicle has an adjustable head

restraint, it should be positioned sothat the centre of the head restraint islevel with the top of your ears.

• If your head restraint tilts, moveit forward to decrease the spacebetween your head and the restraint.Less than 10 centimeters (4 inches) isideal.



THE BASICS OF DRIVING 43CHAPTER THREE

• Always check that the head restraintfor each passenger is adjusted to thecorrect height.

Adjust your inside andoutside rear view mirrors

Set your rear view mirrors in thecorrect position.• Adjust your inside rear view mirror to

show as much behind you as possibleby having the rear window framedwithin the mirror.

• Adjust the outside rear view mirrorsto reduce blind spots. You should beable to see your own vehicle in a small

portion of the side view mirror closestto the vehicle.

Fasten your seat belt

Fasten your seat belt and shoulderstrap correctly. Seat belts save lives and

reduce injuries, and provide the greatestprotection when worn properly. The lawrequires you to wear your seat belt.• Wear the lap belt low and snug over

your hips. The shoulder belt must tover your chest and shoulder.

• Do not tuck the shoulder belt behindyour back or under your arm.

• You are still required to wear your seatbelt when in a vehicle with air bags.

When you are ready to go, dothe following:• Check to be sure your intended path

of travel is clear.• Check your inside and outside rear

view mirrors.• Do a shoulder check to be sure

your blind spots are clear.

If you are moving away from the rightside of the road, use your left turn signalto indicate that you are entering trafc. Ifyou are on the left side of a one way road,use your right turn signal. In this situation,it can be difcult to see trafc clearly from

the driver’s seat.

Driving a vehiclewith an automatictransmission

A vehicle with an automatictransmission allows the driver to placethe vehicle in a gear that will allow thetransmission to change the vehicle’sforward gears automatically as speedincreases and decreases.

A properly adjusted head restraint protectsthe head and neck.

Seat belt use is required by law

Correct Too low




wheel, place your left hand at about the10 o’clock position and your right hand atabout the 2 o’clock position.

When turning a corner, steer using thehand-over-hand method. When returning

the wheel from a turning position, use thehand-over-hand method. You can alsolet the steering wheel slide through yourhands back into position by looseningyour grip slightly, but keeping contact withthe steering wheel.

SignallingSignal lights and brake lights tell otherdrivers what you are going to do.

You must use your signal light when

you are:• moving away from the curb or

parking lane• turning left or right• changing lanes

When you apply your brakes, your

brake lights are activated to alert otherdrivers that you are slowing or stopping.

Do not confuse other drivers bysignaling too early or too late. Rememberto turn off your turn signal light if it doesnot turn off automatically.

HAND PLACEMENTS DURING A RIGHT TURN:

A B

C D

E

A. Hand position to begin a left or right turn.B. For right turns, the left hand applies turning

power. Right hand releases the steeringwheel, and moves to the top of the steeringwheel. C. Right hand takes new position and

applies turning power. D. Left hand releasesthe steering wheel, and returns to 9 o’clock

position. E . Reverse the steps to completethe turn and return the steering wheel to the

normal position. Turn completed, return handsto driving position.

ELECTRICALSIGNALS:

HANDSIGNALS:

Left signal Left signal

Right signal Right signal

Slowing or stopping Slowing or stopping




AcceleratingWhen you are driving your vehicle, yourability to control your speed depends onlooking where you want to go and using

the accelerator correctly. Gradually presson the accelerator to move the vehicle,and then hold it at the proper position forthe selected speed. This will take somepractice. Keep the following in mind:• Accelerate smoothly.• Adjust to the weather, road and

trafc conditions.• Do not accelerate or reduce speed

unnecessarily.• Never exceed the posted speed limit.• Do not accelerate so quickly that the

vehicle’s tires spin.• Drive with the ow of trafc to reduce

the risk of being in a collision. Drivingtoo slowly can be a hazard.

• Glance occasionally at yourspeedometer to check your speed.

Stopping time and

distanceKnowing how much time and distance ittakes to apply your brakes to completelystop your vehicle can help avoid errorsin judgment that can lead to a collision.

Three factors determine the time anddistance it takes to stop.

PERCEPTION TIME:Perception time is how long it takesto recognize a situation and understandthat you need to stop. This can takeabout three-quarters of a second. Driverswith less experience often take longer

to realize a danger exists. Perceptiondistance is how far a vehicle travelsduring this time.

REACTION TIME:

Reaction time is how long it takes torespond to a situation by moving yourfoot from the accelerator pedal to thebrake pedal. The average reaction timeis three-quarters of a second. Reactiondistance is how far a vehicle travelsduring this time.

BRAKING TIME:Braking time is how long it takes avehicle to stop after the brakes areapplied. Braking distance is how far thevehicle travels during this time.

The chart below illustrates theminimum stopping distance for variousspeeds.

The stopping distances are averages

for stopping on smooth, dry pavement.

Distance travelled while perceiving the need to stop (based on an average perceptiontime of ¾ second)

Distance travelled while reacting (based on an average reaction time of ¾ second)

Distance travelled after brakes applied(under normal road conditions and brake

efciency)

Perception distance+ Reaction distance+ Braking distance

= TOTAL STOPPING DISTANCE

110 km/h

100 km/h

80 km/h

50 km/h

30 km/h




Many factors affect your stopping timeand distance. These include road andweather conditions. Some factors youcan control are:• your visual search skills as you scan

the roadway ahead• your decision-making ability• your alertness and level of fatigue• your use of alcohol or other drugs• your vehicle’s speed• the condition of your vehicle’s brakes

and tires

Braking

• When stopping, begin braking early.If you brake too late, your brakingdistance may not be sufcient.

• Release pressure on the acceleratorbefore applying the brake to reduceyour speed.

• To nish braking smoothly, releasepressure on the brake pedal slightlyand then reapply pressure on thepedal just before you come to a stop.

• If you must stop quickly, usethreshold braking. This is applying

the brakes without locking the wheels. This is where braking efciency is atits maximum while still allowing you tosteer your vehicle. If the wheels lock,release your pressure on the brakepedal slightly. Applying the brakeshard enough to lock the wheels will

cause a loss of steering control. Forvehicles with anti-lock brakes (ABS),see information in Chapter 6 underemergency braking.

Reversing All reversing must be done at acrawl or slow walking speed. Beforereversing, look behind the vehicle and

only drive in reverse when your pathis clear of trafc, pedestrians andobstacles. Before reversing out of adriveway, walk around the vehicle andcheck for possible dangers behind thevehicle.

To reverse in a straight line, do

the following:• Place your left hand at the top of

the steering wheel and shift slightlyonto your right hip. For support, placeyour right hand on the back of thepassenger seat.

• Look over your right shoulder throughthe rear window. Reverse slowly whilecovering your brake pedal.

• Glance to the front to be sure thatthe front of the vehicle does notcontact anything.

• To correct your steering, turn thesteering wheel no more than a quarterturn in the same direction that you

want the rear of your vehicle to go.

When reversing to the left or right, dothe following:• Use both hands on the steering wheel

at about 9 and 3 o’clock if you need toturn more than one-half turn.

• To reverse to the left, look over yourleft shoulder with frequent glances tothe front.

• To reverse to the right, look over yourright shoulder with frequent glances tothe front.

• Turn the steering wheel in the directionyou want the rear of the vehicle to go.




Reverse straight very slowly (crawl speed) aboutone-half metre (1.5 feet). While still moving

slowly, steer sharply to the right until yourvehicle is at about a 45-degree angle to thecurb. Continue to look in the direction you are

moving while glancing to the front. Your steeringwheel should now be in line with the rear

bumper of vehicle B.

B CA

B CA

B CA

While reversing very slowly, straighten your frontwheels and continue reversing until the rightcorner of your front bumper is in line with the

rear bumper of vehicle B. Be careful not to makecontact with this vehicle.

Turn the wheel sharply to the left. Continueto look in the direction you are moving while

glancing to the front. Reverse until your vehicle is parallel with the curb. Be careful not to makecontact with the bumper of the vehicle behind

you. The law requires that the wheels of the parked vehicle not be more than 50 centimetresfrom the curb.

Remember: The front of the vehicle will move in the opposite direction from thedirection the rear of the vehicle is moving.

OTHER TIPS FOR REVERSING:• When reversing out of a driveway,

steer your vehicle into the nearesttrafc lane and then go forward. Donot reverse into a second trafc lane.

• It is illegal to move your vehicle inreverse into an intersection or a

crosswalk.

If you see white reverse lights ona vehicle, be aware that it may movebackwards. These lights show that thevehicle is in reverse gear.

ParkingParking requires good control of thevehicle, accurate judgment and steeringskill. The next three sections will explaindifferent types of parking.

Parallel parking This type of parking may seem difcult atrst and will require practice. To park in aspace between two vehicles at the right-side curb, follow the steps illustrated.Note the position of the front tires (in red).

A

B C

B C

A

When approaching your intended parallel parking space, check behind you for trafc. Gradually apply your brakes well in advance of the parking space to begin slowing. Your brake lights alert other driversof your intent to stop. Determine if the parking

space is large enough for your vehicle.

Stop when the rear bumper of your vehicle(vehicle A) is in line with the rear bumper ofvehicle B. Your vehicle should be parallel withvehicle B, with about one metre (3 feet) of space

between the two vehicles. Place your vehicle in reverse gear. Look over your right shoulder and

behind you to make sure nothing is there andthe space is still available.




When you are leaving a parallel parkposition with a vehicle parked in front ofyou, do the following:• Check all mirrors to see if it is safe to

leave the parking location.

• Reverse while looking over your rightshoulder through your rear window,until you are close to the vehicleparked behind you, without makingcontact.

• Turn on the left turn signal.• Before moving forward, look over your

left shoulder for trafc and cyclists notvisible in the mirrors.

• Move forward slowly about one metre(three feet) while steering sharply allthe way to the left. When it is safe,drive into the nearest travel lane takingcare not to make contact with thevehicle parked in front.

• Be alert for trafc approaching fromthe rear.

ENTERING AND EXITING A VEHICLEPARKED PARALLEL TO THE CURBON A TWO-WAY STREET:When leaving a vehicle parked parallel to

the curb, check all mirrors carefully forany trafc or cyclists approaching frombehind. Do a shoulder check to your blindspots to the left. When it is safe, open thedoor no wider than necessary to get outand leave the vehicle quickly. Walk to therear of the vehicle facing trafc to get to

the curb.When entering a vehicle parked

parallel to the curb, always approachfrom the front of the vehicle. Look fortrafc passing in the nearest lane beforeyou open the door. Open the door nowider than necessary to get in and closethe door quickly behind you.

Angle parking

Angle parking is most often used inparking lots. The spaces may be on anangle of approximately 45 degrees to the

trafc lane. The following steps should be used to

enter an angle parking space on the right:• Turn on your right turn signal and

reduce your speed.• Drive parallel to the curb and remain

about 1.5 metres (ve feet) away from

the rear of the parked vehicle.• When you can see along the left side

of the vehicle parked to the right of thevacant parking space, steer sharplyto the right. Look through the centreof your stall while moving your vehicleslowly ahead. Your vehicle should becentred in the space.

• At about the mid-point of the parkingspace, straighten your wheels andcontinue to move forward slowly.Check the left front bumper and theright rear bumper of your vehicle,making sure they are not too close tothe parked vehicles on either side.

• Keep moving slowly forward until thefront wheel makes light contact withthe curb or is within 50 centimeters(20 inches) of the curb.

Entering angle parking space from the right




WHEN LEAVING AN ANGLEPARKING SPACE:Reverse carefully and slowly. Be surethere is nothing behind your vehicle.Reversing can be hazardous because it is

difcult to see trafc as you move out ofthe space. Yield the right-of-way as youback out and look carefully behind yourvehicle.

Move slowly and be prepared to stopif necessary. If the vehicle on your right islonger than your vehicle, stop when the

rear of your vehicle is even with the rearof the longer vehicle. Check for trafc andpedestrians. Continue reversing straightuntil you can see past the parked vehicle.

When your front bumper clears therear of the vehicle to your left, turn thesteering wheel sharply to the right.Continue reversing into the rst lanebehind the parked vehicle. Stop whenyour vehicle is parallel with the curb.

Drive ahead in your present lane.Watch for other vehicles moving out ofangle parking stalls in front of you.

Perpendicular parking

Perpendicular parking (spaces at a 90degree angle to the curb) to the right canbe difcult. As you approach your parkingspace, keep about two metres (six feet)between your vehicle and the rear of thevehicle parked to your right. Travel very

slowly. When your front bumper is evenwith the left side of the vehicle parkedto the right of your intended space, lookthrough the vacant space. While youare driving very slowly, turn your wheelsquickly all the way to the right. Check theleft front corner and the right side of yourvehicle as you enter the parking space to

be sure you do not contact any parkedvehicles. Look through the vacant space,and drive in slowly. Be sure your vehicle iscentered and completely in the stall.

Entering a 90-degree angle parking

stall in a parking lot on the left is easierthan on the right because you have moreroom to achieve the proper angle. Besure to check for oncoming trafc beforeyou cross the oncoming trafc lane.Look through the center of your stall asyou turn and enter it. This is similar to

turning left onto another roadway.Only enter a perpendicular or angle

parking stall to your left when you are ina parking lot.

2 meters

Entering a perpendicular parking space from

the left.

Entering a perpendicular parking space fromthe right.




Hill parking

The following information applies toparking on the right side of the road.

When parking facing uphill on a street

with a curb, turn the front wheels to theleft (toward the centre of the road). Withthe wheels turned, allow your vehicle toroll back slowly until the right front tire istouching the curb. This helps to preventthe vehicle from rolling into trafc if itstarts to move.

When parking facing uphill on a streetwithout a curb, turn your front wheels tothe right (toward the edge of the road). Bydoing this, if the vehicle starts to move itwill go off the road and not into trafc.

When parking facing downhill, alwaysturn your front wheels to the right. If thereis a curb, allow your vehicle to roll to thepoint where your right front tire is makingcontact with it. With the tires turned to theright, if the vehicle starts moving it will gooff the road and not into trafc.

To prevent a parked vehicle from rollingdown a hill, always set your park brakeand place your transmission in park (foran automatic transmission) or low gear(for a manual transmission).

When parking on the left side of theroad, turn the front wheels in the oppositedirection.

Do not park here

Do not park your vehicle:

• on a sidewalk or boulevard• on a crosswalk or on any part of a

crosswalk • within an intersection• within 1.5 metres (5 feet) of access

to a garage, private roadway ordriveway

• alongside or opposite any streetconstruction or obstructionwhen stopping or parking wouldobstruct trafc

• on a bridge or underpass or theapproaches to a bridge or underpass

• where a trafc control device prohibitsstopping or parking

No parking within 5 metres (16 feet) of a stop or yield sign.

No parking within 5 metres (16 feet) of a marked crosswalk.

Uphill with curb

Uphill without curbDownhill




• within ve metres of a stop sign oryield sign

• within ve metres (16 feet) of the

nearest side of a marked crosswalk • within ve metres (16 feet) of a re

hydrant. When the hydrant is notlocated at the curb, do not park withinve metres of the point on the curbnearest the hydrant.

• beside other vehicles where you maybe double-parked

• closer than ve metres (16 feet) ofthe edge of the intersecting roadway,except where there is an indicationthat parking is permitted, such as witha parking meter

• at or near the site of a re, explosion,motor vehicle crash or other incident,

where parking would obstruct trafcor emergency response personneland equipment

On a roadway outside an urban area,do not park:• on the roadway, parking lane or

shoulder of a primary highway exceptwhere: · your vehicle is incapable of moving

under its own power, · an emergency arises, or · it is permitted by law

No parking within 5 metres (16 feet) of a re hydrant.

• unless there is a clear passage forother motor vehicles, and

• your vehicle can be seen for 60metres (200 feet) along the roadwayin both directions




Right-of-wayWhere roadways meet and intersect,there is the possibility for a collision. Whoshould proceed and who must wait?

Right-of-way rules require one personto yield and allow the other to proceed.Signs, signals, and sometimes theposition of your vehicle to other vehiclesat an intersection determine the rules.However, even if you have the right-of-way, you are still responsible to do

everything you can to prevent a collision.

Intersections An intersection is where two or moreroadways meet, creating a possibleconict between vehicles on thoseroads and with pedestrians crossing theroadways. These are high-risk locationsfor collisions. Intersections may becontrolled by trafc signs, trafc signallights, or both. Intersections not controlledby signs or signals are controlled by rulesand regulations. To drive safely through

an intersection with or without controlsyou must know the rules and regulationsthat determine who has the right-of-way.

Always be careful. Other drivers maynot be paying attention to the signs andsignals, or may be unaware of the rules atintersections without signs or signals.

Note: For information about trafc signs and trafc signals, refer to Chapter 2.

Directions given by a peace ofcer orpolice ofcer must be followed over trafcsigns or signals.

Intersections controlledby signs

STOP SIGNS: A stop sign indicates

that your vehiclemust come to acomplete stop.

After stopping, checkthe intersection

carefully for pedestrians and other trafc.When safe, you may proceed.

There are rules about where youmust stop your vehicle when you cometo a stop sign.

RULES FOR STOPPING AT INTERSECTIONS:

Where a stop line has been marked, bring yourvehicle to a complete stop before the stop line.Before moving forward, give pedestrians andtrafc the right-of-way.

Stop before the stop line at a markedcrosswalk.

Where there is no stop line, stop before the marked crosswalk.



INTERSECTIONS AND TURNS 57CHAPTER FOUR

Three and four-way stops: Intersections where stop signs arelocated at all corners are often referredto as “courtesy corners.” Vehiclesapproaching from each direction arerequired to stop. All drivers must usecourtesy and caution. Courtesy is to allowthe vehicle that arrived rst to proceedrst. If two vehicles arrive at the sametime, courtesy allows the vehicle onthe right to proceed rst. You must notproceed unless you can do so safely.

YIELD SIGNS: A yield signmeans that youmust allow othervehicles that donot face a yield

sign the right-of-way to proceed. When approaching ayield sign, reduce speed as you near theintersection and be prepared to stop.

You may be required to stop and yieldthe right-of-way to trafc or pedestrians.Wait for a safe gap in the trafc beforeyou proceed.

If there are no pedestrians or trafcthat you are required to yield to, you mayproceed through the intersection withoutcoming to a complete stop.

Your approach must be at a speed

that allows you to stop easily to prevent acollision with another vehicle or person.

UncontrolledintersectionsSome intersections have no trafc signsand no trafc signal lights. At theseintersections, you must yield the right-

of-way to a vehicle on your right. Check for trafc approaching from yourleft and right when you are approachingan intersection without a trafc controldevice. Similar to an intersectioncontrolled by a stop sign, adjustyour speed to the visibility and road

conditions. Your view may be obstructedby fences, trees, or parked cars. Youmust reduce your speed enough to beable to stop your vehicle easily. Whenroad conditions are slippery, reduceyour speed to allow for the increasedstopping distance.

If there is no stop line or marked crosswalk at the intersection, you must stop withinthree metres (10 feet) of the intersecting

roadway. Stop where you will not interfere with

pedestrians who are crossing or are about tocross the roadway.

Vehicle at yield sign allows other vehicleto pass.




When exiting from service roads,alleys, parking lots and driveways, youmust:• stop before any sidewalk crossing• stop before entering a main street• yield to pedestrians

INTERSECTION REMINDERS:• A driver turning left across the path of

an approaching vehicle cannot turn leftuntil it is safe.

• Parking lots have intersections withoutsigns or signals, and the right-of-wayrules apply.

• All intersections have crosswalks thatmay be marked or unmarked and youmust not pass another vehicle that hasstopped for a pedestrian.

Keep intersectionsclear Do not enter an intersection until you areable to clear it completely.

If trafc is delayed at an intersection,do not enter the intersection until youcan completely clear the intersection andcrosswalk on the other side.

A

B

A

B

A yields to B: This intersection has no signs or signals and B is to the right of A.For safety, drivers in the position of vehicle B

must wait until the right-of-way is given before proceeding.

A

B

Use caution and judgment at allintersections without signs or signals.Even if you have the right-of-way, besure the other vehicle is going to yieldbefore you proceed.

The T intersection without signs orsignals (also known as an uncontrolledintersection) is a unique situation. Thereare no trafc control signs or signals,

therefore the driver on the right (vehicleB) has the right-of-way. Be careful in thissituation in case the driver going straightthrough (vehicle A) incorrectly assumesthe right-of-way.

A yields to B: This intersection has no signs or signals and B is to the right of A.

A yields to B: A would be crossing B’s path and neither is to the right of the other.




Trafc circles andRoundabouts

Trafc circles and roundabouts arecircular intersections designed to improvetrafc ow and safety. Trafc alwayscirculates in a counterclockwise directionaround a centre island. Vehicles enteringthe intersection must yield to trafcalready in the circle.

There are differences between trafccircles and roundabouts. The centreisland of a roundabout is smaller thanthe centre island of a trafc circle. Theroundabout has been designed witha tighter curve around the island toencourage lower speeds and may have

a sloped curb to allow more room forlarger commercial vehicles. Pedestriancrossings on roundabouts are locatedaway from the intersection for safety,as well as improved lines of sight formotorists and pedestrians.

Drivers must follow similar rules whenusing roundabouts or trafc circles.

One lane trafc circle /roundabout

ENTERING CIRCULARINTERSECTIONS:Drivers entering a one lane circularintersection must yield to drivers already inthe circle. Once in the circle, drivers mustactivate the right signal when preparingto exit.

EXITING CIRCULARINTERSECTIONS:

Always wait to activate your right turnsignal after passing the exit that is beforeyour intended exit. This tells other driversthat you intend to leave the circle at thenext exit.

When you intend to exit at the rstavailable exit:• Use your right signal as you approach.

Leave it on until you have exited thecircle.

• As you approach, scan for pedestriansand cyclists at the crosswalks at theentrance and exits of the circle.

Vehicles A is in the proper location. VehicleB has blocked the crosswalk. Vehicles C andD have used poor judgment and have had to

stop in the intersection. Cross trafc has been affected. Ensure that there is enough spaceto allow your vehicle to completely clear the

intersection and crosswalks before entering.

An example of a single lane circular intersection.




When you intend to use at anyother exit:• As you approach, scan for pedestrians

and cyclists at the crosswalks at theentrance and exits of the circle.

• Activate your right signal whenapproaching the exit you wish to use.

Two lane trafc circle /roundabout

ENTERING CIRCULAR

INTERSECTIONDrivers entering the circular intersectionmust yield to drivers already in the circle.Once in the circle, drivers must activatethe right signal when preparing to exit.

USING THE RIGHT LANE TO ENTER AND EXIT:Drivers entering the circle from the rightlane must do so when it is safe and stayin the right lane while in the circle. Theymust exit using the right lane.

USING THE LEFT LANE TO ENTER AND EXIT:

Drivers using the left lane to enter thecircle must do so when it is safe andstay in the left lane while in the circle/ roundabout. They must exit using the leftlane. Drivers planning to travel past therst exit should use the left lane to enterand exit.

IN CIRCULAR INTERSECTIONSWhile in the circle, the driver on theright must yield to the driver on the left.

Activate the right signal when preparingto exit. Use caution when exiting andcrossing through the right (outside) lane.

Do not change lanes in the circle. Trafcin the red lanes (white arrows) mustyield to trafc in the yellow lanes (blackarrows). Trafc entering the circle (greylanes) must yield to trafc in the circle

(both red and yellow lanes).

Vehicles B and C must yield to vehicle A.

Vehicle E must yield to vehicle D, whilevehicles F and D may proceed together.




EXITING CIRCULAR INTERSECTIONS Always wait to activate your right turnsignal after passing the exit that is beforeyour intended exit. This tells other driversthat you intend to leave the circle at thenext exit.

When you intend to use at the rstavailable exit:• Approach the circle using the right

lane.• Use your right signal as you approach.

Leave it on until you have exitedthe circle.

• As you approach, scan for pedestrians

and cyclists at the crosswalks at theentrance and exits of the circle.

• Yield to trafc in the circle.• Exit the circle using the right lane.

When you intend to leave at any otherexit:

• Approach the circle using the left lane.• Activate your left signal to

communicate that you do not plan touse the rst exit.

• As you approach, scan for pedestriansand cyclists at the crosswalks at theentrance and exits of the circle.

• Yield to trafc in the circle.

• Exit the circle using the left lane.

Remember, when you exit using theleft lane:• Use your right signal when you pass

the exit that is one before the exit youwill use.

• Check for trafc in the right lane thatmay be continuing around the circle.

• Look ahead for pedestrians at thecrosswalk where you will be exiting.

• Exit the circle using the left lane.

• If you cannot stop or exit safely, stay inyour lane and travel around the circle/ roundabout again.

TurningMany collisions are caused by driverswho fail to turn safely.

Right turns

Remember that travel lanes are notalways marked with lines on the roador signs. A travel lane is a section of

roadway wide enough to allow thepassage of a single line of vehicles. Thisincludes a curb lane lined with parkingmeters. The lane next to the curb wherevehicles park is best referred to as acurb lane, not a parking lane. Curb lanesare not just for parking. They are used to

turn off a road and onto a road.Prepare for a turn well in advance. If

you are not in the proper turning lane,check your rear view and outside mirrorsand do a shoulder check. Signal andchange lanes when it is safe. You shouldbe in your proper turning lane at least 15metres (50 feet) before the intersection.

Vehicle H must yield to vehicle G.




Be sure you yield the right-of-wayto pedestrians and trafc on the crossstreet. Before you begin to turn, checkthe street you are turning onto to decideif there is room to turn into the curb

lane. Check over your right shoulder forcyclists and pedestrians approaching theintersections.

When turning right from a two-wayroad onto another two-way road, staycentred in your turning lane, and no morethan one metre (3 feet) from the curb or

edge of the road. Stay approximatelythis distance as you approach theintersection, while turning, and as youleave the intersection.

Remember the following when turning:• Yield to pedestrians crossing in

the crosswalk.• Do not enter the crosswalk to turn

until pedestrians are safely out ofthe intersection.

Do not turn wide and occupy two laneswhen turning. Unless prohibited by a sign,you may turn right on a red light after youcome to a complete stop at the properstopping point (stop line or crosswalk).

If a parked vehicle or obstruction is far enough away, complete the turn in the lane behind thevehicle or obstruction. Then change lanes to the

left when safe. It is recommended for this typeof turn that the curb lane be clear of parkedvehicles for at least one-half a block.

Parkedvehicle

If the rst available lane of the street you areturning onto has a parked vehicle or obstructionclose to the corner, turn into the rst available

lane to the left of the parked vehicle. When the lane is free, turn directly into that lane.

Note: Yield to other vehicles approaching from your left that are travelling in the lane you willenter.

If it is safe, complete your turn by turning into the rst available trafc lane on the rightwhen there is space to allow you to gently

accelerate and change lanes. After youcomplete the turn, look well ahead along

your intended path.




Two-way onto a two-way

When it is safe and legal, turn from the lane nearest and to the right of the yellow line.Turn into the lane nearest and to the rightof the yellow line. Be sure you have enoughtime and space to turn safely if there isoncoming trafc. Yield to oncoming trafc

and pedestrians crossing to your left.

Two-way onto a one-way

When it is safe and legal, turn from the lane nearest the yellow line. Turn into the rst available lane on the left side of the road.Yield to oncoming trafc and pedestrianscrossing to your left.

Left turnsPoor judgment of time and space whenturning left is one of the leading causesof crashes. Left turns can be dangerousbecause there can be trafc approaching

from more than one direction and yourvehicle will be crossing the lanes of theoncoming trafc.

Prepare well in advance. You shouldbe in your proper turning lane at least 15metres (50 feet) before the intersection.When turning from a two-way road onto

another two-way road with a single leftturn lane, drive into the lane to the rightside of the yellow line.

Remain behind the crosswalk if thereis only room for one vehicle ahead ofyou in your lane in the intersection.Enter the intersection if it is legal to doso when the vehicle ahead of you clearsthe intersection. If you must stop in theintersection prior to completing a leftturn, stay to the right of the yellow lineand keep your front wheels pointedstraight ahead. This will prevent you frombeing pushed into oncoming trafc if youare hit from behind.

Check the crosswalk of the road youare turning onto for pedestrians andcyclists. Look well along your intendedpath. When it is safe, turn the vehicle leftat the intersection. Complete the turn bydriving to the right side of the yellow lineof the road you have entered.

Do not turn wide and occupy twolanes when turning.

Before turning left off a two-lanehighway, do a shoulder check to the leftto be sure you are not being passed byanother vehicle on your left.




Turning lanesSome lanes are designated as turninglanes. As you approach an intersection,always check the signs and pavement

markings. Make sure you are in thecorrect lane to turn or go straight ahead.

Dual lane turns

When turning right or left where dual laneturns are indicated by pavement markings

or signs, approach the intersection inone of the marked lanes and turn into thecorresponding lane.

Dual lane turns can only be madewhere indicated. Never swing wideor change lanes in dual lane turnintersections as another vehicle couldbe turning beside you. Watch the vehicle

turning beside you, as it may swing wideinto your lane.

Unless prohibited by a sign, at a dualright turn intersection, you may turnright on a red light after you come to acomplete stop at the proper stoppingpoint (stop line or crosswalk).

One-way onto a two-way

When it is safe and legal, turn from the lane nearest the left side of the road. Turn into the nearest lane to the right of the yellow line.Yield to pedestrians to your left.

One-way onto a one-way

When it is safe and legal, turn from the lane nearest the left side of the road. Turn into the lane nearest to the left side of the road. Yieldto pedestrians crossing to your left.

When the light is red, if there are no signs prohibiting the turn, you may turn left on a red light from a one way to a one way after you come to a complete stop at the proper stopping location (stop line or crosswalk) and it is safe. This also applies to dual lane turns.Yield to pedestrians crossing to your left.

Dual lane turns




After completing a turn, dual turn lanesmay converge into one lane. The driverin the lane that ends must change to theavailable lane by following the propersteps for a lane change.

Two-way left turn lanes

A two-way left-turn lane allows vehiclesfrom each direction to turn left using thesame lane. Vehicles from both directionsshare this centre lane to turn left. It is

permissible to cross the solid yellow lineto enter the shared turn lane. Only enterthe turning lane close to where you will beturning. Watch for oncoming vehicles inyour lane.

Reminders for safe turning:• Check for trafc, do a shoulder check,

signal, and when safe, move into theproper lane.

• Signal with enough time to provide areasonable warning to other driversand pedestrians of your intention.

• Check oncoming and cross trafc aswell as the crosswalk to your left forpedestrians. Watch for both vehicleand pedestrian trafc.

U-turns A U-turn is done by turning your vehiclearound at an intersection to go in theopposite direction by using oncoming

lanes.

Do not do a U-turn unless you can doit safely. U-turns are not permitted:• at an intersection controlled by a trafc

control signal (trafc lights) unlesspermitted by a trafc control device

• where a sign prohibits U-turnsIn urban areas U-turns are not permitted:• on a roadway between intersections• at an alley intersection• at an intersection where one or more

of the roadways is an access to apublic or private parking lot which thepublic can access

Outside urban areas (rural) U-turns are

not permitted:• on a curve• approach to or near the crest of a hill

where the driver of another vehiclecannot see you that is approachingwithin 150 metres from either direction

Two-way left-turn lane

This sign means U-turns are not allowed.



5

Highwaysand Freeways




Lane selection andposition in your laneMost major roadways and highways aredivided into lanes with lines on the road

surface to indicate where your vehicleshould travel and the rules of lane drivingthat you should follow. Choose the lanethat best meets your needs for safety andgetting to your destination. Plan ahead.Do not leave lane changes to the lastminute.

When a roadway has been divided intolanes by visible marking lines on the roadsurface, you should drive in the centre ofyour lane.

Blind spots

Your inside and outside rear view mirrorswill show you the trafc that is behindyour vehicle. They will not show youeverything to the sides or what is rightbeside and slightly behind you in the lanenext to you. These are the blind spots.

The view you see in your inside rearview mirror should show as much ofthe view through your rear window aspossible. The outside rear view mirrorsshould show you a little of your vehicle

on the side where the mirror is attached,as well as the area behind you in the lanenext to you. They should be positionedto allow you to see, from your drivingposition, the horizon in the middle of yourmirror behind you. Be sure your insideand outside rear view mirrors are adjusted

properly to minimize blind spots. The following pictures show what can

be seen in properly adjusted mirrors.

Using the left outside mirror, the driver ofvehicle A can see vehicle C.

Using the inside rear view mirror, the driver ofvehicle A can see vehicle B.

B A

Using both outside mirrors and inside rearview mirror, the driver of vehicle A can see

vehicles B, C and D. The driver of vehicle A cannot see vehicles E and F, either in the mirrors or through peripheral (side) vision.Vehicles E and F are in vehicle A’s blind

spots. The red shading shows the blind spots for driver A.



HIGHWAYS AND FREEWAYS 69CHAPTER FIVE

Changing lanes

Because of the blind spots, you mustdo shoulder checks in addition to mirrorchecks before changing lanes. To do a

shoulder check properly, quickly glanceback over your shoulder through the rearside windows in the direction you intendto move. This allows you to see the areayou will not be able to see in your mirrors.

If you do not have backseat sidewindows or a back rear window, you will

need to use your outside mirrors with anattached convex mirror.

When moving from one lane toanother, do the following:• Be sure a lane change is allowed.• Check for trafc by glancing in your

inside and outside rear view mirrors.• Check over your shoulder to be sure

there is no vehicle or cyclist in your blindspots.

• Turn on the proper signal light.• If safe, change lanes, while maintaining

your speed as much as possible.• Ensure your signal light is turned off.

PassingPassing on a multi-lanehighway

On a multi-lane highway, slower trafc

should use the travel lane furthest to theright (unless needing the left lane to turnleft). This leaves the left lane available fordrivers of other vehicles for passing.

Passing lanes

A passing lane is a lane added to a

highway to allow passing, often in themountains. Slower vehicles move into thepassing lane to the right, permitting othervehicles to pass safely in the left lane.Signs will alert drivers to a passing lane

ahead.

When approaching the end of thepassing lane, drivers in the right lanemust merge safely with trafc to the left.Drivers in the left lane must cooperate

to let drivers from the right lane merge.Signs are posted to alert drivers that thepassing lane is ending.

Passing on a two lanehighway

On a two lane highway (one lane oftrafc in each direction), passing anothervehicle can be difcult and dangerous.Errors in judgment can result in head-oncollisions, and these often cause fatalities.Passing should be done only where itis legal, when it is necessary, and withextreme caution.

A passing lane permits other vehicles to pass safely.




Before passing another vehicle on atwo-lane road, do the following:• Pass only where it is permitted.• Keep a safe following distance behind

the vehicle you intend to pass.

• Pass vehicles only when there is nooncoming trafc for a safe distance.

• Check your outside and inside rearview mirrors.

• Do a shoulder check to the left to lookfor vehicles that may be passing youon the left. These vehicles may be in

your blind spot.• Turn on your left signal light.• Check again that there is no oncoming

trafc for a safe distance before youattempt to pass.

• It is illegal to exceed the speed limitwhen passing another vehicle.

• Once the vehicle you have passed isvisible in your inside rear view mirror,do a shoulder check to the right.

• Turn on your right signal light.• Return to your original lane while

maintaining your speed.• Ensure your signal light is turned off.

When being passed on a two lanehighway, help the driver passing you bystaying in your lane. Move to the rightside of your lane to give the other driver abetter view of the road ahead.

When is it illegal to passanother vehicle?

Do not pass when:• oncoming vehicles are too close. If

you have any doubts about safely

completing the pass, do not attemptto pass

• a solid yellow line is on your side of thecentre line

• a sign indicates a no passing zone• you are in a school or playground zone

during school or playground zonetimes

• another vehicle is stopped to allowa pedestrian to cross at a marked orunmarked crosswalk

• a school bus has ashing red lightsand the stop arm extended indicatingthe school bus has stopped. (It is notthe safest choice to pass a school

bus that has ashing amber lights,indicating that it is reducing speed,because it may be stopping to allowpassengers on and off the school bus.If you do proceed, do it with caution.)

Emergencystopping lane The portion of a primary highway that liesbetween the edge of the roadway and therst lane of travel, sometimes referred toas the shoulder, is for drivers who needto stop due to an urgent situation orPassing on a two lane highway.




because they have problems with theirvehicle.

Do not drive in the emergencystopping lane of a highway. Do not passor assist another vehicle to pass you byusing this lane.

Entering and exiting

a major roadway Merging

Merging isdone when tworoadways join

into one and thetrafc on the mainroadway mustcooperate to allow

enough space for vehicles to enter fromthe merging lane. Neither the mergingvehicle nor the vehicles already

on the highway have the right-of-way. Merging is a shared responsibilitybetween the vehicles joining the roadwayand the vehicles already on the roadway.

Avoid reducing your speedabruptly or stopping when merging.

This merging lane is designed to allowyou to bring your vehicle to the posted

speed of the road onto which you aremerging. The drivers behind you areexpecting you to continue movingahead. If youslow or stop, your vehicle may be hit

from behind.Here are some tips on merging safely:

• Merging requires that you plan andtime your approach to blend smoothlywith trafc, without stopping orabruptly reducing your speed.

• Check the trafc ow on the highway

as soon as you can see the lane whereyou will be merging.

• Choose your gap in the trafc, andbegin adjusting your speed, if required.Keep glancing at the gap you chose toensure you are making the speed andtiming adjustments necessary to safelymerge without affecting trafc.

• Use your signal light before or whenyou are on the acceleration lane.

• Accelerate to the speed of the trafcon the main road.

• Keep shoulder checking to view thegap and look in your rear view mirrorfor vehicles following you.

• When it is safe and legal, move into thegap after you are past the solid whiteline of the acceleration lane. Maintainyour speed at or near the speed of theother vehicles.

• Ensure your signal light is turned off.

If you are on the main roadway, andtrafc is merging, move left to the nextlane if it is safe. This leaves the righttravel lane clear for the merging vehiclesto enter.

Emergency stopping lanes border the lanesof travel on a primary highway.

EmergencyStoppingLane

EmergencyStopping

Lane




Exiting

Here are some tips on how to exit a majorroadway or highway safely:

• Plan ahead. Be in the proper lane wellbefore you reach your exit.

• Use your turn signal well in advance ofthe exit to alert the drivers behind you.

• Move into the deceleration lane ifthere is one.

• If possible, do most of the slowing

in the deceleration lane. Somedeceleration lanes are short; you mayneed to start to reduce your speedwhile still on the highway.

• When you have exited, ensure yoursignal light is turned off.

• If you miss your exit, do not stop.

Continue to the next exit and makeplans to return to your route. Do notstop and reverse on the highway, theemergency stopping lane or shoulder.

Weave zones

On some roadway interchanges, there areplaces where the highway entrance andexit use the same lane. The entrance andexit can be close together. These areas

require caution and cooperation becausevehicles share the same lane to slow toexit the highway while other vehicles areusing it to increase speed to enter thehighway. The area that these vehiclesshare is called a weave zone .

Correct (safe) and incorrect (unsafe) method for exiting from a highway.

TRAFFIC FLOW

ADJUST TO HIGHWAYSPEED IN ACCELERATIONLANE

DO NOTENTERHIGHWAY HERE ATA SHARP ANGLE

SIGNAL AND MOVE CAREFULLYINTO HIGHWAY LANE

BE PREPARED TOADJUST SPEEDWHEN APPROACHINGMERGING AREA

W R O N G

Correct and incorrect method for merging.

CHECK POSTEDSAFE SPEEDFOR RAMP

DO NOT SLOWDOWN HERE

DO NOT MAKELAST MINUTETURN-OFFW R O N G

TRAFFIC FLOW

SLOW DOWN AFTER TURNINGINTO DECELERATION LANE




Vehicles will cross paths in a weave zone.

In weave zones, control your speedand the timing of your lane change to

merge with other trafc. This requiresskillful use of time and space. Use cautionin these zones to ensure safe highwayexiting and entering for all vehicles.

Curves

Curves require special attention. Here aresome things to remember about curves:• If you need to reduce your speed, do

it before entering the curve, and staycentered in your lane.

• To stay centred in your lane, lookwell ahead and around the curve.

This will assist you with steering and

speed control. • Maintain a safe and steady speed after

entering the curve.• Do not pass vehicles on curves

on highways with one lane in eachdirection. It is unsafe and illegal.

• Curves become more dangerous when

wet or icy as these conditions makethem slippery.

On a curve, your vehicle will want togo straight ahead, due to kinetic energy,even though you are turning the wheels.If your tires lose traction with the road asyou enter or travel around a curve to the

left (vehicle A), your vehicle may skid tothe right side of the road. If this happens,stay off the accelerator and brake.

If your tires lose traction with the roadas you enter a curve to the right (vehicleB), your vehicle may skid into oncomingtrafc. If you skid in a curve, stay off thebrake and the accelerator. Continue tolook in the direction you want to go, andmake small steering adjustments to come

out of the skid.

The lines show where the drivers are lookingto help them stay centred in their lanes .

B

A




Hills

Hills also require special attention.Remember the following when travellingup a hill:

• Use caution and move to the right inyour lane as you approach the top ofa hill. This may keep you from beinghit by an oncoming vehicle that hascrossed over the centre line and is inyour lane.

• Do not pass near the top of a hill on a

two lane highway, as you cannot seewhat is ahead of you.

Remember the following whentravelling down a hill:• If the hill is very steep, adjust your

speed. The time it takes you to stopwill increase when travelling down ahill.

• In a vehicle with a standardtransmission, shifting to a lower gearcan reduce the risk of your brakesoverheating.



6

EmergencySituations and

ChallengingConditions




Emergency braking There are times when somethingunexpected occurs that requires you tobrake suddenly. The key to emergency

braking is to stop the vehicle as quicklyas possible without losing control of yourvehicle.

If your vehicle has ABSbrakes

Most vehicles are equipped with ananti-lock braking system (ABS). The

ABS allows you to steer while the brakesare being applied. ABS applies brakepressure at each wheel, cycling fromlocked to slightly rolling. You will feel thisas a vibration through the brake pedal.With ABS you can brake as hard as youneed without losing your ability to steer.

To brake in an emergency, followthese steps:• Apply steady rm pressure to the

brake pedal.• Do not pump or release the

brake pedal.

• Look and steer in the direction youwant to go.

• Be sure to check your vehicle’sowner’s manual for more informationon emergency braking techniques.

If your vehicle does

not have ABS brakesIn vehicles without ABS, braking hardcan cause the wheels to stop rolling. Thewheels are ‘locked’ when the brakes areapplied and they stop rolling. This cancause you to lose steering control. If yourwheels lock, ease off the brake pedal.

Brake again but not as hard.

To brake in an emergency, followthese steps:• Press rmly on the brake pedal to the

point just before the wheels lock. Thisis called threshold braking .

• If the wheels lock, release the brakepedal slightly to regain steering control.

• Press the brake pedal rmly againwithout locking the wheels.

• Look and steer in the direction you

want the front of the vehicle to go.

Loss of control The road surface, the speed of yourvehicle, turning, and the condition of yourtires can contribute to a skid. Skiddingmeans you have lost control of the vehicle.

To regain control, do not touch the brakeor the accelerator, and look and steerwhere you want the front of the vehicle togo.

Most skids are the result of driver error. A skid can occur when you:

• drive too quickly on poor roadconditions like ice, snow, rain, mud,sand or gravel

• turn the steering wheel too sharply• turn the steering wheel too much for

the speed you are travelling• brake too rmly

• accelerate too quickly

Skid recovery

Drive in a manner that reduces thepossibility of having your vehicle skid.Plan ahead so you will not have tosuddenly brake or steer. Driving in a



EMERGENCY SITUATIONS AND CHALLENGING CONDITIONS 77CHAPTER SIX

smooth and controlled manner willreduce the chance of a skid. If the roadis not familiar to you or the conditionsare not ideal, reduce your speed.

It is very important that you keep

your foot off the brake pedal if youstart to skid. How you steer depends onthe direction of the skid. Look and steerin the direction you want the front of thevehicle to go. Do not make large steeringadjustments, point the tires along thecentre of your lane.

Braking skid (non-ABS)

If your vehicle does not have anti-lockbrakes, a braking skid could occur when

you apply your brakes too rmly, causingthe wheels to lock. Steering control will belost.

If you experience this type of skid, dothe following:• Take your foot off the brake pedal.

When the vehicle’s wheels start to roll,

steering control will return.• Look and steer in the direction you

want the front of the vehicle to go.

If you need to apply the brakes again,use rm pressure but not hard enough tolock the wheels.

Power (acceleration) skid

A power skid occurs when you acceleratetoo quickly, causing the wheels to spin.

If you experience a power skid, do

the following:• Take your foot off the gas pedal to

allow the wheels to stop spinning.• Make any needed steering corrections.

Look and steer in the direction youwant the front of the vehicle to go.

• Be careful not to over correct your

steering or you may skid in theopposite direction.

• Use gentle acceleration to continuemoving forward.

Cornering skid

A cornering skid occurs when you aretravelling too quickly when turning,causing the vehicle to slide sideways.Speed, tire condition, road surface, andthe slope of the road can all play a partin this type of skid.

If you experience a cornering skid,do the following:

• Take your foot off the gas pedal.Do not use your brakes.

• Look and steer in the direction youwant the front of the vehicle to go.

Off-road recovery

If you drive off the paved portion of theroadway, do the following:• Keep a rm grip on the steering wheel.• Do not try to steer the vehicle back

onto the road immediately.• Take your foot off the gas pedal to

reduce your speed.

Look and steer in the direction you want thefront of the vehicle to go. Note the position ofthe front tires (in red).

A A

A




If your brakes fail, and your wheelsare not turned, carefully use your parkbrake to slow your vehicle. You may beable to shift to a lower gear to bring yourvehicle to a safe and controlled stop.

Check your vehicle’s owner’s manual formore information.

Park your vehicle in a safe location.Do not drive until the brakes have beenchecked and repaired properly.

Power steering failure

If your power steering fails, you can stillsteer the vehicle. You will have to use extraeffort to turn the steering wheel.

Tire failure

If a tire has an air leak you may feel,through the steering wheel, the vehiclebegin to pull and a vibration as you holdthe steering wheel. If this air leak is notcorrected soon, the tire will become at.When a front tire is at, the vehicle willpull strongly to the side that has the attire. A at rear tire may make your vehicle

weave. You may nd it hard to steer.If a tire goes at while you are driving,

the following tips will help:• Resist the urge to immediately apply

the brakes.• Take your foot off the gas pedal and

allow the engine to slow you down.

• Hold the steering wheel with a rmgrip. Keep the vehicle on a straightcourse by looking and steering in thedirection you want to go.

• When you have the vehicle undercontrol and speed is reduced, applythe brake with gentle and steadypressure.

• Safely move to the emergencystopping lane or edge of the road andpark in a safe place.

• Turn on your hazard warning lights.

Headlight failureIf both headlights fail, do the following:• Turn on your hazard lights.• Turn the headlight control off and on.• If the headlights are still not on,

reduce your speed, safely move to the

emergency stopping lane or edge ofthe road, and park in a safe place.

Note: Replace a headlight or headlight bulb as soon as it burns out. Driving withonly one headlight increases the risk of

being without both headlights.

ChallengingconditionsWhen road conditions are poor due tobad weather, allow more time for yourtrip. Increase your following distance,

reduce your speed and maintain yourspace cushion.

DRIVING AT NIGHT:When you are driving at night or at anytime when you cannot see clearly 150metres (500 feet) in front of you, you must

turn your headlights on. Daytime runninglights are not bright enough to be used atnight. They are too dim and the tail-lightsand instrument panel lights will not be on.




• Use your low-beam headlights if thereis oncoming trafc, even when thehighway is divided.

• Be sure that your headlights areproperly aimed so that they do not

bother or interfere with other drivers.• Keep your headlights clean.• Avoid looking directly at oncoming

headlights so they do not blind you.Look slightly down and to the rightedge of your driving lane until thevehicle passes you.

Visibility is reduced at night. Do notoverdrive your headlights. Travel ata speed that allows you to respondsafely or stop in the distance lit by yourheadlights.

GLARE:Glare from the sun, reections, and thelights of other vehicles can affect your visionin the daytime or at night. If glare makes itdifcult to see the road, reduce your speed.Ensure your vehicle’s windows are properlycleaned inside and outside to improvevisibility.

SMOKE AND FOG:In smoke and fog, use low beamheadlights, as high beams reect the lightback to you, creating glare. If visibilitybecomes so poor that it is no longer safe

to continue driving, slow down and moveyour vehicle well off the road to a safelocation. Turn on your hazard lights (four-way ashers). Do not attempt to driveuntil conditions improve. If a safe place topark is not available, ensure that you andyour passengers move to a safe location

away from the vehicle in case it is hit.

Road surface conditionsthat affect traction

BLACK ICE:Black ice is caused by moisture freezingon the road surface. Often a driver cannotsee it. However, if the asphalt looksshiny and black instead of grey-white, becautious, and reduce your speed withoutbraking.

SHADED AREAS:Shaded areas may still be icy even after

the sun has melted the ice on other partsof the road.

Use your low beam headlights when you are following within 150 metres (one-and-one-half city blocks) of another vehicle.

Use your low beam headlights when you are within 300 metres of oncoming vehicles.

WHEN DRIVING AT NIGHT:




BRIDGES AND OVERPASSES:Bridge decks and overpasses tend toform slippery patches more readily thanother road surfaces. Use extra cautionand try to avoid unnecessary lane or

speed changes.

RAIN AND HYDROPLANING:When it is raining, use low beamheadlights, as high beams reect the lightback to you, creating glare. Your vehiclecan also be sprayed with water and mud,

interfering with your view through thewindshield and windows. Be careful notto splash other vehicles and pedestrians.

On wet roads, your tires may losecontact with the road surface. This iscalled hydroplaning. The loss of contactbetween the road surface and your tirescan cause you to lose control of yourvehicle.

If this happens, do not brake. Releasepressure on the accelerator to allow thevehicle to slow. Look and steer where youwant the front of the vehicle to go.

ICE AND SNOW:

During the winter you can experiencepoor weather conditions that canmake driving more dangerous. Winterconditions include freezing rain, very lowtemperatures, blowing snow, high windchill, blizzards and heavy snowfalls.

Maintain your vehicle. Have it serviced

before winter arrives. Be sure that yourvehicle’s battery, tires, exhaust system,windshield wipers and heating system arein good working condition.

Intersection areas may become icymore quickly because of vehicle exhaust,engine heat, and vehicles spinning theirwheels or skidding. Allow more time and

distance for stopping and starting. Themost important thing is to reduce yourspeed.

When the temperature rises to thepoint where the snow begins to melt,

roads can become very slippery. Whenthe frost begins to come out of theground, a thin layer of water is formedon the road surface.

Note: Do not use cruise control whenthe weather and road conditions are

poor. When your tires contact ice, thecruise control will continue to apply the

accelerator and you could lose control.

Ensure your vehicle’s windows andwindshield are not obstructed by snow,frost, steam, mud, or anything else thatmay make driving the vehicle dangerous.

If you nd yourself stranded off thehighway and your vehicle is in a safeplace, it is usually safer to stay with yourvehicle. Run the engine just enough tostay warm. Keep the vehicle ventilatedwhile the engine is running. Open awindow a small amount to assist air

circulation to prevent carbon monoxidepoisoning. Carbon monoxide can get intoyour vehicle from a leaky exhaust system.Carbon monoxide is a poisonous gas thatis colourless, odourless, tasteless and,therefore, very dangerous. Be sure yourexhaust system is checked whenever you

take your vehicle in for servicing.Winter emergency supplies to carry in

your vehicle:• blankets and extra clothing• sand or road salt




• shovel• heat source, candle, matches and a

deep can to hold the candle• ice scraper and snow brush• tire chains

Emergency suppliesConsider having the following emergencysupplies in your car at all times:• rst aid kit

• approved warning devices likereective triangles

• booster cables• non-perishable food• jack and inated spare tire• ashlight with extra batteries• tow rope• headlight replacement bulbs

Animals To reduce the chance of a collision withan animal, do the following:• Reduce your speed, look well ahead,

and use caution in areas with wildlifewarning signs.

• Scan the sides of the road for animals.• Be careful at dusk and dawn since

animals tend to be more active atthese times.

• Watch for sudden, unusual spots

of light on or near the road at night. This may be the reection of yourheadlights from an animal’s eyes.

• Animals sometimes move in groups.If you see one animal, there may bemore.

If an animal suddenly appears in frontof you brake hard and prepare to takeevasive action. Choose an escape routeaway from oncoming trafc.

CollisionsIf you are the rst person at the scene of acollision, stop away from the collision in asafe location. Offer assistance if possible,and protect the scene with ashing hazard

lights and warning triangles so that othervehicles do not become involved. If it isnecessary to notify the police or emergencymedical services, be as accurate as youcan, especially about the condition ofany injured people and the location of thecollision.

If you are involved in a collision, giveassistance where you can, protect thescene, and notify emergency assistanceif needed.• Exchange names, contact information

and insurance details with the otherdriver(s) involved.

• Record the names and contact

information of all witnesses.• Do not discuss who was at fault.• Record the time, location, weather

and any other details that may beimportant.

• Notify your insurance company assoon as possible.

You are required to report all collisionsto the police or local law enforcement if:• anyone has been injured• anyone has been killed• overall damage exceeds $2,000• if police are called to the scene, all

drivers must remain




on one-way streets.• Stop until the emergency vehicle

has passed. Check that no otheremergency vehicles are approaching.

If you see a vehicle with ashing greenlights, treat it like any other emergencyvehicle. In some municipalities, volunteerre ghters use ashing green lights ontheir emergency response vehicles whenresponding to a re or other emergencies.

Maintenance andconstruction vehiclesRoad maintenance and constructionvehicles can be used or parked on anyportion of the road. You will be givenadequate warning in advance of sucha vehicle. You are required to obey alltrafc control devices and the directionsof ag persons.

Signs will be posted well before aconstruction zone warning you of a lanereduction, lane closure or workers ahead.

In the construction zones, motoristsmust observe the posted speed andobey the ag person. When workers arepresent, the nes for speeding in theseareas will be doubled.

Stopping your vehicle safely

for law enforcementWhen a police ofcer is behind you, withthe emergency lights ashing you arerequired to move to a safe location toallow the police vehicle to pass or to stopsafely behind your vehicle.

On a two-way roadway , carefully and

legally stop your vehicle in a safe locationat the right edge of the roadway.

On a one-way roadway , carefully andlegally stop your vehicle in a safe locationat the nearest edge of the roadway.

Always ensure that there is enoughroom for the police vehicle to stop safely

behind your vehicle.When a police vehicle stops behind

your vehicle, to ensure your safety andthe safety of others in your vehicle, aswell as the safety of the police ofcers,do the following:1 Remain calm. After you have stopped

your vehicle, ensure your vehicle’s

Always yield to emergency vehicles with sirenor lights operating. Maintain a safe followingdistance of at least 150 metres (500 feet).

Men at work Obey ag person

Lane ends or narrows




transmission is in the PARK gear(automatic transmission) or NEUTRALgear (manual-shift transmission). Applythe park brake.

2 Remain in your vehicle. Locate and

be prepared to provide your operator’slicense, vehicle registration andvehicle insurance.

3 Wait for instructions from the policeofcer when he or she approachesyour vehicle. Be cooperative. Providethe documents requested by the

police ofcer.4 DO NOT move your vehicle until

instructed by the police ofcer.



7

ResponsibleDriving




driving. This applies to hands-free cellulartelephones as well. If you want to makeor receive a call, or receive or send a textmessage, stop in a safe and legal place.

Do not do activities that allow you to

be distracted while driving. While all formsof distracted driving can be hazardous,the Trafc Safety Act includes nes forcertain distractions. These include using ahand-held cell phone, texting or emailing,using electronic devices, such as laptopcomputers, video games, cameras, video

entertainment displays and programmingportable audio players, enteringinformation on GPS units, reading printedmaterials in the vehicle, writing, printing orsketching, and personal grooming.

SecuringpassengersIn Alberta, all drivers and passengersmust be properly secured in the vehiclewith a seat belt or an approved childsafety seat attached by a seat belt oran anchor system. Passengers 16 years

of age and older not properly securedin the vehicle can be ned. You, as thedriver, are responsible for ensuring thatall passengers in your vehicle under 16years of age are properly secured. Youcan be ned if they are not properlysecured.

Child safety seats

A child under the age of six years andwho does not weigh more than 18kilograms (40 pounds) must be properlysecured in a child safety seat. The childsafety seat must be installed in the vehicle

according to manufacturer’s instructionsof the vehicle and child safety seat.

All child safety seats used in Canadamust have a label on them that statesthe product meets Canada Motor Vehicle

Safety Standard 213. Do not use a childsafety seat unless it has this label. Do notuse a child safety seat that is designedfor use in countries other than Canada.

There are various types of child safetyseats available. Choose one that is rightfor your child’s age or weight.

REAR FACING SAFETY SEATS: All children, from birth, must ride in

either a rear-facing infant seat or a rear-facing convertible seat until reachingthe recommended weight to switch to aforward facing safety seat, according tothe manufacturer’s instructions.

All newer vehicles and child safetyseats come equipped with the universalanchor system or UAS/LATCH. In oldervehicles, the child safety seat must beproperly secured into the vehicle usingthe seat belt. Check the instructionmanuals for your vehicle and the child

safety seat for more information.

Rear-facing child safety seat .



RESPONSIBLE DRIVING 91CHAPTER SEVEN

FORWARD-FACING SAFETY SEATS:Forward-facing child safety seats aredesigned for children 10 to 18 kilograms(22 to 40 pounds). All newer vehicles andchild safety seats come equipped with the

universal anchor system or UAS/LATCH.In older vehicles, a forward-facing seatmust be properly secured by using thevehicle seat belt. The child safety seat’stether strap and vehicle’s tether anchormust be used. (You may need to havea tether anchor installed by your vehicle

dealer.) Check the instruction manuals forthe vehicle and child safety seat for moreinformation.

Booster seats

Children who weigh more than 18 kilograms(40 pounds) should be secured in anapproved booster seat prior to using only

the vehicle’s seat belt without a boosterseat. The seat must be used according tothe manufacturer’s instructions.

UAS/LATCH with tether

Convertible child safety seat

Examples of booster seats.




Fuel efciencyand helping ourenvironment

Improving fuel efciencyMost drivers can signicantly reducethe amount of fuel used by applying thefollowing basic driving practices.

When buying a vehicle, consider fuel-efcient models. Generally, the smaller

the engine, the less fuel it will use. Whenshopping for a new vehicle, look for itsEnerGuide label. This identies the vehiclefuel usage in terms of litres used for each100 kilometres driven (litres/100 km), andestimated annual fuel cost.

Travelling at higher speeds increasesfuel use. Every 10 km/hour above 90 km/ hour burns about 10 per cent more fuel.

Avoid quick acceleration. It is saferand more fuel-efcient to graduallyincrease your speed. As much aspossible, maintain a steady speed. Rapidacceleration and changes in speed canincrease fuel consumption by as much

as 40 per cent. Cruise control can helpmaintain a fuel-efcient steady speed onthe highway.

Idling wastes fuel. Ten seconds ofidling can consume more fuel than turningoff your engine and re-starting it. If youare parking for more than 10 seconds,

turn off your engine. For every 10 minutesof idling, the average vehicle uses aboutone-third of a litre of fuel. A vehicle witha larger engine can use up to one-half ofa litre.

Idling your engine is not the bestway to warm your vehicle in the winter.Idling warms the engine and possibly

the interior of the vehicle, but it does notwarm vehicle parts like the tires, steeringand other moving parts. These parts ofyour vehicle are only warmed by driving.

According to Natural Resources Canada,

one minute of idling on a cold winter dayis enough. Start your vehicle, and by thetime you brush off the snow and cleanyour windows, the vehicle is ready to go.

Use a block heater in the winter to warmthe engine oil and make cold starts easieron your engine. Use a timer to switch the

block heater on two hours before you planto drive.

Proper use of a block heater canimprove your vehicle’s overall fueleconomy by as much as 10 per cent. Donot leave your block heater on overnightor your energy savings will disappear inhigher electricity costs. Remote vehiclestarters are handy on cold mornings, butdo not start your vehicle too early.

A vehicle that is properly maintainedwill be more fuel efcient and safe. Haveregular maintenance checks done by aqualied mechanic.• A poorly tuned engine can increase

fuel consumption by up to 50 per cent.• A clogged air lter can reduce fuel

efciency by 10 per cent.• Under-inated tires increase fuel

consumption by about ve per cent,as well as increase tire wear andreduce traction.

To get maximum fuel economy on avehicle with a manual transmission, shiftthrough the lower gears smoothly andquickly. Build up speed in the highergears. An automatic transmission shiftsto a higher gear earlier if you reducepressure on the gas pedal as you



RESPONSIBLE DRIVING 93CHAPTER SEVEN

increase speed. You can improve your fuel efciency

in summer by minimizing your use ofair conditioning. Air conditioners usedin stop and go trafc can increase fuel

consumption by as much as 10 to 25 percent. At highway speeds, air conditioningincreases fuel consumption by three tofour per cent. To stay cool at highwayspeeds, use your vehicle’s ow throughventilation. When driving in the city, opena window.

Extra weight means using extra fuel.Heavy bags of sand and salt in the trunkwill help winter driving traction, but shouldbe removed when no longer needed.

Trip planning can save you time,money and fuel. Avoid trafc congestedroutes. Combine several errands intoone longer trip and avoid rush hourtrafc when possible.

Fuelling safety

Fuelling a vehicle should receive yourfull attention.• Do not smoke, light matches or use

a lighter when fuelling your vehicle.Gasoline vapours mix with air, whichcontains oxygen. If you add an ignitionsource such as cigarettes or matches,a re or explosion can occur.

• Do not use a cellular phone whilefuelling. Phones that light up when

switched on or when they ring mayhave enough energy to provide aspark. The spark could ignite gasolinevapours.

• Turn your vehicle ignition off beforefuelling.

• If you have a recreational vehicle (RV)or trailer, be sure that any pilot lightsare turned off. These could provide asource of ignition.

• Inform the station attendant if there is

a fuel spill.• Do not let children handle the fuel

nozzle. Do not expose your child to thepotential risk of being splashed withgasoline or inhaling fumes.

• Never prop the fuel nozzle handle openwith an object. This greatly increases

the chance of spills.• Stay by the nozzle handle during

fuelling. Static electricity can begenerated as you move around orget in and out of your vehicle. Whenyou return to the pump and touch thenozzle handle, static electricity couldbe released. This could ignite thegasoline vapours and cause a re orexplosion.

• Do not overll your tank. Overow andspills can affect the environment.

• When lling extra containers, such asgas containers for your lawn moweror snow blower, remove them from

your vehicle and place them on theground. This will allow static electricityto discharge and keep spills out of yourvehicle.

Trafc lawsHere are some trafc laws that all driversshould be aware of:• Do not use your vehicle to tow anyone,

for example, a person on skis, riding atoboggan, motorcycle or bicycle.

• It is against the law to let a person ridein a trailer when it is being towed.




• People under the age of 14 cannotoperate a tractor or any self-propelledfarm equipment on a highway.

• If the view from your inside rear viewmirror is blocked, you must attach an

outside rear view mirror on each sideof the vehicle.

• If a vehicle’s load extends 1.5 metres(5 feet) or more beyond the rear of thevehicle, the following is required: · During daylight hours, a red ag

should be attached to the end of

the extension or load. The agmust be at least 30 centimeters(one foot) long on each of the foursides ofthe square.

· At night, a red light must beattached to the end of the extensionor load.

• In a residential area, you must notoperate a vehicle in a way that disturbsthe residents between the hours of10 p.m. and 7 a.m.

• If you drive a vehicle on a roadwaywithout care and attention, or withoutreasonable consideration for others

using the road, you could be foundguilty of careless driving.

• It is illegal to operate your vehicle usingtwo lanes on a highway, except whenconditions cause the use of a singlelane to be impractical.

• When you are driving, you must not

allow anyone to ride on the outside ofyour vehicle. This includes the openbox of a pick up truck. You and theother person can be charged for thisoffence.



8

Sharingthe Road




Vulnerable roadusersPedestrians, cyclists and motorcycle ridersalso share the roadways with all vehicle

operators on a daily basis. These roadusers have less protection than drivers ofother types of vehicles. Be cautious whenoperating your vehicle around pedestrians,cyclists, and motorcycle riders.

Pedestrian safety

When you see a yellow ashingpedestrian-activated trafc light, slow to30 km/h and yield to pedestrians wantingto cross the street.• In an urban area, pedestrians may

indicate their intention to cross a streetby raising an arm at a right angle andpointing to the opposite curb.

• When pedestrians indicate theirintention to cross the street, you muststop your vehicle safely before the

crosswalk and allow them to cross.• When a pedestrian has entered a

marked or unmarked crosswalk, youmust yield the right-of-way.

• When stopping for a pedestrian ata crosswalk, stop far enough back(about two to three car lengths) so thattrafc in another lane will be able to

see the pedestrian and have time tostop.

• Never pass another vehicle when youare approaching a crosswalk. There isalways a chance that the other vehicle

is slowing or stopping for a pedestrian.• Not all crosswalks are marked, but the

rules of pedestrian safety should befollowed at all intersections.

• Be considerate of visually impairedpedestrians. Some will have a whitecane or guide dog.

• At night, do not over-drive yourheadlights. This means you shoulddrive so you are able to stop yourvehicle within the distance you canclearly see with your headlights.

• When it is dark, be alert forpedestrians. If they are wearing darkclothing, they can be difcult to seefrom a distance.

• Children can be unpredictable. Inresidential areas, watch for childrenaround parked vehicles, riding bikesor playing on the street. Glance underparked vehicles ahead on both sidesof the road to check for children’s

feet, toys, and bicycle wheels. Theseprovide warning that you may need tostop.

Bicycles

The law requires cyclists or passengers on

a bicycle, who are under 18 years of age,to wear an approved bicycle safety helmet.

Remember the following tips whensharing the road with a cyclist:• A cyclist who is walking beside and

pushing a bicycle is a pedestrian.

Pedestrian indicating intention to crossthe street.



SHARING THE ROAD 97CHAPTER EIGHT

• Cyclists are required to ride as closeas practicable to the right curb.However, they may need to ridefurther out when avoiding drainagegrates, pot holes, debris, gravel or

sand, wet or slippery surfaces, andrutted or grooved pavement. Beaware of the roadway conditions thatmay affect a cyclist.

• A bicycle that is being ridden is avehicle. A cyclist must follow therules of the road like drivers of other

vehicles. · A cyclist seated on a bicycle at an

intersection, waiting for a trafccontrol signal, has the same rightsand responsibilities as any othervehicle waiting to proceed.

· Cyclists are required to use theproper lane when turning left. Abicycle and rider are smaller thanother vehicles, are less visible, andmore exposed to trafc on left turns.Cyclists need extra considerationwhen turning left, especially onmulti-lane roads.

• When passing a cyclist, change lanes

like you would for other vehicles.• When you are preparing to turn right,

watch for cyclists who may ride alongside your vehicle. Remember to do ashoulder check to your blind spots tothe right.

• When parked at the curb, always check

for cyclists before you open your vehicledoor. It is the driver’s responsibility towait until it is safe before opening thedoor.

• Before moving away from the curb,check for cyclists who may be ridingpast your vehicle.

• Do not follow too closely behind

cyclists. They do not have brake lightsto warn you when they are stopping.

• Be alert for children on bicycles. Theymay lack the necessary knowledgeand skills for safe cycling around

trafc, and may not be aware of allthe dangers. Children on oversizedbicycles are at risk of losing control.

Cyclists using the streets andhighways should do the following:• Keep both hands on the hand grips

except when hand signalling.• Keep both feet on the pedals.• Only carry the number of people the

bicycle is designed to carry.• Never hold onto, or attach the bicycle

to any other moving vehicle.• Ride single le except when passing

another bicycle.• For cycling after dark, equip the

bicycle with at least one headlamp (butnot more than two), one red tail lamp,and at least one red reector mountedon the rear of the bicycle. Wear brightand reective clothing.

• Be sure the bicycle has brakes that

work well.• Be sure that the bicycle is equipped

with a bell or horn.

Motorcycles

Motorcycle riders often travel in the left

portion of their lane. This helps makethem more visible to other road users. Itdoes not mean they will be turning left.

Sometimes a motorcycle’s turn signalscan be hard to see. Watch the rider forclues. If the rider does a shoulder check,he or she may be intending to changelanes or turn.




When turning left, watch for oncomingmotorcycles. They can be hard to see,especially in heavy trafc, at night or atdusk. It may also be difcult to judge thespeed of the motorcycle.

Here are some tips to help you drivesafely when there are motorcycles onthe road:• Never share a lane with a motorcycle

rider. A motorcycle rider needs thewhole lane to travel safely.

• Be aware that motorcycle riders will

often move within their lane to avoidroad hazards like pot holes and tomaintain a space cushion from othervehicles.

• When you are following someoneriding a motorcycle, allow extraspace between your vehicle and themotorcycle because motorcycles canstop very quickly.

• Be aware that poor weather and roadconditions and road hazards couldmake the motorcycle rider lose control.

Commercial vehiclesHere are some tips that can help youdrive safely when sharing the road withlarge vehicles.• Keep adequate space between you

and large vehicles.• When you are behind a large vehicle,

increase your following time anddistance so your viewing area will belarger.

• Never move into the space in front ofa large vehicle that is approaching atrafc light. If the trafc light changesto red the driver may need thatextra space in front of the vehicle for

stopping and may not have enoughroom if another vehicle moves in front.Remember that a large vehicle needsextra distance to stop.

• If you are on a hill and stopping behind

a large vehicle, leave extra space infront of your vehicle. The large vehiclemay roll back when the driver releasesthe brakes.

• Large vehicles can spray debris, suchas rocks, onto your windshield. Staywell back to avoid damage.

• Be cautious around a large vehicle thatis backing. If you are too close behind,the driver may not be able to see youin the rear view mirrors.

• Large vehicles have blind spots. If youare driving behind a large vehicle andcannot see both of its side mirrors, youare too close. If you can see the driverin the side mirror, then the driver cansee you.

• You will need more time in theoncoming lane when passing a largevehicle. Do not pass unless you aresure that you have enough time anddistance to complete the pass safely.

Some large vehicles are long and maypull more than one trailer.

• Heavy commercial vehicles will requiremore distance to slow or stop. Afterpassing one, leave extra room beforeyou return to your lane in front of it.

This also applies to changing lanes in

front of one.• Heavy commercial vehicles require

extra room to turn. When a largevehicle is turning to the right, stay wellback and do not drive in the spaceon the right of the large vehicle. Yourvehicle could be squeezed betweenthe large vehicle and the curb or edge




of the road.• If you are on a road that a large vehicle is

turning onto, be aware that the operatorof the vehicle may need to drive acrossthe centre line, cut a corner, or use part

of your lane to complete the turn. Stopback from the intersection to allow theoperator the space to complete the turn.

• Large vehicles can create strong gustsof wind when passing, especially whenthere is a strong wind crossing the road.

This may affect your ability to control

your vehicle and maintain your laneposition.

• Drivers need to use caution whenapproaching and passing oversizedvehicle loads. Some oversized vehicleloads travel in a convoy with pilotvehicles to the front and rear of theconvoy. Oversized vehicle loads oftentravel at a reduced speed. Drivers ofoversized vehicle loads and convoystypically look for opportunities to allowtrafc to pass. If trafc buildup behindthe oversized vehicle load or convoybecomes heavy, the entire unit willtypically move off the travelled portion

of the roadway to allow trafc topass safely. Drivers who wish to passoversized vehicle loads or convoysshould ensure it is safe to do so bymaking sure they have enough room tomanoeuver around the oversized vehicleload or convoy and that they have an

adequate sightline to ensure there is nooncoming trafc.

Log hauling vehiclesLog hauling vehicles are long and heavywhen loaded.

• Never pass a log hauling truck thatis turning left or right off the highway.

The extension of the logs from the rearof the truck may be as long as ninemetres (30 feet). When these trucks

are turning, the logs can block all orsome of the lanes of the highway.

School busesSchool buses are operated at 90 km/hor less.

Students using a school bus can be at

risk when getting on or off the bus.

WHEN SCHOOL BUS LIGHTS AREFLASHING:On an undivided highway (not dividedby a median) , do the following:• When you approach a school bus from

either direction (from the front or therear), and it has the alternating amberlights ashing, you must be readyto stop. This is a warning that thealternating red lights are going to beginashing and the school bus is stoppingto allow students to get on or off.

Log hauling trucks may require all lanes of the highway when turning.




These rules apply whenever andwherever the school bus lights areactivated. Some municipalities have rulesfor school bus operation specic to theirregion.

SnowplowsWhen clearing snow from the roads,snowplows may create a snow cloudthat makes it difcult for drivers of other

vehicles to see them. It may also bedifcult to see past the snowplows foroncoming vehicles.

Here are some safety tips when drivingnear a snowplow:• Snowplows are equipped with ashing

amber and red lights to make themmore visible. Remember “ashingamber and red means snowplowahead.”

• Maintain a safe following distancebehind the snowplow. Mostmaintenance vehicles will have a signat the rear to let motorists know theminimum safe following distance.

Keeping this distance will give youmore time to react to the unexpected,and avoid rock damage to your vehiclefrom the snowplow’s sanding unit.

• Snow plow operators will move to theside of the road, where it is safe, every8 to 12 kilometers to allow vehicles to

pass. Even when passing is permitted,it is safer to stay well back until thesnowplow operator can safely moveover to allow vehicles to pass.

• Before passing a snowplow on atwo lane highway (one lane in eachdirection), be sure you can see farenough ahead and that passing is

permitted by the road markings orsigns.

When a snowplow is approachingfrom the opposite direction, look ahead

in your lane carefully. There may be anoncoming vehicle that is passing thesnowplow using your lane. Be preparedto use an escape route.

Railway crossingsNever try to outrace a train to a crossing.

Trains need a very long distance to cometo a stop. Always yield to them. Railwaycrossings are marked with signs. Theycan also have mechanical or electricalwarning devices.

ADVANCE WARNING SIGNS: These signs tell youto look, listen andreduce speed becauseyou may have tostop for a train. Thespeed sign below the

advance warning signis the recommendedspeed for the railroadcrossing. It will be lessthan the posted speedfor the road.




PAVEMENT MARKINGS:Pavement markings,such as an X and/ or stop line, maybe marked on the

pavement at theapproach to somerailway crossings. Ifyou must stop for atrain, do it before thestop line.

RAILWAY CROSSING SIGNS: These signs arefound at all publicrailway crossings. Arailway crossing signmeans drivers mustyield to all trains. Ifthere is more thanone railway track,the crossing sign willshow the numberof tracks. You must

stop when a train is visible or sounding asignal and approaching within 500 metres(about ve city blocks)

of the crossing.

RAILWAY CROSSING SIGNSWITH A STOP SIGN:

A stop sign at arailway crossingrequires the driver to

come to a completestop between vemetres (15 feet) and15 metres (50 feet)from the nearest rail.Do not proceed untilyou are sure a train isnot approaching.

FLASHING RED LIGHT SIGNALS AND BELL:

Red light signals areused with railwaysigns at many rail

crossings. Stopwhen the lights beginto ash and the bellsring because a trainis approaching. Thedriver of the vehiclenearest the crossing

must stop at leastve metres back from the nearest rail.Do not proceed until the lights and bellshave stopped, and the train has passedor has come to a complete stop. If thereis more than one track, be sure all thetracks are clear before crossing.

GATES (ARMS), LIGHTS AND BELLS:Gates are used with red light signals andbells at some railway crossings. Remainstopped until the gates are raised, thelights stop ashing and the bells stopringing.




Follow these safety tips whenever youare driving near railway tracks:• Do not get trapped on the railway

tracks at a railway crossing. Wait onthe approach to the crossing and

cross only when you are sure youcan clear the crossing.

• When the last car of a train passesthe crossing, make sure that anothertrain is not coming before you moveahead. A second train can comeon another track from a different

direction. You may not be able to hearthe second train because of the noiseof the rst one.

• Never drive around the gates. If thegate is down, or raising or lowering,do not cross the tracks.

• If your vehicle has a standard(manual) transmission, do not changegears while crossing the tracks. Ifyou cannot complete the shift, yourvehicle could be stalled on the tracks.

• If your vehicle stalls on arailway crossing, get everyoneout of the vehicle and away fromthe track immediately. If a train is

coming move well away from yourvehicle and away from the tracks. Ifpossible, go in the direction wherethe train is approaching. This willprevent you from being hit with yingdebris if the train hits the stalledvehicle.

• During poor weather or at night, bealert for advance railway warningand railway signs. Drive at a speedthat will allow you to be able to stopwithin the distance clearly lit by yourheadlights.

Remember, it may take a kilometre ormore for a train to stop, even under fullemergency braking. The safety of youand your passengers depends entirely onyou, the driver.

Vehicles carryingpassengers ordangerous goods

Commercial vehicles transportingpassengers or dangerous goods can berequired by law or company policy to stopat railway crossings. Be prepared to stopwhen you are following a commercialvehicle near a railway crossing.

Light rail transitLight rail transit (LRT) crossings inCalgary and Edmonton are similar toother railway crossings and requirepedestrians, cyclists and motorists touse caution in these locations.

LRT systems are powered byelectricity, which makes them very quiet.

These crossings use a variety of warningdevices like regular trafc signal lights,signs, bells and gates. These warnings allmean stop and do not cross the tracks.

Never drive around the gates, even if

an LRT train has just passed. Another onemay be coming from the other direction.Due to its weight and speed, a train maytake up to 100 metres (330 feet) to stop inan emergency.




Off-highway vehiclesWhen driving, be aware of off-highwayvehicles and their drivers operating closeto, or wanting to cross the highway. Use

caution if you see all-terrain vehicles,snowmobiles, or similar vehicles.

Funeral processionsIf you are driving your vehicle in a

funeral procession, you may follow theprocession through an intersectioncontrolled by a stop sign or a red trafccontrol light without stopping. You musthave your headlights on, and may onlyproceed if you are following immediatelybehind the vehicle ahead in theprocession, and it is safe to do so.

Do not pass through a funeralprocession. Yield the right-of-way until ithas passed before proceeding.



9

Driving Withinthe Law




Driver tness Are you t to drive?

Alcohol and drugs, some medications,

stress, fatigue (mental, emotional, andphysical), and lack of sleep will impairyour judgment and ability to responsiblyand safely operate a vehicle.

Alcohol, and prescription and over-the-counter medications also can impair your

judgment and vehicle-handling ability.

Fatigue

Fatigue can be deadly. It can be causedby:• lack of sleep or rest• emotional stress• boredom• driving for long periods of time• physical activity• illness• eye strain

Overeating, use of alcohol or drugs,or a warm vehicle can increase the

effects of fatigue.Fatigue can increase the time it takes

you to react. It can also impair your judgment and decision-making. This canresult in driving errors like driving off theroad or into another lane or oncomingtrafc. You may not realize that you are in

a dangerous situation or be able to reactquickly.

To reduce the risk, do the following:• Be sure you are well rested before you

start your trip.• Keep your vehicle at a comfortable

temperature. Make sure it iswell ventilated.

• Keep your eyes moving by scanningthe road ahead and behind. Stay alertto your surroundings and check yourvehicle’s gauges.

• Use sunglasses on bright days.

• If you are feeling tired, stop for a rest.Walk around your vehicle.

• Do not drive after drinking alcoholor taking drugs.

Drugs and medications

Some prescription and non-prescription(over-the-counter) medications canhave an impairing affect on yourvehicle-handling ability, judgment andresponsible decision-making whenoperating a vehicle. Side effects caninclude drowsiness or dizziness.

Talk with your doctor and pharmacist.Know the effects of all prescriptionand over-the-counter medication youare taking before operating any motorvehicle. Know what the effects of alcoholor drugs will be if you combine them withyour medication.

AlcoholChoosing to consume alcohol whileoperating a motor vehicle is a decisionthat carries a very high risk.

Drinking alcohol before and whiledriving continues to be a major cause of

trafc deaths and injuries in Alberta.From 2004 to 2008, each year

approximately 110 people died andanother 1,900 were injured in collisionsrelated to alcohol on Alberta highways.



DRIVING WITHIN THE LAW 107CHAPTER NINE

Illegal drugs or alcohol will impair yourdriving. Operating a vehicle safely andresponsibly requires that you be alert.Impairment begins with the rst drink ordrug use.

It is important that all driversunderstand the risks if drinking or druguse and driving, and realize that thereare risks, laws and penalties involvedwith this choice. You may face:• heavy nes• a criminal record

• time in jail• the loss of your operator’s licence

privileges• increased vehicle insurance premiums• damage to property• serious injury or death • loss of employment, if driving is

required as part of the job

Driving responsiblyDemerit points andconsequences

Demerit points are recorded againstyour driving record when you areconvicted of an offence.

You are convicted of an offencewhen you:• pay the ne assessed on your ticket

voluntarily

• appear in court and are found guilty• fail to appear in court and are

‘convicted (guilty) in absence’

Convictions and times when youroperator licence privileges have beensuspended remain on your driving recordfor 10 years and will appear on your

driver’s abstract.

FULLY-LICENSED DRIVERS:If you have accumulated eight to 14demerit points within a two year period,

you will receive a letter notifying you ofyour demerit point standing.

If you have accumulated 15 or moredemerit points within a two-year periodyour operator’s licence privileges willbe automatically suspended for a periodof time.

When the time of your suspensionhas been served, your operator’slicence privileges will be reinstated withseven demerit points remaining on youroperator’s licence record. These pointsremain on your operator record for aperiod of two years from the assesseddate.

GRADUATED DRIVER LICENCE(GDL) DRIVERS:If you have accumulated four to sevendemerit points within two years, youwill receive a letter notifying you of yourdemerit point standing.

If you have accumulated eight or moredemerit points within a two-year period,your operator’s licence privileges will beautomatically suspended for a period oftime.

When the time of your suspensionhas been served, your operator’s

licence privileges will be reinstated withthree demerit points remaining on youroperator’s licence record. These pointswill stay on your operator record for aperiod of two years from the assesseddate.




Offence

Failing to remain at the scene of a collision

Careless driving

Failing to stop for a school bus

Racing

Speeding (exceeding limit by at least 51 km/h)

Failing to stop at a railway crossing (School bus or a vehiclecarrying explosives, gas or ammable liquids)

Failing to stop for a peace ofcer

Failing to yield right-of-way to a pedestrian in a crosswalk

Following too closely

Speeding (exceeding limit by 31 to 50 km/h)

Driving to the left of the yellow line / Driving left of center on

unmarked two-wayDriving in the wrong direction on a one-way highway

Failing to report a collision

Failing to stop at an intersection controlled by a stop sign

Failing to stop for a red light at an intersection

Impeding passing vehicle

Improper passingStunting

Speeding (exceeding limit by 16 to 30 km/h)

Failing to obey instruction of trafc control device

Improper backing - backing into an intersection or crosswalkor unsafe backing onto a highway

Improper turns

Improper turns - U-turn

Trafc lane violation

Speeding (exceeding limit to maximum of 15 km/h)

Points

DEMERIT POINT PENALTIES FOR FULLY-LICENSED AND GDL DRIVERS:

7 points

6 points

5 points

4 points

3 points

2 points

For a complete listing of the Demerit Point Program visit: www.transportation. alberta.ca/525.htm




FULLY-LICENSED AND GDLDRIVERS:Operator’s licence privilege suspensions:

• First – automatic one monthsuspension.

• Second (within one year) – automaticthree month suspension.

• Third (within two years) – automatic sixmonth suspension. You will be requiredto attend a hearing with the Alberta

Transportation Safety Board.

You are required by law to give upyour operator’s licence on or before thedate your suspension begins. This can bedone at any Alberta Registry Agent ofce.

You may be eligible for a RestrictedOperator’s Licence. For more

information, visit www.transportation. alberta.ca/2566.htm.

You may not appeal a demeritpoint suspension. Convictions can onlybe removed from your driving recordby an appeal through the courts.Contact any Alberta Provincial Court

for more information.When two years have passed from the

date of a conviction, the demerit pointsassessed for that conviction are removedfrom your operator’s record.

If a Government-approved defensivedriving course has been successfullycompleted prior to accumulating 15

or more points, a maximum of threedemerit points may be removed fromyour driving record once in a two year

period. Contact a driving school for moreinformation about government-approveddefensive driving courses.

Driving lawsFederal: Criminal Code ofCanada

Offences related to impaired driving are:• impaired driving regardless of blood

alcohol content• blood alcohol level over the legal limit• drug or drug-alcohol combination or

a toxicological (blood or urine) sample• refusing to provide a breath or

blood sample• impaired driving causing bodily harm• impaired driving causing death• driving while suspended or disqualied

If you are found guilty under theCriminal Code of Canada of driving whileimpaired, and you have:• a prior offence in the last 10 years,

you will be disqualied from holdingan operator’s licence for three years from the date of the conviction

Offence

Curfew - driving between midnight and 5 a.m. (Class 7 Learner

stage only)Having more passengers than seat belts

Supervisor (accompanying driver) not fully qualied

Points

DEMERIT POINT PENALTIES SPECIFIC TO GDL DRIVERS:

2 points




Alberta has progressive administrativesanctions for impaired driving convictions:

1st Criminal Code Charge within10 years:

· Sustained licence suspension until

your criminal charges have beendealt with by the courts

· Towing and impound charges · 3 day vehicle seizure

· If convicted of the criminal codeoffence, the driver is suspendedfor one year and must participate

in the mandatory Ignition InterlockProgram for one year

· If convicted, the driver mustcomplete a “Planning Ahead”impaired driving course

2nd Criminal Code Charge within10 years:

· Sustained licence suspension untilyour criminal charges have beendealt with by the courts

· Towing and impound charges · 7 day vehicle seizure

· If convicted of the criminal codeoffence, the driver is suspended

for three years and must alsoparticipate in the mandatory IgnitionInterlock Program for three years

· If convicted, the driver mustcomplete an “IMPACT” weekendimpaired driving course, which mayinclude assessment and monitoring

3rd Criminal Code Charge within10 years

· Sustained licence suspension untilyour criminal charges have beendealt with by the courts

· Towing and impound charges

• two or more prior offences in the last10 years, you will be disqualied fromholding an operator’s licence for ve

years from the date of the conviction.• if a death or injury occurs as a result

of an impaired offence, the minimumlicence suspension is ve years evenfor a rst offender.

Provincial: Trafc Safety Act

ALBERTA ADMINISTRATIVE LICENCE

SUSPENSION (AALS) PROGRAM: The Alberta Administrative LicenceSuspension (AALS) Program deals withalcohol, drug-related impaired drivingoffences and refusal to provide breathor blood samples. This includes illegaldrugs as well as legal drugs such asprescription medication with side effectsthat may cause the driver to be impaired.

ADMINISTRATIVE LICENCESUSPENSIONS:

An Administrative Licence Suspension willbe issued to a driver charged under theCriminal Code for:

• Blood alcohol content greater than .08• Ability to operate a motor vehicle

is impaired by alcohol, drugs or acombination

• Refusal to comply with a lawfuldemand of a peace ofcer (e.g.,for a breath sample)

Drivers charged with an alcohol ordrug related impaired driving offence willface an immediate licence suspension,which remains in place until the criminalcharge is resolved.




3rd Subsequent offence within 10years:

· Immediate 30 day licencesuspension

· Towing and impound charges

· 7 day vehicle seizure · Complete the “IMPACT” or

equivalent and may includeassessment and monitoring

· Attend a mandatory Alberta Transportation Safety Board hearing

ALBERTA 24 HOUR SUSPENSION This suspension is given to drivers whoseability to operate a motor vehicle hasbeen impaired by a physical or medicalcondition, or by drugs or alcohol. A24 hour licence disqualication will beissued.

Operator’s licencesuspensions anddisqualicationsIn addition to any penalties under the

Criminal Code of Canada, the Provinceof Alberta will suspend your operator’slicence privileges and impose conditionsyou must meet to have your drivingprivileges reinstated. The Province of

Alberta suspension is served at thesame time as a court-ordered driving

prohibition.

Driving while your operator’slicence privileges aresuspended or disqualied

If you operate a motor vehicle while youroperator’s licence driving privileges are

suspended or disqualied you can facetime in jail, nes, or both. In addition, ifyou are currently serving a suspension,you will face another suspension. Thevehicle you are driving will be seized and

impounded for 30 days regardless ofwho is the registered owner. All towingcharges and impound fees will becharged to the registered owner of thevehicle.

Your operator’s license drivingprivileges can be suspended or

disqualied. If you receive an operator’slicence suspension or disqualicationyou will receive notication via registeredletter to the last recorded address onyour operator’s licence record, fromDriver Fitness and Monitoring , indicatingthe reasons for your suspension ordisqualication.

If your operator’s licence drivingprivileges are suspended ordisqualied , your Notice of Suspensionletter will identify the length of yoursuspension or disqualication and theconditions that you must meet to haveyour driving privileges reinstated.

When you have met the conditions ofyour suspension or disqualication youwill receive another letter from DriverFitness and Monitoring, indicating thatyour suspension or disqualication hasbeen removed and the date you areeligible to operate a motor vehicle.

Reinstatement of youroperator’s licence privilegesas a result of an alcohol ordrug related offence

When you are convicted of an alcohol,drug, or alcohol-drug-related offence,




your operator’s licence privilegessuspension takes effect at that time.

A Notice of Suspension will be sent toyou by mail to the last recorded addresson your operator’s licence. Make sure

your operator’s licence has your currentaddress.

Suspensions remain in effect untilall the conditions on the Notice ofSuspension are met. This includes driverswho have left the province. Read yournotice carefully to ensure you have

met the conditions of your suspension. Ifyou have not met the conditions of yoursuspension your driving privileges maynot be reinstated.

The Notice of Suspension will includeall the conditions that must be met priorto reinstatement of your driving privileges.

For an alcohol, drug, or alcohol-drug-related driving charge some of theconditions that you may have to meetare:

1. Attend a one day driver program.2. Attend a weekend driver program.3. Mandatory participation in the

Ignition Interlock Program.

You will also be required to pay thereinstatement fee and take a road test.

After your suspension period is over,you must go to an Alberta Registry Agentofce and provide proof that you havemet your reinstatement requirements. The

registry agent will then be able to issueyou an operator’s licence. A written noticethat says your driving privileges havebeen reinstated will be mailed to you.

If your operator’s licence expiresduring the suspension period, it cannotbe renewed until all the conditions forreinstatement have been met.

Ignition interlock program

WHAT IS THE IGNITION INTERLOCKPROGRAM?If you have lost your driving privileges

through an impaired driving conviction,the Ignition Interlock Program canallow you to gain driving privilegeswith conditions. Depending on thecircumstances, participation may bevoluntary or mandatory.

The program is mandatory for:

• all drivers who have more thanone alcohol-related Criminal Codeconviction in the past ten years

• rst offences when the driver isconvicted for driving with a blood-alcohol concentration (BAC) greaterthan the legal limit of 0.08

• Drivers who refuse to provide abreath, blood or toxicological (bloodor urine) sample

• The Alberta Transportation SafetyBoard must approve your participation.

• You will have to pay all costsassociated with the installation andmaintenance of the approved ignition

interlock device.

More information about this programcan be found at www.atsb.alberta.ca.

Reinstating your operator’slicence privileges as a

result of a demerit pointsuspension

OPERATOR’S LICENCE SUSPENSION• A Notice of Suspension letter will be

mailed to the last address recordedon your motor vehicle le. It is yourresponsibility to notify an Alberta




Registry Agent ofce anytime youchange your mailing address.

• The Notice of Suspension letter willindicate the conditions that must becompleted prior to reinstatement of

your driving privileges.• The Notice of Suspension will

indicate the effective date of yoursuspension.

• You must turn your operator’s licenceover to any Alberta Registry Agentofce on or before your effective date.

It is illegal to be in possession of youroperator’s licence while you are servinga suspension. It is a serious offence tooperate a vehicle while servinga suspension.

• You must serve the term ofthe suspension.

PROVINCIAL SUSPENSIONSProvincial suspensions may be imposedfor reasons such as a poor driving record,failure to pay a legal judgment, medicalreasons, or failure to comply with a Noticeto Report.

Alberta TransportationSafety Board (ATSB)Driving a motor vehicle is an earned

privilege that carries a considerableamount of responsibility. The drivinghabits of each motorist contribute tothe level of trafc safety in Alberta. Theprimary purpose of the province’s driverlicensing system is to supervise habitsand apply enforcement where necessary.In order to achieve this goal, the ATSB

concentrates on driver rehabilitation.Individuals having to appear before the

ATSB may appear with or without legalcounsel.

The ATSB may suspend, for a

denite or indenite period of time,the operator’s licence of any personreferred by the Registrar, the Minister,by the courts or police. The ATSB mayorder that a person take an educationprogram or prescribe other conditionsto hold an operator’s licence.

Before suspending or restricting drivingprivileges, the ATSB gives the personat least 10 days notice in writing (unlessdriving privileges are already suspended).

In making a decision, the ATSB takesinto consideration the person’s drivingrecord, driver attitude, driving skills andknowledge, driving disabilities and anyother factors it considers relevant.




Registration andlicence plate

You must have valid registration from an Alberta registry for your trailer and it must

be with you when you are towing thetrailer. There must also be a valid licenseplate attached to the rear of the trailerand clearly visible. The registration andlicence plate are required before the trailercan be used on the road.

Equipment• Your trailer must have working tail-

lights, brake lights and turn signals thatare activated from the towing vehicle.

• If you have a ball-and-socket hitch,you will also need to attach safetychains between the trailer and thetowing vehicle. Chains should becrossed under the tongue of the trailerand fastened securely. This applies toall trailers except fth-wheel trailers.

• If your trailer is equipped with asecondary emergency breakaway

system, be sure that the system isconnected properly according to themanufacturer’s instructions.

• Adjust your vehicle’s mirrors so youcan see the trafc clearly that isapproaching from behind. You mustuse extension mirrors if the trailer is

wider than the vehicle that is towingthe trailer.

Brakes are required on a trailer if theyare needed to control the safe movementof the trailer. However, the followingtrailers do not require brakes:• trailers with a gross weight of 910

kilograms (2,000 pounds) or less, or• trailers with a gross weight that is less

than half the unloaded weight of thevehicle that is doing the towing.

Towing a trailer• Allow more time and distance than

you would without a trailer betweenoncoming vehicles and your ownbefore you enter into trafc. It willtake you longer to reach the speed ofthe trafc ow because of the extraweight of the trailer. As well, you needmore space to accommodate theadded length of the trailer.

• It will take you longer to stop. Increasethe following distance between youand the vehicle ahead.

• If you are driving on a multi-lanehighway, remember that slower-

moving vehicles should travel in theright lane.

• Plan your driving. Look well aheadto anticipate and manage potentialhazards. Avoid situations that mayrequire quick lane changes orunexpected stops.

• If trafc builds behind you, nd a safeplace to stop off the road to allowothers to pass.



TOWING A TRAILER 117CHAPTER TEN

Turning at intersections

TO TURN LEFT:• Approach the turn slowly. When you

are close to the intersection, travel

near the right edge of your lanewithout crossing or extending any partof your vehicle or trailer into the nextlane. This will give you more room tocompletethe turn safely.

• Begin your turn when the front of your

vehicle is even with the left side of yourintended lane.

• Glance occasionally in your left outsidemirror at the trailer wheels duringthe turn. The trailer wheels will travela path that is inside the path of thewheels of your vehicle. This is calledoff-tracking.

• To allow for the off-tracking, steertowards the right side of the lane onthe road you are entering.

• As soon as your trailer is through theturn safely, steer the vehicle into thecentre of your lane.

• To turn right, reverse these directions.However, If you do not allow for theoff-tracking you could make contactwith a curb, a parked vehicle or apedestrian.

Backing a trailer

Backing a trailer takes practice. At times,to manoeuvre the trailer when reversingyou will turn the steering wheel in theopposite direction than you would whenreversing without the trailer.

When using a vehicle to back a trailer,

do the following:• Have someone guide you.• If you do not have a guide, walk to the

back of the trailer to be sure the pathbehind is clear.

• Always reverse at not more than awalking pace.

Turning left when towing a trailer - note path of the vehicle and trailer wheels.

Turning right when towing a trailer - note path of vehicle and trailer wheels.



TOWING A TRAILER 119CHAPTER TEN

NOTES

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