How to drive safely in Alberta in winter?

Winter driving in Alberta is one of the most challenging in North America. The province has extreme temperatures of -40°C and below, frequent sudden snowstorms, ice storms, and unique weather phenomena such as chinooks, which can completely change road conditions in a matter of hours. Statistics show that approximately 30% of traffic accidents in Canada occur on snowy or icy roads, and this figure is even higher in Alberta due to the harsh climate. Understanding the specifics of winter driving is not just a piece of advice, but a matter of survival.

Main climatic and geographical features

  • Sudden temperature changes (20–30°C in a few hours due to chinooks)
  • Snow season: October–April
  • Some regions of Alberta receive up to 300 cm of snow per year

Vehicle preparation

  • Winter tires: Not required by law, as in Quebec or British Columbia, but experts strongly recommend them. They remain flexible at temperatures below 7°C and maintain contact with the road even at very low temperatures[2].
  • Studded tires: Can be used year-round, which is unique to Alberta. They are useful on ice but can be noisy and damage asphalt. For the Icefields Parkway (Banff–Jasper) from November 1 to March 31, winter tires or chains are mandatory[3].
  • Battery: Check condition; batteries over three years old require special attention.
  • Cooling system: Correct level and type of antifreeze.
  • Brake system, belts, hoses: Check thoroughly for wear and cracks.
  • Engine oil: Synthetic is best.
  • Windscreen wipers and fluid: Winter models and antifreeze.

Driving style and key tips

  • Principle: “slow and smooth”. All actions — acceleration, braking, turning — should be gradual.
  • Follow the “four-second rule” for distance instead of the usual two seconds.
  • Speed must be appropriate for the conditions. Driving “by the sign” can result in a fine if it is unsafe due to weather conditions.
  • Braking distance on ice is 3–10 times longer.
  • Do not use cruise control in winter.

Road conditions

  • Black ice: most often forms at +4°C...–4°C, especially on bridges, overpasses, shaded areas, and under trees.
  • Regaining control when skidding:
  • Rear skid — turn the steering wheel in the direction of the skid.
  • Front skid — reduce throttle, carefully turn the steering wheel in the desired direction.
  • Complete skid — take your foot off the pedals, allow the car to slow down.
  • Practice in an empty parking lot (at speeds up to 20 km/h) helps you feel how the car behaves on a slippery road.

Visibility and safety

  • Clear all snow and ice from the car (roof, hood, all windows, mirrors, lights)
  • Headlights on — a must!

Routes and planning

  • Check road conditions in advance: Alberta 511.
  • Nearly 700 snowplows serve over 31,400 km of roads, but during severe weather, even this is not enough.
  • Snowplows:
  • Do not pass them.
  • Keep a safe distance.
  • Passing is only allowed every 5–8 km or when it is safe to do so.
  • Prepare an emergency kit: warm clothing, a blanket, a flashlight, a candle, food and water, a first aid kit, a small shovel, traction aids (sand or filler), and a phone charger.

Laws and statistics

  • The law requires you to drive according to the conditions. Even at speeds below 110 km/h, you can be fined for driving dangerously.
  • The most common causes of accidents are tailgating (31.7%), running off the road (18%), and careless left turns (11.4%).
  • In 2017, 30% of accidents occurred on icy and snowy roads, and in winter the number of insurance claims increases by 49%.

Environment and regional characteristics

  • Salt and chemicals are less effective at very low temperatures, so some municipalities use sand or gravel.
  • Northern Alberta and the mountains have harsher winters, difficult routes, and a higher risk of avalanches.
  • Mountains: assess the situation on the Icefields Parkway routes (less regular maintenance, limited snow removal and patrols).

Psychological preparedness and training

  • Practice regularly in safe areas.
  • If necessary, take winter driving courses.
  • Avoid panicking when skidding.

Key takeaway

Prepare for the season in advance, don't ignore the risks, and invest in safe equipment and vehicle preparation. This isn't just good advice — it could save your life.