Professional Driver's Manual

Professional
Driver’s
Manual
Working with drivers
to make our roads safer.
Introduction
As an applicant for a professional (Class 1, 2, 3 or 4)
driver’s licence, you will need to know the information
given in this manual and the Driver’s Handbook. These
manuals contain the basics of safe, professional driving.
As a professional driver you will have to ensure that

your vehicle is properly maintained by performing
pre-trip and post-trip inspections and, when necessary,
in-service and pre-hill inspections.
Drivers must know and obey all laws and regulations

for the areas in which they are operating and can be
held responsible if they do not obey.
Before learning to drive a Class 1, 2, 3 or 4 vehicle, you

must get authorized instruction in the class of vehicle
you want to be licensed in. This manual will explain the
types of driver’s licences available and how to go about
getting one. When you are ready, Driver and Vehicle
Licensing will test your ability to operate the class of
vehicle you wish to drive.
This manual has no legislative sanction. For interpreting

and applying the law, consult The Highway Traffic Act,
The Drivers and Vehicles Act and their respective
Regulations.
Sales of this manual are final and not refundable.

Table of Contents
Introduction Inside front cover Fire Prevention 21
The Class Licence System Foldout in front Lighting, Reflectors and Markers 21
Basic Licensing Requirements Foldout in front Trucks and Buses 22
Trailers 24
Table of Contents 1
Headlights 26
How to Book Your Test Appointment 3 Night Driving 26
Winnipeg 3 Vehicle Operation 27
Portage la Prairie or Thompson 3 Steering – Hand Position 27
Arborg, Beausejour, Brandon, Dauphin, Steinbach, Accelerator 28
Winkler or at a Mobile Test Unit 4 Clutch 28
Key points about your tests 4 Double-Clutching 28
When to Change Gears 29
Section One Engine RPM 29
Class 1 to 4 Driver’s Licence Requirements 5 Automatic Transmission 29
Medical Standards 6 Manual Transmission 30
Medical Examination Report 6 Shift Before Starting Down a Hill 30
Hearing 6 Shift Before Entering a Curve 30
Vision 6 Shift Before or After Railway Crossings 30
Medical Re-Examinations 6 Visibility and Safety 30
Knowledge Test 6 Danger Zone 32
Authorized Instruction 6 Shrinking the Danger Zone 33
Road Test 7 Speed-Weight-Distance 33
Commercial Driver’s Licence (CDL- U.S.) 7 Timed-Interval Following Distance 34
Commercial Driver Abstract 8 Four-Second Rule When Driving a Taxi,
Vehicles with Air Brakes 8 Ambulance or Van 34
If You Drive a Bus, Truck or Truck and Trailer 35
Section Two
Traffic Tempo 35
Efficient and Safe Vehicle Operation
Tailgaters 36
for all Classes of Vehicles 9
Slow-Moving Vehicles 37
Fuel Efficiency 10
Braking 37
Making smart choices 10
Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) 38
Caring for your vehicle 10
Combination Braking 38
Smart driving practices 11
Runaway Lanes 39
Keeping up with road conditions 11
Engine Retarders 40
Driving defensively 12
Checking Tires, Wheels and Fasteners 40
Driving While Impaired 13
Common Driving Conditions 43
Alcohol 13
Passing 43
Prescription Drugs 13
Being Passed 43
Illegal Drugs 13
Lane Changing 44
What are the Consequences 13
Curves 44
Licence Suspension for Other Criminal
Intersections 45
Code of Canada Convictions 14
Backing 46
Driving While Suspended — Consequences 14
Parking Lots, Alleys and Side Roads 49
Safety Considerations 15
Unattended or Parked Vehicles 49
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning 15
Railway Crossings 50
Emotions 15
Adverse Weather Conditions 53
Drowsiness and Fatigue 15
Reduced Visibility 53
Hours of Service Regulation 16
Winter Driving 54
Border Crossings 16
Winter Ice Road Driving 54
Seat Belts 17
Gusting or Strong Winds 56
Air Bags 17
Hydroplaning 56
Distractions 18
Wet Brakes 57
Safety Equipment 19
Skids and Their Causes 58
Vehicle Fires 20
Overbraking 58
Fire Extinguishers 21
Professional Driver’s Manual • 1

Overaccelerating 58 Documentation 92
Oversteering 59 Transporting Explosives 93
Skid Control and Recovery 59 Transporting Livestock 93
To Avoid Skids 59 Transporting Hanging Meat 94
Jackknifing 61 Transporting Bulk Material 94
Test Yourself on Section Two 61 Transporting Liquids 94
Special Driving Considerations for Tank Trucks 94
Section Three
Transporting Dry Bulk 95
Additional Information for Class 1 and 3 Drivers 63
Highway Train 95
Types of Vehicles 64 Dangers of Skidding and Jackknifing with
Turning 65 a Highway Train 96
Turning Radius 65 Highway Train Loading 96
Off-Track 65 Tow Truck 96
Turning at Intersections 66 Test Yourself on Section Three 97
Turning Safely 66
Right Turns 67 Section Four
Button Hook 68 Additional Information for Class 2 and 4 Drivers 99
Extended Approach 68 Buses 100
Lane Straddling 69 School Buses 100
Left Turns 70 Railway Crossings 100
Button Hook 70 Taxicab 101
Extended Approach 71 Emergency Vehicles 101
Lane Straddling 72 Driving a Bus 102
Backing a Tractor and Trailer 73 Right Turns 102
Straight Line Backing Skill Test 74 Left Turns 102
Connecting Vehicles 74 Leaving the Curb 103
Coupling a Tractor and Trailer 75 Parked Car Hazards 103
Uncoupling a Tractor and Trailer 76 Passenger Safety 104
Vehicle and Load Dimensions 77 Inside Lights 104
Height 78 Cleanliness of Vehicles 104
Overheight 79 Vehicle Inspection 104
Width 79 Defects and Breakdowns 104
Overwidth 79 Fuelling 104
Length 80 Baggage 104
Overlength 80 Loading and Unloading Passengers 105
Pilot Vehicles 80 Safety Provisions 105
Weight 80 Driver’s Vision 105
Overweight 80 Standing Passengers 105
Period of Spring Road Restrictions 81 Refusal to Transport Passengers 105
Liability for Damage by Overweight Vehicles 81 Passengers With Disabilities 105
Bridges 81 Test Yourself on Section Four 106
Weigh Stations 81
Section Five
About Loads and Loading 82
Vehicle Pre-trip Inspection 107
Weight Distribution 82
Approximate Distribution of Total Pre-trip Circle Check Illustration 108
Weight-Vehicle Plus Payload 84 Vehicle Condition 110
Securing Loads 85 Pre-trip Circle Check Examination 110
Load Projections 86 Pre-trip Circle Check Tear Out Sheet 119
Night Travel by Oversize Vehicle 86 In-Service Inspections 121
Farm Equipment on Roads 86 Post-Trip Inspection 121
Fastening Tailgate 86 Pre-Hill Inspection 121
Transporting Dangerous Goods 87 Section Six – For Your Information 123
Classifying Dangerous Goods 88
Driver Training Schools 124
Safety Marks 88
Special Labels and Placards 91 Metric Conversion Table 125
Dangerous Goods Routes 92
Organ and Tissue Donation 127
2 • Professional Driver’s Manual

The Class Licence System
Manitoba Licence Class Allows the Licence Holder to Operate Minimum Age Medical Requirements Requirements Test Charges
Class 1 Road test

Semi-trailer trucks including all vehicles in Classes 2, 3, 4, and 5.
$50
1
1 Class 2 Road test
Buses having a seating capacity of over 24 passengers (while carrying
passengers), school buses2 having a seating capacity over 36 passengers Must meet
$45
2 (while carrying passengers). Includes all vehicles in Classes 3, 4 and 5. medical and
vision standards. • Must hold a minimum Class 5 Intermediate or Class 5 Authorized
Instruction licence to obtain authorized instruction in Classes 1–4. Class 3 Road test
Medical report • Must pass knowledge test. $45
Trucks with more than two axles, including any combination required on • Requires supervising driver for Authorized Instruction.
of vehicles, OR a truck with two axles towing a vehicle with a
18 initial application
+4,540 kg • Must pass road test. For Classes 1, 2, 3 or 4 (buses and trucks only), the test
registered gross vehicle weight of more than 4,540 kg (but does not and periodically includes a pre-trip inspection of vehicle (and air brake system if applicable) Class 4 Road test
include a semi-trailer truck). Includes all vehicles in Classes 4 and 5. thereafter based by the applicant.
3 on the age of $35
the driver.
Taxis, ambulances, and other emergency vehicles, buses1 with a

seating capacity between 10 and 24 passengers (while carrying
Knowledge Test
passengers) and school buses2 with a seating capacity between 10
4 and 36 passengers (while carrying passengers). Includes all vehicles $10
in Class 5.
Passenger cars, a bus while not carrying passengers, trucks with two
axles, and any combination of vehicles consisting of a truck with
two axles and a towed vehicle with a registered gross vehicle weight Class 5 Road test
16 • Must pass knowledge and sign tests for Class 5 Learner licence
of up to 4,540 kg. May operate Class 3 vehicles if registered as a (minimum nine-month Learner Stage). (Must wait seven days for re-tests.) $30
Medical report
farm truck and the driver holds a Class 5 Intermediate or Full Stage • Requires supervising driver for a Class 5 Learner Stage or Authorized
required when
Licence. Instruction.
or 15M requested.
May operate a Moped 3, if 16 years of age or older. • Requires supervising driver for a Class 5 Intermediate if carrying more
if enrolled
Must meet vision than one passenger between the hours of 12 midnight and 5 a.m.
Note: A person must hold a valid minimum Class 5 Intermediate Stage
5 driver’s licence to operate a special mobile machine, implement of
in high school
driver education
standards. • Must pass road test to advance to the Intermediate Stage (minimum Knowledge Test
husbandry or tractor on a provincial highway, or a highway within the 15-month Intermediate Stage). (Must wait 14 days for re-test).
course $10
municipal boundaries of a city, town, village or urban municipality. For
further information please call 204-985–7000 or toll-free 1 800-665-2410.
• Driver must hold a valid licence of any class and stage.

Class 6 Road test
Medical report • Must pass knowledge test. (Must wait seven days for re-tests.)
• Must obtain Class 6 M Stage licence in order to complete motorcycle training $30
required when
requested. course. The course is required before Learner Stage Licence is issued. (Contact
Motorcycles. 16 Manitoba Safety Council for motorcycle course charges.)
6 Must meet • Minimum nine-month Learner Stage.
vision standards. Knowledge Test
• Must pass road test to advance to the Intermediate Stage (minimum
15–months Intermediate Stage). (Must wait 14 days for re-test.)
$10
Practical Test
• Must pass knowledge test. $30
Air Brake Endorsement—permits the holder to drive vehicles • Must pass Air Brake practical test for “A” (Authorized) endorsement.
equipped with Air Brakes in the class of vehicle for which the • Must pass adjustment of the manual slack adjusters for “S”
person is licensed. Drivers of a Class 3 truck registered as a farm (Slack Adjuster) endorsement.
truck equipped with air brakes are exempt from this requirement. • There is no additional charge for the Air Brake practical test if it is completed
Air Brake
Knowledge Test
Endorsement
at the same time you are road-tested for a higher class of licence.
$10
1. A bus is any vehicle with a seating capacity of at least 11 persons (including the driver) used primarily to carry passengers. It excludes vehicles used for personal transportation by the owner or with the owner’s permission. All charges are
2. School bus certificate is required. For further information contact the Manitoba Education, Training and Youth, Pupil Transportation at 204-945–6900. subject to change.
3. Mopeds are not allowed to be driven on highways with a speed limit exceeding 80 km/h, but may cross these highways.
Basic Licensing Requirements
The Manitoba Class Licence Application and Test Requirements D) Road Test New Resident
Applicants for either a Class 1, 2 or 3 driver’s licence, who have New residents to Manitoba may operate a motor vehicle in
System A) Age Limits and Licence Requirements
never held that class of driver’s licence from any jurisdiction Manitoba with their valid out-of-province licence for up to
Manitoba’s Class Driver’s Licence System recognizes the Any person 18 years of age or over who holds a minimum must wait at least two weeks after they are issued Authorized three months before getting a Manitoba driver’s licence.
professional from the non-professional driver. To promote Class 5 Intermediate Stage or Class 5 Authorized Instruction Instruction in that class before taking a road test. Drivers must Testing requirements may be waived if you surrender a valid
safety for all road users, drivers must meet vision, medical, driver’s licence and meet the required knowledge, visual and also hold a minimum Full (F) Class 5 driver’s licence. and equivalent class driver’s licence from another jurisdiction.
knowledge and skill standards in order to operate a particular medical standards for that class may apply for Authorized
The road test not only measures your ability to operate a For further information on new resident drivers, please call
class of vehicle. Instruction in Class 1, 2, 3 or 4.
specific class of vehicle, it also identifies errors that need to 204-985-7000 or toll free at 1-800-665-2410.
B) Visual and Medical Requirements be corrected. You will be required to operate your vehicle in
Who Must Take a Driver Test? typical traffic situations in a safe and legal manner. You will
You must take a driver test for the class of vehicle you wish to All applicants for a Class 1 – 4 driver’s licence must file a
be judged on your driving skills. Only authorized Manitoba To find out how to book your test appointments,
drive if you: medical report approved by Manitoba Public Insurance
Public Insurance employees may ride with you during see pages 3 and 4.
before taking a knowledge test. Applicants who fail to
• have never been licensed for the class of vehicle; the test.
meet the minimum medical standards will be denied a
• have not held a Manitoba licence within the past four years; Class 1 to 4 licence. A pre-trip inspection of the vehicle will also be needed for
• hold a licence from outside Canada, the United States; or
Class 1, 2, 3 and School Bus tests. Change of Address or Name
other jurisdictions whose licences are not exchangeable. In addition, a medical report must be filed based on the age of
the driver. Drivers with certain medical conditions may have Charges for road tests are as follows (subject to change): You must notify your Autopac agent or Manitoba Public
You may be required to be re-tested if you: to file more often.
Class 1...$50 Class 2 or 3... $45 Class 4...$35 Insurance within 15 days of any change in your name or
• have been involved in traffic accidents or have convictions; The applicant must also meet the minimum Class 1 to 4 address.
Class 5 or 6...$30 Air Brake...$30
• have had your licence suspended; or vision standards. Applicants who fail to meet the minimum
Senior drivers (65 or over) are exempt from knowledge and For more information:
• have a disease or disability that may affect your ability vision standards, with or without corrective lenses, cannot
to drive safely. road test charges. Talk to your Autopac agent
obtain a Class 1 to 4 licence. If corrective lenses are required for
Please make sure you check-in 15 minutes before your In Winnipeg, call us at 204-985-7000
driving, this will be indicated on your licence. A vision report
Authorized Instruction appointment time. You must bring a vehicle in good Outside Winnipeg, call us toll free at 1-800-665-2410
may be needed.
To learn to drive Class 1 to 4 vehicles, drivers must apply for working order and produce a Vehicle Registration Certificate
Manitoba Health will NOT pay for third party requests for
Authorized Instruction in the class of vehicle they want to confirming the vehicle is properly registered and insured.
a medical report including related examinations, tests or
drive. To obtain Authorized Instruction in classes 1 to 4 a driver License plates must be properly stickered to confirm
telephone calls to the physician. Applicants are responsible for
must hold a minimum Class 5 Intermediate Stage (I) or Class 5 registration and insurance as well as the display of any other
these costs.
Authorized Instruction Stage (A) driver’s licence, meet medical required stickers (i.e. vehicle inspection stickers). Failure to do
standards, pass the knowledge test and pay any charges C) Knowledge Test so will result in the cancellation of the road test.
required. To take a road test, the driver must hold a Full For a Class 1, 2, 3 or 4 licence and for air brake and school Only one road test per class of licence (Class 1 to 4) is allowed
Class 5 driver’s licence. bus knowledge tests, applicants must pass the knowledge per day. You may repeat a road test (Class 1 to 4) on the next
Holders of Authorized Instruction for Class 1, 2, 3 and 4 must test for the class of licence they are applying for. This is not an working day. An applicant who demonstrates dangerous
be accompanied by a person who holds a valid licence and has open book test and cellular phones or electronic devices cannot driving during their road test may have to get permission
held a minimum Full Class 5 licence for at least three years, be used during the test. The knowledge test charge is $10 from the Manager of Driver Testing before attempting another
of which two years are the same class of licence being sought. (subject to change) per test. Only one knowledge test per class road test.
This person is known as the supervising driver and must sit in of licence (Class 1 to 4) is allowed per day. You may repeat a
the seat nearest the driver. Class 1 to 4 Air Brake or School Bus knowledge test on the next
working day.
Note: Effective November 1, 2003, a person must hold a
valid minimum Class 5 Intermediate Stage driver’s licence to
operate a special mobile machine, implement of husbandry
or tractor on a provincial highway, or a highway within
the municipal boundaries of a city, town, village or urban
municipality. For further information please call 204-985-7000
or toll-free at 1-800-665-2410.
Test Appointments
How to Book Your Knowledge or Road Test
1 Visit any Autopac agent* to pay for your test and to schedule
your test appointment.
2 The agent can provide you details of available appointments
at any testing location.
3 You can schedule your test appointment up to eight weeks
in advance.
Test Locations
Winnipeg
• 15 Barnes Street (at Bison Drive)
• 40 Lexington Park (at Gateway Road)
• 1284 Main Street
• 930 St. Mary’s Road (French Language Services available)
• 125 King Edward Street East
• 1103 Pacific Avenue
• 420 Pembina Highway
Outside Winnipeg
• Arborg | 323 Sunset Boulevard
• Beausejour | 848 Park Avenue
• Brandon | 731–1st Street
• Dauphin | 217 Industrial Road
• Portage la Prairie | 25 Tupper Street
• Selkirk | 1008 Manitoba Avenue
• Steinbach | 165 Park Road West, Unit 2, Clearspring Village Mall
• Thompson | 53 Commercial Place
• Winkler | 355 Boundary Trail
Mobile Test Units

Mobile Test Units serve rural customers living outside Service Centre
communities. Locations and schedules are available from any
Autopac agent.
*For a list of Autopac agents, see mpi.mb.ca.

Key Points About Your Tests
Cost*
• A knowledge test costs $10.
• Costs for road tests:
• Class 1 licence: $50 • Class 5 licence: $30
• Class 2 or 3 licence: $45 • Class 6 licence: $30
• Class 4 licence: $35 • Air Brake: $30**
*Cost may change

**There is no additional charge for the air brake test if you are taking a road test for a class
1, 2, 3, 4 or 5 licence and the vehicle you are using for the test is equipped with air brakes
• No cost applies for tests in these two situations:

• You’re 65 or older; or
• Our Medical Compliance and Assessments department requires you
to take the test
General Testing Information

• There is a 30 minute time limit to complete a knowledge test
• Both knowledge and road tests are conducted during weekdays

only (with the exception of holidays) at most locations. Saturday
appointments are available at some Winnipeg locations
• Only one knowledge or road test of the same class may be completed
per day
• There is a waiting period between the knowledge and road test for
some classes of licences
• If you are in Graduated Driver Licensing and are not successful on your
knowledge test, there is a seven day waiting period before you may take
the test again
• If you are in Graduated Driver Licensing and are not successful on

your road test, there is a 14 day waiting period before you may take the
test again
• The knowledge test is not an open book test. Cellular phones and
electronic devices are not allowed in the test area
• Please check-in 15 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment time
If you need to call one of these locations other than to book a

test appointment:
• In Winnipeg call 204–985–7000
• Outside Winnipeg call 1–800–665–2410
Section 1
Class 1 to 4 Driver’s
Licence Requirements
Your Guide
Professional
to Professional Driving • 5
Driver’s Manual
Applicants for professional driver’s licences must hold For information regarding Medical Examination
a valid minimum Class 5 Stage A (Authorized Report Forms or questions about a medical condition
Instruction) or I (Intermediate Stage) driver’s licence, please contact:
be 18 years of age, and medically fit and able to operate
Manitoba Public Insurance
vehicles safely by meeting the following standards:
Medical Records
Box 6300
Medical Standards Winnipeg, Manitoba R3C 4A4
Telephone: 204-985-1900
Medical Examination Report Toll Free: 1-866-617-6676
Applicants need to have a Medical Examination
Report form filled in and signed and approved by Medical Re-Examinations
Medical Records prior to taking the knowledge test. Under The Drivers and Vehicles Act the Registrar of Motor
Medical Examination Report forms are available from Vehicles requires certain drivers to be medically
your Autopac agent or Manitoba Public Insurance re-examined to determine their fitness and ability
Service Centre. to drive. All Class 1, 2, 3 and 4 drivers must submit
a Medical Examination Report form:
People with certain medical conditions may be
prohibited from holding a Class 1, 2, 3 or 4 driver’s • every 5 years to age 45
licence. However, most people with medical conditions • every 3 years to age 64
or physical disabilities may be considered for a higher • annually at age 65 and over
licence class provided specific medical standards are
met. Drivers who are prohibited by the Registrar to Drivers may also need to be retested for their class of
apply for a higher licence class are informed of their licence related to a medical condition. This may include
right to appeal the decision to the Medical Review a vision screening, a knowledge test and a road test in
Committee once complete medical information is filed. the type of vehicle for the class of licence held. A pre-trip
inspection and air brake inspection may also be required.
Hearing Drivers may change to a lower driver’s licence
classification if they do not wish to hold the higher
Drivers must meet specific hearing standards depending
classification. In such cases, the medical requirements
upon the class of licence desired and the type of goods
of the lower licence classification must be met.
transported. If a hearing impairment exists, an
audiogram report may be required. Hearing aids may
be used to achieve the hearing standards. Knowledge Test
Contact the Medical Records Section as listed below for The knowledge tests for Class 1, 2, 3 and 4 are based on
further information. this manual. The knowledge test is not “open book”.
Vision
Class 1, 2, 3 and 4 (emergency vehicles) drivers must Authorized Instruction
have a vision acuity no less than 6/9 with both eyes open Upon meeting the above requirements the driver
and examined together with the worse eye no less than will be issued Authorized Instruction in the class of
6/30. Visual fields must not be less than 150° with both
licence wanted.
eyes open and examined together. Class 4 drivers
restricted to operating taxi cabs only must have a visual Holders of Authorized Instruction for Class 1, 2, 3 and 4
acuity of 6/12 in both eyes open and examined together must be accompanied by a person who holds a valid
with the worse eye no less than 6/60. Visual fields licence and has held a minimum Full Class 5 driver’s
must not be less than 120° with both eyes open and licence for at least three years, of which two years are
examined together. the same class of licence wanted. The supervising driver
must be seated by the driver.
Drivers who are applying for a Class 1, 2, 3 or 4 driver’s
licence and who require corrective lenses to meet the
required visual standards may pass their vision
screening while wearing glasses or contact lenses.
Drivers wearing contact lenses are advised to carry
glasses with them at all times while driving since
there may be times when contact lenses have to be
removed because of eye irritation.

For information regarding driver testing call:
Road Test
Telephone: 204-985-7000
• A road test must be completed in a vehicle
Toll Free: 1-800-665-2410
appropriate to the class of licence sought. If you
are uncertain please telephone your closest driver or visit a Service Centre or mobile testing unit
testing centre before the road test to be sure of the in your area.
type of vehicle to bring for the test.
• A pre-trip inspection of the vehicle is part of

Commercial Driver’s Licence
this test and is explained later in this manual. (CDL-U.S.)
Road test charges are not refundable if the test
A Manitoba Class 1, 2, 3 or 4 driver’s licence is acceptable
is cancelled because the vehicle fails to meet
as a Commercial Driver’s Licence (CDL) in the United
vehicle standards under The Highway Traffic Act
States. For operation under the U.S. Federal Highway
and its Regulations. Vehicles must have an
Administration (FHWA), you must be 21 years of age and
adequate, clean/dry seat and seating area for
carry a completed medical card.
the driver examiner.
Drivers operating in the U.S. will have to participate
• An inspection of the air brake system is required if
in a drug and alcohol testing program administered by
the vehicle has air brakes; applicants must ensure
their employer.
they have the necessary tools and equipment to
do a brake adjustment on air brake-equipped FHWA Regulations apply to businesses that operate
vehicles. The Air Brake Manual gives information commercial motor vehicles in the U.S. and their drivers
on air brake system inspection and adjustment. are required to have a CDL.
For more information contact:
Manitoba Trucking Association

25 Bunting Street
Winnipeg, Manitoba R2X 2P5
Telephone: 204-632-6600
• Inadequately completing the pre-trip and/or air

brake inspections will result in stopping and
failure of the road test.
• You must produce your valid vehicle registration

before your road test. Failure to do so will result
in a non-refundable road test cancellation.

Commercial Driver Abstract Vehicles with Air Brakes
Under the National Safety Code a motor carrier’s safety If a vehicle has an air brake system, the operator must
fitness rating is affected by the driving offences of its have an air brake endorsement on their driver’s licence.
employees. The Commercial Driver Abstract includes The endorsement is shown in the “Air Brake” section
more information about an individual’s driving record on the driver’s licence certificate.
than a non-commercial driver abstract. This information
To obtain an air brake endorsement, you must pass
will help a motor carrier decide how an employee’s,
a knowledge test and a practical test based on the Air
or a potential employee’s, driving record will affect its
Brake Manual. Air Brake Manuals are available at your
safety fitness rating.
Autopac agent or Manitoba Public Insurance Service
The Commercial Driver Abstract includes information Centres throughout the province at a nominal charge.
about convictions under various legislation including:
The air brake test is carried out on a vehicle supplied by
• The Transportation of Dangerous Goods Act (Canada) the applicant and includes:
• The Dangerous Goods Handling and Transportation Act • a practical demonstration of a pre-trip brake
and Regulation inspection along with a verbal explanation of the
air brake components and their functions;
• The Anhydrous Ammonia Handling and
Transport Regulation • for authorization in manual slack adjustment
you must show that you can adjust at least
• Generator Registration and Carrier Licencing Regulation
one manual slack adjuster and any that are
• The Manifest Regulation out of adjustment.
• Drivers Hours of Service Regulation Note: If a driver’s licence is air brake endorsed and
the holder wishes to upgrade to a Class 1, the complete
• Periodic Mandatory Vehicle Inspection regulation
air brake test for a combination vehicle must be
• Securement of Vehicle Loads Regulation successfully completed.
• Vehicle Weights and Dimensions on Classes of

Highways Regulation
• Commercial Motor Vehicle and Trailer Trip

Inspection Regulation
• The Highway Traffic Act
• The Criminal Code of Canada
• The Drivers and Vehicles Act
Individuals can get a copy of their own driver abstract,

either commercial or non-commercial, by applying and
paying the required fee. An employer must have written
permission from an individual before a copy of an
employee’s, or potential employee’s, driving record
will be released to him or her. The fee for the
Commercial Driver Abstract is the same as the fee
for the non-commercial Driver Abstract.
For more information contact:
Manitoba Public Insurance

Driver Records
Box 6300
Winnipeg, Manitoba R3C 4A4
Telephone: 204-985-0980
Toll Free: 1-866-323-0544
Facsimile: 204-954-5357

Section 2
Efficient and Safe
Vehicle Operation for all
Classes of Vehicles

provide low rolling resistance as well as lower height
A Growing Priority: and less weight.
Fuel Efficiency • Choose lighter truck specifications where appropriate.
As fuel supplies decline and prices fluctuate, Less vehicle weight means better fuel economy and
independent drivers and major transport companies can also offer more freight capacity increasing income
are struggling to accurately budget for fuel costs—and per kilometer travelled.
are actively searching for ways to keep those costs • Use accessories such as oil pan heaters and block
under control. heaters (to help with cold starting and hasten
Of course, money isn’t the only consideration. The lubrication), fuel heaters (to prevent fuel gelling),
environment is a key factor, too. Nearly 30% of all thermostatically controlled engine fans, winter
greenhouse gas emissions in Canada are produced by fronts, battery blankets and in-cab auxiliary heaters
the road transportation sector, a significant portion of to improve productivity and fuel efficiency.
them from heavy-duty vehicles. Fortunately, there are Dealing with the weather
many practical decisions you can make as a driver to be
more fuel-efficient—from vehicle spec’ing to at-the- Weather conditions affect fuel efficiency. Driving on
wheel techniques and behaviours. snow-covered roads can increase fuel consumption by 15
to 20%, and fuel economy can be significantly affected
Making smart choices by heavy winds. Here are a few ways to minimize the
You may not be able to fight rising gas prices, but your effects of weather:
driving habits can reduce the amount of fuel you burn. • Avoid bad weather where possible by changing trip
Here are some steps you can take: times or routes.
Preparation and planning • Adjust speed to suit the conditions, e.g., reduce speed
• Plan your route carefully: flat routes are more fuel when there’s a strong head wind.
efficient than mountainous routes; highway driving • Slow down and maintain safe following conditions in
is more fuel efficient than “inner city” driving. order to better anticipate other vehicles in front of
• Carefully consider your spec’ing options and always you.
maximize your payload: instead of 60% capacity, try • Don’t park your tractor-trailer on an icy grade—
to achieve 80 or 90% capacity. getting stuck wastes fuel and time.
• Read the owner’s manual for your vehicle and follow
The road best travelled
the manufacturer’s driving recommendations.
Choosing to drive a flat, multi-lane highway improves
Fuel and your engine
your fuel efficiency by:
• When the temperature is above zero degrees, summer
• 4 to 11% compared to a flat two-lane highway;
fuel is recommended. Use summer fuel: it can
improve fuel economy by as much as 3%. • as much as 18% compared to a mountainous
highway; and
• A direct drive transmission instead of an overdrive
transmission may reduce fuel consumption by up • 25 to 35% over taking a suburban route.
to 2%.
Caring for your vehicle
Vehicle choice and accessories
Preventative maintenance plays a huge role in
• Optimize tractor aerodynamics: reducing maintaining the health and efficiency of your vehicle.
aerodynamic drag by 10% can increase fuel When your truck is serviced properly, you can run more
efficiency by 5%. efficiently and avoid unexpected downtime. Small
problems should be fixed before they become bigger—
• Consider using doubles or triples instead of single
and more expensive. In addition to regularly scheduled
trailers where applicable.
maintenance, you should also:
• Use rib design tires in all positions: it’s more fuel
• Ensure your tires are inflated according to the
efficient than using lug tires on the drive and
manufacturer’s recommendations—1% of fuel is
steering axle.
wasted for each 10 pounds per square inch of
• Consider using low rolling resistance tires. When underinflation.
spec’ing a new truck remember that super single tires

• Before you hit the road, make sure you’ve done a pre- • Always use the clutch, failure to do so can wear the
trip inspection—not only is it the law but it can also gear teeth down in the transmission.
help you avoid unwelcome breakdowns during your
• Practice progressive gear shifting at approximately
travels.
1600 rpm. Shifting before you reach the maximum
• Perform a post-trip inspection to spot problems that governed rpm reduces equipment wear, decreases
could delay you next time. noise levels and saves fuel.
• Ensure all fluid levels are correct—underfilling and • Run the engine in the highest gear range to keep it in
overfilling can both damage your vehicle. a low rev range.
• Monitor your restriction indicator for signs of the air • Use your retarder properly and turn it off when you
filter becoming plugged or contaminated. don’t need it—let the terrain work for you.
• Continually monitor your vehicle’s condition during Idling: A Special Note

your trip: check gauges, tires and cargo every three
hours. Idling a class eight truck engine* burns up to four litres
of fuel per hour at 900 rpm. Turn off your engine when
Smart driving practices you stop for any length of time—you will save fuel,
Fuel efficiency starts when you turn your engine on. reduce maintenance requirements, prolong engine life
Proper warm-up helps lubricate components and seals and prevent unnecessary emissions. If a 10-truck fleet
reducing wear and leakage. Starting your truck properly were to cut idling by an hour a day for 260 days, it
can save money on fuel. Keep the following in mind: would save approximately 10,400 litres of fuel ($11,440
at $1.10 per litre). A 100-truck fleet would save $114,400
• When starting your vehicle make sure you use zero and a 500-truck fleet $572,000.
throttle, and are in a gear that doesn’t need any
throttle. * Class eight truck: a truck over 14,969 kgs (33,000 lbs) GVWR.
• Don’t pump the throttle of a fuel-injected engine: the Taking advantage of technology
amount of fuel required for starting is pre-measured.
New engine designs offer great benefits, delivering
Similarly, don’t pump the throttle when cranking
more horsepower and torque in lower rpm ranges. You
with older mechanical engines: it wastes fuel and
can downshift at about 1200 rpm and upshift at about
can damage cylinder walls.
1600 rpm—rather than 2000 rpm. You shift less, save
• Use ether sparingly when having difficulty starting money, and generate fewer emissions.
your engine: excessive use can harm the engine.
Keeping up with road conditions
• Let your vehicle warm up for three to five minutes—if
Smart, fuel-efficient driving is also safe driving.
the temperature is below 0 degrees Celsius allow it to
Different road and traffic conditions present different
warm up for seven to 10 minutes. Don’t rev it; let it
challenges. As a driver, it’s important for you to keep
warm up gradually.
the following in mind:
• Ensure oil and air pressure are in their normal
• Light: Adjust your driving per visibility. Wear
operating ranges during start up.
sunglasses in bright conditions and reduce speed in
• Warm your vehicle up after the initial idle time by poor light conditions.
driving easily; don’t try to get too much speed out of
• Posture: Keep your seat adjusted to the correct
the engine by pushing the throttle down hard.
position for comfort, alertness, visibility and access to
• Back off the accelerator when going over the top of a controls.
hill and let gravity and momentum do the work.
• Traffic: Try to travel at the same speed as other
• Use cruise control where appropriate. traffic, staying within the speed limit. Be considerate
and give way to other drivers.
• Reduce your average speed--driving fast eats up fuel
no matter what you drive. Street smart
• Change gears smoothly—shifting professionally will Managing your road speed with smart driving
result in about 30% improvement in operating costs. techniques allows you to keep your speed more constant
and increase fuel efficiency. Generally, for every 10
km/h over 90 km/h you use 10% more fuel.

Driving defensively
Smart driving is both an attitude and a skill. A sharp
mind and shrewd decision making can go a long way
toward protecting your safety and the safety of others—
not to mention increasing fuel efficiency. Defensive
driving allows you to anticipate hazards and maintain a
constant speed. When you drive defensively, you
conserve your momentum—which means you don’t
have to continually build up lost speed. Power not used
is fuel not burned. Here are some helpful tactics:
• Don’t let frustration push you into making unsafe

passes or other maneuvers.
• Look ahead and anticipate stops. It’s more efficient to

coast to a stop than to brake.
• Maintain a safe following distance of four seconds.
• Be aware of your blind spots and check them

regularly.
• Be aware of your own physical and mental condition

including the effects of alcohol and drugs, age,
attitude, illness, fatigue, emotion and diet.
Safe stopping
Keep a safe following distance so you can always brake
safely and efficiently. Driving at 70 km/h requires a
stopping distance of about 300 feet (90 meters).

Driving While Impaired Prescription Drugs
Tranquillizers, antidepressants, sleeping pills and
Alcohol similar prescription drugs can affect driving ability
Impaired drivers are some of the most dangerous, even if taken in the prescribed dosage. Accordingly,
unpredictable people on our roads and cause about half if you continue to drive while impaired by medication,
of all traffic deaths in this province. This is why, in you can be charged with driving while impaired. This
Manitoba, the laws for drinking and driving are severe. will result in the same consequences as if you were
impaired by alcohol. Discuss the possible effects of any
If your ability to drive is impaired, you may be charged medication with your doctor or pharmacist. Always
with impaired driving regardless of the level of alcohol carry prescription drugs in their original containers.
found in your blood. The safest rule to follow is: if
you drink – don’t drive. Impaired drivers usually fail Illegal Drugs
to recognize they are impaired. Alcohol or drug Illegal drugs may cause hallucinations, hostility, and
impairment delays reaction times, distorts vision aggressiveness in addition to dulling normal thought
and impairs judgment. Never mix drugs and alcohol – processes and slowing down eye-hand coordination.
even in small quantities.
Remember, alcohol is a depressant, not a stimulant.

What Are the Consequences?
It reduces alertness and slows normal reflexes. If you’ve Anyone who operates a motor vehicle or an Off-Road
had too much to drink, black coffee, food or a cold Vehicle (ORV) and has a blood alcohol concentration
shower won’t sober you up – only time will eliminate between .05 and .08 will face a variety of consequences
alcohol from your body. including:
Possession of alcohol in a commercial vehicle is strictly • An immediate 24-hour roadside licence suspension;
prohibited in the U.S. unless it is part of the load and
• A $50* driver’s licence reinstatement charge;
is manifested. In Manitoba, alcohol must be out of the
reach of the driver and the seal cannot be broken. • A mandatory impaired driver’s assessment at your
expense, if you have more than one 24-hour roadside
warning suspension in three years.
In addition, any driver with a blood alcohol level over

.08 or who refuses to provide a breath or blood sample to
police, or refuses a Field Sobriety Test (FST) may face
additional consequences including:
• An immediate 24-hour roadside licence suspension;
• An automatic three-month licence suspension;
• A vehicle impoundment except special mobile

machines (SMMs);
• A mandatory impaired driver’s assessment at

your expense;
• Additional driver’s licence premium of $1,000

or more.
Drivers convicted** of an alcohol-related or drug-related

driving offence under The Criminal Code of Canada will be
suspended and disqualified from driving any kind of
motor vehicle. A conviction** will result in a court-
imposed Canada-wide driving prohibition for a
minimum one year, and a mandatory driver’s licence
suspension from one year to life.

Some licence suspensions, disqualifications and court
imposed driving prohibitions can be appealed to the Driving While Suspended —
Licence Suspension Appeal Board.If successful in their Consequences
appeal, drivers may be required to participate in
Vehicles and off-road vehicles (ORVs) will be
Manitoba’s Ignition Interlock Program for alcohol
immediately impounded for a minimum of 30 days for
related driving suspensions and/or prohibitions.
driving while the person is suspended or prohibited
* Charges and additional driver’s licence premiums are from driving, or if the person is disqualified from
subject to change. operating an ORV.
** A discharge under The Criminal Code of Canada for certain The vehicle will be impounded even if it is owned or
driving related offences may be treated as a conviction registered by someone other than the operator at the
under The Highway Traffic Act. time of the offence. It is the owner’s responsibility to
ensure that the user is not suspended, prohibited or
Licence Suspension for disqualified. Vehicle owners will be responsible for the
costs of towing and storage, plus an impoundment fee,
Other Criminal Code of Canada which must be paid before a vehicle is released.
Convictions Additional consequences of driving while suspended

Driving a vehicle in Manitoba is a privilege. People can include:
convicted* of certain offences under The Criminal Code of • Imprisonment for up to five years and/or fines of up
Canada will lose that privilege. Some examples of these to $2,000;
offences are: dangerous driving, criminal negligence,
flight from police, auto arson, auto vandalism, take • A non-appealable licence prohibition under The
vehicle without owner’s consent, auto theft, possession Criminal Code, which means that a work licence cannot
of property obtained by crime, and possess, sell or be obtained;
purchase master keys. • A lifetime driver’s licence suspension under The
A conviction* of any of these offences results in an Highway Traffic Act; and,
automatic driver’s licence suspension or eligibility to • Additional driver’s licence premiums once the driver’s
obtain a licence. It also disqualifies you from operating licence is reinstated.
an off-road vehicle. Anyone convicted of any such
offence faces a driver’s licence suspension ranging from
one year to life. Offenders under 16 years of age will
have their suspension start on their 16th birthday.
* A discharge under The Criminal Code of Canada for certain

driving related offenses may be treated as a conviction
under The Highway Traffic Act.

Safety Considerations Drowsiness and Fatigue
Most transport workers experience fatigue-related
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning problems. These problems are not unique to
Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning is an ever-present truck driving.
danger when you operate a motor vehicle. CO is It is estimated that driver fatigue or extreme tiredness
odourless, colourless, tasteless, and hard to detect. is a factor in 30% to 40% of all heavy truck fatalities.
It is in the exhaust fumes of most motor vehicles. Drivers who are fatigued suffer from impaired memory,
This makes it essential for you to keep a constant reduced alertness, concentration and ability to respond.
check on your exhaust system for leaks.
Studies indicate that drivers are usually unaware they
Never run your engine in a closed garage. Don’t follow are becoming fatigued and may exceed their own
any vehicle too closely, and maintain a safe distance personal limits, which significantly increases the risk
between your vehicle and the one in front of you when of having an accident. It is important that a driver
you are stopped at traffic lights or stops signs. maintain a regular sleep pattern as much as possible.
If you get dizzy or drowsy while driving, stop, get out A proper diet and exercise will also help. Exercise can be
and get plenty of fresh air. accumulated during the day. This can be accomplished
by exercising three times for 10 minutes over the course
Emotions of the day. This is the same as one 30 minute exercise
Some accident investigations have traced the cause of period. Before starting any exercise program consult
the accident to an emotional disturbance that distracted with your physician.
the driver’s attention from the driving task.
Circadian rhythms – this is the internal clock that tells
Safe driving demands the full attention of the driver the body when to wake or sleep. The majority of people
at all times. are most alert during the day and require rest at night.
Depending on an individual’s makeup, most people
Arguments at home or at work, anger directed at other
require between six and eight hours of rest per night.
drivers, illness or financial problems are some of the
things that can preoccupy a driver’s mind and distract If enough sleep is not obtained over an extended period,
attention from the important job of driving. the body will start to accumulate sleep debt that must
be repaid. The sleeping time that has been missed must
Safety demands a driver’s complete and constant
be made up with extended periods of sleep. Most people
attention to driving situations.
will notice they need a rest and will sleep many more
hours than usual when they have gone for an extended
period of time (usually after eight to 10 days) with
reduced sleep. If a person continually robs their body
of sleep for long periods, it will begin to affect
their health.
If you’re tired, get some sleep!
A driver may experience a condition called “micro

sleep”. This is a short period of time, usually just
seconds, when the brain tunes out what is going on
around it. A driver will have no knowledge of the last
few seconds or sometimes minutes, cannot recall
what has passed and may miss a highway exit or drive
by a weigh station.
Fatigued drivers may also experience “highway

hypnosis,” where they become inattentive because of
uninteresting terrain. When this happens, drivers may
not be aware of their surroundings and will not be alert
to changing traffic conditions. They could tailgate a
vehicle and not be aware of the potential danger until
it is too late.

Drivers who are extremely fatigued may fall asleep
when driving down the highway. Before this happens,
pull off the road and get some sleep.
Sleep hygiene is the length and quality of sleep

a person receives daily. It is important for drivers
to obtain a sufficient amount of quality sleep.
The effects and onset of fatigue are different for each

person. It cannot be regulated or controlled other than
by you. It is important to watch for the warning signs,
and do what your body tells you.
The Canadian Trucking Association produced

a publication called “Straight Talk on Fatigue and
Alertness.” It is a valuable guide and audio tape
to help drivers identify the first signs and symptoms
of fatigue. They also have other audio tapes on fatigue
that could be beneficial to a driver. Contact:
Manitoba Trucking Association

25 Bunting Street
Winnipeg, Manitoba R2X 2P5
Telephone: 204-632-6600
Hours of Service Regulation

This regulation has been developed to help drivers and
companies manage the driver fatigue factor, which is
a major cause of truck accidents. It is important that
professional drivers know very well about the hours of
service regulations.
For information on hours of service regulations contact:
Motor Carrier Division

Telephone: 204-945-3890
Border Crossings
Whenever a vehicle is crossing the border between
Canada and the United States, the driver must stop
and report to a customs officer. All drivers must report
even if their load is in transit or bonded. There are
no exceptions.
For information on border crossing, please contact:
Government of Canada
Customs Services
Toll free: 1-800-461-9999

Air Bags
Many vehicles are now equipped with air bags. They
have been shown to reduce injury in high-speed
collisions. Air bags work because they reduce the shock
of the collision by distributing the impact over a larger
surface area of the body.
Air bags can be mounted in front of and beside the

driver and front seat passenger. Some vehicles may also
have side curtain air bags which cover the side windows
front and back. The area in front of air bags must be
kept clear, do not place items on the dash where the
air bag is located. If your vehicle is equipped with air
bags, you should position your seat to a position that is
also at least 25 cm (10 inches) from the steering wheel.
This allows room for the air bag to inflate and protects
you from further injury.
Consult your owner’s manual for safety precautions.
In a few instances, you may need to deactivate an air

bag. You must have approval from Transport Canada
to do this. For more information, call Transport Canada
at 1-800-333-0371.
Seat Belts
When provided all drivers and passengers must wear the
complete seat belt assembly in the cab or sleeper berth,
unless exempted by law. It is the driver’s responsibility
to ensure that every minor is properly secured. Children
who have not yet attained the age of five and are
under 23 kg in weight must be secured in a child
restraint device.
No person shall operate a motor vehicle if the seat

belt assembly has been removed or modified to reduce
its effectiveness.
Vehicle accidents are the leading cause of head injuries

suffered by thousands of Manitobans every year. Seat
belts play a significant role in reducing head injuries.

Distractions
Distractions can be dangerous because they reduce
your ability to respond as quickly as you should to
emergencies. For example, studies show that there is
a direct connection between cell phones and dangerous
driving. Drivers who talk or text on a cell phone while
they're behind the wheel significantly increase their
crash risk.
That's why Manitoba is making it illegal for drivers to

use hand-held cell phones when they are behind the
wheel of a vehicle. This law came into force on
July 15, 2010.

Safety Equipment
All public service vehicles used for carrying passengers,
vehicles used for carrying flammable goods (loaded or
not) and pilot vehicles must carry fire extinguishers
approved by the Motor Transport Board. The fire
extinguishers must be kept in good working order.
Other vehicles may have to carry a fire extinguisher
as specified in a permit. However, it is recommended
that all vehicles carry a fire extinguisher.
All public service vehicles or trucks with a registered

gross vehicle weight exceeding 3,700 kg must always
carry two flares (lights or lanterns) or two reflectorized
devices of a type and design approved by the Highway
Traffic Board. Should a vehicle become disabled, it
should be moved as far off the travelled portion of the
highway as possible. Warning devices must be placed
about 60 m ahead and 60 m behind the disabled vehicle.
Place reflectors so that they will be illuminated

by lights of any approaching vehicles.
It is recommended that every vehicle also carry

a first-aid kit, fire axe, tools for minor repairs and
survival gear when operating in cold weather
and sparsely settled areas.

Vehicle Fires 4. Whenever possible, fight fires with the wind at
your back. (To lessen the chance of suffocation).
Fighting a fire efficiently requires quick thinking and
fast action based on training. All drivers should inspect 5. For an electrical fire, disconnect battery cables
the fire fighting equipment on their vehicle daily. Know first whenever possible. (Shutting off switches
the types of fires that could occur on a particular vehicle, and disconnecting battery cables of vehicles
as well as with the load being carried. involved in accidents can prevent fires from
leaking fuel, etc.).
The following is a general guide that could prevent loss
of life or personal injury and reduce property damage: 6. If a fire starts under the hood, don’t throw the
hood open: raise the hood very slightly to fight
1. Don’t risk your own life. Fuel fires can spread
the fire. If the hood cannot be raised, spray the
quickly or explode.
fire extinguisher from underneath the vehicle
2. Have the first passer-by call the fire department. or through the radiator.
Warn others of the danger of explosion by fuel or
7. Use the fire extinguisher only enough to knock
flammable loads, or exposure to toxic substances,
down the flames; keep some in reserve for
and tell them to keep back a safe distance.
flare-ups.
3. If a fire occurs on a combination unit, disconnect
8. Water spreads fuel, oil and grease fires. Use fire
the tractor from the trailer and separate the units
extinguishers, sand or dirt to smother the fire.
to a safe distance apart, but only if you are sure
you can do so safely.

Fire Extinguishers
Lighting, Reflectors
Multi-purpose dry chemical fire
extinguishers marked (B.C.) extinguish and Markers
grease, oil, fuel and electrical fires. Important note: Every lamp, reflex reflector, and
If the cylinder is marked A.B.C., it will conspicuity treatment must be permanently attached
also extinguish Class “A” fires such as in the location specified below and must comply
paper, cloth, etc. The operator can with all applicable requirements prescribed for it
safely use this extinguisher without by FMVSS/CMVSS 108. The face of any device on
fear of health hazard or bodily injury. the front/rear and sides should be, respectively
Don’t use a CO2 (carbon dioxide) perpendicular and parallel to the vehicle’s centerline,
extinguisher in an enclosed space; unless it is photometrically certified at installation
there is danger of suffocation, and angle. No part of the vehicle shall prevent any device
it may cause blistering of the skin. from meeting its prescribed requirements unless
an auxiliary device meeting all prescribed
Fire Prevention
requirements is installed.
Fire prevention in and around a vehicle
is easier and cheaper than a vehicle In Canada: Manufacturers and importers of vehicles
fire. Practice the following rules: must have the proper certification test records
demonstrating compliance of lighting components
• Never start a vehicle with a fuel leak. Repair the with all prescribed requirements.
leak, wipe up any fuel spilled on the vehicle and
the ground. Source: Transport Canada
• Shut off engines when refuelling vehicles.
• Always ground the fuel hose nozzle against

the filler pipe of the truck tank when fuelling.
• Don’t smoke in garages or near fuelling areas.
• Never throw cigarette butts out of

vehicle windows.
• Check tire pressure often. Soft tires build-up heat.

Tires which have been run when soft or flat
should be left to cool before the vehicle is moved.
If you must move the vehicle, the tire should be
replaced first.
• Ensure parking brakes are fully released and

service brakes are adjusted properly. Dragging
brakes generate heat and can ignite grease
in the wheel hubs when the vehicle stops.
Make frequent checks of hubs and brake drums
for overheating.
• Never start propane heaters with the trailer

van doors closed.
• Keep fire extinguishers in good

working condition.

Trucks and Buses
Basic Equipment required on all trucks and buses
Description Mandatory Requirements
SAE Lens Functional Height mm (in.)
Area Equipment Coding Purpose Quantity Colour Location from the ground
Headlamps – Lower Beam (H, HR) Forward road illumination Minimum White On the front – symmetrical 560–1370
US requires “DOT” lettering on lens 2 as far apart as practicable (22–54)
US & Canada – light source code required on lens If 4 lamp system – outboard or above upper beams
Headlamps–Upper Beam (H, HR) Forward road illumination Minimum White On the front – symmetrical 560–1370
US requires “DOT” lettering on lens 2 If 4 lamp system – (22-54)
US & Canada – light source code required on lens inboard or below lower beams
1
Parking Lamps (P) Indicate parked vehicle Minimum White or On the front – symmetrical 380–1530
Vehicles less than 2032 mm wide 2 Yellow as far apart as practicable (15–60)
Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) (Y2) Indicate in use vehicle Minimum White or On the front – symmetrical 380 (15) min.
Canada – required / US – option 2 Yellow as far apart as practicable Max. depends
US requires “DRL” lettering on lens if not headlamp on type of DRL
Front Turn Signal/ (I) Indicate direction of turn/ Minimum Yellow On the front – symmetrical 380–2110
Hazard Warning Lamps identify disabled vehicle 2 as far apart as practicable (15–83)
Front Clearance Lamps (P2, PC* or Show vehicle’s width Minimum Yellow At widest point – symmetrical on the As high as
2 Vehicles 2032 mm wide or wider P3, PC2*) 2 front or near the front facing forward practicable
* photometrically certified at installation angle
Front Identification Lamps (ID) (P2 or P3) Indicate presence of Exactly Yellow On the front – center As high as
3 Vehicles 2032 mm wide or wider a wide vehicle 3 horizontally spaced 150 mm (6 in.) practicable or
to 300 mm (12 in.) apart on top of the cab
a Front Side Marker Lamps (P2, PC* P3, PC2*) Minimum Yellow Each side at front as far 380 (15)
*photometrically certified at installation angle 2 forward as practicable minimum
4 Front Side (A) Front and rear side Minimum Yellow At front – symmetrical as far 380–1530
b Reflex Reflectors marker lamps /side 2 forward as practicable facing sideward (15–60)
reflex reflector
Rear Side Marker Lamps ** (P2, PC* or Minimum Red Each side at rear 380 (15)
indicate vehicle’s
a *photometrically certified P3, PC2*) 2 as far back as practicable minimum
at installation angle presence and length
5 Rear Side (A) Minimum Red Each side at rear as far back 380–1530
b Reflex Reflectors ** 2 as practicable facing sideward (15–60)
**not required on Truck Tractors
Rear Clearance Lamps (P2, PC* or Show vehicle’s width Minimum Red At widest point–symmetrical As high as
Vehicles 2032 mm wide or wider P3, PC2*) MAY NOT be combined 2 on the rear or near the rear practicable may
6 Not required on Truck Tractors with tail lamps facing rearward be lower only if
* photometrically certified at installation angle rear ID lamps
are at the top
Rear Identification (ID) Lamps (P2 or P3) Indicate presence Exactly Red On the rear – center In Canada:
Vehicles 2032 mm wide or wider of a wide vehicle 3 horizontally spaced 150 mm at the top – lower
Not required on Truck Tractors (6 in.) to 300 mm (12 in.) apart if door header
7 facing rearward narrower than
25 mm. In USA:
as high as
practicable
Tail Lamps (T) Indicate vehicle’s Minimum Red On the rear – symmetrical 380–1830
presence and width 2 as far apart as practicable (15–72)
Stop Lamps (S) Indicate braking Minimum Red On the rear – symmetrical 380–1830
2 as far apart as practicable (15–72)
8 Rear Turn Signal/ (I) Indicate direction of turn/ Minimum Red On the rear – symmetrical 380–2110
Hazard Warning Lamps identify disabled vehicle 2 or yellow as far apart as practicable (15–83)
Rear Reflex Reflectors (A) Show vehicle’s Minimum Red On the rear – symmetrical 380–1530
presence and width 2 as far apart as practicable (15–60)
Backup Lamp (R) Illuminates ground behind the Minimum White Rear No requirement
9 vehicle and alert road users 1
Licence Plate Lamp(s) (L) Illuminates licence plate Minimum White On the rear – above or at the No requirement
10 1 sides of licence plate
Center High Mounted (U3) Indicates braking 1 Red On the rear – centerline of the vehicle 860 (34)
11 Stop Lamp
Vehicles less than 2032 mm wide and 4536 kg
minimum
Additional equipment for Specific Vehicles • Vehicles 9.1m (30 ft.) long or longer (except truck tractors)

a Intermediate Side (P2 or P3) Indicate presence Minimum Yellow Each side near center 380 (15)
Marker Lamps of a long vehicle 2 minimum
12 Intermediate Side (A) Indicate presence Minimum Yellow Each side near center 380–1530
b Reflex Reflectors of a long vehicle 2 facing sideward (15–60)
Truck Tractors
Area Conspicuity Treatment DOT Coding Quantity Colour Location Height Options
Rear Upper Exactly 2 pairs of White Rear upper corners As high as practicable
13 Body Markings DOT-C 300 mm long strips of cab facing rearward excluding fairings
DOT-C2
Rear Marking DOT-C3 Exactly 2 sections of Red/ Rear – facing rearward As horizontal as If mud flaps not
DOT-C4 min. 600 mm each White – on fenders, on mud practicable and not used – on the cab
14 flaps brackets, or within higher than 1525 mm or frame mounted
300 mm below the from the ground brackets
top of mud flaps

12a 6 7
5a 6
4a 2
3
5ab
10
8 8
12ab
4ab 1
9
2
12a
6 6
5a
3 * on box
OR on cab
5ab
8 8
12ab
4ab 1
10 7 9
4a
13 13
8 14 14 8
4ab 1
10
Trailers
Basic equipment required on all trailers
DESCRIPTION MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS
Tail Lamps (T) Indicate vehicle’s Minimum Red On the rear - symmetrical 380-1830
presence and width 2 as far apart as practicable (15-72)
Stop Lamps (S) Indicate braking Minimum Red On the rear - symmetrical 380-1830
2 as far apart as practicable (15-72)
1 Rear (I) Indicate direction of turn Minimum Red or On the rear - symmetrical 380-2110
Turn Signal Lamps 2 Yellow as far apart as practicable (15-83)
Rear (A) Indicate vehicle’s Minimum Red On the rear - symmetrical 380-1530
Reflex Reflectors presence and width 2 as far apart as practicable (15-60)
facing rearward
Licence Plate Lamp(s) (L) Illuminates licence plate Minimum White On the rear - above or at No requirement
2 1 the sides of licence plate
Rear Side (P2, PC* or) Minimum Red Each side at rear 380-1530 (15-60)
Marker Lamps P3, PC2*) 2 as far back as practicable no max. for veh.
*photometrically certified at installation angle under 2032 mm (80”) wide
3
Rear Side (A) Minimum Red Each side at rear 380-1530
Reflex Reflectors Front and rear 2 as far back as practicable (15-60)
side marker lamps / facing sideward
side reflex reflectors
Front Side (P2, PC* or indicate vehicle’s Minimum Yellow Each side at front 380 (15)
a Marker Lamps P3, PC2*) presence and length 2 as far forward as practicable minimum
*photometrically certified at installation angle
4 Front Side (A) Minimum Yellow Each side at front 380-1530
b Reflex Reflectors 2 as far forward as practicable (15-60)
facing sideward
Additional equipment for trailers exceeding the following parameters • Length 9.1 m (30 ft.) or longer
a Intermediate Side (P2 or P3) Indicate presence Minimum Yellow Each side near center 380 (15)
Marker Lamps of a long vehicle 2 facing sideward minimum
5 Intermediate Side (A) Indicate presence Minimum Yellow Each side near center 380-1530
b Reflex Reflectors of a long vehicle 2 facing sideward (15-60)
Width 2032mm (80 in.) or wider

SAE Lens Functional
Area Equipment Coding Purpose Quantity Colour Location Height
Rear (P2, PC* or Show vehicle’s width Minimum Red At widest point - symmetrical As high as practicable
6 Clearance Lamps P3, PC2*) MAY NOT be combined 2 on the rear or near the rear may be lower only if
*photometrically certified at installation angle with tail lamps facing rearward ID lamps are at the top
Rear (P2 or P3) Indicate presence Exactly Red On the rear - center In Canada: at the
Identification (ID) Lamps of a wide vehicle 3 horizontally spaced 150 mm top - may be lower
7 (6 in.) if door header narrower
to 300 mm (12 in.) apart than 25 mm In USA:
facing rearward as high as practicable
Front (P2, PC* or Show vehicle’s width Minimum Yellow At widest point - symmetrical As high as practicable
8 Clearance Lamps P3, PC2*)
*photometrically certified at installation angle
2 on the front or near the front
facing forward
Width 2032 mm (80 in.) or wider AND GVWR 4536 kg (10,000 lb.) or more
Area Conspicuity Treatment DOT Coding Quantity Colour Location Height Options
Rear Upper Exactly 2 pairs of White On the rear upper corners At the top
9 Body Markings 300 mm long strips facing rearward
Reflex reflectors
Bumper Bar Continuous Red/White On the rear bumper bar’s No requirement may not be
required if they are
10 Marking
DOT-C
horizontal element
full width - facing rearward replaced in their
DOT-C2 required location
DOT-C3 with conspicuity
Rear Lower Continuous Red/White On the rear As horizontal as practicable
DOT-C4 treatment.
Body Marking (see options) full width of and as close as practicable to
11 the vehicle the range of 375 to 1525 mm
facing rearward from the ground Optional in Canada:
Rear lower body
Side Marking (see location) Red/White Each side - facing As horizontal as practicable and side conspicuity
(see options) sideward continuous, and as close as practicable treatment may
or evenly spaced over to the range of also be solid white,
12 minimum of 50% of length 375 to 1525 mm solid yellow, or
starts and ends as close from the ground white and yellow.
to the front and rear of
the vehicle as practicable
NOTE: The edge of red conspicuity tape shall not be closer than 75 mm to the edge of any amber light and the edge of white
conspicuity tape shall not be closer than 75 mm to the edge of any lamp.

9
5ab
6 1 1 6
2 11
4ab 3
12
7 10
12
8
7
9 9
5a
4a 6 1 1 6
12 * upper OR
5ab lower position
2 10
8 12
4ab
6 7 6
9 9
5a
8
4a
1 2 11 1
3
12
5ab
12
4ab 10

Headlights
While driving a motor vehicle, it is required by law
that headlights are on a half hour before sunset, until
half an hour after sunrise, and when visibility is
reduced to 60 m or less. However, it is recommended
that headlights or running lights be on at all times.
Using headlights during the day can significantly
reduce the chances of an accident as your vehicle is
much easier to see.
Night Driving
Daytime Night - Low Beams Night - High Beams
Never drive so fast that you can’t stop within the • Keep headlights clean.
distance you can see ahead with your headlights. That
• Keep the interior lights off so that your eyes will
means driving slower than usual, since under ideal
remain adapted to the dark.
night driving conditions you can see only 30 m ahead
with low beams and 110 m ahead with high beams. • Slow down when meeting another vehicle or
when nearing a curve.
To reduce glare do not look directly at the headlights of
oncoming traffic, instead, look to the right edge of the • Watch for pedestrians and vehicles stopped at the
roadway. To cut glare from the rear, adjust your mirror edge of the road.
or use a day-night mirror.
• If you must stop, pull off onto the shoulder and
Reduce your speed until your eyes have recovered from use your emergency flashing lights or other
the glare. approved warning devices such as flares.
Some additional points to minimize the hazards of • Watch for highway signs – they’re more difficult
night driving are: to see and read at night.
• Check your headlights regularly so the low beams • Keep both the inside and outside of the
reveal objects at least 30 m ahead without windshield clean.
blinding oncoming drivers.
• Dim your lights at least 450 m from oncoming

vehicles, and 60 m when following vehicles.
Dim your lights at least 450 m

from oncoming vehicles.

Always use low beams when approaching other
cars. High beams will blind the other driver.
Use high beams only when driving in open

country without other cars nearby.
Use low beams when driving by street lights, in

fog and when following another vehicle closely.
Vehicle Operation
Steering - Hand Position
Advanced driving skills are needed to drive a heavy
vehicle, whether it be a bus, a straight-body truck
or a tractor and trailer. Since these vehicles are very
large, a driver must gain experience handling them.
When turning a large vehicle you may have to turn the

steering wheel several times (sometimes as many as
eight times) to complete a left or right turn. Most
vehicles are equipped with power steering and
adjustable steering wheels that make operating the
vehicle easier and more comfortable for the driver.
It is recommended that the steering wheel be held
with your hands at the 9 o’clock and 3 o’clock position.
This will allow for good control and, in the event of an
accident and the vehicle is equipped with an air bag,
it will inflate without injuring or being obstructed by
the driver’s arms. The driver of a vehicle should never
turn the steering wheel with one hand (palming the
wheel) or with one finger as they may not have full
control of the vehicle.

Accelerator Double-Clutching
To set a vehicle in motion, you have to accelerate (start) Most heavy vehicles with manual transmissions require
smoothly and gradually to avoid jerking the vehicle. double-clutching to make changing gears easier.
The driver’s foot should lie flat on the accelerator Double-clutching is simply depressing the clutch for
with the heel on the floor. For optimal engine each movement of the gear shift lever. The movements
performance, the driver should avoid abruptly need to occur at the same time (synchronized) so you
applying and releasing the accelerator. will need to practise before this skill can be mastered.
This technique must be used for shifting both up and
Drivers should accelerate slowly and steadily when
down. Even with synchromesh gears, shifting can be
starting from a stopped position. Drivers have more
faster and smoother with the double-clutching method.
control over the vehicle. If the vehicle is over accelerated
It should be noted that there are manual transmissions
particularly on poor or slippery road surfaces, the drive
that do not require double-clutching. Consult the
wheels can lose traction and could cause loss of control.
operator’s manual for the equipment being driven.
Clutch To double-clutch:
The clutch makes it possible to disengage the
• Release the accelerator and at the same time
transmission and the engine. By pressing the clutch
press down the clutch pedal.
pedal, the connection is broken between these two
components, allowing the driver to change gears. • Shift into neutral.
The clutch pedal must be pressed with the left foot and
• Release the clutch.
held to move the gear lever. Avoid releasing the clutch
too quickly. This can damage components leaving the • Increase or decrease the engine revolutions
vehicle unoperable. Also, do not let the clutch out too per minute (rpm) required for the next gear.
slowly or release it only enough to hold the vehicle from The engine speed must be matched to the gear
rolling on a hill when stopped. This will cause the being selected, press lightly on the accelerator
clutch to heat excessively and wear out prematurely. (to increase engine speed for downshifting) or
release it slightly (to decrease engine rpm for
Some vehicles are equipped with a clutch brake to stop
shifting into a higher gear). This skill will come
the rotation of the main shaft gears in the transmission
with practice.
when the clutch pedal is pressed all the way to the floor.
You must not press the clutch all the way to the floor • Press down on the clutch again.
when changing gears when the vehicle is in motion.
• Shift into the desired gear.
The clutch brake should be engaged only when the
vehicle has come to a complete stop. • Release the clutch pedal and press down on
the accelerator at the same time. If the
transmission remains disengaged for too
long when double-clutching, it may be hard
to engage the gears.
If this happens:
• Shift back into neutral.
• Release the clutch pedal.
• Increase engine rpm.
• Press down on the clutch.
• Try shifting into a lower gear as the vehicle

speed has most likely slowed.

When to Change Gears Automatic Transmission
There are two ways of knowing when to change gears: Many vehicles have transmissions that change gears
automatically in response to speed and acceleration, by
1. According to the engine speed calculated in
means of mechanical, electrical or hydraulic controls.
revolutions per minute (rpm):
Drivers of such vehicles can also shift down to a lower
Engine speed is determined by the gear
gear for increased braking power when descending
selected and by the amount of pressure on
a hill. Downshifting prevents the transmission from
the accelerator. To make efficient use of the
automatically changing into a higher gear, keeping
engine’s power, the engine speed and vehicle
the vehicle speed slower. This can be very helpful in
speed must be coordinated. Generally the
keeping the vehicle’s brakes cooler as they will not
higher the engine speed, the more power
have to be used as often when descending a steep hill.
there will be in a given gear.
This is an example of how the gears on an automatic
To know when the gears should be changed,
transmission could be used:
glance at the tachometer and when the desired
rpm is reached, change gears. Refer to the • N (neutral): for starting the engine, stopping
operator’s manual for the proper rpm ranges for an extended length of time and parking.
for each gear on the vehicle being operated.
• R (reverse): for backing up (bring the vehicle
2. According to the vehicle speed measured in to a complete stop before changing from
km per hour: a forward gear to reverse and vice versa).
If driving a vehicle that is not equipped with • D (drive) or 2-5: for normal forward driving
a tachometer, the gears will have to be changed conditions.
in reference to the vehicle’s speed. The operator’s
• 2-3/2-4: lower gears for driving with heavy loads.
manual for the vehicle being driven will indicate
the speed (km/h) range for each gear. • 2: for driving on slippery surfaces or up or down
steep inclines.
Engine RPM
• 1: for driving very slowly when off the highway.
An engine that does not turn over fast enough tends
to jerk or lurch and can damage the vehicle. An engine Consult your vehicles operators manual for information
that turns over too fast, on the other hand, consumes on the correct operation of the transmission.
more fuel than is necessary and does not provide any
more power than it would at a lower rpm.
Motor vehicle engines have a speed range within

which they operate efficiently. It is often between
1,200 and 1,800 rpm, although there are some engines
that operate at lower speeds.
Consult the operator’s manual for the equipment being

driven for the recommended rpm ranges for each gear.
The tachometer should be used to know when to Gear positions vary from one vehicle to the next.
change gears as it is more precise than using the sound
of the engine or vehicle speed.

Manual Transmission Shift Before Entering a Curve
The gear shift lever is used to change gears. The gear Slow down to a safe speed and downshift to the correct
you choose affects engine performance. The right gear before entering a curve. The correct gear will allow
gear depends on the transmission, the engine it is the engine power to be used to keep the vehicle stable
attached to, the load the vehicle is carrying and the while driving through the curve and provide good
highway being driven on. acceleration out of the curve. Driving through curves
is explained in depth later in this manual.
Operating a manual transmission and engaging the
right gear at the right time requires a lot of practice Shift Before or After Railway Crossings
and skill. Since there are many different types of
The driver should not shift gears when crossing railway
transmissions, consult the operator’s manual for the
tracks. When approaching a railway crossing, the
vehicle being driven.
vehicle should be placed in an adequate gear that will
Shift Before Starting Down a Hill allow the vehicle to completely cross the track. By not
shifting gears when crossing railway tracks you avoid
Before starting down a hill, select a gear and slow down
the chance of missing a shift, stalling the vehicle
to a speed that can be controlled without hard braking
and/or blocking the railway tracks.
or the brakes may overheat and lose their braking power.
Visibility and Safety

Larger vehicles usually offer a better view of the road
ahead and to the sides than passenger cars. Larger
windshields and a higher seating position provide
a good view to the front, while large side view mirrors
give a clear view of the road behind the vehicle.
However, there may be blind spots to the side and
right behind the vehicle.

Sometimes convex or spot mirrors may reduce the blind
spots to the side of the vehicle. Also, some mirrors
make things look smaller and farther away than they
actually are.
In a city, a professional driver must try to drive in
the curb or right lane on a multi-lane road, as larger
vehicles do not usually speed up as fast or travel as
quickly as passenger cars. The median or left lane
is usually for fast-moving vehicles.
On a multi-lane highway the left lane is normally used
as a passing lane for faster moving traffic. The law
requires slower moving vehicles to travel in the right
lane. This will have faster vehicles overtaking and
passing on the left side of the vehicle, which is safer
than being overtaken and passed on the right side.
A good driver constantly scans the traffic ahead,

behind and to the sides. By looking well ahead the
driver can pick up clues that will indicate speed
changes and stops that may develop in the traffic
pattern. By frequent glances in the rear and side view
mirrors, the driver is alerted to vehicles that may be
getting ready to pass, or following vehicles that will
need plenty of warning of a stop, a change of direction
or a lane change.
Drivers should always maintain a safe following
distance from the vehicles ahead so that a smooth,
gradual stop will be possible even if the vehicle ahead
makes a “panic” stop. A gradual stop will also decrease
the chances of being rear-ended by a tailgater as the
driver who is following too closely will have lots of
notice that a stop or speed reduction is taking place.

Drivers should look well ahead for traffic
control signal lights, lane use and turn
signals. Try to anticipate traffic control
signal light changes before reaching an
intersection. When a traffic control signal
light has been green for some time it is
known as a “stale” light and will probably
change before the intersection is reached.
Many streets have synchronized traffic
control signal lights and drivers can adjust
the speed of their vehicle to take advantage
of this.
Danger Zone
The danger zone of any vehicle can be
described as the area directly in front of
the vehicle in which the vehicle cannot be
stopped. In the diagram the danger zone
is shown as the red shaded area.
As speed increases, the danger zone increases. If the

Braking distance in the danger zone will vary according
road condition is less than ideal because of rain, snow,
to the weight of the vehicle, condition of the brakes and
ice or gravel, etc., the danger zone is further increased.
the condition of the road surface.
If the driver fails to reduce the vehicle’s speed to suit
these road conditions, the danger zone increases. Example: The trucks are approximately two and
one-half vehicle lengths from the crosswalk when their
When conditions become less than ideal, vehicles, can
drivers see the pedestrian. Under ideal conditions, the
reduce their stopping distances by reducing their speed.
driver travelling at 30 km/h may be able to stop just in
If another vehicle or a pedestrian should enter the time. However, even under ideal conditions, the driver
danger zone, it is not physically possible for a driver of the truck travelling at 50 km/h cannot stop in time.
to stop in time to avoid a collision.

Shrinking the Danger Zone
The danger zone can be reduced if the vehicle’s speed
is reduced. The danger zone can also be reduced by the
driver who forms the habit of “covering the brake”,
anytime a potential danger is developing.
Brake Cover
If brake had not Able to stop here (From 50km/h Brake
been covered or less) here
In the example given, by removing the foot from the Speed-Weight-Distance

accelerator and putting it lightly on the brake pedal at
The distance required to stop a vehicle depends on
the time that the pedestrian is first seen, the driver’s
its speed and weight, in addition to energy, heat and
reaction time is reduced. Speed has been gradually
friction. The braking force required to stop a vehicle
reduced, with the foot off the accelerator, so the vehicle
varies directly with its weight and speed. For example,
has a better chance of stopping ahead of the crosswalk,
if the weight is doubled, the braking force must be
rather than across the intersection.
doubled to be able to stop in the same distance. If the
Remember, it is easier to keep out of trouble than it is speed is doubled, the braking force must be increased
to get out of trouble. four times to be able to stop in the same distance.
When weight and speed are both doubled, the braking
force must be increased eight times to be able to stop
in the same distance.
For example, a vehicle carrying a load of 14,000 kg

at 16 km/h is brought to a stop in 30 m with a normal
application of the brakes. If the same vehicle carried
28,000 kg at 32 km/h, it would require eight times the
braking force to stop the vehicle in 30 m. This would
be more braking force than the brakes could provide.

Timed-Interval
Following Distance
Four-Second Rule when Driving a Taxi,
Ambulance or Van
Use the minimum four-second rule to make sure that
the correct following distance is maintained. Staying
four seconds behind the vehicle in front will give the
correct following distance at any speed.
How to use the “four-second rule”:
1. To set a four-second distance watch

vehicle B ahead of you, when it passes
a checkpoint on the roadway such as
an overpass, sign post or tar strip,
then start to count.
2. When the rear of vehicle B passes

the object, count out the seconds
like this: “One-thousand-and-one,
one-thousand-and-two,
one-thousand-and-three,
one-thousand-and-four,”
that’s four seconds.
3. If you reach the object after the correct

number of seconds, you are following
at the right distance for ideal driving
conditions.
4. If, on the other hand, you reach the

object before you have finished counting
the correct number of seconds, you are
too close. Drop back, pick a new
checkpoint and count again.

If You Drive a Bus, Truck or Truck and Trailer Traffic Tempo
Round out the length of your vehicle to the nearest
The speed at which a vehicle travels should depend
metre and divide by three to determine your count.
upon road and traffic conditions, but the driver
The count must never be less than four seconds,
must also try to match this travelling speed with
even if the number arrived at using this formula
the surrounding traffic (traffic tempo) while staying
is less than four.
within the speed limit.
Example: If your truck and trailer are 14.4 m, The driver who travels faster than the traffic flow
round to 15 m. increases the chance of an accident. This could be
15÷3 = 5-second count from not maintaining a safe following distance with
traffic ahead and not leaving any space in front for
When road conditions change because of rain, snow or a fast stop. It also increases lane changes that are
ice, lengthen the count to suit the changing conditions. necessary to thread past slower vehicles, along with
A quick look at how the vehicle ahead of you is being more decisions that have to be made as more problems
driven may tell you what to expect. If the vehicle are created. This increases the chance of making a
ahead is a tailgater, frequent panic stops can be wrong decision. Also, pushing through traffic along
expected. Never assume the other driver knows what with faster driving may result in mental fatigue.
they are doing. A steady safe speed can save money and help the
environment by not burning as much fuel.
A good driver maintains a safe following distance and
has a longer, lighter brake application when stopping. The driver who travels slower than the traffic tempo
This gives the driver behind plenty of notice that speed may increase the chance of an accident from behind
is decreasing. or the sides. Other drivers may become impatient
and follow too closely or try to overtake when it is
Truck and trailer combination units need a longer
not safe to do so. They may cut in after passing,
stopping distance than most other vehicles because of
leaving the slow-moving driver with little or no room
the weight of the vehicle.
for a quick stop.
Brake adjustments, tire condition and inflation
along with load balance and weight are critical for
safe stopping.

Tailgaters Tailgaters usually are persons who lack patience as well
as foresight. This loss of patience could be caused by
Drivers of large vehicles such as buses, trucks and
another vehicle’s speed and handling. By observing
tractor-trailers must rely on outside mirrors for their
traffic in the rear view mirrors, drivers of large vehicles
rear vision. Tailgaters often sit in the blind spot
can protect themselves against tailgaters by making it
directly behind large vehicles and may not be visible
easier for them to pass. The tailgater is easier to deal
to the driver.
with if they are ahead rather than behind.
It may not always be possible for the driver to prevent

a rear end collision by these irresponsible drivers,
but if stops are gradual, the speed of impact will
be considerably less.
It is illegal for public service vehicles, trucks, highway

buses or motor vehicles that are pulling another piece
of equipment on a roadway outside of a restricted speed
area to follow within 90 m of each other.
When nearing an upgrade with a passing lane provided,

the driver of a vehicle that is travelling slower than
normal traffic speed must use the right lane. When
such lanes are not provided, the driver of a slower
vehicle should allow the traffic that has built up behind
to overtake at the soonest safe opportunity.
The experienced driver sets a pace in accordance with

existing conditions and traffic tempo, maintains a safe
stopping distance ahead and behind, and maintains
a driving space all around the vehicle. They have time
to read the traffic pattern and continuously plan an
escape route should the danger zones become occupied.

Slow-Moving Vehicles Drivers going down steep grades such as a hill with
a loaded vehicle should select a lower gear before
The “Slow-moving Vehicle” sign may be displayed
starting downhill. This will allow the vehicle to operate
only on a vehicle, combination of vehicles or other
at the control speed. Control speed is the speed at which
machinery that is travelling at a speed of 40 km/h
the vehicle will travel downhill with the rpm just before
or less.
governed speed or maximum rpm. This is achieved by
selecting the proper gear for the grade of the road and
the engine in the vehicle. Vehicles should be kept in
gear throughout the descent as the vehicle should be
slowing to down shift. This would not be the case if
a shift is attempted on a steep downgrade.
To proceed down a grade, the driver controls the speed

of the vehicle by “snubbing” the brakes. Snubbing is
when a brake application is made at intervals to reduce
the vehicle’s speed and then the brakes are released.
This brake application should slow the vehicle by
8 km/h in three seconds. This can be remembered as
the “8 in 3” rule. The driver should not allow the vehicle
speed to increase 8 km/h over the control speed before
snubbing the brakes. Snubbing will help to prevent
over-heating of the brakes. If the brakes were allowed
to overheat, it would cause the brake drums to expand,
Braking which could lead to brake fade or complete brake loss.

Stopping on a slight downgrade is done in the same way
Bringing a vehicle to a stop on a level roadway usually as a level stop.
requires only a single application of the braking system.
You must stop and check the brakes when signs are
The degree of application will be determined by the
posted. In some provinces and states there is a fine
speed, weight and degree of emergency.
for not doing so. This stop must also be recorded in
When the speed of the vehicle has been decreased the log book.
sufficiently, the driver eases off the amount of brake
application and the actual stop will be gradual. The
professional driver can perfect stops by practising the
amount of brake application release required to prevent
a jerk back at the actual stop. This braking skill coupled
with the factors of:
• looking ahead to anticipate stops;
• maintaining safe following distances; and
• setting travelling speed in relation to seeing

distance; ensures a smooth stop every time.
This is one of the ways passengers judge the

driver’s skill.
Stopping a vehicle without anti-lock brakes on an icy

road surface will require the driver to lightly release or
pump the brakes to prevent the wheels from locking up.
A slowly revolving wheel on an icy surface will be more
effective than a locked wheel skidding on an icy surface.

Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) Combination Braking
An anti-lock brake system is an electronic system that On combination vehicles (such as a truck and trailer,
monitors and controls wheel speed during braking. or tractor trailer) equipped with an air brake system,
The system monitors the wheel speed at all times. If it the trailer brakes are applied along with the tractor
detects a wheel locking up during a brake application, brakes by use of the foot valve. This is often referred to
the system releases brake pressure to that wheel only. as “balanced braking.” The application pressure of the
This prevents the wheel from skidding and increases trailer brakes is equal to the application pressure of
the vehicle stability and control even in the most the tractor brakes. The trailer brakes may be applied
adverse situations, such as braking on wet or ice-slicked independently of the tractor brakes by use of the hand
roads, through curves or during lane changes. When control valve. If the driver wishes, the amount of
driving a vehicle with ABS, apply the brakes as normal application on the trailer brakes may be increased
to stop in time. When the ABS starts working, do not during a foot valve application by using a higher
release the pressure you have applied to the brake pedal. application with the hand valve. Trailers equipped
Avoid pumping the brakes as the system automatically with electric or vacuum brakes are operated in
applies and releases the brakes up to five times a second, a similar manner.
much faster than you can pump the brake pedal. When
Caution must be exercised in making brake applications
using an engine brake and you encounter a slippery
when the vehicle is negotiating a curve or travelling
road surface, the ABS will detect the wheel lock-up and
on wet or icy surfaces. Over-braking on vehicles
automatically turn off the engine brake until traction
without anti-lock brakes could result in jackknifing
is regained, then resume engine braking.
(see page 55 for definition) or skidding.
For information specific to your vehicle, refer to the
operator’s manual.

Runaway Lanes If the vehicle’s usual application air pressure is 9 psi
on a full brake application, then, when descending
Runaway lanes are found in mountainous areas.
a steep grade if the application air pressure increases
These lanes are designed as emergency areas for the
with each application of the brake, there is a problem.
purpose of stopping trucks that experience brake failure
For example, the application air pressure could increase
when travelling down a very steep highway. These
with each use of the brake from 9 psi to 15 psi to 20 psi
lanes are constructed of soft materials such as gravel,
to 30 psi to 55 psi, before the brakes would fail. Many
ashes and wood chips, for the sole purpose of stopping
drivers hesitate when they first notice brake fade,
a runaway truck. As an out-of-control vehicle enters this
thinking they can make it to the bottom of the grade
lane, the soft materials will act as drag on the vehicle,
safely. This is not always the case. The instant
slowing forward motion. The lanes are strategically
a problem is recognized a driver should take immediate
placed so drivers can use the lane and stop safely
action. If action is not taken, the speed of the vehicle
without harming themselves or other drivers.
will continue to increase. By the bottom of the grade
Proper procedure for a driver entering a runaway lane it will be at maximum speed and the vehicle will not
is to remove the foot from the accelerator, hang on have any brakes.
tight to the steering wheel, and steer straight up the
These instances require rapid decision-making and
lane. Following these simple steps will help keep the
reaction from the driver. If unsure, pull over where
truck upright and not jackknife or roll over.
it is safe and inspect the brake system.
Knowing when to use a runaway lane is very important.
If a driver is on a steep grade, brake fade may start to
be noticed, followed by brake failure. This would be
noticed by the amount of application air pressure that
is being used during the snubbing of the brake.
When descending a long grade snubbing the brakes,
they will be applied and released many times.

Engine Retarders
Checking Tires, Wheels
Some vehicles have engine retarders to help slow the
vehicle and assist in braking. There are many types and Fasteners
of retarders; for example, exhaust, hydraulic and The amount of control the driver can maintain over
electric retarders. a vehicle depends upon the amount of friction between
Engine retarders should be used in addition to snubbing the tires and the road surface. You are not allowed to
the brakes to ensure the vehicle is kept at the control operate a vehicle with bald or damaged tires as they
speed and the engine stays below the governed rpm. could adversely affect the handling of the vehicle.
Engine damage could occur if the speed of the vehicle Before starting a trip, the driver must inspect tires
is allowed to push an engine over the governed engine for cuts, abrasions, bulges, tread and air pressure
speed. The professional driver controls the speed of (using a gauge is the only sure method to know
a vehicle so a stop can be made any time. Vehicles may pressures are correct).
have to be stopped on the way down a hill to prevent
an accident or for an emergency. When inspecting the tires of a bus, truck or tractor with
a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 4,500 kg or
All retarders can be turned on or off by the driver, and higher, check that the tread depth on the front steering
some retarders are adjustable. Engine retarders produce tires is not less than 3.2 mm and on the rear tires, not
extra noise; therefore drivers of vehicles equipped with less than 1.6 mm. When inspecting the tires of a vehicle
engine retarders should avoid unnecessary use of these with a GVWR of 4,499 kg or less, the tire tread depth
systems in cities and residential areas. Gear selection is must not be less than 1.6 mm on all tires. The tread
important because engine retarders are most efficient at wear should be even around the circumference of the
higher engine rpm. Gear selection must be made before tire and tread wear should be checked in three spots on
going down the grade, rather than attempting a gear each tire.
shift on the downgrade. If a shift is missed and a gear
cannot be found, the vehicle will have no control over Retreaded tires are not to be used on steering axles.
its speed except for the brake system, which could fail. Check the sidewalls of each tire for cuts, tears and bulges.
You should also ensure that tires on the same axle are
The driver of a vehicle equipped with an engine retarder not mismatched, such as a radial and non-radial tire or
system must be familiar with the manufacturer’s tires of different sizes.
recommended use of the retarder under all road and
weather conditions.
Note: Engine retarders are not allowed to be used on

road tests.

If a tire is under-inflated, overloaded, or is subject
to high speed, the flexing action will be increased.
This will result in the heat build-up rate exceeding the
cooling rate and the tire will overheat. As the heat
builds up, it causes air pressure in the tire to increase
to levels higher than the tire was designed for.
If the tire has the correct pressure when it is cool,

the normal heat build-up will cause the pressure in the
tire to increase and reduce the amount of wall flexing,
controlling the heat build-up. If the driver lowers the
tire pressure on a warm tire, the cooling balance is
1. Normal Wear 2. Under- 3. Over-Inflation upset and the tire will generate more heat. Never let air
exposes Inflation causes the out of (bleed down) a warm tire. Pressure should be
the wear will cause tire to wear checked and adjusted when the tires are cool.
indicators a tire to wear out in the This information is meant as a guide. Consult your
between out at the centre first. employer and manufacturer for specific tire
two or more edges first. This tire is requirements for the vehicle you operate.
adjacent This tire’s dangerously
grooves. smooth edges worn and Check the wheel lugs to ensure that there are no broken
Replace the may cause must be lugs or loose or missing wheel nuts. A wheel separating
tire when skids on wet replaced. from the axle of a moving vehicle is very dangerous as
the wear curves and it can cause injury or even be death.
indicators must be There are two types of wheel failures:
become replaced.
visible. 1. A wheel will come off the hub.
2. The entire wheel assembly will become dislodged

Correct tire pressure is an important factor of tire wear from the vehicle.
and steering control. An over-inflated tire will result in
centre tread wear. Over-inflation of a tire also results in One of the main reasons why wheels come off trailers
less tread surface touching the road, which reduces the and trucks is improper maintenance after installation
amount of traction. of a tire. When a tire is installed the lug nuts are
tightened on to the rim. As the vehicle travels, the rim
An under-inflated tire results in wear on the outer edges will heat and expand. When the vehicle stops the rim
of the tread surface. An under-inflated tire will not will cool and contract. After this process is repeated it
squeeze the water out from under the tire surfaces as causes the lug nuts to loosen.
well as a correctly inflated tire will. If the tire is
under-inflated, it has more chance of riding up on
a film of water (hydroplaning, explained later in this
section). Traction between the tire and the road would
be a lot less, as would steering control.
The rotation of the tires under load causes a flexing

of the sidewalls. This flexing causes internal friction
which generates heat. The tires release the heat to the
atmosphere. If the correct tire size is used in accordance
to the load carried, and tires have the proper inflation
pressure at the start of the trip, the heat build-up will
reach a heat balance temperature for which the tire is
designed. The cooling rate will balance the heating rate.

After a rim is reinstalled it is important to retighten When the entire assembly fails, it is usually the result
and torque the lug nuts to 210 - 260 ft lb on 5- and of a bearing failure. It is difficult for a driver to detect
6-spoke cast wheels with 3/4 in studs and 450- to this on a pre-trip inspection. However, there will be
500-ft lb on disk wheels (bud rims.) Also, lug nuts warning signs such as oil leaks from the bearing
should be retorqued at each major servicing of the assembly and extremely hot wheel hubs. The driver
vehicle or trailer. should check to ensure that the vehicle is maintained in
flawless condition at all times. During a trip the driver
During the driver’s daily pre-trip inspection it is
should stop every few hours to check the condition of
impossible for the driver to check specific torque. If the
the wheels, for example: loose lug nuts, oil leaks,
driver, using a wrench, detects a loose lug nut, that
slippage on the rim.
unit must be taken to a proper service centre and
inspected by a qualified technician. When a wheel or wheel assembly becomes separated it
will actually travel faster than the speed of the vehicle.
When a lug nut is being torqued and the nut is tight,
The reason for this is the tire is no longer under load.
if more than 2/3 of a turn with a torque wrench is
The average weight of a truck tire is about 181 kg.
needed, this could indicate a more serious problem
A 181 kg object moving at 100 km/h could do a lot of
exists with the assembly. It should be disassembled
damage to other vehicles and persons if it were to come
by a qualified person to determine the cause.
into contact with them. When the tire stops it may
Drivers can look for cracks in the rim, obvious remain in the roadway becoming a hazard if struck
looseness in nuts, slippage etc. If unsure, contact by other vehicles.
a qualified person.

Larger vehicles travelling at high speed create varying
Common Driving Conditions degrees of air turbulence (wind) that can be hazardous
to smaller passenger vehicles. A car riding alongside the
Passing
saddle tank area, or at the immediate rear of a trailer,
It can take considerable time for a truck to pass another is in an area of air turbulence. Drivers of large vehicles
vehicle or for another vehicle to pass a truck. This is must be alert for unsuspecting drivers who ride in these
especially true if the difference in speed (speed areas as they may be forced off a narrow roadway or
differential) between the two vehicles is slight. drawn into the side of the vehicle.
Buffeting
Small area
vehicle
riding in
this area Turbulent
could section
mean
trouble
Small Buffeting
vehicle area
riding in Turbulent
this area section
When passing another vehicle, make sure you are not
could
in fast traffic lane longer than necessary. This action
mean
can make the traffic behind you reduce speed, resulting
trouble
in “bunching” of vehicles, which creates a hazard
particularly on freeways or high-speed highways.
Large vehicles have a louder exhaust resonance than

passenger vehicles. Their size and highway noise
often give the impression they are travelling at higher Being Passed
speeds than they actually are. When passing passenger Drivers should not direct other drivers to pass, as this
vehicles, the driver of a large vehicle should be may encourage them to overdrive their ability. However,
cautious in the event of startling the inexperienced when other drivers pull out to pass, help them to pass
or nervous driver. safely by reducing speed. Avoid travelling alongside
another vehicle for a long time.

Lane Changing Curves
With all vehicles, it is important to make sure the lane A vehicle travelling in a straight line has a force called
is clear before changing lanes. Drivers of large vehicles momentum. The higher the speed, the greater the
must exercise extreme caution because they have large momentum. A vehicle travelling around a curve
blind spots that must be checked before changing lanes. develops a force called centrifugal force. The higher
The proper method for changing lanes is to first check the speed, the greater the centrifugal force. The two
the mirrors for traffic to the side of the vehicle and forces (momentum and centrifugal) conflict with each
any traffic that may be approaching quickly that could other because centrifugal force tends to push a vehicle
interfere with the lane change and activate the turn outwards from the centre of the curve in order to
signal in the direction of the lane change. Check the maintain straight-line momentum. Braking in a curve
mirrors again including the convex mirror, if so introduces a third force, that reduces steering control
equipped, and the blind spot looking down beside the and increases the effect of centrifugal force. This can
cab of the vehicle or shoulder check depending on the cause a rollover, skid or jackknife. This risk increases
vehicle. If the way is still clear make the lane change as a vehicle’s size, speed and weight increase.
leaving the turn signal on until the vehicle is completely
In order to reduce the hazards, lower your speed before
in the new lane. Large vehicles that must rely on mirrors
you enter the curve and, if needed, gradually apply
only for their view to the rear, should change only one
slight power while in the curve. This will enable you
lane at a time when on multi-lane roadways. Drivers
to maintain better steering control of the vehicle while
who can check the roadway to the rear with a shoulder
in the curve.
check can change more than one lane at a time on
a multi-laned roadway as long as the proper signal
and checks are performed and it can be done safely.
Lane changes should never be conducted at intersections
or over solid pavement markings.
Centrifugal force
Momentum

Intersections
Intersections are the crossing or meeting of two
or more streets. More accidents are likely to take place
at intersections than in any other area of driving.
Knowledge of the right-of-way rules is essential for all
drivers. The defensive driver does not depend on other
drivers to obey these rules.
To avoid intersection accidents, follow these common

sense practices:
• Never enter a limited-view intersection at a speed

at which you cannot stop your vehicle safely
should you need to do so.
• Do not assume you have the right-of-way, even

when it is enforced by traffic signs or traffic
lights. Look left and right before entering any
intersection. Check for a violator who may run
the traffic sign or traffic light.
• Look well ahead for “stale” green lights to avoid

travelling through the intersection late. This can Uncontrolled intersections are those not controlled by
be accomplished by looking at the pedestrian traffic lights or signs. When two vehicles approach this
crossing lights. If the signal telling the pedestrian type of intersection, both must slow down. The vehicle
not to cross the street is on or flashing, be on the left must always yield the right-of-way to the
prepared for the traffic signal to change. When vehicle on the right. Nevertheless, the driver with
getting the green “go” light, check left, right and the right-of-way must still exercise proper care and
ahead for the “late runners” before proceeding. attention to avoid a collision.
• Position your vehicle into the proper lane well The driver of a large vehicle should not use its size
before the turn at the intersection, giving proper to bully other drivers for the right-of-way. Drivers of
signals well in advance to show other drivers you large vehicles should give the right-of-way rather than
plan to turn. Slow gradually before entry and turn taking it.
only when it can be done safely. Drivers must give their full attention to each and every
• Do not depend on other drivers to signal or intersection, laneway or driveway, and keep the vehicle
execute their turns correctly. under full control at all times.

Backing
Backing up a large vehicle is one of the toughest and
most important skills a driver must learn. The driver
is always responsible for any incident that occurs
when backing. Backing becomes dangerous any time
the driver neglects to ensure the way is clear. The driver
must be certain the way remains clear during the
entire manoeuvre.
Investigation of “backing accidents” often indicates

they are not “accidents,” but are evidence of the driver’s
failure to observe.
All drivers can reduce backing accidents if they follow

these backing rules:
• Avoid unnecessary backing – plan ahead to

minimize backing distances.
• Use a guide whenever possible. The guide should

stand to the rear of the vehicle where there is
a clear, continuous view of the backing path
the vehicle will follow. The guide must be
visible to the driver in his mirror throughout
the manoeuvre.
Guide has no view of vehicle’s path.
X Poor Poor
X
Good
Guide has view of vehicle’s path

and eye contact with driver.

• Whenever possible, the approach
should be planned so the area to be
backed into is seen on the approach.
• The vehicle should not be backed

into the blind side when it is
possible to back to the view side.
View side Blind side

• Vehicles should be backed out of traffic rather
than into traffic. The driver (A) has backed out
of traffic. When leaving the laneway, traffic will
be readily observed.
• The driver (B) has taken the easy way out of

traffic, but now faces the problem of backing
into traffic to leave the laneway. ✓ A
• Before backing a vehicle when it is impossible
to have a guide, the driver must:
– step out of the vehicle and look at the backing

area for hazards;
– check for clearances and obstacles above,

below, to the sides, to the rear and to the front
of the vehicle; B
– enter the cab, sound horn and observe both
X
mirrors while backing very slowly.
A good practice is to sound the horn for each vehicle

length travelled. If the backing distance is long, stops
should be made to recheck behind, above, below, to
the sides and ahead. Rather than making one long
backing manoeuvre, it is safer to make a series of
short backing manoeuvres.

Parking Lots, Alleys and Side Roads Unattended or Parked Vehicles
You are required to stop your vehicle immediately Prior to leaving a parked vehicle, the driver must ensure
before the sidewalk area extending across the road that the vehicle will stay in position when parked.
whether you drive from a parking lot, alley, private road
The following precautions must be observed to prevent
or side road onto a street, provincial road or provincial
a vehicle runaway:
trunk highway.
1. Set the parking brake.
After yielding the right-of-way to pedestrians in that
area, or if there is no sidewalk area, proceed to a spot 2. Stop the engine and place the transmission
just before the road and check for oncoming vehicles. in the gear position recommended in the
After yielding to vehicles, proceed when safe. operator’s manual.
3. If the vehicle is equipped with a two-speed axle,

the axle must be in low range.
4. Remove the ignition key to lock the ignition.
5. If the vehicle is parked on a hill or an incline,

the front wheels must be turned so that, if the
vehicle moves, it will roll off the road. Special
care must be taken when parking combination
vehicles; make sure the steering wheels are
turned so the trailer will roll off the road and
not into traffic.
6. If the vehicle is a tractor-trailer, under no

circumstances should the driver use the trailer
hand valve alone to hold a parked unit if it is
left unattended.

Railway Crossings When stopping at a railway crossing, keep at least five
metres away from the nearest rail in a restricted speed
area and at least 15 m away in a non-restricted speed
area. (A restricted speed area is any area within a city,
town or village. This includes any municipality or part
of a municipality or any highway or portion of
a highway designated by The Highway Traffic Board.)
If you see a train coming, get ready to stop. Most

motorists seriously misjudge the speed of trains,
thinking they travel much slower than they actually
do. It is also wrong to assume that trains must slow
down at railway crossings.
This sign (left) indicates a railway crossing ahead.
Since many railway crossings do not have electronic
Slow down, check to the right and left along the angle
signals warning you when to stop, the most important
of the track shown on the sign and proceed only
rule to remember is that trains always have the
when safe.
right-of-way at all railway crossings. In other words,
The actual crossing is marked by a crossbuck sign (right). at railway crossings, the safety of you and your
passengers depends entirely on you, the driver.
When approaching railway crossings, check both ways
for trains and remember that they always have the
right-of-way.

Other safety points include:
• When there is more than one set of tracks, don’t

start across right after the train passes. Make
sure there isn’t another train coming on the
other track.
• Half of all night rail/highway crossing accidents

are vehicles hitting trains. To avoid these
accidents, slow down when you see the advance
warning sign, so that you can stop in time if you
have to.
• Never move onto the track unless you’re sure

there is plenty of room on the other side of the
tracks. Be sure the rear of your vehicle will clear
the crossing. If traffic is backed up so that you
can’t get across the tracks, stop and wait at least
five metres from the crossing until the traffic jam
clears and it is safe to cross.
• Some vehicles must stop at all crossings. These

include regular buses, school buses and vehicles
carrying flammable materials. If you’re following
such a vehicle, be prepared to stop.
Drivers may cross a railway crossing when the warning
It is illegal to: lights are flashing if:
1. Cross a railway crossing when warning signals • the vehicle is brought to a complete stop first;
are on (except as explained below).
• the crossing is not protected by gates or barriers;
2. Shift gears when crossing railway tracks outside
• the crossing is within a restricted speed area;
of a restricted speed area.
• the train is stopped or is a safe distance away; and
3. Drive a vehicle through, around or under
a crossing gate or barrier that is either closed, • the crossing may be done safely.
or being opened or closed.
You may not proceed under any circumstances if
4. Drive a vehicle onto a railway crossing unless a railway crossing gate is in the “down” position unless
there is sufficient space at the other side of the directed by a flag person or a person of authority.
crossing to accommodate your vehicle without
blocking a passing train.
5. Park a vehicle within 30 m of the nearest rail

of a railway crossing unless otherwise posted.

If a vehicle damages the railway warning equipment In the event of an accident involving railway property
or the track, it is imperative that the driver notify or for information contact:
the appropriate railway authority right away. For
• Canadian Pacific Railroad Police Service
example, if a low bed trailer were to “snag” a track
1-800-551-2553
at a crossing and move it from its normal position,
or if a vehicle were to knock over a warning light, • Canadian National Railroad Police Service
the railway must be informed to prevent the chance 1-800-665-0581 or 1-800-465-9239
of an accident.

Adverse Weather Conditions Reduced Visibility
Drivers must take note of hazardous road conditions When driving with reduced visibility include:
such as rain, ice, snow, fog, etc., and adjust their
• reduce your normal driving speed if you can’t
driving to the road conditions. If conditions are too
see the road ahead;
extreme to continue a trip, stop and wait out the
weather. You should make sure the vehicle you are • turn your headlights on low beam to cut down
driving has survival gear. on glare in dense fog, heavy rain and snow.
The use of fog lamps may increase visibility;
• slow down when you see headlights or taillights.

These lights may be on a vehicle that could pose
a hazard to you until you know the vehicle is
parked or moving on the roadway;
• be prepared for an emergency stop. If the visibility

becomes too poor to continue driving safely, turn
on your hazard flashers and cautiously pull off the
travelled portion of the highway to stop in a safe
location. Wait until visibility improves before
continuing the trip;
• if speed is greatly reduced, turn on your hazard

lights to help make your vehicle visible to
other drivers.
Adjusting to road conditions of ice, wet, sleet or

snow requires:
• starting out at a slow speed, testing the steering

and brakes for control;
• lowering speed to suit ice or snow conditions and

using tire chains if necessary;
• using light brake applications to avoid wheel

lock- up, (gentle pumping action on vehicles that
are not equipped with anti-lock brakes);
• avoiding sudden or jerky movements of the

steering wheel;
• keeping windows and windshields clear,

inside and out as well as keeping wiper blades,
defrosters and lights in top condition so you can
see and be seen;
• keep enough ventilation in the cab and making

sure exhaust systems are free from leaks;
• staying alert for pedestrians, ice patches, bridge

surfaces, blind intersections, snow plows and
graders well ahead of the vehicle’s path.
If the vehicle is equipped with a manual front

brake limiting valve, the driver can reduce the
braking effort to the front wheels to improve
the steering on slippery roads.

Winter Driving Winter Ice Road Driving
When driving in winter, keep in mind that bridges The winter road systems in Manitoba are basic access
and overpasses can be especially dangerous when the routes to remote northern communities and have no
temperature is near the freezing point or when it is alignment standards. The recommended speed limit for
extremely cold. An invisible sheet of ice, referred to as vehicles with a maximum G.V.W of 7 tonnes or greater
“black ice,” may form on them because of condensation. is 15 km/h on all ice roads. Winter roads are constructed
on the natural terrain of the land and ice. They cross
Road surfaces in the winter can have icy patches,
muskeg, rock ridges, streams, rivers, and lakes. The
black ice or drifts of snow across the highway. You
road surface can deteriorate rapidly due to changes in
will have to adjust your driving accordingly. When
the weather. The chance of an accident increases if you
operating a large vehicle during a storm, keep in mind
do not drive according to the road conditions.
that drivers of smaller vehicles may use a large vehicle
to guide them through the storm. Take this into • Travel is not approved until a section officially
account when braking. opens. No regular inspection or maintenance is
provided along the route prior to opening or after
closing, increasing the potential risk to drivers.
• Travel on the winter road when it is not open

could deteriorate and damage the road surface.
Ruts created in the muskeg or land are both
environmental and safety issues. Temporary
road closures may be required to extend the use
of the system.
• The road surface is packed snow or ice and the

stopping distance of all vehicles is increased.
As a driver, you should be travelling at a speed
that will allow you to safely slow down or stop if
you encounter a hazard or approaching vehicle.
• Chains offer additional traction and should

be used at the driver’s discretion as they can
deteriorate the snow packed road surface.
• Winter roads are primarily used by heavy truck

traffic delivering fuel, freight, groceries,
machinery and building products. The contractor’s
maintenance equipment is slow moving and
could be encountered on blind corners.
• The season may be shortened due to weather

conditions and the traffic volumes will increase
accordingly. Night travel is recommended for
better visibility of traffic.
• Vehicles with a maximum G.V.W. of 7 tonnes or

greater that exceed the recommended ice road
speed limit of 15 km/h could create an ice popout
or wave movement in the ice causing a complete
ice failure. When approaching land or meeting
other trucks on an ice road reduce speed to
prevent an ice way rebound.
• Drive close to the centre of all ice roads not by the

snow storage banks on the sides as the banks have
the added weight of the snow and slush.

• Do not stop or park trucks on any ice roads as it • Commercial vehicle operators are required to
encourages others to do the same and the maintain a 24 hour daily logbook when travelling
constant weight of one or more trucks could on the winter road system; however due to the
create an ice failure. The loading and unloading rapid changes in road conditions that can occur
of all trucks and storage of material is not and lack of safe places to rest, the driving and
approved on ice and should only occur on on-duty limitations of the Drivers Hours of Service
the land. Regulation 193/89, section 7 are exempted under
permit providing the conditions of the permit are
• Trucks should be staggered 1 km apart when
met. The driver should be aware that the fatigue
travelling in the same direction on an ice road.
factor can occur and rest when required. While
• Ice road failures, sudden storms, ground drifting travelling on the winter road system the driver
and whiteout conditions preventing travel and is required to remain in a constant state of
road maintenance can occur in sub-zero awareness and no driver shall drive a commercial
temperatures. Wilderness survival training and vehicle in a fatigue state.
ice road driving courses are recommended.
• Notifying the destination point receiving the
• Driving across a ramp bridge placed on a pressure fuel or freight of the anticipated time of arrival
ridge must be done with caution, as there could will help reduce time on the system and provide
be possible movement of the planks. If the planks an extra measure of safety in case you encounter
have lifted or twisted, do not cross. difficulties.
• Passing or meeting other vehicles should be • To avoid a load movement it is recommended

done with great care due to swirling snow that all loads be secured in accordance with
reducing visibility. the Provincial requirements with equipment
specifically designed for the intended use.
• The consequences of an unexpected delay,
Additional fastening devices to reduce load
breakdown or accident when travelling in this
movement are recommended as the road surface
isolated area can be life threatening if you are not
is uneven, slippery and could be very rough.
prepared. It is the driver’s responsibility to
arrange for his or her own assistance. It may take • All overweight and overwidth loads require
a long time for assistance to arrive in the event of winter road permits that must be approved by
difficulties. Adequate clothing, personal the Region. Allow adequate time for ice testing
medication, fuel to reach your destination, vehicle when applying for overweight permits.
and survival equipment, satellite phone and CB
• Drivers should be aware of overhead utility lines
communication are recommended for every
in communities and call the appropriate utility
vehicle travelling on the winter road system.
if there is a concern about the height of the line.
• First time drivers on the winter road should be
• When approaching or travelling through
accompanied by an experienced driver who can
a community drive with caution as the
identify sharp curves, slopes, signing and
community residents have not seen increased
hazardous areas.
truck traffic since the previous year.
• All environmental accidents such as fuel spills,
• Due to environmental guidelines Transportation
leaks or fires involving chemicals and hazardous
requires road users to be responsible for their own
materials must be reported to Manitoba
abandoned vehicle and garbage removal.
Environment, Manitoba Transportation &
Government Services and the R.C.M.P. Immediate
cleanup is required and is the responsibility of
the driver transporting the dangerous goods.

Gusting or Strong Winds Hydroplaning
Care must be taken when driving in gusting or strong This can occur when a combination of speed, tire wear,
winds as they can push your vehicle making it difficult tire inflation or depth of the water on the roadway
to remain in your lane. These winds can also cause the causes the tires to lose traction. In wet weather, tires
trailer being towed to sway or whip. will cut through water, wet snow and slush to maintain
contact with the roadway at speeds of less than
To maintain control, you should:
50 km/h.
• Reduce your speed.
Hydroplaning could still occur at under 50 km/h if the
• Grip the steering wheel firmly. tires are excessively worn or bald, under inflated, or if
the water on the roadway is very deep. At higher speeds
• Compensate gently for the wind gusts as soon as
(70 km/h and higher), the wedge of water in front of the
the vehicle moves off course even slightly.
tires may pass under the tires and the tires will ride on
• Avoid passing other vehicles. the cushion of water. Traction will be greatly reduced.
• Increase your following distance. To prevent hydroplaning:
• Keep away from other vehicles on either side • Check your tires for wear and inflation regularly.
(multi-lane road).
• Reduce your speed even more when facing
standing water and puddles.
• Drive in the tracks of preceding vehicles.

Wet Brakes
Water entering the brake drums will reduce braking During excessively wet conditions or after driving
efficiency. Avoid driving through large puddles through water, test the brakes for safe operation by
whenever possible. If it is necessary to drive through putting on the brakes slightly for a short distance to
water on the roadway, lightly apply the brakes when dry them out and restore normal braking. Speed should
approaching and place a slight drag on the brakes while be reduced before driving through large pools of water
driving through the water. The slight drag placed on the on the roadway.
brakes will reduce the amount of water entering the
brake drums and shoes.

Skids and Their Causes Overaccelerating
A skid will occur when the force of acceleration is
Most skids are caused by travelling too fast for the road greater than the traction between the tires and the road
conditions. Skids occur when tires lose their grip on surface. This is more likely to occur when the road
the road surface. This could occur from overbraking, surface is slippery. If the wheels start to spin the rear
overaccelerating or oversteering especially when end of the vehicle may skid sideways.
negotiating a curve.
Overbraking
Overbraking will cause the wheels to lock, which could
result in a skid. When a tire is skidding it has almost no
traction, so the tire will slide over the road surface.
Since the lack of traction usually affects the drive wheels
first (rear wheel drive vehicles), the rear end of the bus
or straight-body truck will begin to skid. This will result
in a longer stopping distance required and may also
result in the rear end of the vehicle skidding sideways.
If driving a tractor trailer using the trailer brakes alone

can cause the vehicle to jackknife.

Oversteering Skid Control and Recovery
When driving around a curve, a vehicle tends to want Before you can get control of the vehicle again, the
to travel in a straight line, this is because of centrifugal cause of the skid must be corrected. For example,
force. The faster you are moving and the sharper the if the skid was caused by overbraking, the skid cannot
curve, the greater the centrifugal force will be. If be corrected as long as the wheels are locked. Likewise,
a vehicle is driven too fast into a curve there may not if the skid was caused by a spinning wheel it is
be enough traction to counter balance the centrifugal impossible to correct the skid if the wheel is spinning.
force and it will result in a skid. If you brake at this
If the skid is caused by overbraking, release the brake
point, the wheels will lock and you will skid even faster.
pedal so the wheels start to turn and the tires regain
traction with the road surface.
If the skid was caused by downshifting into too low

a gear, press the clutch down, and allow the vehicle
to slow down.
If the skid is caused by over acceleration, release the

accelerator and let the wheels stop spinning.
Whether a skid is caused by overbraking,

overacceleration or oversteering, the rear end
of the vehicle may skid (swing) out to the left or
right. If the back end of the vehicle starts to skid,
steer the vehicle in the direction of the skid.
To Avoid Skids
The following rules will help you avoid a skid from
taking place:
• Reduce the vehicle speed according to road

conditions.
• Keep enough space between your vehicle and

others on the roadway. This is especially
important on slippery road surfaces.
• When braking a vehicle that is pulling a trailer,

check the trailer in the rearview mirror. If the
trailer starts to skid slightly, then release pressure
on the brake pedal.
• Avoid using the trailer brake hand valve by itself.

If the rear end of the vehicle skids to the left, steer to
the left to straighten out the vehicle, then when it is
almost straight steer to the right so the vehicle does not
start to skid in the opposite direction. When the vehicle
straightens out steer straight ahead.
If the rear end of the vehicle skids to the right, steer to

the right to straighten out the vehicle, then when it is
almost straight steer to the left so the vehicle does not
start to skid in the opposite direction. When the vehicle
straightens out steer straight ahead.

Jackknifing
Test Yourself on Section Two
A jackknife is when the tractor moves to an angle of 90º
or less to the trailer. Jackknifing can be the result of Before reading further, you should be able to answer
an uncontrolled skid. The tractor’s drive wheels lose these questions if you are trying to get a class 1, 2, 3 or 4
traction and are pushed over to the left or right by the driver’s licence. Answers to these questions are found
forward momentum of the trailer. in the preceding pages of this manual.
Skids can happen very quickly when the drive wheels 1. How can a driver anticipate a change in traffic
lock or the tires lose traction. If traction is lost, it is signals when approaching an intersection?
important to quickly release the accelerator or brake 2. If your vehicle is 11.5 m long, what “time interval”
pedal depending on which is causing the tire to lose count would you use under ideal road and
traction, to get control back. traffic conditions?
3. What should the driver consider when picking

a safe driving speed?
4. In what way does the slow driver create a

traffic hazard?
5. In what way does the fast driver create a

traffic hazard?
6. What is the minimum following distance the

driver of a commercial vehicle maintains when
following another commercial vehicle outside
of a restricted speed area?
90˚ 7. What is the most effective way to deal with

or less a “tailgater”?
8. What is the best way of reducing stopping

distance?
9. What is meant by danger zone of a vehicle?
10. What defensive measures can drivers take as

they approach an intersection?
11. If the weight of the vehicle is doubled, by how

many times must the braking force be increased
to stop the vehicle?
12. If the speed of the vehicle is doubled, by how

many times must the braking force be increased
to stop the vehicle?
13. If the weight and the speed of the vehicle is

doubled, by how many times must the braking
force be increased to stop the vehicle?
14. What is the best way of applying the brakes:

a. on an icy road surface without ABS?
b. to control the speed on a steep grade?

15. How does a driver pick the “control speed” before 34. Why should a driver reduce the speed of a vehicle
going down any hill? at night?
16. What is the advantage of using engine brake 35. What can the driver do to reduce night driving
retarders? accidents?
17. Are engine brake retarders better at low engine 36. When required to stop at a railway crossing,
rpm or high rpm? within how many metres of the nearest track
should the driver stop the vehicle?
18. Before going down a steep grade, at what point
should the driver gear down? 37. When is the best time to check tire pressure?
19. Why should the driver not signal another vehicle 38. Why should the driver avoid bleeding the
to overtake and pass? pressure down on a hot tire?
20. What action should the driver take when being 39. Should a driver shift gears while the vehicle is
passed by a smaller vehicle? crossing a railway track?
21. What should the driver do when it is necessary 40. When parking near a railway crossing, what
to drive a vehicle through water on the highway? is the minimum distance from the nearest track
that a driver may park?
22. Why should you avoid passing another vehicle
when your difference in speed is only slight? 41. If you become drowsy when driving, what is the
best thing to do?
23. What is the effect of air turbulence on
smaller vehicles? 42. Why should water not be thrown on a gasoline,
oil or grease fire?
24. How can backing accidents be prevented?
43. What could the driver do if a fire started in the
25. When a guide is used in backing a large vehicle,
trailer being pulled by their vehicle?
what is the best position for the placement of
the guide? 44. What precautions should be taken when using
a CO2 type fire extinguisher?
26. What are the three steps a driver should take
before backing a large vehicle? 45.What emergency equipment must be carried on:
27. What precautions must be taken by the driver a. a truck with a registered gross vehicle
before leaving a vehicle parked on a grade? weight exceeding 3,700 kg?
b. a public service vehicle for passenger
28. What decides the amount of control the driver
transportation?
has over a vehicle on a curve?
46. If your large vehicle becomes disabled on
29. What would be the effect on a vehicle that is
a two-way highway, how far ahead and how
travelling too fast in a curve?
far behind should the flares or reflectorized
30. Should the driver slow the vehicle in a curve devices be placed?
or before entering the curve?
47. What vehicles may be required to stop at
31. What is the effect of applying slight “power” railway crossings?
in a curve?
It is recommended that applicants who are preparing
32. What is meant by the term “stale green light”? for a Class 1, 2, 3 or 4 examination, also study the
Driver’s Handbook.
33. How can the driver safely test for an “icy”
road surface?

Section 3
Additional Information
for Class 1 and 3 Drivers

Types of Vehicles
Class 1 and 3 drivers must also have an understanding of
the information contained in Section 4 of this manual.
Note: When reference is made to tractor trailer the
principles are basically the same as when operating Straight body truck
a truck pulling a trailer with a GVW of more than (Class 3)
4540 kg.
Tractor
(Class 3)
Truck pulling a trailer with

a GVW of more than 4540 kg +4540 kg
(Class 3)
Tractor trailer
(Class 1)
Tractor tridem
(Class 1)
Highway train
(Class 1)

On a combination vehicle such as a tractor trailer,
Turning the rear wheels of the tractor will off-track. The rear
The degree of sharpness a vehicle will turn depends on wheels of the trailer will off-track even more.
two factors: the turning radius of the front wheels and
the amount of off-track of the rear wheels.
Turning Radius
The wheel on the inside of the turn must pivot sharper
to travel on the shorter radius than the wheel on the
outside of the turn.
Off-Track
The rear wheels of the vehicle do not pivot and therefore
will not follow the same path as the front wheels. The
greater the distance (wheel base) between the front
wheels and the rear wheels of the vehicle, the greater A combination of a tractor pulling a “pup” trailer with
the amount of “off-track.” The off-track path is a shorter a draw bar has different turning characteristics than
radius than the path of the front wheels. that of the tractor trailer. The off-track of these vehicles
is dependent upon the length of the draw bar and the
wheel base of the vehicles.
The driver of a large vehicle must lead the turning arc of

the front wheels in accordance with the sharpness of
the curve and the amount of off-track of the vehicle.

A curve to the right requires keeping the front wheels When crossing a narrow bridge with a curved approach,
close to the centre line to prevent dropping the rear the driver of larger vehicles must exercise extra caution
wheels off the pavement onto the shoulder of the road. and skill. The driver must be familiar with the amount
of off-track of the vehicle and approach accordingly.
Turning at Intersections
When making turns, a great deal of skill is needed along
with an awareness of other vehicles, obstacles or the
lack of space can add to the difficulty of the turn.
When turning, drivers must think about the length of

the vehicle and the influence it will have on the path
the vehicle will take. The off-track of the rear wheels
will be greater at intersections as the vehicle is turning
sharper and drivers may have to use different methods
(mentioned later in this section) for making turns to
ensure they are completed safely.
Turning Safely
To make a turn safely, the approach to the turn is very
important. Generally, the following method should be
followed when approaching the intersection:
• Adjust your speed to avoid having to brake

while turning.
• Check your mirrors and blind spot, then turn on

your signal light.
A curve to the left requires keeping the front wheels
close to the right edge of the pavement to prevent the • Select the appropriate gear that will let you
rear wheel from crossing into the other traffic lane. complete the turn without taking your hands off
the steering wheel to change gears.
• Approach the intersection in the appropriate lane

and determine what path you will use to complete
the turn safely.

As there are different ways of making a right turn, the
Right Turns driver must decide which method to use taking into
For right turns at intersections the driver must take account the traffic on the roadway, the size of the
into account the fact that the rear wheels will follow streets and the obstacles nearby such as hydro poles,
a shorter path than the front. To make up for this, the signs, light standards etc. Remember the tractor can use
front of the vehicle can use all of the space available on any portion of the roadway that is available providing it
the roadway to ensure that the rear wheels of the vehicle does not bother other traffic while the rear wheels of the
remain on the pavement and within 1.5 m of the curb vehicle or trailer must remain approximately 1.5 m from
or side of the roadway. It is important for the rear of the the curb or side of the roadway.
vehicle to be in the correct approaching lane and to
Practise turning in the vehicle you drive as the size and
remain in the correct lane as the turn is completed to
shape of the vehicle will affect the way you choose to
make sure another vehicle does not squeeze between
make the turn.
the curb and the side of the vehicle. The vehicle should
complete the turn in the lane closest to the curb on the The next few pages have options on making right turns:
street that has just been entered. If a vehicle is parked
within 30 m of the intersection in the curb lane then it
is okay to turn into the next lane nearest the curb lane
if it does not interfere with traffic. Make sure that when
you use all of the roadway to complete your turn you
watch for pedestrians and other traffic. Also do not
drive over curbs, sidewalks or the median.

Button Hook Extended Approach
Used when the only room available to manoeuvre is This turn would be used when the street you are
within the intersection, the button hook is performed turning from has traffic moving around you and the
as follows: street you are turning onto is wide with ample room
to manoeuvre.
• Approach in the curb lane or the lane closest to
the right side of the road.
• Turn your right turn signal on about 30 m from

the intersection (150 m outside cities, towns
or villages).
• Check your mirrors and make sure you know

about the traffic around you.
• If you must stop at the intersection for a traffic

light, do so far enough back that you will be able
to make your turn.
• Be sure there is no traffic beside you, and when

the tractor is close to the intersection, steer to the
left. The tractor will swing out to the left. Watch
the trailer, and when it starts to pull away from
the curb, steer quickly to the right. Continue
scanning the intersection for potential danger and
watch the trailer to make sure it does not go over
the curb but remains within 1.5 m from the curb.
• The critical point is reached when the tractor is A right turn with an extended approach is completed
at the sharpest point of the turn in relation to as follows:
the trailer, as the right rear view mirror vision
is limited.
the right side of the road.
• Steer the tractor into the curb lane and the trailer
• Turn your right turn signal on about 30 m from
will follow, the turn should be finished in the
curb lane.
or villages).
• Turn off the turn signal.
• Scan the intersection for possible danger and take

the necessary steps.
• Drive straight into the intersection, start turning

when your vehicle is well into the intersection.
Check the right mirror and make sure the rear
wheels do not drive over the curb but stay 1.5 m
away from the curb. Continue the turn until the
vehicle is around the corner and end the turn in
the lane closest to the curb.

Lane Straddling • The critical point is reached when the tractor is
at the sharpest point of the turn in relation to
This type of turn should only be used as a last resort.
the trailer, as the right rear view mirror vision
It can be very dangerous as traffic may try to pass on
is limited.
the right side of your vehicle, and it can also be
confusing to other traffic on the roadway. Use this • Steer the tractor into the curb lane and the trailer
type of turn when the street being turned onto is very will follow. The turn should be finished into the
narrow or space is limited. curb lane.
Whenever possible, turns must be made from the proper

lanes. When it becomes necessary for the driver to direct
the vehicle over lane lines or centre lines to negotiate
sharp turns, it is the driver’s responsibility to make sure
the turn can be made safely, without interfering with
other traffic.
If there are two lanes side by side with signs indicating

you are allowed to turn right from either lane, the turn
should be made from the left-most lane. This will give
you a larger turning arc and you should not have to
worry about traffic to your left side.
A right turn when straddling the lane is performed

as follows:

the right side of the roadway.
• Turn your right turn signal on approximately

30 m from the intersection (150 m outside cities,
towns or villages).
• Check your mirrors and make sure you are aware

of the traffic’s location around you. If safe, move
your vehicle into the lane to your left only enough
to complete the turn safely.
• As you enter the intersection, turn your steering

wheel to the right. Continue scanning the
intersection for danger and watch the trailer
to ensure it does not go over the curb but stays
within 1.5 m from the curb.

Left Turns Button Hook
Used when the only room available to manoeuvre in
When making left turns the driver must be aware of the is within the intersection.
off-track of the rear of the vehicle or trailer being pulled.
The driver must make sure the trailer does not run into The button hook to the left is performed as follows:
a vehicle stopped on the road or the median of the street • Approach in the lane closest to the centre line
that it is being turned onto. or median.
• Turn your left turn signal on about 30 m from

or villages).

• If you must stop at the intersection for a traffic

light, do so far enough back that you will be able
to make your turn.
• As you approach the intersection, make sure there

is no traffic beside you and when the tractor is in
the intersection, steer to the right. The tractor
will swing out to the right. Watch the trailer,
as it starts to move out to the right lane and when
you know you can make the turn, steer quickly to
the left. Continue scanning the intersection for
danger and watch the trailer to make sure it does
not go over the median or collide with traffic
stopped on the road.
There are different ways of making a left turn; the driver
must decide which turn to use taking into account the • The critical point is reached when the tractor
position of traffic on the road, size of the streets and is at the sharpest point of the turn in relation to
obstacles such as median, hydro poles, signs, light the trailer, as the left rear view mirror vision
standards etc. Remember the tractor can use any portion is limited.
of the roadway that is available without interfering • Steer the tractor into the lane closest to the centre
with other traffic while the trailer must remain in line or median and the trailer will follow, the turn
the lane or path that a car would take. When making should be finished in this lane.
a left turn the rear wheels or the trailer wheels should
be left of the centre of the intersection. • Turn off the turn signal.
Practise turns in the vehicle you drive as the size and

shape of the vehicle will affect the way you choose to
make the turn.
A few options for left turns are:
• Button Hook
• Extended Approach
• Lane Straddling
See the following examples of these turns.

Extended Approach
This turn would be used when the street you are turning
from has traffic moving about you and the street you are
turning onto is wide with lots of room to move.
A left turn with an extended approach is done

as follows:
• Approach in the median lane or the lane closest

to the centre of the roadway.

or villages).

of the traffic’s location around you.
• Scan the intersection for any potential hazards

and take the necessary precautions.
• Drive straight into the intersection, start turning

when your vehicle is well into the intersection.
Check the left mirror and make sure the wheels
do not run into traffic or drive over the median.
Continue the turn until the vehicle is around the
corner and end the turn in the lane closest to the
centre line or median.

Lane Straddling • The critical point is reached when the tractor
is at the sharpest point of the turn in relation
This type of turn should only be used as a last resort as
to the trailer, as the left rear view mirror vision
it can be very dangerous as traffic may try to pass on the
is limited.
left side of your vehicle. It can also be confusing to other
traffic on the road. This type of turn would be used • Steer the tractor into the lane closest to the centre
when the street being turned onto is very narrow or line and the trailer will follow, the turn should be
space is limited. completed in this lane.
Whenever possible, turns must be made from the proper

lanes. When it becomes necessary for the driver to direct
the vehicle over lane lines or centre lines to negotiate
sharp turns, it is the driver’s responsibility ensure such
a movement can be made safely, without interfering
with other traffic.
If there are two turn lanes side-by-side with signs

indicating you are allowed to turn left from either lane,
the turn should be made from the right-most lane.
This will give you a larger turning arc and you should
not have to worry about traffic to your right side.
A left turn when straddling the lane is performed

as follows:
• Approach in the median lane or the lane closest

to the centre line of the road.

or villages).

of the traffic’s location around you. If safe, move
the vehicle into the lane to your right only
enough to make the turn safely.
• As you enter the intersection, turn your steering

wheel to the left. Continue watching the
intersection for potential hazards and watch
the trailer to ensure it does not collide with any
traffic on the roadway and that the trailer wheels
do not go over the median. Also ensure the tractor
wheels do not go over the curb of the street you
are entering.

Backing a Tractor and Trailer
The control of a straight body vehicle when backing is
done in the same way as that of a passenger vehicle.
When backing a tractor trailer, the front wheels of the

tractor must be turned in the opposite direction you
want to move the rear of the trailer. To do this, place
your hand on the bottom of the steering wheel, move
your hand and the steering wheel in the direction you
want the trailer to go.
Once the trailer is started in the direction you want

it to go, you must steer the tractor to follow the trailer
or a jackknife position will be reached. When the trailer
has curved far enough, the tractor steering wheel must
be straightened so the tractor will follow in line with
the trailer. The tracking pattern of the tractor and
trailer when backing is an “S” shaped curve.

Straight Line Backing Skill Test
Connecting Vehicles
Applicants on a Class 1 road test must do a straight line
backing skill test as part of the road test. The purpose When connecting a tractor to a trailer the draw bars
of the straight line backing skill test is to evaluate the or coupling devices must be in accordance with
driver’s basic skill in controlling the vehicle and judging The Highway Traffic Act and its Regulations.
the vehicle’s position in relation to other objects. These regulations require that the device be of sufficient
strength to hold the vehicles together and be tied to main
parts of the frames of the vehicles. If the trailer is less
than 900 kg GVWR, a coupling device may be attached
to a strong part of the frame on the towing vehicle.
Except for a motor vehicle pulling a pole trailer, the

draw bar or coupling device between the motor vehicle
and the trailer shall not exceed 5 m in length.
When a coupling device is used (other than the fifth

wheel coupler) an auxiliary safety chain or metal cable
of equal strength to the coupling device must also be
used to prevent separation in the event of the coupling
device failing.
The trailer must not swerve or whip unreasonably when

being towed by a motor vehicle. If the trailer whips or
swerves, drivers must slow down and stop to determine
the cause and stop it from happening again.
The applicant will have to complete the straight line
backing skill test in five minutes and will be allowed
to pull the vehicle ahead three times. The applicant
will be backing the vehicle in a designated area with
two parallel lines of cones 3.7 m (12 ft) apart and 18.5 m
(60 ft) in length. The cones represent two trailers parked
at a loading dock, between which the applicant must
back the trailer without touching a cone or driving
outside the parallel line of cones as this would be the
same as hitting another trailer. The applicant must stop
the vehicle with the rear of the trailer within 1 m (3.3 ft)
before or after the last cone.
Once the backing skill test is completed, the applicant

will be required to remove the vehicle from the
designated area, again without touching the cones
or driving outside the parallel line of cones.

Coupling a Tractor and Trailer 5. Connect the air lines of the braking system and
the light cord to the trailer.
When coupling to a trailer equipped with air brakes,
it is important that the trailer is secured. If the trailer
is equipped with spring brakes, the trailer brakes will
remain in the applied position even if the trailer air
tank is drained. Trailers left parked without spring
brakes should have their wheels blocked to prevent
roll-away. Air pressure in the trailer air tank will bleed
down in accordance to the amount of leakage in the
trailer system. If the trailer tank is drained, the trailer
brakes will let go.
The following are approved steps to follow when

coupling a tractor and trailer:
1. Before coupling the trailer, inspect the condition

of the kingpin as well as the trailer apron.
2. Back the tractor in a straight line to the trailer

with the fifth wheel opening in line with the
trailer apron.
6. Check that cargo in the trailer is secure and that

no one is inside the trailer or behind it.
3. Stop before the fifth wheel makes contact with

the trailer apron.
4. Check the fifth wheel coupler jaws to make sure

they are open. Check the height of the fifth
wheel with the trailer apron; raise or lower the
trailer landing supports as required.
7. Check that the trailer’s sliding bogie lock bars

pins are in position.

8. Open the tractor supply valve to charge the Uncoupling a Tractor and Trailer
trailer. Apply the trailer brakes (test for
1. Set the spring parking brakes. (Block the trailer
application) and release (if trailer brakes
wheels on grades or always on trailers without
do not release, air lines may be crossed).
spring parking brakes.)
9 Re-apply the trailer brakes and back under the
2. Check where the landing support pads will
trailer until the fifth wheel coupler jaws lock
contact the ground to ensure that the surface
on the trailer kingpin.
is firm enough to support the trailer, use blocks
10. Pull the trailer with a gentle tug forward with if necessary. On trailers with manually operated
the trailer brakes applied to test if the coupler air ride suspension, exhaust the air from the
is locked. suspension air bags. On some trailers the
suspension air bags will deflate automatically
11. Apply the parking brake.
when the trailer supply valve is closed. If the
12. Look under the trailer and visually check that suspension air bags are not deflated prior to
the fifth wheel coupler jaws are properly locked uncoupling the tractor and trailer, the air may
around the kingpin and the trailer is resting flat bleed out slowly and the trailer will roll forward
on the fifth wheel. and may damage the landing supports.
3. Lower the landing supports using high gear

until the pads contact the ground, then slide the
handle shaft to the low gear and crank until the
trailer weight is partially lifted off the tractor.
4. Unlock the fifth wheel coupler.
5. Release the spring parking brakes. Apply the

trailer brakes with the hand valve, pull ahead
slowly until the trailer kingpin is released from
the fifth wheel. Stop the tractor in this position
in case the landing supports fail, then the trailer
would still be supported by the tractor.
6. Disconnect the air lines and electrical cable,

connect the glad hands to the dead end
connectors if so equipped.
7. Pull the tractor clear of the trailer.
13. Raise the landing supports and securely stow

the crank. On air ride trailers, supply air bag
suspension with air.

Vehicle and Load Dimensions
Vehicles and their loads are limited to height, width,
length and weight in accordance with The Highway Pavement narrows ahead
Traffic Act and its Regulations. Provisions are made
for issuing permits for vehicles carrying oversize or
overweight loads.
Before transporting oversize loads (overwidth,

overweight, overheight or overlength) the driver
should make sure to have the proper permits. Permits
for highway movement are issued in accordance with Narrow bridge ahead
The Highway Traffic Act, and for city or municipal roads,
by the city or municipal authority.
For permits or information about permits contact the

provincial or municipal authorities:
Motor Carrier Permits and Development

Telephone: 204-945-3961
Toll Free: 1-877-812-0009 Low structure clearance
4.1 m
The conditions of the permit may state additional safety
measures such as the use of a pilot car, flags, signs or
lights. The driver must comply with these requirements.
Regardless of the licence or permit issued, a driver must

obey all signs posted by Manitoba Transportation and
Government Services that limit the dimensions or Truck route
weight of loads on any portion of the highway. To help
the driver in avoiding damage to the vehicle and its
load, and possible injury to other users of the highway,
the driver must be alert to these warning signs:
No trucks allowed
Signs that show a lane

in which heavy trucks
must not travel
Signs that show a weight

restriction for a roadway
or bridge

Height
The driver must know the total height of the vehicle
and load at all times. The maximum height of a vehicle
on a highway is 4.15 m unless otherwise stated in
a permit. Overhead clearances are posted before you
arrive at an underpass or tunnel.
Special attention should be given for low overhead

non-posted clearances such as:
• fire escapes in alley-ways;
• vehicle entrance doors;
• building canopies overhanging the roadway;
• low wires across driveways;
• boulevard tree limbs overhanging the roadway.

In some areas, overhead check bars and warning
devices are installed so the driver can test the clearance
of their vehicle.
During winter months, snow build-up on the highway

can reduce overhead clearance.

Overheight Overwidth
A permit is required when the height exceeds 4.15 m. A permit is required for widths exceeding 2.6 m.
Permits will be only issued for loads that cannot be
Generally, to obtain a permit the load must be
reduced (irreducible loads), therefore you cannot have
irreducible, so you are not allowed to load two pieces
two pieces of equipment stacked one on top of the other
of equipment side-by-side and exceed the normal
exceeding 4.15 m in height.
2.6 m in width.
The overhead clearance on bridges and signs will
When the width exceeds 4.6 m, escort vehicles,
determine the maximum height allowed on a permit.
equipped in accordance with The Highway Traffic Act
If the overall height exceeds 4.6 m the permit must be
and its Regulations, are required both in the front and
approved by the Manitoba Telecom Service, and if the
rear of the escorted vehicle. The permit may be subject
height exceeds 5.2 m, Manitoba Hydro must also
to approval by local authorities.
approve the permit.
Wide Load Sign

Width
The maximum legal width of a vehicle and its load is
2.6 m. Vehicles transporting loose hay, straw or fodder
can be loaded to a maximum of 3.7 m overall width.
Side view mirrors and clearance lights that extend Wide load signs must only be displayed when
beyond the side of the vehicle are not considered in transporting a wide load.
the overall width of the vehicle and are allowed an
additional 20 cm on each side of the vehicle. Load
securement devices are allowed to extend an additional
10 cm beyond the overall width on each side of the
vehicle.
Drivers must be careful when operating large vehicles,

particularly on narrow bridges or roadways and in road
construction areas.
Winter driving conditions can add to the width hazards,

particularly in the areas with a large build-up of snow.
During such conditions the first rule of safety is to
reduce speed.

Length Drivers should be aware that the oversize vehicle or load
may pose a threat to normal traffic patterns,
The final size factor facing the driver of large vehicles is
particularly when passing the oversize vehicle or load
length. The driver of a truck, for example, which has an
on a two-way highway.
“overhang” over the rear axle, must be extra careful in
narrow roadways and alleyways when negotiating tight
turns. Allow for the “overhang” to avoid striking objects
such as poles, parked cars, buildings, etc. The driver
must exercise caution in limited clearance areas.
The legal lengths of vehicles vary according to the type

of vehicle:
• Single vehicle – 12.5 m.
• Combination including truck or car pulling

a trailer – 21.5 m.
• Tractor trailer including load – 23 m. Weight

Vehicles are registered according to their gross
For a list of maximum lengths permitted for other
vehicle weight rating (GVWR). In Manitoba, this
vehicles, please contact Transportation Safety and
is the combined weight of the vehicle and its load.
Regulatory Services.
The maximum allowable gross vehicle weight (GVW)
Overlength is determined by such things as the number of axles,
the spacing of the axles, size of tires, etc. It is illegal
Generally, permits are granted only when the length
for vehicles to operate on a highway if the gross weight
is irreducible. Permits are not issued for overlength
on a tire exceeds the rated capacity of the tire or if the
loads carried on a type of truck other than a tractor
gross weight on an axle exceeds the axle, suspension
trailer or a combination type of vehicle.
or brake manufacturer’s rating of that component.
A pilot vehicle, equipped according to The Highway As well, it is illegal for a trailer to be operated on
Traffic Act and its Regulations, must follow vehicles a highway if the weight on the trailer exceeds the
whose overall length exceeds 30 m. Flagging must be manufacturer’s rating. For maximum allowable GVW,
enforced at exits and entrances to highways while the please contact Transportation Regulation.
vehicle is turning.
Overweight
Pilot Vehicles A permit will not be granted for weights in excess
Pilot vehicles are used to warn drivers they are of the tire capacity.
approaching an oversize vehicle or load.
A permit is required when maximum weights are
When an oversize or overload permit requires a pilot exceeded as specified in the Vehicle Weight and
vehicle for escort purposes, the pilot vehicle shall be Dimensions on Classes of Highway Regulations.
equipped with a yellow flashing light and shall display For further information concerning oversize/overweight
an illuminated “WIDE LOAD” or “D” sign. permit policy, please contact the Permit Office.
When escorting an oversize vehicle or load:
• On a two-lane or four-lane highway, a pilot

vehicle shall precede and follow the oversize
vehicle or load at a distance of not less than
100 m and not more than 500 m; and
• On a four-lane divided highway, the pilot

vehicle shall follow the oversize vehicle or load
at a distance of not less than 100 m and not more
than 500 m.

Period of Spring Road Restrictions Bridges
Annually, the Minister of Manitoba Transportation When approaching a bridge, the driver must observe
and Government Services will announce spring road the weight limit sign posted, to ensure that the total
restrictions. In spring, as the ground thaws, the base vehicle and load weight is not in excess of the
a highway is built on will soften. If trucks of normal maximum safe weight.
weights were allowed to travel on this soft highway it
More detailed information about size and weight
would cause damage. For this reason certain highways
regulations for groups of axles can be obtained by
are restricted to the amount of weight that can be
contacting Transportation Regulation.
hauled on them. Roadways are posted with the proper
signs alerting the driver to the restricted weight. Weigh Stations
Drivers convicted of using a weight restricted road with All trucks or combination of trucks with a registered
a vehicle whose weight is over the allowable weight gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 4,500 kg
limit must pay fines based on the difference between or higher, must report as directed by signs to weigh
the actual weight and the allowable weight. stations.
Weigh stations are located throughout the province.
Signs are posted before the weigh station telling the

driver to report to the weigh station to weigh axles,
measure dimensions of vehicle and load, and inspect
driver’s licence, log books, permits, vehicle registration,
mechanical fitness and to make sure the load is secure.
Whether the weigh station is stationary or portable,

the driver must report as directed by the posted signs
or on the request of a peace officer.
Liability for Damage by Overweight Vehicles

The Highway Traffic Act states that both the owner and
operator of an overweight vehicle will be held jointly
responsible for any damage it causes to any part of
a highway.

The proper place of the concentrated load illustrated
About Loads and Loading is just ahead of the rear axles with the longest side
on the floor.
Weight Distribution
The weight distribution of cargo has a definite bearing
on the handling characteristics of the vehicle as well as
the life of the tires, frame, springs, axles, and bearings.
Even though the total load may not be over the total
carrying capacity of the vehicle, poor distribution of
weight could be overloading an axle or set of tires.
Undue stress could be placed on the frame resulting
in permanent damage and steering mis-alignment.
Distribution of weight will depend on the nature of the This loading distributes weight equally on all rear tires
load. The loading of one piece of cargo that comprises and reduces twisting and stress on the frame. Uniform
the full load will present different problems from a load crosswise loading also prevents axle housing and wheel
made up of a number of pieces of cargo. bearing overload.
The examples shown in the diagrams may be referred

to as a general rule for loading, but do not cover all
situations that the driver may encounter.
A heavy concentrated load should be placed near the

rear axles and on its long side if possible. Most of the
load should be over the rear axles to get proper tire
loading and reduce bending of the frame.
A tractor trailer is the proper vehicle for use for a large

load like below. By using the proper vehicle, damage
to the truck and tires, and even serious accidents,
may be avoided.

A very heavy concentrated load should not be positioned This type of loading should never be permitted.
against the cab as the distribution of load may cause The frame could bend, the rear tires are extremely
the frame to bend, perhaps permanently. It will also overloaded, and enough weight is taken from the front
overload the front tires and may even cause a blowout tires to make steering almost impossible.
on a worn tire. Difficult steering will also result.
A very heavy load should not be positioned on one side. This type of loading results from using the wrong
This overloads one spring and the tires on that side. vehicle for the job. On rough roads, loading your vehicle
This loading could cause the brakes to lock the wheels like this can make your truck pivot on its rear wheels,
on the lighter side and cause flat spots on the tires or taking the front wheels entirely off the road.
a skid on a wet surface.

Approximate Distribution of Total Weight
– Vehicle Plus Payload
Trailers are also designed for uniform load distribution
as shown on the previous diagrams. The basic difference
between loading trailers and trucks is, in the case of
trucks, the average design provides for about 90% of the
payload on the rear tires and 10% on the front tires.
In the case of trailers, the payload should be spread
equally between the rear tires and the fifth wheel,
which transfers its load to the tractor.
10% 45% 45%
These examples are obviously wrong. In the case of the The load should be centred to give the proper wheel
first trailer, the heavy load at the rear is overloading the load distribution. The average truck has a central
rear trailer tires. There is practically no load on the fifth weight distribution point midway between the rear of
wheel, and the tractor rear tires could slip. Braking the cab and the tailgate. The average tractor trailer has
distribution would also be very uneven. Tailgate loading, a central weight distribution point at approximately the
of course, should never be practised, even in the interest middle of the trailer.
of speed, as it puts a severe strain on the equipment,
and could result in a serious accident.

Securing Loads
Secure the entire load to prevent shifting or loss of any
portion of the load. Check often to make sure tie downs
or binder cables have not loosened, become slack or
chaffed. When brakes are applied, an insecure load
may shift forward.
Proper
Load
Securing
Securing Components
Loads consisting of loose materials hauled in open

boxes, such as wood chips, paper, refuse, gravel and
stones, etc., should be covered with a tarpaulin to
prevent littering the highway. Tarpaulins must be
checked for security, as littering is an offence
chargeable to the driver and the owner of the vehicle.
Side ledges of a box or trailer should be cleaned of debris

before starting to avoid possible damage to other vehicles
from debris falling off and hitting the vehicle.
The Securement of Vehicle Loads Regulation contains

the specific load securement requirements for loads of
coiled metal, miscellaneous metal articles, bulk loads
of sand, gravel, waste logs, poles or pulpwood. General
securement or containment provisions for all loads in
general are also contained within the same regulation.
Any driver engaged in transporting freight is required
to know the specific standards on the safe and proper
securement of loads.
For information regarding the securement of loads

contact Compliance and Regulatory Services
Telephone: 204-945-3890

Load Projections Farm Equipment on Roads
Check your load and equipment before driving. Extra When outside of cities, drivers need to be watching for
wide or long loads require special permits and must also farm equipment that might be moving between fields.
carry the stipulated warning signs. Many farm implements are very large, and oddly
shaped, and farm tractors, combines and other
Generally, these loads cannot be moved during hours of
equipment move very slowly, with a maximum speed
darkness. Some loads must not exceed the legal length,
of 40 km/h. Drivers need to be aware that at highway
but may overhang the vehicle body. If the rear overhang
speeds, you will approach a piece of farm equipment
exceeds 1 m, it must carry a red flag not less than 30 cm
unexpectedly quickly. As well, farm implements can
square at the end of the load. You must be able to see at
sometimes take up more than half of the road width,
least 60 m from the rear of the vehicle.
or if they are crossing a bridge, can take up the full
At night, there must be a red light or red reflector at width of the bridge. The most important thing to
the extreme rear of the overhang, visible to remember when approaching farm equipment on the
approaching drivers. road is to slow down well ahead of time, and to look
closely at the implement when passing or meeting it
A projection exceeding 1 m beyond the front bumper is
to make sure you know how wide and how long it is.
not allowed unless authorized in a permit.
Night Travel by Oversize Vehicle

Where night travel of an oversize vehicle or load is
authorized by a permit under the Highway Traffic Act,
the vehicle or load shall be equipped with and shall
at all times that it is driven or operated on a highway
have in operation the following clearance lamps in
a conspicuous position as near the top of the vehicle
or load as practicable:
1. two lamps, each of which casts a green or amber

light visible from an oncoming vehicle, one of
which is located on the left and one on the right
side of the front of the vehicle or load;
2. two lamps, each of which casts a red light visible

from a vehicle approaching from the rear, one of
which is located on the left and one on the right
side of the back of the vehicle or load;
3. two lamps, each of which casts a green or amber

light visible from an oncoming vehicle and a red
Remember a valid Class 5 Intermediate Stage licence
light visible from a vehicle approaching from the
or higher is required to operate heavy and agricultural
rear which are so positioned that one is on that
equipment on provincial highways and roads in
portion of the vehicle or load that projects furthest
urban areas. These types of vehicles include tractors,
to the right and one is on that portion of the
self-propelled farm equipment such as combines,
vehicle or load that projects furthest to the left.
and heavy equipment such as front-end loaders,
cranes, forklifts and graders. Provincial highways
and urban roads do not include rural municipal roads,
service roads or winter roads controlled or maintained
by a local government such as a rural municipality.
Fastening Tailgate
Your truck’s tailgate must be closed and fastened, except
when the truck is carrying an article of such length that
it cannot be easily carried unless the tailgate is open.

The consignor is responsible for:
Transporting
• supplying the initial carrier with the
Dangerous Goods appropriate safety marks, like placards, (with
Federal and provincial legislation is in force to promote the correct UN or NA / Product Identification
public safety when transporting dangerous goods. Number as applicable)
Canada’s federal, provincial and territorial governments • providing the initial carrier with the shipping
work together with the transportation industry to make document or waste manifest, as required.
sure that requirements for transporting dangerous
goods are the same across the country, and that they The carrier is responsible for:
apply to all means of transportation whether it be by • displaying the appropriate safety marks in the
air, marine, rail or road. proper manner and location;
Everyone in charge of a dangerous good anywhere along • replacing any safety marks that are damaged
its journey is responsible for its safe transportation and or lost while the consignment is in the
must keep in mind: carrier’s charge;
• Whoever is in charge of dangerous goods must • ensuring that all required documentation is
report to a designated authority in the event of: complete and accompanies the consignment;
1. any discharge, emission or escape of dangerous that any change in the consignment while it’s
goods from any container, packaging or means in their charge is documented; and that when
of transport; a consignment leaves the carrier’s charge,
copies of all necessary documents are passed
2. a reportable dangerous occurrence or an on to the receiver;
accident involving dangerous goods;
• loading and segregating the consignment
3. the loss, theft or misplacement of if appropriate;
a consignment of products of certain
classes of dangerous goods; or • refusing consignments of dangerous goods
that do not meet the requirements of the
4. a delay in delivery of certain explosives. regulations; and
• Anyone who handles, offers for transport, • retaining all documents for two years.
or transports dangerous goods must be a trained
person, or performing those duties under the The consignee is responsible for:
direct supervision of a trained person. It is the • completing, signing and forwarding all required
employer’s responsibility to ensure that employees documents for wastes to the proper authorities;
are trained with respect to the dangerous goods
that will be assigned to them. When training • meeting the requirements of a consignor when
is complete, that person is issued a training returning empty packages, containers or
certificate. Training certificates must be renewed vehicles that are not cleaned or purged so that
every 36 months. no hazard exists.

Classifying Dangerous Goods Safety Marks
The Dangerous Goods Transportation Act divides dangerous Safety marks are used to indicate the presence of
goods into nine classes according to the type of hazard dangerous goods and to identify their hazard class.
involved. Some of the classes are further divided into The visible safety marks are generally the labels,
divisions that identify the hazards more specifically. placards and UN or NA / Product Identification Number.
Refer to the dangerous goods illustration on the next
Labels are used on packages, cylinders, drums and other
pages. The regulations lists dangerous goods and
small containers.
describe their shipping name, classification, and UN
or NA / Product Identification Number. Classification Placards are used on large containers (cap. over 454L)
is the responsibility of the manufacturer of the product, and transport units.
or in the case of hazardous waste, the generator of that
UN or NA / Product Identification Numbers are four
waste. Classification must be completed before offering
digit numbers that are assigned to a specific product;
the product for shipment.
eg. Gasoline is UN 1203. A UN or NA / Product
Identification Number is required to be displayed
on a placard if the dangerous goods (other than
dangerous goods included in Class 1 or Class 7),
are transported in bulk or are described in the
Federal Regulations.

The Marks of Safety
Class 1 – Explosives
1.1 A substance or article with a mass explosion hazard.
1.2 A substance or article with a fragment projection hazard, but not a mass
explosion hazard.
1.3 A substance or article that has a fire hazard along with either a minor blast
hazard or a minor projection or both, but not a mass explosion hazard.
1.4 A substance or article that presents no significant hazard; explosion effects
are largely confined to the package and no projection or fragments of
appreciable size or range are to be expected.
1.5 A very insensitive substance that nevertheless has a mass explosion hazard
like those substances in 1.1.
1.6 An extremely insensitive substance that does not have a mass explosion
hazard.
Class 2 – Gases
2.1 A flammable gas.
2.2 A non-flammable, non-poisonous, non-corrosive gas.
2.3 A poisonous gas.
2.3 Canada - U.S. trans-border shipments and special poisonous gases.
2.4 A corrosive gas.
2.2 (5.1) - Oxygen only (mixed load).
Class 3 – Flammable Liquids

A liquid with a closed-cup flash point of not greater than 61oC.
Class 4 – Flammable Solids; Substances liable to

spontaneous combustion; Substances that on
contact with water emit flammable gases
(water-reactive substances)
4.1 A solid that under normal conditions of transport is readily combustible
or would cause or contribute to fire through friction or from heat retained
from manufacturing or processing or is a self-reactive substance that is
liable to undergo a strongly exothermic reaction, or is a desensitized
explosive that is liable to explode if they are not diluted sufficiently
to suppress their explosive properties.
4.2 A substance liable to spontaneous combustion under normal condition
of transport, or when in contact with air, liable to spontaneous heating
to the point where it ignites.
4.3 A substance that, on contact with water emits dangerous quantities of
flammable gases or becomes spontaneously combustible on contact with
water or water vapour.

The Marks of Safety
Class 5 – Oxidizing Substances and Organic Peroxides
5.1 A substance that causes or contributes to the combustion of other material
by yielding oxygen or other substances whether or not the substance itself
is combustible.
5.2 An organic compound that contains the bivalent “-O-O-” structure,
which is a strong oxidizing agent and may be liable to explosive
decomposition, be sensitive to heat, shock or friction, react dangerously
with other dangerous goods or may cause damage to the eyes.
Class 6 – Poisonous Substances and Infectious

Substances
6.1 A solid or liquid that is poisonous through inhalation of its vapours,
by skin contact or ingestion.
Class 7 – Radioactive Materials

Radioactive materials within the meaning of the Atomic Energy Control Act
with activity greater than 74 kBq/kg.
Class 8 – Corrosive Substances - A flammable gas

8
A substance that causes visible necrosis of skin or corrodes steel or
non-clad aluminimun.
Class 9 – Miscellaneous Products or Substances

9
9
9.1 Miscellaneous Dangerous Goods; a substance or product presenting dangers
sufficient to warrant regulation in transport but which cannot be ascribed
to any other classes.
9 9
9.2 An environmentally hazardous substance.
9.3 A dangerous waste.

Special Labels and Placards
Fumigation Sign Ventilation Package Special PCB

Requirements Orientation Requirements
Tank Car Only Marine Pollutants

Mixed Load
Residues after unloading International Convention for
Requirement
the Prevention of Pollution
from Ships 1973 (MARPOL 73/78)
For bulk shipment the Product Identification

Number is required.

Dangerous Goods Routes Except when dangerous goods that are to be transported
as “waste” or by air, any kind of shipping document may
Routes may be established within certain cities, towns
be used providing it contains all of the prescribed criteria
and villages over which dangerous goods must be
for shipping documents required by the regulations.
transported. These routes are identified with signs.
After dangerous goods have been unloaded, a danger
Dangerous goods routes are authorized by civic bylaw
still exists because of residues that remain in the
and the respective civic administration may be contacted
transport unit (eg. bulk fuel haulers). The regulations
for particulars of their dangerous goods route bylaw.
provide that the carrier’s copy of the shipping document
is to be marked “residue last contained” and stay with
the transport unit until it has been emptied, cleaned or
purged so that no hazard exists.
When transporting “waste” dangerous goods,

a “manifest” that is prescribed in the regulations must
be used. A pamphlet explaining how to obtain and use
the manifest is available from the federal or provincial
Documentation departments of the environment.
Proper information on a shipping document helps
Vehicles displaying a dangerous goods placard must
make sure dangerous goods are handled and transported
stop at uncontrolled railway crossings.
safely. It also provides valuable information to those
who may have to deal with dangerous occurrences or Drivers are required to notify the nearest police agency
accidents involving these goods. or fire department and if in Manitoba, Manitoba
Conservation, in the event of spills or other hazards
The consignor must ensure that the shipping document
relating to dangerous goods. Rapid action in reporting
contains all the required information in the order
spills may help stop serious incidents.
specified; that the document is signed, and is
accompanied by any other required documents or In the event of an emergency call CANUTEC
certificates; and that it is given to the initial carrier. (Canadian Transport Emergency Centre) collect at
613-996-6666 or *666 (cellular). If the spill or
The regulations provide that the shipping document
emergency is in Manitoba, also contact the
shall be located during transport as follows:
Manitoba Environmental Accident Reporting Line
• when the driver is in the cab, one copy in the cab at 204-945-4888 or 204-944-4888 (24 Hours).
within the driver’s reach or in a pocket mounted
The above numbers are for reporting emergencies only.
on the driver’s door;
For information on obtaining a Certificate of Training,
• when the driver is not in the cab, one copy on
contact the Manitoba Trucking Association.
the driver’s seat or in the pocket mounted on the
driver’s door; For information concerning the handling and
transportation of dangerous goods in Manitoba
• if the transport unit is a tractor trailer and the
you may contact:
trailer containing dangerous goods is detached
and left in a parking area, leave a copy of the Manitoba Conservation
shipping document with the person in charge Environment Operations
of the parking area, and; Winnipeg Region
200 Saulteaux Crescent
• in cases that are not covered by the above,
Winnipeg, Manitoba R3J 3W3
leave the shipping document in an accessible,
Telephone: 204-945-7025
identifiable waterproof receptacle securely
attached to the transport unit. This office is for information only and not for
The carrier must also ensure the document is passed emergency response purposes.
along with the dangerous goods to any subsequent For information on federal regulations of the
carrier or to the consignee. transportation of dangerous goods contact the
Government of Canada, Dangerous Goods Surface
Transportation at 204-983-5969.

Transporting Explosives
Depending on the type of explosive a permit may be
required. For information on the transportation of
explosives contact:
Government of Canada
Dangerous Goods Surface Transportation
204-344 Edmonton Street
Winnipeg, Manitoba
Telephone: 204-983-5969
Transporting Livestock
The operator of a vehicle that is engaged in the
transportation of livestock is responsible for making
sure that such transporting is in compliance with the
conditions outlined in The Highway Traffic Act.
When transporting livestock the operator must keep
the vehicle clean and not overcrowded.
Cruelty to livestock is against the law. No person,

while transporting livestock or other animals in a motor
vehicle, shall permit any damage or injury to any of the
animals or transport animals in such a way as to cause
unnecessary suffering to any of them. Also, when
transporting livestock the vehicle shall be equipped
with partitions adequate to separate different species,
kinds, classes, types, or sizes of livestock.
Animals tend to shift back and forth and from

side-to-side to balance themselves while they are
standing in a moving vehicle. This is important for the
driver to know when negotiating curves on the highway
as it may change the centre of gravity of the vehicle.

Transporting Hanging Meat
Hanging meat, which is usually transported in Special Driving Considerations

a refrigerated vehicle, can be very unstable because of
for Tank Trucks
the load having a high centre of gravity. When going
around sharp corners, changing speed, accelerating or When slowing or braking with a tank truck the liquid
braking the driver must be extra cautious in order to in the tank moves or “sloshes” to the front of the tank
keep the vehicle under control. and then to the rear, then back to the front again. This
creates a wave, and when it hits the end of the tank it
Transporting Bulk Material tends to push the vehicle in that direction. If the vehicle
is being operated on a highway which is slippery, the
When materials are unpackaged they are called “bulk.”
surge of the wave could place the vehicle in a dangerous
For example sand, soil, sod and wood chips are usually
situation. When operating a tank truck you must take
transported in bulk by a dump body-type truck. In most
into account and be aware of the risks at all times.
cases a bulk load must be covered with a tarpaulin and
the driver must ensure the load does not fall from the There are different types of tank trucks and trailers.
vehicle. Loads of snow, earth or mud do not require
a tarpaulin when they are being transported as long
as the load does not fall off the vehicle.
Transporting Liquids
Tank trucks are used to transport liquids or liquefied
gaseous material. Operating tank trucks takes special
skill because of the movement of the liquid in the tank
and the high centre of gravity. Also, when a tank
is partially filled, the movement of the liquid can have
a direct impact on the handling or control of the vehicle.

Some of the tank bodies have compartments. When
filling or emptying different compartments on the Highway Train
same tank the driver should be aware of the weight In this manual a highway train is defined as
distribution, ensuring that there is not too much weight a combination vehicle made up of a tractor, more
at the front or rear of the vehicle. Some other tanks have than one trailer, and may include a converter dollie.
compartments with baffles in them. These baffles are
walls with holes in them which help control the forward This type of vehicle configuration is usually more
and backward movement of the liquid. The liquid is difficult to drive. Their weight, size and number
of articulations have a great deal of impact on vehicle
not restricted from side-to-side movement, which can
control and stability. To reduce the risk of an accident,
cause a driver to lose control and in extreme cases cause
the driver of a highway train must:
a vehicle to roll over. Drivers must take the necessary
precautions when going around sharp curves or turning • Avoid making abrupt movements with the
at intersections. This is especially crucial if the tank steering wheel.
is partially filled.
• Remain constantly alert in order to avoid having
Certain liquids will expand when they are heated. It is to make a sudden change of direction.
important the tank not be filled completely with these
If you do not follow this advice, you may end up in a skid
liquids because if heated they will expand and overflow
and lose control.
or damage the tank. Most tanks are considered to be full
when they have reached 70% of the tank capacity. The emergency manoeuvres and techniques suggested
for tractor trailers do not always work well with
Drivers should be familiar with product weights and
highway trains. Drivers of these vehicles should be
other characteristics before proceeding to load. Some
trained in the emergency procedures recommended
liquids, such as certain acids, are heavier and a tank
for highway trains.
may be overweight if filled. Therefore, a tank may
only be filled partially to remain within the legal Combination vehicles with more than one trailer are
weight limits. subject to “rear amplification”. Rear amplification is
when the lateral acceleration by the tractor increases
Transporting Dry Bulk to the rear trailers. The highway tractor amplification
A vehicle with dry bulk tanks or hoppers has a high factor is two, which means that the tractor’s lateral
centre of gravity and caution must be taken when acceleration is doubled at the rear trailer. This could
negotiating sharp turns and turns at intersections. increase in tight curves to a point where the rear trailer
The dry materials in the tank can shift and cause the can no longer remain upright and rolls over. Drivers
vehicle to be unstable and hard to control. without training in the operation of highway trains
may make a manoeuvre that they think is safe, however,
it could result in the roll over of the last trailer.

Dangers of Skidding and Jackknifing Highway Train Loading
with a Highway Train When connecting the trailers, the heaviest trailer
Jackknifing can be caused by one of the following: should be hitched to the tractor. If this precaution is not
taken, there is a risk of losing control.
• The rear wheels of the tractor skid as a result of
irregular braking or poor traction. Each trailer should be loaded so that the weight of the
cargo is evenly spread over the axles. The correct axle
• The rear of the tractor swings forward as a result
load is essential for braking, traction and control of the
of irregular braking, an extremely uneven road
vehicle. Also, the weight should be spread out in such
surface, high winds or an abrupt turn of the
a way that the centre of gravity is as low as possible in
steering wheel.
order to reduce the risk of the trailer being unstable
• The tail trailer pushes the lead trailer because of and rolling over.
uneven load distribution and abrupt braking.
When the jackknife angle is over 15°, stabilizing the Tow Truck
vehicle is almost impossible. Once the skid starts,
These are vehicles used to repair other vehicles or tow
if no corrective action is taken, the critical point can
other vehicles. A Class 3 licence is required if the tow
be reached in about one and a half seconds, after which
truck has more than two axles; or if the towed vehicle’s
it is virtually impossible to recover stability.
weight is 4540 kg or over, otherwise, a Class 5 licence
The best way to avoid this problem is to be aware is required. All tow trucks must be equipped with
of the situations that can quickly lead to skidding and a flashing or oscillating amber light clearly visible
jackknifing. Some of the more common reasons are: from a distance of 150 m. The flashing amber light
may be operated only when a vehicle is being towed
• Driving into curves too quickly causing the last
or as a hazard warning at the scene of an accident.
trailer to skid.
When towing a disabled vehicle, the distance between
• Overbraking causing a wheel to lock.
the two vehicles must not exceed 5 m. You must also
• Poor brake adjustment. remove derelict or damaged vehicles from the highway,
so that they do not obstruct the free passage of other
• Abrupt movements of the steering wheel when
vehicles and clean up any debris lying on the highway
changing lanes causing the rear trailer to fishtail.
as the result of a collision.
• Not paying attention to the traffic ahead and
having to take evasive actions.
Highway train drivers are far away from the rear trailer
and because of the added articulation (hinged) points
it is difficult for the driver to feel a skid coming or even
sense the trailer bouncing. Drivers of these types of
vehicles must check their rearview mirrors frequently.

16. During travel at night, what must be used to
Test Yourself on Section Three mark the outside points of an overwidth load?
How well have you understood the information covered
17. What effect does braking have on a load that is
in Section 3 of this manual?
not tied down or secured?
The answers to these questions are found in the
18. What could result from placing too much weight
preceding pages of this manual.
over any one set of wheels, or over any one axle?
1. What determines the amount of off-track
19. Should most of the weight of a load on a truck be
a vehicle will have?
placed directly behind the cab, slightly ahead of
2. What is the danger of allowing the rear wheels the rear axle or slightly behind the rear axle?
of the vehicles to cross over the centre line of the
20. Should most of the weight of a load on a tractor
roadway when negotiating a left turn or curve?
trailer be placed directly over the fifth wheel,
3. What are the hazards of running rear wheels at a midway point of the trailer or directly over
over curbs when making sharp turns to the the trailer axle?
right?
21. If a load is allowed to escape from the vehicle,
4. What precautions must the driver take before who can be held responsible?
crossing the centre line of the roadway to
22. Do loose loads of wood chips or similar materials
negotiate a sharp turn to the right from
need to be covered to prevent loosing the load?
a narrow roadway?
23. When is a pilot vehicle required to follow the
5. When it becomes necessary to “block off” more
vehicle it is escorting?
than one lane of traffic to negotiate a sharp turn,
what special precautions must the driver take? 24. What is the maximum legal width of a vehicle to
be operated on any highway?
6. What preventative measures should a driver
take before entering a narrow bridge from 25. What is the maximum length a load may project
a curved approach? beyond the front bumper of a vehicle?
7. Why is it important that the driver know the 26. When a coupling device is used to join vehicles
height of the vehicle and load? in combination (other than a fifth wheel) is an
additional coupling device such as a chain or
8. What are some of the low overhead clearance
cable required?
hazards that may not always be indicated by
a warning sign? 27. Except for a pole trailer, what is the maximum
length permitted for a draw bar or coupling
9. What is the maximum legal height of a vehicle
device between vehicles?
and its load?
28. When coupling a tractor to a trailer, must the
10. What factors determine the maximum allowable
air lines be connected before or after engaging
GVWR for which the vehicle may be licenced?
the fifth wheel to the trailer pin?
11. Do load limit signs posted before bridges and
29. How would you test to see that the fifth wheel
structures apply to all vehicles?
jaws have locked to the trailer pin?
12. Are all commercial vehicles required to report
30. To uncouple a tractor from a trailer, are the
to weigh scales?
air lines unhooked before or after separating
13. What is required before oversize or overweight the fifth wheel from the trailer pin?
loads may be transported?
31. Is it necessary to block the wheel of a trailer that
14. Which office should be contacted if your load is to be left for any length of time?
is oversize?
15. May “wide load” signs be displayed when

a wide load is not actually being transported?

Notes

Section 4
Additional Information
for Class 2 and 4 Drivers

Additional study of Section 2 of this manual and the
Driver’s Handbook is recommended. School Buses
School bus drivers require a Class 2 or higher class of
Buses driver’s licence if the school bus being operated has

a seating capacity of over 36 occupants (including the
Bus drivers require a Class 2 or higher class of driver’s driver) while carrying passengers. School bus drivers
licence if the bus being operated has a seating capacity require a Class 4 or higher driver’s licence if the school
of over 24 occupants (including the driver) while carrying bus being operated has a seating capacity between
passengers. Passenger carrying vehicles with a seating 11 and 36 occupants (including the driver) while
capacity between 11 and 24 occupants (including the carrying passengers.
driver) require a Class 4 or higher class of driver’s licence.
Passenger vehicles used for personal transportation Railway Crossings

by the owner or with the owner’s permission require
When approaching railway tracks, operators of school
a Class 5 or higher class of driver’s licence to operate.
buses shall bring the school bus to a full stop not closer
than 5 m or more than 15 m measured from the front of
the bus to the closest railway track. The bus must come
to a full stop if it is carrying passengers or not. Once the
school bus has stopped, the operator must fully open
the service door, listen and look in both directions along
the tracks for approaching trains, and not move the
school bus unless it is safe to do so, closing the service
door before moving the school bus.
A school bus certificate may be required to operate

a school bus while carrying passengers.

For information regarding the operation of a school bus
or information on school bus certificates, please refer to Emergency Vehicles
the School Bus Driver’s Handbook or contact: When responding to an emergency call emergency
Education, Citizenship and Youth vehicle drivers can exceed the posted speed limits or
Pupil Transportation proceed past a red traffic control signal light or stop
546 - 2nd Avenue sign. They must however sound audible signal bell
Rivers, Manitoba R0K 1X0 or siren and show a flashing red or a combination of
Telephone: 204-328-5402 flashing red and blue lights.
or Emergency vehicle drivers must drive with regard for
Pupil Transportation Unit safety, and must consider the:
507-1181 Portage Avenue
Winnipeg, Manitoba R3G 0T3 • condition and use of the highway;
Telephone: 204-945-6900 • amount of traffic that is on, or may be expected
Toll-free: 1-800-282-8069 Ext. 6900 on the highway;
• nature and use being made of the emergency

Taxicab vehicle at the time.
Taxicab drivers require a Class 4 or a higher class

of driver’s licence. In addition, some cities or
municipalities may have bylaws requiring taxi drivers
to obtain a taxicab driver’s permit or licence.

Driving a Bus Left Turns
Turning a large vehicle requires more attention and care
Right Turns than turning a passenger car. All left turns with buses,
In making a right turn, drivers must avoid running as with other vehicles, must be started in the left lane as
over or scuffing the curb with the rear wheels. close to the centre line or median as possible. With the
bus positioned approximately 1 m (3 ft) from the centre
To execute a sharp right turn (particularly with line or median, proceed straight until the intersecting
a forward control bus) the driver should position the curb line can be seen through the front left window.
bus 1 to 2 m from the curb on the approach to the Complete the turn as near as possible into the left lane
intersection then proceed straight, until the curb line of the street you are entering. Narrow intersecting
of the side street can be sighted through the front streets may require that you proceed straight ahead
entrance door. (As shown in the diagram). over the centre of the intersection before the turn can
Right turns into very narrow streets may require that be started. When this is necessary, use caution.
the driver proceed well into the intersection before Left turns from a one-way street into a one-way street
commencing the turn. It may be necessary to travel will require the driver to adjust the turning arc in
over the centre line as the turn is made. When this is a similar manner as in the right hand turn to avoid
necessary, the driver must use extreme caution to make running over or scuffing the curb with the left rear
sure a safe turn is made. wheels. (For more information on turning, see
Section 3.)

Leaving the Curb Parked Car Hazards
The driver should not rely only on the side mirror to Passing parked cars requires the driver be constantly
check that traffic is clear before pulling out, but alert for hazards such as cars pulling out without
should also glance over the left shoulder to verify the warning, sudden opening of doors on the traffic side
way is safe. or pedestrians stepping out from between cars.
A turn signal light is required when a bus leaves the Watch for warning clues when passing a line of parked
curb. The driver should not use the turn signal light vehicles, such as:
until prepared to proceed from the curb.
• front wheels turned out;
Leaving the curb with a bus that has an overhang over
• drivers sitting behind the wheel;
the rear wheels, requires the driver to use caution to
avoid striking pedestrians, poles or sign posts located • exhaust from tail pipes;
close to the curb.
• brake lights;
Cars parked close to the front of the bus and vehicles
• signal lights.
approaching in the opposite direction are factors which
the driver must assess before moving the vehicle from
the curb.

Passenger Safety Vehicle Inspection
The prime consideration of the driver is the safe The Registrar may require the owner or operator of
operation of the vehicle. a commercial vehicle to have their vehicle inspected to
make sure that it is in a safe condition and complies
This must take preference over maintaining schedules
with The Highway Traffic Act and its Regulations.
or any other factor that could contribute unsafe
operation of the vehicle. Defects and Breakdowns
The driver operating a Class 2 or Class 4 vehicle must During a trip parts of a public passenger vehicle may
also consider of the comfort of passengers. become defective. If continuing the trip would endanger
the safety or comfort of any passenger, the vehicle
The operation of buses requires that the driver develop
should be brought to a stop. It should not proceed with
handling skills in accordance with the characteristics
passengers until the defect is remedied or the danger
of the vehicle. A knowledge of the turning radius,
is removed. If the vehicle is unable to proceed because
amount of off-track of the rear wheels, overhang past
of an accident or breakdown, the driver should make
the rear wheels and width of the vehicle, are important
immediate arrangements to transport the passengers
factors the driver must know for the skillful handling
to their destination without delay.
of the vehicle.
Many passenger accidents have been attributed to Fuelling

improper operation by the driver: A vehicle should not be refuelled while the engine is
• stopping improperly at the loading zone; running or in the presence of any open flame. When the
vehicle is being fuelled the nozzle of the fuel-hose must
• loading or unloading passengers when unsafe be kept in contact with the intake and be grounded to
to do so; the fuel-tank throughout the fuelling process. The
• unnecessary sudden stops or starts with standing opening through which the tank of the passenger
passengers; vehicle is filled must be outside the body of the vehicle
and be ventilated.
• sharp turns at excessive speed;
Baggage
• improper operation of bus doors.
All baggage or property transported in, or on, any public
Accidents of this type are preventable. passenger vehicle must be loaded so as not to interfere
with the entrance or exit of passengers, must be stowed
Inside Lights
to prevent it from falling on, or against, any passenger.
A public passenger vehicle should have a light or lights
inside the vehicle that will light up the whole of the
interior of the vehicle. As well, public passenger
vehicles should have a lamp at each entrance door to
light the entrance or exit steps of the bus.
Cleanliness of Vehicles
A public passenger vehicle should be kept clean and
sanitary at all times.

Loading and Unloading
Passengers
When loading or unloading passengers, the driver Standing Passengers

should make sure that it can be done safely. If possible No passenger may stand in a position that could
when loading or unloading passengers outside of a city, obstruct the driver’s vision or movements.
the vehicle should be stopped clear of the travelled
portion of the highway to allow the other vehicles Refusal to Transport Passengers
to pass and be visible to approaching traffic. No person may be refused passage on a public passenger
vehicle when they present themselves at any regular
Safety Provisions
scheduled stopping-place and tender the regular fare,
A driver should not collect fares, make change, or load unless, at the time, the vehicle’s seats are fully
or unload passengers while the vehicle is in motion. occupied. Persons may be refused passage if they are
Unnecessary conversation with passengers should not intoxicated, boisterous, disorderly, or using profane
take place while the vehicle is being driven. or obscene language.
Driver’s Vision Passengers with Disabilities

The driver’s view ahead and to the right and left must Persons with disabilities may require the assistance
not be obscured in any way. The driver must, at all of a licensed animal. For example, a guide dog may
times, have full movement of their arms and legs, accompany a visually impaired person onto a bus.
and ready access to emergency equipment. No
passenger may sit to the left of the driver. In the
case of a sedan-type vehicle, a maximum of two
passengers, in addition to the driver, may be seated
on the front seat, and then only if there remains
adequate room for the driver to operate the vehicle
safely.

Test Yourself on Section Four
How well do you understand the information contained
in Section 4? The answers to these questions are found
in the preceding pages of this manual.
1. What is the first consideration of a driver who

operates a vehicle used for the transportation of
the public?
2. Is it important that the driver of a bus know the

length, width, and wheel base of the vehicle?
3. What licences or permits is a taxi driver required

to have?
4. What is the advantage of entering a sharp turn

at a low speed?
5. If it is necessary to cross over a centre line or

lane line to negotiate a sharp turn with a long
wheel-base vehicle, what precautions should
the driver take?
6. On a two-way street, in addition to checking

the left side mirror, where should the driver of
a vehicle look before leaving the curb?
7. What precautions must the driver of a bus take

when leaving a parked position at which poles
or sign posts are located near the vehicle?
8. Should the driver turn on the vehicle’s turn

signal lights before he is ready to leave the
parking position?
9. What hazards should a driver expect when

passing a line of parked vehicles?
10. What warning clues should the driver watch for

when driving past a line of parked vehicles?
11. Under what conditions may the driver of an

emergency vehicle exceed a posted speed limit?

Section 5
Vehicle Pre-trip
Inspection

Pre-trip Circle Check Illustration
When preparing for the pre-trip circle check practical examination you must study the indepth information
in the following pages.
1 Approaching the vehicle 4 Driving compartment

4 f
a. Vehicle body for damage a. Seat and seat belts
b. Under vehicle for fluid leaks b. Mirrors
c. Wheels blocked c. Windshield wiper and washer
d. Horn
e. Lights
2 Parking brake set
f. Steering wheel free play
3 Under the hood g. Gauges and warning lights
a. Fluid levels h. Accelerator pedal
Power steering fluid i. Heater and defroster 4
Oil j. Windshield and
windows
Coolant
b
Windshield washer fluid
b. Drive belts
c. Radiator
d. Hoses and components b
e. Frame rails and cross members
b
3 a, b, d 3 2
6 a,b
3 d
c, d, e, f, g h, i, j k,l,m c, d, f, g c, d, f, g
7
6 Walk-around c. Tires i. Safety inspection
sticker
a. Grill and front bumper, licence d. Rims, spacers and fasteners
plate e. Hub oil j. Fuel tanks, brackets,
b. Headlights (high and low steps and caps
f. Suspension
beam), k. Batteries
springs
clearance lights, l. Exhaust system
mounting hardware
identification lights, m.Cab securement
suspension components
taillights, n. Load securement
air suspension system
stop lights, (air leaks) o. Side of vehicle for damage
side marker lights, g. Frame rails and cross members p. Rear tailgate/doors
licence plate light, h. Doors, windows, grab handles q. Underride protection
reflectors, and mirrors r. Landing supports
hazard lights and turn signals s. Sliding bogie locking bars

4 g 5 Emergency equipment 5 a-c
a. Flags, flares or reflectors
b. Fire extinguisher
c. First aid kit
b b
g, v
q
b n, 0
g, r c, d, e, f, g c, d, e, f, g
6 f 7 Trailer hitch 7 a 7 b
a. Fifth wheel
b. Plate and kingpin

Checking a vehicle before starting out, as required
Vehicle Condition by law, will often prevent costly delays as well as
Every driver of a commercial motor vehicle and some reduce the chances of an accident resulting from a
private use vehicles must carry out and log an inspection mechanical failure.
as outlined in The Highway Traffic Act and its Regulations.
Carrying out an efficient pre-trip inspection in
A commercial motor vehicle is:
a minimum of time can be done by drivers who follows
a. a motor vehicle with a GVWR of 4,500 kg or a systematic inspection.
more that is a public service vehicle or
For information on commercial motor vehicle and trailer
commercial truck;
trip inspections contact Transportation Regulation.
b. a bus with a seating capacity of 11 or more,
including the driver, that is used for
transportation of persons or property on
Pre-Trip Circle Check
a highway for gain or compensation; or Examination
c. a school bus. For Class 1, 2, 3 including pick-up trucks with a trailer
over 4540 kg’s and Class 4 (buses) the applicant will
The inspection will take place before the vehicle’s first
be required to complete a pre-trip circle check on the
trip of the day, and if a trip lasts more than one day,
vehicle they supply as part of the road test. During the
before the trip begins on the first day, and no later
pre-trip, the applicant must be able to locate, identify
than the first rest stop on the second and every
and check the items or components as set out in
subsequent day.
this manual. Inadequately completing the pre-trip
Regardless of the maintenance policies of companies and/or air brake inspection will result in the
or vehicle owners, all drivers must be capable of discontinuance and failure of the road test.
determining if their vehicle is in safe operating
An applicant is expected to complete the pre-trip circle
condition as outlined in The Highway Traffic Act
check in a systematic manner to conserve time.
and its Regulations.
The pre-trip inspection should take no more than
A person who carries out a vehicle pre-trip inspection
20 minutes to complete.
must make a trip inspection report in legible writing
that contains the following: Details of a pre-trip circle check will vary depending
on the vehicle being inspected, however, the principle
1. The licence plate number or unit number of
of making the pre-trip circle check should always
the vehicle and any trailer towed by it.
be followed.
2. The date of inspection.
If a vehicle is equipped with hydraulic brakes, an
3. A list of any safety defects. hydraulic brake system inspection as outlined in area H
at the end of this section, must be completed in
4. If no items are defective or required to be reported
conjunction with the pre-trip inspection.
on the vehicle or any trailer towed by it,
a statement to that effect. If a vehicle is equipped with air brakes, an air brake
inspection will be conducted in conjunction with the
5. The name and signature of the person who
pre-trip inspection. All applicants operating air brake
carried out the inspection.
equipped vehicles will be required to complete the air
If a driver believes or suspects that there is a safety defect brake system pre-trip inspection as outlined in the
they must report that belief or suspicion to the carrier. Air Brake Manual.
If the defect poses an unreasonable risk it must be
Note: When upgrading your driver’s licence from single
reported immediately. Any other case must be reported
to combination vehicles with air brakes, you will be
in a timely manner.
required to demonstrate the complete air brake steps for
Every commercial vehicle driver must have a current combination vehicles.
trip inspection report in their possession for the vehicle
Inadequately completing the pre-trip and/or air brake
and any trailer attached.
inspection will result in the discontinuance and failure
of the road test.

All Vehicles Class 1, 2, 3, and Class 4 Buses
Inspect Inspection Method Report if
1. Approach vehicle and check:
1.1 Vehicle body for damage Visual Damaged.
1.2 Under vehicle for fluid leaks Visual Excessive fluid leaks.
2. Enter driving compartment and check:
2.1 Park brake is applied Visual Apply if not on.
3. Engine compartment, check:
3.1 Fluid levels to ensure adequate: Visual and Manual If levels are low fill adequately.
power steering fluid, oil, coolant
(do not remove radiator cap if hot),
transmission fluid, windshield washer fluid,
brake fluid if hydraulic brake system.
3.2 Drive belts for tension, cracking and wear. Visual and Manual Belt deteriorated or loose.
3.3 Radiator for leaks and security. Visual and Manual Leaks or loose.
3.4 Hoses and components for wear and leaks. Visual and Manual Leaks or deteriorated.
3.5 Frame rails and cross members for cracks Visual Insecure, cracked or broken.
and bending.
4. Driving compartment, check:
4.1 Seat and seat belt is adjusted and in Visually check that the seat Seat is damaged or distorted.
good shape. is anchored. Manually operate Seat fails to maintain selected
the seat and ensure adjustment adjustment. Any damage
is correct. Visually and that may reduce the
manually check seat belt effectiveness of the seat belt.
webbing and retractor
assembly.

4.2 Turn key on: system check, start engine, Visual Warning lights or gauges
observe gauges and warning lights are not operating.
functioning properly.
4.3 Accelerator pedal for binding or sticking. Perform test with engine idling: Pedal binding; or engine will
depress accelerator pedal and not return to idle.
release.
4.4 Steering free play is not excessive. Visually and manually inspect Total movement greater than
with the engine running on shown in the following table.
vehicles equipped with power
Truck
steering. With the front wheels
in a straight ahead position, Steering wheel Steering lash
turn the steering wheel until Diameter power/manual
turning motion can be observed
Less than 50 mm/75 mm
at the front wheels, turn the
406 mm (16") (2.0")/(3.0")
steering wheel in the opposite
direction until motion can 406 mm to 75 mm/87 mm
be observed at the front wheels; 500 mm (3.0")/(3.5")
estimate the amount of steering (16")/(20")
lash. (Total movement observed
larger than 87 mm/100 mm
at steering wheel rim before
500 mm (20") (3.5")/(4.0")
movement at front wheel.)
Bus
less than 45 mm
300 mm
350 mm to 50 mm
400 mm
400 mm to 55 mm
450 mm
450 mm to 60 mm
500 mm
larger than 87 mm
500 mm

4.5 Horn is working and audible. Activate system Horn fails to sound or is below
a reasonable audible level.
4.6 Windshield wipers and washer operation. Visual and Manual Windshield wipers fail to wipe
approximately 75% of the
windshield or contact the
windshield properly or return
to the “park” position.
Windshield washer fails to
apply solution to intended area
of the windshield.
4.7 Heater/defroster operation. Activate system Defroster motor fails to operate

in all selected positions.
Airflow over intended area
is not present.
4.8 Instrument lights are operational. Visual and Manual Not operating.
Turn signal indicators operational.
High beam indicator operational.
4.9 Condition and cleanliness of windows Visual Star or chip 12.7 mm (1/2") or
and windshield. greater in diameter; or any
intersecting cracks in glass
area, swept by windshield
wiper; or driver vision is
obscured or limited.
4.10 Adjustment and cleanliness of exterior Visual Insecure or obstructed or fails

and interior mirrors. to provide a clear view of
highway to the rear. Any mirror
that fails to maintain set
adjustment. Clouded as to
obscure vision.
5. Emergency equipment check:
5.1 Flags, flares or reflectors are present Visual Advanced warning device(s)
(if applicable). missing or broken.
5.2 Fire extinguisher is charged and stowed Visual Fire extinguisher missing
correctly (if applicable). or discharged (applicable
vehicles.)
5.3 First aid kit is present (if applicable). Visual First aid kit is missing or seal
broken (applicable vehicles.)
6. Outside checks:
6.1 Grill and front bumper are secure, Visual and Manual Loose or broken, plates
licence plate(s) valid and clean. not valid.

6.2 Headlights (high and low beam), clearance Visually and manually inspect Any light is missing or
lights, identification lights, taillights, the operation of all the lights, broken or fails to illuminate
stop lights, side marker lights, licence plate except the hazard lights, with when its control device is
light, reflectors, reflective marking, hazard the vehicle engine running and actuated; or any lens or
lights and turn signals are operational the headlights, brake lights and reflector is broken,
and clean. all auxiliary lights illuminated; cracked or missing, reflective
inspect hazard lights with the markings missing.
ignition, headlights, brake lights
and auxiliary lights in the off
position, reflective marking
present on side and rear of
vehicle/trailer.
6.3 Front tires for cuts, bulges, air pressure, and Visual and Manual Any cords exposed due to
tread depth (not less than 3.2mm on front wear or damage; or evidence
steering tires). Rear tires for cuts, bulges, of tread separation or low air
air pressure, tread depth (not less than 1.6mm pressure. Insufficient tire
on rear tires), and no debris between dual tires. tread depth. Any abnormal
bump or bulge.
6.4 Mudflaps for security and condition. Visual Torn, insecurely mounted,
missing or not the full width
of the tire track. The lower end
of the mudflap is more than
than 350 mm (14") from the
ground.
6.5 Rims for cracks and slippage, spacers for Visual and Manual Rim bent, loose or cracked,
cracks or not seated properly, fasteners for or mounting holes elongated.
tightness, and hub oil level is adequate Spacers cracked or not seated
(if applicable). properly, fasteners loose,
missing, cross threaded or not
flush with the stud. Wheel or
lock rim assembly show signs
of cracking or severe damage.
Hub oil low.
6.6 Suspension for cracked or broken parts, Visually inspect for noticeable Broken springs or mounting
deflated or leaking airbags. sag or lean. hardware or deflated or
leaking airbag.
6.7 Frame rails and cross members for cracks Visual Insecure cracked or broken.
or bending.
6.8 Door(s), window(s), grab handles and mirror(s) Visual Insecure or obstructed; or fail
for security and provide a clear view. to provide a clear view.
6.9 Safety inspection decal is valid, clean and Visual No decal present or expired
visible (if applicable). decal.

6.10 Fuel tank brackets or straps, steps and cap(s) Visual Cap missing, tank or lines
for security, and fuel lines for leaks. leaking or insecure.
6.11 Batteries for security and loose electrical Visual and Manual Loose.
connections.
6.12 Exhaust system and muffler for leaks Visually inspect with engine Any leaks.
and security. running.
6.13 Cab securement and suspension: Visually and manual inspect Cab not secure, air leak,
cab securely mounted, cab mounted (air pressure at normal air bag not inflated or bruised,
air bags and lines for leaks, shocks secure operating pressure). cab tilts to one side, shock
and not leaking. missing, broken leaking
or mounts loose.
6.14 Load securement, side and bottom doors, Visual and Manual Attachment points are cracked,
attachment points and securement elongated or broken.
equipment (chains, wire rope, webbing Securement equipment is
hooks, binders, etc.) stretched, cracked, broken or
inadequate strength or
insufficient tie-down
assemblies.
6.15 Sides of vehicle for damage or load for shifting Visual Any exterior body panel that
(if applicable). is damaged or deteriorated so
that it constitutes a hazard.
Any compartment door that
is loose or has missing or
detached holding fixtures.
Load must be properly secured
before moving.
6.16 Rear tailgate/door(s) securely closed. Visual If cannot securely close.
6.17 Underride protection or rear bumper is secure Visual Insecure, broken or protruding
(if applicable). and is hazardous.
Footnote: For vehicles with hydraulic brakes see section H. Buses see section 8.
7. Additional checks for Combination Vehicle:
7.1 Fifth wheel: The trailer is sitting properly on Visual Cracked or insecurely
the fifth wheel, the locking handle is locked mounted; any weld that
and the fifth wheel jaws are locked around the is broken or latch lock that
kingpin of the trailer. Fifth wheel slide locks is inoperative, or eye or lunette
are fully locked and not damaged. Connections worn more than 9.5 mm (3/8").
other than fifth wheel: coupling devices are
locked and securely mounted, all safety chains
are attached securely.
7.2 Electrical cord is properly connected, Visual Insecure, broken or protruding

in good condition and stowed properly. and is hazardous.
7.3 Trailer safety inspection decal is valid, Visual No decal present or expired
clean and visible, (if applicable). decal.

7.4 Landing supports are in the up position and Visual Place in the up position and
the crank handle is stowed properly. Check stow handle correctly. Any
for any damage to the loading supports damage.
and structure.
7.5 Sliding bogie locking bars or pins are secure Visual Locking bars or pins are
and not damaged. not secure or damaged.
7.6 Spare tire for security and condition Visual Not secure or condition (see 6.3).
(if applicable).
7.7 Trailer licence plate for validity. Visual Licence not valid.
8. Additional checks for Buses:
8.1 All interior lights are operational. Visual Not working.
8.2 Aisle and stairwell lights are operational. Visual Not working.
8.3 Passenger seats and handrails for security. Walk the full length of the Any seat or attaching fixture
interior of the bus, observe seat that has a defect that may
assemblies and attaching fixtures constitute a hazard to any
as well as stanchion bars. person. Any stanchion bar
that is not attached in its
intended receptacle and
presents a hazard to any person.
8.4 Emergency exits and warning buzzer are Visual and Manual Visibly damaged or not
operational from inside and outside working.
(if applicable).
8.5 Service door control is functional. Activate entrance and exit door Any door that fails to function
control mechanism. as intended. Brake or
brake/accelerator interlock
system fails to function as
intended. Interlock system fails
to release when doors are
closed and locked.
8.6 Additional auxiliary heaters or Manual Does not blow air in desired
air conditioners are operational. location.

8.7 Interior condition of bus, floor, dash, steps, Visual Interior body panels are
windows and operator’s compartment. damaged and present a hazard
to any person. Floor is damaged
or worn and presents a hazard
to any person. Dash area has
defects that present a hazard to
any person. Steps are not clean
and in good condition to
prevent tripping or slipping.
Windows are not free from
cracks or damage that may
present a hazard to any person.
Window latches and emergency
release hardware are not
present or in good condition.
Operator’s compartment has
defects that may cause a hazard
to the operator.
8.8 Wheelchair lift and kneeling feature or wheel With engine running, cycle Audible alarm fails to function.
chair ramp are operational, (if applicable). wheelchair lift, lower and raise Lift safety devices fail to
kneeling bus or deploy ramp. function as intended. Lift
does not complete cycle.
Interlock system fails to
activate and release as
intended. Bus does not return
to level position after kneeling.
8.9 Wheelchair restraints are operational and Visual and Manual Restraint missing or
secure, (if applicable). inoperative.
Hydraulic brake system inspection
Complete the brake check for vehicles with hydraulic brake system, as follows:
H.1 Electric motor (brake assist) With the vehicle engine stopped, Electric motor fails to operate.
(if applicable) apply moderate pressure to the
service brake pedal, electric motor
operating should be audible.
H.2 Vacuum boost operation (if applicable) With the engine stopped, depress Brake pedal fails to move.
the service brake pedal several
times to eliminate vacuum, then
with light foot pressure on the
pedal (12 kg or 25 lbs) start the
engine.

H.3 Brake warning indicator Visually inspect and apply service Brake warning indicator lamp
(with parking brake released) brake pedal. operates continuously or when
brake is applied.
H.4 Brake pedal reserve Test with the engine running if Pedal moves towards the floor
the vehicle is equipped with more than 65%.
power brakes; apply and maintain
a moderate foot force to the service
brake pedal for one minute.
H.5 Park brake Apply parking brake and, with Park brake fails to hold vehicle.
engine running at an idle and
the transmission engaged,
attempt to move the vehicle.
H.6 Brake performance Move the vehicle forward and Brake pull exists or brake
apply the service brakes. Also performance appears to be
move vehicle ahead and less than adequate.
apply electric trailer brakes
(if applicable).

NOTES:
Pre-trip Circle Check
• If a vehicle is equipped with air brakes,
Tear Out Sheet an air brake inspection will be conducted in
You may use this checklist for your test. Do not add to, conjunction with the pre-trip inspection. All
or write on this form. If altered it cannot be used on applicants operating air brake equipped
the test. The Professional Driver’s Manual has specific vehicles will be required to complete the air
inspection information that must be studied prior to brake system pre-trip inspection as outlined
the test. in the Air Brake Manual.
• When upgrading your driver’s licence

Key points:
from single to combination vehicles with
• You need to locate the items to be checked and air brakes, you will be required to
tell the examiner how and what you check on demonstrate the complete air brake steps
that part. Never assume the examiner has enough for combination vehicles.
information and delete items. When the examiner
Inadequately completing the pre-trip and/or
is satisfied in your knowledge of the area you may
air brake inspection will result in the
be asked to move along.
discontinuance and failure of the road test.
• The pre-trip inspection should be done in
a systematic manner to conserve time. This
pre-trip should take no more than 20 minutes
to complete.
• If using a trailer with electric brakes, the system

must be inspected to ensure it is operating properly.
✄

All Vehicles Additional Checks for
• Approach vehicle Combination Vehicles
• Vehicle secure • Fifth wheel/coupling device
ENGINE COMPARTMENT • Air lines, glad hands and electrical cord
• Fluids • Landing supports and crank handle
• Drive belts, hoses • Sliding bogie locking bars/pin (if applicable)
• Batteries
• Frame rails and cross members

Additional Checks for Buses
• Interior lights
DRIVING COMPARTMENT (IN-CAB)
• Seats and handrails, wheel chair restraints
• Controls
(if applicable)
EMERGENCY EQUIPMENT (if applicable) • Emergency exits (if applicable)
OUTSIDE CHECKS • Service door(s)

• Bumpers • Auxiliary heaters (if applicable)
• Lighting equipment • Wheelchair lift or kneeling feature (if applicable)
• Tailgate, doors, mirrors, load
• Safety sticker
• Licence plates
• Fuel tank
• Exhaust system
• Tires
• Rims
• Suspension
• Splash guards
• Hub oil (if applicable)
HYDRAULIC BRAKE INSPECTION

(non air brake vehicles only at this point)

In-Service Inspections Pre-Hill Inspection
In addition to the pre-trip inspection, trucks and trailers Anytime a sign is posted that requires truck drivers to
should be inspected at regular intervals throughout the stop in the pull-out area and inspect their brakes
trip. The driver should stop the vehicle clear of the before proceeding down the steep hill ahead, drivers
travelled portion of the highway and check: must comply.
• wheel lugs and nuts; Before proceeding down the grade, truck drivers
equipped with air operated braking systems must check:
• tires for condition, pressure and overheating;
• compressor is maintaining full reservoir pressure;
• hubs and drums for heat;
• slack adjusters for push rod travel and take up
• brakes for operation (See Air Brake Manual);
slack if required, and you are authorized in
• coupling devices; slack adjustment;
• load security; • check for air leaks;
• drive lines and oil leaks; • security of glad hands and lines;
• lights and windshield visibility; • drums for overheating;
• record an in-service inspection in the log book. • emergency valve operation.
Truck drivers equipped with hydraulic brake systems

Post-Trip Inspection will check:
At the end of the final trip of the day you must conduct • pedal reserve;
a post-trip inspection on your vehicle. This inspection is
• vacuum booster operating;
similar to a pre-trip inspection. During this inspection
you must check for any damage or defects that may have • drums for over-heating;
developed on your vehicle during the trip. You must also
• visual inspection for hydraulic fluid leaks.
complete a post-trip inspection report. This report must
note any defects found during the post-trip inspection. You must stop and check your brakes when this sign
The post-trip inspection can be added to the report you is posted.
completed during the pre-trip inspection at the start
of that day.
If the vehicle is equipped with air brakes, see the

Air Brake Manual for additional items to be inspected
during the post-trip inspection.

Notes

Section 6
For Your Information

Driver Training Schools
Becoming a safe professional driver requires both
education and experience. Attending a driver training
school will help you to obtain the necessary knowledge
and skills.
Driver training schools and instructors are licensed by

Manitoba Public Insurance. Driver training instructors
are required to meet certain licensing and testing
requirements before being licensed to provide
instruction.
For further information about Driver Training Schools

and Instructors please contact:
Driver Training Permit Unit

Telephone: 204-985-7928
Toll-Free: 1-800-665-2410 Ext. 7928

Metric Conversion Table
Some commonly used conversions are listed below.
Numbers have been rounded and therefore are not
precise equivalents.
Length Converted Weight
1 inch = 2.54 cm 10,000 lbs = 4 500 kg

1 foot = 30.48 cm 12,000 lbs = 5 500 kg
1 mile = 1.61 km 20,000 lbs = 9 100 kg
24,000 lbs = 11 000 kg
Volume
1 pint = 0.57 l Pressure
1 quart = 1.13 l 1 psi = 6.9 kPa

1 gallon = 4.55 l 2 psi = 13.8 kPa
3 psi = 20.7 kPa
Speed
4 psi = 28 kPa
1 mph = 1.61 km/h
5 psi = 34.5 kPa
10 mph = 15 km/h
6 psi = 41.4 kPa
15 mph = 25 km/h
20 psi = 138 kPa
20 mph = 30 km/h
45 psi = 311 kPa
30 mph = 50 km/h
50 psi = 345 kPa
40 mph = 60 km/h
60 psi = 414 kPa
50 mph = 80 km/h
80 psi = 552 kPa
60 mph = 100 km/h
90 psi = 621 kPa
105 psi = 725 kPa
Converted Linear Measurements
120 psi = 828 kPa
8' 6" = 2.60 m
125 psi = 863 kPa
10' = 3.00 m
150 psi = 1 035 kPa
12' 6" = 3.80 m
13' 6" = 4.15 m
14' = 4.20 m
35' = 11.00 m Abbreviations
38' = 11.50 m mm = millimetre

40' = 12.50 m cm = centimetre
45' = 14.00 m l = litre
60' = 18.50 m km/h = kilometre per hour
65' = 20.00 m m = metre
100' = 30.00 m kg = kilogram
500' = 150.00 m kPa = kilopascal

Notes

Organ and Tissue Donation DONOR CARD
Direction under T
The Human Tissue Gift Act C.C.S.M. c. H180
Every year in Canada, thousands of people are waiting
I,
for organ and tissue transplants. You can make the
direct the use, after my death (please check ✓) of:
difference in the lives of many people by deciding ❑ any needed organs or parts of my body; or
to become a donor. Everyone has the potential to be ❑ the following specified organs or parts of my body, namely:
an organ and tissue donor. The health of the donor,

not the age, is the most important thing considered. for the following purposes:
❑ transplant and other therapeutic purposes;
Generally, organ donors are healthy people who have ❑ medical education; ❑ scientific research.
suffered an irreversible brain injury, as in a motor
vehicle accident or a brain hemorrhage. Organs and Donor Signature Date
tissues that can be donated include: kidneys, heart,
Co-signature of parent or guardian Date
lungs, liver, pancreas, small bowel, corneas, solid where donor is under 18 years of age.
bones and joints, skin and heart valves.
Sign a Donor Card Today and Discuss Your

Wishes with Your Family!
Signing a donor card is one way to indicate your wishes
to be an organ and tissue donor. However, donor
cards are often not available at the time of the donor’s
death. Therefore, it is important that you discuss your
wishes with your family. Other people you may want to
inform of this wish are your clergy and family doctor.
A Living Will is another place where you can record
your wishes. If you have named a proxy in your Living
Will, the proxy has precedence over the legal next-of-
kin to give consent for organ and tissue donation if you
have discussed your wishes with your proxy.
Drivers under the age of 18 years require the signature

of a parent or guardian. Simply cut out the card on the
following page, complete the information, and keep it
with your Manitoba Health Registration Certificate or
Driver’s Licence so it’s visible for law enforcement and
hospital officials. Your donor card is a legal document
that allows you to give any or all tissues and organs
after death.
For further information and extra

donor cards, contact:
Transplant Manitoba – Gift of Life Program
www.transplantmanitoba.ca
204-787-1897
Tissue Bank Manitoba

204-940-1750
The Lions Eye Bank of Manitoba

and Northwest Ontario Inc.
204-788-8419

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

YOUR FAMILY TO ENSURE YOUR WISHES ARE FULFILLED.
Y
For more information on organ and tissue donation, please

contact one of the Human Tissue Gift Agencies listed below:
Transplant Manitoba-Gift of Life Program 204-787-1897
Tissue Bank Manitoba 204-940-1750
Lions Eye Bank of Manitoba and
Northwest Ontario Inc. 204-788-8419
(R-09/09)

Professional drivers are encouraged
to increase their knowledge
by participating in
training courses involving:
• First aid
• Care and handling of dangerous goods
• Defensive driving
For further information and safe driving quizzes, please see our website:
www.mpi.mb.ca
$ 10.00
Sales of this manual are final and not refundable.
DVL0021/0336-17-B3
MG–976 This publication is also available in large print, audio tape or braille on request.
(R-2010)
Contains 20% post-consumer waste, which is used paper collected through
Ce document existe aussi en français. recycling programs. This brochure can also be recycled.

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What are the different classes of driver's licenses and their requirements?

What are the different classes of driver's licenses and their requirements?

What inspections must professional drivers perform and why?

What inspections must professional drivers perform and why?

Professional

As a professional driver you will have to ensure that

Drivers must know and obey all laws and regulations

Before learning to drive a Class 1, 2, 3 or 4 vehicle, you

This manual has no legislative sanction. For interpreting

Sales of this manual are final and not refundable.

Professional Driver’s Manual • 1

2 • Professional Driver’s Manual

Class 1 Road test

Taxis, ambulances, and other emergency vehicles, buses1 with a

• Driver must hold a valid licence of any class and stage.

Mobile Test Units

*For a list of Autopac agents, see mpi.mb.ca.

*Cost may change

• No cost applies for tests in these two situations:

General Testing Information

• Both knowledge and road tests are conducted during weekdays

• If you are in Graduated Driver Licensing and are not successful on

• Please check-in 15 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment time

If you need to call one of these locations other than to book a

6 • Professional Driver’s Manual

• A pre-trip inspection of the vehicle is part of

For more information contact:

Manitoba Trucking Association

• Inadequately completing the pre-trip and/or air

• You must produce your valid vehicle registration

Professional Driver’s Manual • 7

• Vehicle Weights and Dimensions on Classes of

• Commercial Motor Vehicle and Trailer Trip

• The Highway Traffic Act

• The Criminal Code of Canada

• The Drivers and Vehicles Act

Individuals can get a copy of their own driver abstract,

For more information contact:

Manitoba Public Insurance

8 • Professional Driver’s Manual

Professional Driver’s Manual • 9

10 • Professional Driver’s Manual

• Continually monitor your vehicle’s condition during Idling: A Special Note

Professional Driver’s Manual • 11

• Don’t let frustration push you into making unsafe

• Look ahead and anticipate stops. It’s more efficient to

• Maintain a safe following distance of four seconds.

• Be aware of your blind spots and check them

• Be aware of your own physical and mental condition

12 • Professional Driver’s Manual

Remember, alcohol is a depressant, not a stimulant.

In addition, any driver with a blood alcohol level over

• An immediate 24-hour roadside licence suspension;

• An automatic three-month licence suspension;

• A vehicle impoundment except special mobile

• A mandatory impaired driver’s assessment at

• Additional driver’s licence premium of $1,000

Drivers convicted** of an alcohol-related or drug-related

Professional Driver’s Manual • 13

Convictions Additional consequences of driving while suspended