Chapter 8-5: Snowplows

The “Snowplows” section of the Alberta Class 7 Practice Exam educates new drivers on the safe and legal ways to interact with snowplows during winter conditions.

Alberta Driving Test - Chapter 8-5: Snowplows

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Passing a snowplow is strictly prohibited when:

You are in a hurry and traffic behind you is building up.

The road is dry and visibility is goo

Your view along the side of the snowplow is obstructe

You are driving in daylight hours.

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Snowplows are equipped with flashing amber and red lights primarily to:

Signal that drivers must stop immediately.

Indicate that the road is completely close

Show that the snowplow is low on fuel.

Make them more visible and warn drivers that a snowplow is ahea

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Before passing a snowplow on a two-lane highway (one lane in each direction), you must:

Turn on your hazard lights to indicate you are passing.

Be sure you can see far enough ahead and that passing is permitted by road markings or signs.

Wait until the snowplow comes to a complete stop.

Honk your horn continuously to warn the snowplow.

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Even when passing a snowplow is legally permitted, what is the safer practice?

Stay well back until the snowplow operator can safely move over to let you pass.

Drive closely behind to encourage the snowplow to speed up.

Pass as soon as there is any opening, regardless of the snowplow’s position.

Use your high beams to signal the snowplow to move over.

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Snowplow operators will normally move to the side of the road to let vehicles pass about every:

One to two kilometres.

Ten to twelve kilometres.

Twenty kilometres.

Five to eight kilometres.

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When driving behind a snowplow, why should you maintain the minimum safe following distance indicated on its rear sign?

It reduces fuel consumption for both vehicles.

It gives you more time to react and reduces the risk of rock damage from the sanding unit.

It allows you to pass more quickly when neede

It helps the snowplow driver see you better in their mirrors.

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Why can it be dangerous to pass or drive too close to a snowplow when it is clearing snow?

Snowplows have weaker lights than other vehicles.

The snow cloud it creates can make it difficult to see the snowplow and oncoming traffi

Snowplows are always speeding when clearing snow.

Snowplows cannot use turn signals while clearing snow.

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When a snowplow is approaching from the opposite direction, what should you watch for in your lane?

Pedestrians crossing in front of the snowplow.

Potholes created by the snowplow.

Ice buildup in the center of the lane.

An oncoming vehicle that may be using your lane to pass the snowplow.

Your score is

This section highlights the dangers of following too closely, passing snowplows, and reduced visibility caused by blowing snow. Learners are tested on proper following distances, warning lights, and the importance of patience when stuck behind a snowplow. Understanding these points helps prevent collisions and ensures road safety during Alberta’s harsh winters. Mastering this section prepares drivers not just for the exam, but also for the challenges of navigating snowy roads alongside essential maintenance vehicles.