Drivers Handbook

2023-24 Saskatchewan
Driver’s Handbook
A guide to safe driving
2023-24 Saskatchewan
Driver’s Handbook
A guide to safe driving
You can view this handbook online at sgi.sk.ca/handbook. There, you can use the
Tools function to have the handbook translated* into a language of your choice.
This handbook is accurate as of September 2023. Please consult the online version
at sgi.sk.ca/handbook for the most up-to-date information.
* Google Translate is a third-party tool, and is not owned or administered by

SGI. SGI is not responsible for any errors or omissions as a result of the
translation. In case of a difference in interpretation between the translated
version and the laws and regulations governing Saskatchewan drivers and
vehicles, the laws and regulations prevail.
Table of contents
Table of contents
1. INTRODUCTION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
2. SASKATCHEWAN’S DRIVER’S LICENCE PROGRAM. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

2.1 Driver’s licence. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Restrictions and endorsements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Fake ID. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
2.2 Vehicle registration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
How auto insurance works in Saskatchewan. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Licence plate insurance coverage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Your vehicle deductible. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Coverage for specific single-vehicle losses. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Coverage for multiple-vehicle losses. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Personal Auto Injury Insurance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Extended Auto Insurance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
2.3 Graduated Driver Licensing Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
What is Graduated Driver Licensing?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Steps in the Graduated Driver Licensing program. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Graduated Driver Licensing Improvement program. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Appeals. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
2.4 Change of name or address. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
2.5 Classified licence system. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Licence Class 1 – minimum age: 18. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
2.6 Medical requirements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
2.7 Operating in the United States. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
2.8 Mandatory driver education . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
2.9 Preparing for your road test. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
2.10 Before the examination. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
2.11 Your test. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Knowledge tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Vision test. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Learning period. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Road test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
3. BASIC INFORMATION AND RULES OF THE ROAD. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

The six basic driving conditions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
3.1 Speeding, stunting and racing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
3.2 Distracted driving. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Cellphones. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
3.3 Stopping and parking. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
3.4 Sharing the road . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Sharing the road with large trucks. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Sharing the road with snow plows. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Sharing the road with snowmobiles, ATVs and golf carts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Sharing the road with emergency vehicles. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Sharing the road with farm equipment and overwidth vehicles. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
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Sharing the road with school buses. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Sharing the road with motorcycles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Sharing the road with bicycles. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Sharing the road with e-scooters (electric kick scooters) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Sharing the road with tow trucks and vehicles
rendering assistance on the roadside. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Sharing the road with funeral processions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
3.5 The concept of gates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
3.6 Blind spots. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
3.7 Directional dividing lines. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
3.8 Traffic lanes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
3.9 Lane position. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
3.10 Lane selection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
3.11 Signalling. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Turn signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
3.12 Changing lanes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
3.13 Passing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Passing Lanes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
3.14 Bus lanes and bicycle lanes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
3.15 Turning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Right turns. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Left turns. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
3.16 Centre turning lanes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
3.17 Right of way. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Uncontrolled intersections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Controlled intersections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Construction or maintenance vehicles. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Zipper merge. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
3.18 Stopping positions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
3.19 Interchanges. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Roundabouts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Diverging Diamond Interchange. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Restricted Crossing U-Turn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
3.20 Highways. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Driving to the left of centre. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
One-way highways . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Divided highways. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Controlled access highways. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
3.21 Pedestrians. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Jaywalkers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
3.22 Crossing urban streets. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
3.23 Wheelchairs and medical scooters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
3.24 Motorcycles. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
3.25 Medians . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
3.26 Parking lots. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
3.27 Headlights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
3.28 Night driving and low visibility. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
3.29 Choosing the right speed. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
3.30 Rules related to vehicles. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
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4. TRAFFIC SIGNS AND SIGNALS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

4.1 Traffic signs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
4.2 Six basic sign shapes every driver must know. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
4.3 Standard sign colours. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
4.4 Regulatory signs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
4.5 Regulatory parking signs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
4.6 Regulatory pedestrian crossing signs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
4.7 Regulatory lane designation signs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
4.8 Regulatory turn control signs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
4.9 Warning signs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
4.10 Construction signs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
4.11 Railway crossings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
Automatic protected crossings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
4.12 Crossroad delineators. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
4.13 Guide signs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
4.14 Information signs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
4.15 Traffic signals. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
5. BASIC DRIVING SKILLS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80

5.1 Hazards. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
Real and potential hazards. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
5.2 The IPDE method of driving. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
Identify . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
Predict . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
Decide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82
Execute. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82
Practice makes perfect. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82
5.3 Time – the key to judgment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
The language of time. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84
Using time to estimate your following distance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
5.4 Eye use. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88
Steer where you look. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88
Search patterns on highways and rural roads. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
Looking up on highways. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
Referencing down on highways. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
Sweeping highways with your eyes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
Filling in the gap on highways . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
Checking your gates on highways. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
Checking your instruments on highways. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92
Search patterns in urban areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92
Looking up in urban areas. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92
Referencing down in urban areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92
Sweeping with your eyes in urban areas. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
Filling in the gap in urban areas. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
Checking your gates in urban areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
Checking your instruments in urban areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
Search patterns at night. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
Search patterns in emergencies. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
Preventing potential collisions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94
Driving in dense traffic. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
5.5 Before you drive. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
Vehicle familiarization. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
Design components for safety. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
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Seating position. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
5.6 Steering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101
Hand positions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101
“Hand over hand” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102
“Hand-to-hand”. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102
5.7 Accelerating. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
5.8 Standard (manual) transmission vehicles. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
Neutral/clutch. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
5.9 Automatic transmission vehicles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104
5.10 Low speed skills . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104
Low speed manoeuvring. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104
Backing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105
Steering techniques for backing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106
6. ADVANCED DRIVING SKILLS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107

6.1 Parking. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107
Parallel parking. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107
Back-up cameras. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
Angle parking. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109
Parking on a hill. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110
6.2 Turning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110
U-turns. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110
Two-point turns . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111
6.3 Highway driving. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112
Cruise control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113
Restricted access freeways. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113
Entering a freeway. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113
While on the freeway. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113
Leaving a freeway . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114
If you miss an exit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114
Emergencies on the freeway . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114
6.4 Passing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115
Estimation of safe passing time. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115
Estimation of the closing time of two vehicles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116
The safe/unsafe judgment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116
The actual passing judgment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117
Being passed. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117
6.5 Curves and corners. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118
6.6 Driving in mountains . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119
6.7 Grid, municipal and resource access roads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119
Driving techniques for gravel roads. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119
6.8 Winter driving. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120
Preparing your vehicle. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120
Preparing to see and to be seen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121
Driving on slippery surfaces. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121
How to get moving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123
How to stop on slippery surfaces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123
Temptations to resist. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123
Whiteouts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123
The first snowfalls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123
Survival. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124
6.9 Braking. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124
Threshold braking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125
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Table of contents
Four-wheel lock braking. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125

6.10 Emergency driving. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126
Where to look. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126
Emergency braking techniques . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126
Emergency steering techniques. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126
Combined braking and steering. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128
Neutral/declutch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128
Skidding. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128
Drifting onto a soft shoulder. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130
Ditches. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130
Blow-outs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131
Brake failure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131
Power steering or power brake failure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132
Accelerator sticking. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132
Headlight failure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132
Animals on the road. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132
6.11 Understanding collisions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134
6.12 What to do if you’re in a collision. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135
Protect the scene . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135
Check all injuries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135
Contact the police. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135
Check for witnesses. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136
Take photographs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136
When to provide a report to police . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136
Dangerous goods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136
Power lines. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136
Exchange information with other drivers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137
Report to SGI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137
6.13 Impairing factors (other than drugs and alcohol). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139
Fatigue. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139
Personal stress and illness. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139
Aggressive driving. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140
Fog, dust, heavy rain and poor visibility. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140
Cellphones. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141
Cigarette smoke . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141
7. DRINKING, DRUGS AND DRIVING. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142

7.1 Alcohol. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142
Facts about drinking and driving in Saskatchewan*:. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142
The impairing effects of alcohol on the brain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142
Sequence of effects on the body. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142
How alcohol affects you. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 143
Likelihood of a crash. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 144
BAC and time. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 144
7.2 Drugs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 145
Facts about drugs and driving in Saskatchewan*:. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 145
Prescription, over-the-counter, and recreational drugs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 145
Illegal drugs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 147
7.3 Drinking and drugs combined . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148
Students Against Drinking and Driving (SADD). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 149
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Table of contents
8. COMPLYING WITH THE LAW WHEN DRIVING. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150

8.1 The Traffic Safety Act. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150
Enforcement. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150
Stopping when signalled by police . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150
Producing driver’s licence and registration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150
Unsafe vehicles. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150
Vehicle impoundments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150
Impaired driving. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 151
8.2 The Criminal Code of Canada. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 154
Impaired Driving Offences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 154
Other Criminal Code driving offences. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 156
Arrest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 156
Licence disqualifications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 156
Reinstatement of driving privileges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 157
Special restricted driver’s licence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 158
8.3 Traffic tickets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 158
8.4 Driver Improvement Program. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 159
8.5 Safe Driver Recognition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 160
Safety Rating Scale. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 160
How it works . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 161
Fuel-efficient driving techniques. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 163
INDEX. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 166
vi
Introduction
1
1. Introduction
Thanks for picking up the Saskatchewan Driver’s Handbook!
Driver training is a rite of passage many of us share. Now that the time has come to
get your driver’s licence, SGI wants to help you get ready. We created this handbook
to teach you the basics, like:
• traffic signs and signals
• the rules of the road
• driving in different weather conditions, like snow, rain and fog
• sharing the road with other vehicles, pedestrians and bicyclists
The handbook also covers advanced skills, like how to predict what other drivers
might do, and then how to respond in the moment.
A handy resource for new and experienced drivers alike, study this book before your
test and keep consulting it even after you get your licence. It can help you pass your
driver’s test and lay the groundwork for decades of safe driving.
If we could offer one piece of advice, it’s to get as much practice as you can with
your supervising driver. The confidence gained from hands-on experience behind the
wheel will help you when it’s time for your road test.
Good luck on your path to becoming a great driver.
We’ll see you on the road!
1
2 Saskatchewan’s driver’s licence program
2. Saskatchewan’s driver’s licence program

Driver programs and examinations are designed to develop safe and capable drivers
who know and understand the rules of the road. Driving is a responsibility and a
privilege. It’s not a right. Provincial regulations exist to meet safety needs as well as
promote the efficient and safe flow of traffic.
To drive in Saskatchewan you must hold a valid driver’s licence for the type of vehicle
you wish to operate. The classified driver‘s licence system establishes minimum
standards of skill, knowledge, physical and mental fitness for the safe operation of
different types of vehicles. Drivers are then licensed accordingly.
The first time you apply for a Saskatchewan driver’s licence, you’ll be asked to provide
documents to prove your identity, proof of residency and entitlement to be in Canada.
Each document must be from an authority such as a federal or provincial government
or a federal agency (a full list of approved documents can be found in SGI’s
Establishing Your Identity pamphlet). They must also be originals, not photocopies.
Electronic scans of these documents may be kept on file, in keeping with Canadian
standards.
To get a driver’s licence, you must be able to operate a vehicle safely and properly,
understand all traffic signs and know the rules of the road. You’re required to
complete a driver’s examination if you:
• Have never been a licensed driver;
• Have not held a Saskatchewan driver’s licence or specific Class or Endorsement
within the past five years;
• Wish to become a certified driver instructor in Saskatchewan;
• Want to change the class of your licence or obtain an endorsement; or
• Are a new resident, and the licence you hold is from another province, state or country
not honoured or recognized in Saskatchewan. Licences may be honoured from the
United States. Licences from Germany, Switzerland, South Korea, the United Kingdom,
Republic of Ireland, Isle of Man, Australia, Austria, Belgium, France, Japan, Jersey,
Netherlands, New Zealand, Ukraine and Taiwan may be exchanged for a Saskatchewan
Class 5 driver’s licence and motorcycle endorsement, where applicable. Saskatchewan
may also accept a driver’s licence from a country not listed. Please check with any
Saskatchewan motor licence issuer, driver examination office, or visit www.sgi.sk.ca/
newresidents or contact us toll free at 1-844-TLK-2SGI (1-844-855-2744). The
nine-month learning period and driver training requirement may be waived if you can
prove past driving experience by providing a valid driver’s licence, written in English or
French, or a valid licence in another language accompanied by a translation document
acceptable to SGI (i.e. International Driving Permit).
If you’re a new resident wanting a Saskatchewan driver’s licence without being
tested, you must meet some requirements:
• If you’re a former resident of a Canadian province or territory you must have a valid
driver’s licence from that jurisdiction. An expired driver’s licence (not older than five
years) from that jurisdiction is also acceptable. New residents may drive with their
valid out-of-province driver’s licence for 90 days after moving to Saskatchewan.
2
Saskatchewan’s driver’s licence program
2.1 Driver’s licence
2
Note: Once a Saskatchewan driver’s licence of any class is validated, the driver’s
licence from any home jurisdiction becomes invalid.
• If you’re a former resident of one of the countries we honour, as listed on the
previous page, a valid licence and a copy of your driving record from that jurisdiction
must be provided, accompanied by a translation document acceptable to SGI
(i.e. International Driving Permit).

Your driver’s licence expires on the last day of your birth month or the last day of the
month that your immigration documents expire.
Saskatchewan driver’s licenses offer enhanced security features and meet
international standards, integrating facial recognition technology.
The driver’s licence shown

here was implemented on
April 1, 2016.
You must show your licence if a peace officer asks to see it. If you don’t have your
licence with you at the time, the officer may allow you up to 48 hours to produce it.
If your licence includes any restrictions, you must obey the restrictions when driving.
See the next page for restriction codes.
If you’re a visitor or temporary foreign worker, your existing licence gives you all of
the same privileges it does in your home province, territory or state, excluding Class
1 vehicles (semis). If you want to drive a semi, you will need to take Mandatory
Entry-Level Training and get a Saskatchewan Class 1 driver’s licence. As a visitor to
Saskatchewan, you aren’t eligible to apply for a Saskatchewan driver’s licence. As a
visitor, you don’t have to register your vehicle in this province unless you become a
resident.
Full-time students attending approved educational institutions, as well as their
immediate families, don’t have to exchange their driver’s licence during the time
they are living here to attend classes. Your existing licence gives you all of the same
privileges it does in your home province, territory or state, excluding Class 1 vehicles
(semis). If you become a Saskatchewan resident you may drive using your current
driver’s licence and vehicle plates for 90 days after taking up residence.
3
Restrictions and endorsements

Restriction code
A – must wear prescribed glasses or contact lenses
B – may not drive at night
C – may only drive within a 40 kilometre radius of address shown on licence
D – may only drive within a 80 kilometre radius of address shown on licence
E – may only drive outside the limits of a city, in a city as a learner
F – must have two outside rear-view mirrors on vehicle
G – driver must present Detail Authority Card
H – motorcycles are limited to three-wheeled cycles, two-wheeled as a learner
J – motorcycles are limited to cycles under 50 cc’s, larger as a learner
K – school bus capacity is limited to under 36 passengers
L – may not operate Class 2 or 4 vehicles
M – Class 1-3 vehicles are limited to automatic/electronic shift transmission, standard transmission as
a learner
N – may only drive school bus with automatic transmission
R – motorcycles are limited to 400cc’s and under
T – may not transport passengers for hire
W – restricted commercial class (Canada only)
Endorsement code
A – may operate vehicle with air brakes
G – driver must present Detail Authority Card
M – motorcycle All driving authority is subject
S – school bus to medical approval.
1, 2, 3 or 4 – may operate that class of vehicle as a learner
6 – may drive motorcycle as a learner
Fake ID
Do the right thing and only use your own legal driver’s licence or photo ID card. It’s
a criminal offence to alter a photo ID card or the driver’s licence paper certificate in
any way. It may not seem like a big deal, but there are serious consequences to using
fraudulent ID, or loaning your ID for fraudulent purposes, including:
• getting your real driver’s licence suspended for at least three months
• a fine of at least $125
• a possible fraud conviction under the Criminal Code that could affect your
employment, your education and chances of travelling outside of Canada
• getting other people fined, fired or put out of business
4
2.2 Vehicle registration
2
All vehicles must be properly registered according to
purpose and must display the appropriate licence plate.
Licence plates must be securely attached and clearly
visible. That means plates must not be obstructed in a
way that prevents them from being read or accurately
photographed by any enforcement system.
The number or identity of the licence plate must not be altered or changed in any way.
If you’re a new resident you have up to 90 days to register your vehicle in
Saskatchewan. Basic insurance coverage is required. A non-resident (someone who
does not own, rent or lease a residence in Saskatchewan and, if required, does not
pay Saskatchewan income tax) may drive in Saskatchewan indefinitely providing your
out-of-province or out-of-country driver’s licence remains valid.
How auto insurance works in Saskatchewan

Saskatchewan auto insurance comes in two parts:
Basic minimum coverage – Is required by law and is purchased at the same time you
pay for your licence plates and vehicle registration. This coverage is compulsory and
is provided by SGI.
Additional coverage – Sometimes referred to as extended auto insurance, a package
policy or an Auto Pak, additional coverage is tailored to your needs and is provided
on a separate auto insurance policy. This important protection may be purchased
from the insurance company, broker or agent of your choice.
Licence plate insurance coverage

Your licence plate carries basic insurance coverage in three areas:
Collision and comprehensive – Coverage for damage to your vehicle, subject to
a deductible.
Personal injury – Benefits for personal injury resulting from a vehicle collision.
Liability – Insurance for damage your vehicle causes to another vehicle or property,
or injury to others.
Collision and comprehensive is also known as physical damage coverage. It pays
for damage to your vehicle due to a collision or other occurrence such as hail, fire
or theft.*
* Most vehicles are covered to the actual cash value, which is the market value of your vehicle compared
with similar vehicles, with similar equipment, mileage and condition to the insured vehicle (see Coverage
limitations referenced in the Driver’s Licence and Basic Auto Insurance brochure).
Personal injury benefits provide Saskatchewan residents with injury and death
benefits if they are injured or killed in an automobile collision anywhere in Canada or
the United States. All Saskatchewan residents have a choice between two equally
priced auto injury coverages – No Fault Coverage and Tort Coverage.
5
Liability coverage protects you as a vehicle owner and driver if you and/or your
vehicle are responsible for injuries caused to others or damage to property belonging
to others. ‘Others’ may be another motorist, a pedestrian or bicyclist, a passenger in
your vehicle, or the owner of property you damage.
To be liable is to be at fault and responsible for damage or injury. You can be
liable whether you choose No Fault or Tort injury (all Saskatchewan residents are
automatically covered with No Fault injury coverage unless they choose Tort injury
coverage and file a declaration form). Liability coverage will pay the cost to defend
you if someone claims you are liable, as well as the damages if you are found
responsible.
Plate insurance provides up to $200,000 in liability coverage. Although
compensation for many injuries and damages is covered under the collision
and comprehensive coverage or the personal injury benefits, there are also many
situations where compensation will be based on who is at fault, what happened and
where it happened (for instance, if you were driving in the U.S. or another Canadian
province). These include damage to buildings or fences near a street, to cargo in a
vehicle you collide with, or to trains, cargo, and tracks at a level crossing, including
environmental damage. If you’re responsible for an injury or death in Saskatchewan of
someone whose earnings were greater than the personal injury benefit amount, or to
anyone out of province, you will likely have a liability claim.
No Fault Coverage
Saskatchewan residents with No Fault Coverage receive a comprehensive package
of benefits regardless of the circumstances of the collision. Benefits include coverage
for income loss, medical and rehabilitation expenses, permanent impairment and
death benefits. Those with No Fault Coverage can sue for certain expenses not
covered by their benefits, as well as for income loss which exceeds the benefits
provided by the plan. Except in very limited circumstances, they cannot sue for pain
and suffering.
Tort Coverage
Saskatchewan residents with Tort Coverage receive a basic package of benefits
regardless of the circumstances of the collision. Benefits include some coverage for
income loss, medical and rehabilitation expenses, permanent impairment and death
benefits. Those with Tort Coverage who are not totally at fault for the collision can
sue for expenses and income losses not covered by their benefits and for pain and
suffering, subject to a $5,000 deductible.
For more information on No Fault Coverage, Tort Coverage or how to choose your
auto injury insurance, visit www.sgi.sk.ca or ask any SGI office or SGI motor licence
issuing office for informational materials that explain the coverages.
6
2.2 Vehicle Registration
2
Your vehicle deductible
Your plate insurance covers loss of, or damage to, your vehicle and its equipment
from causes such as a collision, upset, fire, theft, windstorm or hail. Subject to your
deductible.
A deductible is applicable to any vehicle loss you may have. It’s the amount you
are required to pay before your licence plate insurance benefits begin to cover the
remaining costs.
For example, if your deductible is $700 and you’re responsible for a collision which
causes $2,000 worth of damage to your vehicle, then SGI will pay for damage in
excess of your deductible. You’ll be responsible for the first $700, while SGI will pay
the remaining $1,300.
However, if it’s determined that another Saskatchewan driver/owner is responsible
for the damage and that person can be identified, that person’s insurance will pay
for your damage, including your deductible and any other reasonable out-of-pocket
expenses.
Coverage for specific single-vehicle losses

Single-vehicle collision – Your damages are covered for the amount in excess of your
deductible. You may be able to recover your deductible when there is a responsible
party to pursue. Your adjuster will assist you with this. In most single-vehicle collisions
the driver is responsible and must pay their own deductible.
Storm or weather-related damage – Even though you’re not at fault for weather-
related damage, such as hail damage or a tree falling on your vehicle, the deductible
applies as there is no responsible party to pursue.
Collision with an animal – If you carry only the compulsory plate insurance, the
deductible applies. If you carry additional auto insurance the deductible may be
waived for a collision with an animal.
Hit and run – Your damages are covered for the amount in excess of your deductible.
You may be able to recover your deductible if the responsible party is identified. Your
adjuster will assist you with this.
Theft or vandalism – If you carry only the compulsory plate insurance, the deductible
applies. If the responsible party is identified, you may be able to recover your
deductible. If you carry additional auto insurance the deductible may be waived for
theft of the entire vehicle.
Coverage for multiple-vehicle losses

You’re not at fault for the collision – You don’t pay the deductible in most cases. The
party found at fault for the collision is responsible for your damage, including your
deductible. Once your adjuster has confirmed your coverage, you may have your
vehicle repaired at the autobody shop of your choice.
You’re at fault for the collision – As the at-fault driver you’re responsible for your full
deductible. Your licence plate insurance will also pay the other driver’s deductible and
cover any damage to their vehicle.
7
2.2 Vehicle Registration
Shared responsibility for the collision – When two motorists are each found partially
responsible for a collision, both drivers pay a portion of their deductible if their vehicle
is damaged. For example, if you’re found 25% responsible for a collision you pay 25%
of your deductible.
Personal Auto Injury Insurance

The Personal Auto Injury Insurance program provides coverage for Saskatchewan
residents injured in automobile collisions anywhere in Canada or the United States.
Coverage provided depends on which of two auto injury products you choose – No
Fault Coverage or Tort Coverage.
Extended Auto Insurance

Basic plate insurance allows you to drive with minimal coverage, but to protect
yourself, your family, your passengers, and your vehicle, you may find you’ll need more
than just the basics. A licensed insurance broker or agent will explain your options
and provide advice on economical ways to obtain the protection you need.
Extended auto insurance can cover your vehicle for replacement cost, pay for the
cost of a rental if your vehicle is damaged, reduce the deductible you pay for damage
to your vehicle and top-up your injury coverage. Most importantly, it increases your
liability from the minimum $200,000.
Despite your efforts to be a good driver, a moment of distraction, tiredness,
inexperience, poor road conditions and many other things can result in major
collisions. You can be sued and held responsible for damages if you’re at fault — even
if you have No Fault injury coverage. If you don’t have enough insurance or the means
to pay for your defence or the damages caused, you may be expected to pay
a portion of your earnings for many years as a result of lacking enough coverage.
8
2.3 Graduated Driver Licensing Program
2
What is Graduated Driver Licensing?
Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) is a program designed to improve road safety
by exposing new drivers to incremental levels of risk as they gain more driving
experience. New drivers, regardless of age, are provided with the support, skills and
experience they need as they work towards becoming fully qualified drivers.
There are three stages to Saskatchewan’s Graduated Driver Licensing program –
Learner, Novice 1 and Novice 2. As drivers pass through these stages, they will see
fewer restrictions at each stage until they graduate to an experienced Class 5 driver’s
licence. The Learner, Novice 1 or Novice 2 driving status is indicated on the driver’s
licence.
Steps in the Graduated Driver Licensing program

1. Obtain a Learner’s licence.
2. Practise driving for nine months with a supervising driver.
3. Complete the required mandatory driver training education.
4. Pass a road test.
5. Practise driving as a Class 5 Novice 1 driver for six months.
6. Drive as a Class 5 Novice 2 driver for 12 months with no incidents (e.g., at-fault
collision, traffic conviction* and suspension free).
In the event of an incident, the Novice 2 driver will be required to restart
the 12-month incident-free period again from the loss date/conviction date.
Interruptions such as licence suspensions, refusal to issue or non-renewal will
extend the 12 months for any period of time the driver did not hold a valid licence.
7. Graduate to an experienced Class 5 driver’s licence.
* Where found to be at fault for a collision or convicted of a traffic offence the 12-month period will restart
from the loss date or conviction date respectively.
9
Graduated Driver Licensing program
Class 7 – Learner Class 5 – Novice 1 Class 5 – Novice 2

9 months 6 months 12 months
16 years of age (15 years of 16 years of age
age in high school program)
Pass written test Pass Class 5 road test
Nine months – excludes Six months – excludes 12 months – excludes
interruptions (non-renewal, interruptions interruptions
refusal, licence suspension) (non-renewal, refusal, (non-renewal, refusal,
Requirements
licence suspension) licence suspension); and
YOU HAVE GRADUATED TO AN EXPERIENCED LICENCE!

12 months – at-fault
collision, traffic conviction
and licence suspension free
Mandatory education – high
school training (30 hours
in-class, six hours in-car)
or commercial training (six
hours in-class, six hours
in-car)
Must have a supervising One passenger only who
driver in the front passenger is not an immediate family
seat at all hours member; and
Supervising driver must be
an experienced, licensed
driver
Between the hours of Other passengers must be
midnight and 5 a.m., immediate family members*
passengers (excluding the
Restrictions
supervising driver) must be

immediate family members*
Number of passengers Number of passengers Number of passengers
limited to the number of limited to the number of limited to the number of
seatbelts seatbelts seatbelts
Cannot consume any Cannot consume any Cannot consume any
amount of alcohol or drugs amount of alcohol or drugs amount of alcohol or drugs
and drive (0 BAC) and drive (0 BAC) and drive (0 BAC)
Cannot be a supervising Cannot be a supervising Cannot be a supervising
driver driver driver
Cannot obtain a commercial Cannot obtain a commercial Cannot obtain a commercial
driver’s licence or school driver’s licence or school driver’s licence or school
bus endorsement bus endorsement bus endorsement
* Immediate family members are defined as spouse, child, parent, sibling, grandparent, step-parent,
step-grandparent, stepsibling, foster parent, foster child, foster sibling, parent-in-law, sibling-in-law
or child-in-law.
Note: That all drivers in the Graduated Driver Licensing program are prohibited from: 1. Operating both
hand held and hands-free electronic communication equipment, such as cellphones, while driving.
2. Operating right-hand drive vehicles.
10
2.3 Graduated Driver Licensing Program • 2.4 Change of name or address
2
Graduated Driver Licensing Improvement program
Drivers in any stage who are found at fault for a collision, or who receive convictions
or suspensions, will be placed in the Graduated Driver Licensing Improvement
program. Drivers will progress through the following steps:
• A warning letter will be sent to the driver if the first traffic incident (conviction) has an
assigned rating of two points or fewer.*
• If the first traffic incident (conviction, at-fault collision, suspension) has an assigned
rating of three to six points, the driver will be required to attend a Traffic Safety
Education session.
Each incident thereafter will result in the driver being required to attend further
education courses followed by the administrative suspensions:
• Defensive Driving course
• Driver Improvement training – educates drivers on the responsibilities and
consequences associated with driving and encourages safe driving habits
• 30-day driver’s licence suspension
• interview and further action
* For a complete list of offence and driver points, call 1-844-TLK-2SGI (1-844-855-2744).
Appeals
Drivers can appeal all sanctions, with the exception of the warning letter, Traffic
Safety Education session, interview request and manual review to the Highway Traffic
Board. The board is independent from SGI and has the authority to uphold, alter the
decision, issue a restricted licence and reduce or increase the length of any driver’s
licence suspension.
2.4 Change of name or address

If you change your name and/or address, you must tell SGI within 15 days by writing
to us, or at your motor licence issuer’s office. Any changes to name and/or date of
birth must be also accompanied by a legal document supporting the change.
You can revise your contact information and change your mailing address, physical
address or email address through MySGI at www.mysgi.ca.
You can also notify SGI of your change of address through the ExpressAddress
online service at www.expressaddress.com. This service can also notify several other
provincial and municipal government organizations of your address change at the
same time.
11
2.5 Classified licence system

Licence Class 1 – minimum age: 18
Permits the licence holder to operate
• Class 1 vehicles – power units and semi trailers,
and trucks which have a trailer(s) or vehicle(s) in tow
where the gross weight of the towed unit(s)
exceeds 4,600 kg
• Motor vehicles in classes 2, 3, 4 and 5
Does not permit the licence holder to operate
• Vehicles with air brakes, motorcycles or school buses without an appropriate
endorsement(s)
Requirements
Minimum age 18 years and not a novice driver
Medically fit See page 16
Vision test See page 18
Knowledge tests Class 1 knowledge tests include: Class 1, 2, 3, 4, Basic and Sign
Training Approved Class 1 training program
Trip inspection Must demonstrate a trip inspection on a Class 1 vehicle
Road test Must take a road test in a Class 1 vehicle

• Class 2 vehicles – buses having a seating capacity in
excess of 24 passengers, while carrying a passenger
or passengers
• Motor vehicles in classes 3, 4 and 5
• Class 1 vehicles as a learner with appropriate
endorsement
endorsement(s)
Requirements
Knowledge tests Class 2 knowledge tests include: Class 2, 3, 4, Basic and Sign
Note: For further clarification about the classified licence system, contact your local driver examiner.
1 –P
ersons with Class 3 or 5 vehicles (registered farm only) with air brakes are not required to have
the air brake endorsement
12
2
• Class 3 vehicles – trucks with more than two axles,
except trucks registered in Class F, and trucks
with more than two axles which have a trailer(s) or
vehicle(s) in tow, except trucks registered in Class F,
where the gross weight of the towed unit(s) does not
exceed 4,600 kg
• Motor vehicles in classes 4 and 5
• Power units with more than two axles, when not towing a semi trailer
• Class 1 or 2 vehicles as a learner with appropriate endorsement
• Vehicles with air brakes1, motorcycles or school buses without an appropriate
endorsement(s)
Requirements
Knowledge tests Class 3 knowledge tests include: Class 3, Class 4, Basic and Sign

• Class 4 vehicles – buses that have a seating capacity of not
more than 24 passengers, when transporting passengers
• vehicles registered in Class PT when transporting not more
than 24 passengers for hire
• vehicles registered in Class PB or PC
– when transporting not more than 24 passengers for hire; and
– when not used exclusively to transport passengers with a disability and any
attendants to those passengers
• ambulances when being used for hire
• motor vehicles in Class 5. To operate a taxi, limosine or ride share vehicle, the driver
must be authorized by SGI.
endorsement(s)
Requirements
Knowledge tests Class 4 knowledge tests include: Class 4, Basic and Sign
Road test Must take a road test in a Class 4 or 5 vehicle
13

• Class 5 vehicles – cars, vans2, two-axle trucks, two-axle vehicles having a trailer(s)
or vehicle(s) in tow where the gross weight of the towed unit(s) does not exceed
4,600 kg, buses when not transporting passengers, three-axle motorhomes, taxis
and ambulances when not used for hire
• A taxi, limousine or vehicle as part of a vehicle-for-hire service, or Class PB* vehicle
if the driver:
1. is an experienced driver, not in the Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) program;
2. has at least two years post-GDL driving experience; and
3. has a satisfactory driver history (meaning less than 12 points under the Driver
Improvement Program in the last two years, and no impaired-driving related
suspension in the last 10 years).
• School buses with a capacity of no more than 15 passengers when carrying
passengers
• Law enforcement vehicles when being used for law enforcement purposes
• Two-axle power units, when not towing a semi trailer
• Two-axle farm trucks towing vehicles which have a gross weight that exceeds
4,600 kg
• Farm trucks with more than two axles
• Vehicles registered in Class PB or PC when used exclusively to transport, for
hire, not more than 24 passengers with a disability and any attendants to these
passengers
• Class 1, 2, 3 or 4 vehicles as a learner with appropriate Endorsement 1, 2, 3 or 4
(minimum age 18 and not a novice driver)
• Three-wheeled vehicles (e.g., has a steering wheel, automotive seating and floor
controls - not a three-wheeled motorcycle)
*with seating capacity of 10 or less

• Vehicles with air brakes3, motorcycles without an appropriate endorsement(s)
Requirements
Knowledge tests Class 5 knowledge tests include: Basic and Sign
Road test Must hold a Class 7 licence for nine months
Must take a road test in a Class 5 vehicle
Training Approved Class 5 training course
Licence Class 5 and 7:

Note: Persons under age 18 require parental consent to obtain driving privileges. Once consent has
been granted it cannot be withdrawn.
2 –V
ans with a seating capacity of 15 or less while carrying passengers. If transporting more than
12 passengers, the driver must be at least 18 years of age and not a novice driver
3 – Persons
with Class 3 or 5 vehicles (registered farm only) with air brakes are not required to have
the air brake endorsement
14
2
15 with High School Driver Education
• Class 5 vehicles as a learner
Note: Does not permit the licence holder to obtain a motorcycle
endorsement or operate three-wheeled vehicles as a learner.
Requirements
Identification You’re required to show your full name and date of birth by
a birth certificate, passport or immigration documents. You
need to provide a signature from a Saskatchewan Health card,
passport or a driver’s licence from a Canadian jurisdiction or any
document acceptable to SGI. Any first-time driver between the
ages of 15 and 18 is required to provide a completed Parent/
Guardian signature form/Guarantor form available from SGI
Driver Development, motor licence issuers or SGI certified driver
educators. If your name has changed due to marriage or for
other reasons, please bring documentation to support the name
change. Be sure to take several pieces of original identification
with you (photocopies are not acceptable).
Knowledge tests Class 7 knowledge tests include: Basic and Sign
The holder of a Class 7 licence must be supervised. The driving supervisor must:
• at all times, be capable of assuming operation of the vehicle;
• hold the equivalent of a Class 5 or greater driver’s licence issued by a Canadian or
U.S. jurisdiction;
• have held a valid licence for a minimum of 365 days in the preceding three years
(but is not a novice driver); and
• occupy the seat nearest to the driver and the vehicle controls.
Note: The holder of a Class 1 to 5 driver’s licence is permitted to operate a snowmobile or ATV. All
snowmobile operators born after Jan. 1, 1989, must have taken an approved safety course in addition
to holding a Class 1 to 5 driver’s licence. The holder of a Class 7 driver’s licence is permitted to operate
an ATV or snowmobile provided they are accompanied by someone who holds a Class 1 to 5 driver’s
licence or supervised (within 5 m of and in view of) by someone on another machine that holds a Class
1 to 5 driver’s licence.
The holder of a Class 7 or greater licence is permitted to operate a golf cart on a public roadway if the
municipality has passed an SGI-approved bylaw permitting its use.
For more information regarding snowmobiles, ATVs and golf carts call SGI’s Customer Service Centre
at 1-844-TLK-2SGI (1-844-855-2744).
15
2.6 Medical requirements • 2.7 Operating in the United States • 2.8 Mandatory driver education
2.6 Medical requirements

When you apply for, or renew, your driver’s licence, any medical condition that may
affect your ability to drive must be reported to SGI. Write this information on a
supplementary medical application, available from all licence issuers. Failure to report
medical conditions could result in a loss of insurance coverage. For more information
contact SGI’s Customer Service Centre at 1-844-TLK-2SGI (1-844-855-2744).
Individuals applying for a Class 1, 2, 3 or 4 driver’s licence, or a Class 5 licence with
a 1, 2, 3, 4, Heavy Trailer or School Bus Endorsement are required to meet medical
standards and file a medical report with SGI before testing begins.
2.7 Operating in the United States

The United States and Canada have a reciprocity agreement, which recognizes a
Canadian-issued commercial driver’s licence as proof of medical fitness. However, in
the United States, the operator of a Class 5 vehicle must have a commercial medical,
if the vehicle or vehicle combination weighs or has a rated capacity (Gross Vehicle
Weight Rating) over 4,536 kg.
The United States commercial medical requirements also apply to farm-use vehicles
registered in Class F, but do not apply to private-use vehicles (e.g., when vacationing
in the United States towing a recreational vehicle).
For more information please refer to the Saskatchewan Professional Driver’s Handbook.
2.8 Mandatory driver education

If you have a Class 7 licence you’re not eligible for a higher class of driver’s licence
unless you’ve completed the High School Driver Education Program or received a
minimum of six hours of in-car and six hours of in-class instruction from an
SGI-certified driving instructor. Be sure to attend the parent information night
sponsored by your high school educator. When hiring a driving instructor, ask to see
their instructor certification card to ensure it’s valid. You can find a list of certified
driving instructors at www.sgi.sk.ca/onlineservices.
The driver instructor will either add your training record to your electronic SGI
customer file or issue a Driver Education Certificate. If there isn’t a training record on
your SGI customer file, you must present the Driver Education Certificate to the driver
examiner at the time of your Class 5 road test(s).
If you’re enrolled in the High School Driver Education Program, you’ll need to set up a
free MySGI account to write your exam online. Any SGI motor licence issuer can set
you up with an account. You’ll need to present your ID to complete this transaction.
If you’re 15 years of age and registered in a certified High School Driver Education
Program but have been placed on a waiting list, you’re still eligible to write the class
7 licence exam. In order to write the exam you must present a copy of the Signature/
Guarantor Form confirming you are enrolled or intend to be enrolled in a driver
education program. The Signature/Guarantor Form is available either at your high
school or on the SGI website at sgi.sk.ca/new-drivers.
16
2.9 Preparing for your road test • 2.10 Before the examination • 2.11 Your test
2
2.9 Preparing for your road test
Get plenty of practice under a variety of driving conditions. Be sure to practise exactly
the way your instructor taught you. Keep a record of your practice using the Practice
Log available from your driver educator or SGI. Learner driver signs and A Guide for
Supervisors of New Drivers – Co-Pilot’s Manual booklet are available free of charge
from SGI.
Road tests are conducted in English. Examiners use simple and clear language
when providing directions. To prepare for the road test, drivers should be familiar
with the following terms — right turn, left turn, lane change, parallel park, traffic lights,
intersection, stop, shoulder check and two-point turn.
2.10 Before the examination

Once you feel confident enough to take a driver examination, you can book your
appointment. Call or visit a motor licence issuer or book online with MySGI for
Class 5 road tests, motorcycle road tests and all written appointments. If you provide
your cellphone number while booking, you’ll get text messages to confirm your
appointment, along with reminders before your appointment (24 hours and one hour
before). You can also check-in by text when you arrive for your road test. For all other
driver examination appointments call 1-844-TLK-2SGI (1-844-855-2744). If you
don’t cancel your appointment and fail to show up, you’ll be required to pay for your
re-scheduled appointment.
Office hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Friday, and 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday
in Regina and Saskatoon. Written tests are available in Regina and Saskatoon without
an appointment and are conducted from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday to Saturday. Tests
are not available on Saturdays of long weekends.
You’re required to show proof of age by a birth certificate, passport or any document
acceptable to SGI. If you’re a first-time driver between the ages of 15 and 18,
you must provide a completed Signature/Guarantor Form For First Time Drivers
providing consent that you may obtain driving privileges. Be sure to take several
pieces of original identification with you. Photocopies of these documents are not
acceptable. If your name has changed due to marriage or other reasons, please bring
documentation that supports the name change.
2.11 Your test

For all classes of licence you are required to pass three types of tests including
knowledge tests, a vision test and a road test. Some classes of licence also require a
medical examination and pre-trip inspection.
Knowledge tests
The knowledge tests consist of two parts: driving situations, as well as the rules of
the road, and sign identification. If you fail any part of these tests, you’ll be required
to rewrite only the examination(s) you failed. Successful written exam results are valid
for one year. You may write only once per day. If you’re unsure about the meaning of
any of the questions, please ask the examiner to assist you. The use of cellphones or
electronic devices is not allowed in the test area.
17
2.11 Your test
You can find practice test questions as well as helpful animations in the online version
of this handbook at www.sgi.sk.ca/quiz.
Vision test
The vision test may include:
• a field of vision test
• a visual acuity test
• distance judgment
There are certain minimum vision standards you must meet. If you fail to meet those
standards, you may be referred to an ophthalmologist or optometrist for further
testing, and possible prescription of glasses or contact lenses. If you can pass the
eye test only when you are wearing your glasses or contact lenses, you will be issued
a restricted licence. This means your driver’s licence will be valid only when you are
wearing prescribed corrective lenses.
Learning period
The holder of a Class 7 licence must retain that classification for at least ninemonths
before becoming eligible for any examinations toward obtaining a licence in any other
class.
Road test
You’re required to take a road test in the appropriate class of vehicle and you must
supply the vehicle.
You must schedule your appointment at your nearest examination office. Road test
appointments in smaller centres are reserved for local residents only.
Depending on your location, your examiner may use a paper and a clipboard or a
digital app on a tablet to score your driving during the road test.
The road test is an evaluation of your ability to safely operate a vehicle. You’ll be
tested on:
• abiding by road signs along the route • stopping
• anticipation of potential hazards • traffic signs and signals
• parallel parking and backing up • travelling through controlled and
• proper lane driving uncontrolled intersections
• shoulder checking • turning
• starting • various safe driving practices like speed
selection and steering techniques
18
2.11 Your test
2
When you arrive to your road test, please:
• park and turn off your vehicle;
• stay in your vehicle and text “Here” if you signed up for text notifications;
• make sure your cellphone and ringer/vibrate are on; and
• have your photo ID ready.
Your examiner will call you at your appointment time to ask some questions and then
will come out to meet you. To keep everyone safe, your supervising driver should wait
in our waiting room, rather than in our high-traffic parking lot, while you take your road
test.
If you have any questions about the test, the examiner will be happy to answer them
for you before the test starts.
Note: No pets or passengers, other than examination staff, are permitted in your
vehicle during the road test.
A road test will be rescheduled if:
• you cannot provide proof of having completed the required driver education (training
record on your electronic SGI file or Driver Education Certificate)
• you’re late for your appointment
• you don’t have the appropriate driver’s licence or have not paid the exam fee
• you haven’t held a Class 7 licence for at least nine months
• you don’t meet the vision or medical fitness standards
• you drive to the test office illegally
• the vehicle you provide for the road test is unsafe or not equipped in accordance
with the law. The Driver Examiner will inspect the vehicle before the test begins. The
following list of equipment must be in working order, or the test can be rescheduled:
• horn • unobstructed windshield
• signal lights • no aftermarket tinting on the
• brake lights windshield or front side windows
• headlights (as required) • functioning driver’s and front
passenger’s doors
• windshield wipers (as required)
• proper seats
• working defrost (as required)
• the passenger compartment of the
• seatbelts and airbags
vehicle is not clean or free of strong
• speedometer scent or odour
• one valid licence plate properly • the vehicle is not the right class for the
attached to the rear of the vehicle licence you want
19
2.11 Your test
If your windshield is cracked and you’re unsure if it will be accepted for a road test,
it’s best to have a driver examiner check it before your road test. Visit your local
driver examination office to have an examiner look at it in person. You can also visit
sgi.sk.ca/windshield to find examples of an acceptable windshield.
You will fail the road test if you:
• exceed the speed limit
• are involved in a collision for which you are 50% or more responsible
• fail to stop where required
• fail to yield to vehicles and pedestrians
• fail to wear a seatbelt
• cannot parallel park
• disobey traffic lights
• fail to follow a request from the examiner
• require the assistance of the examiner
• make a combination of minor mistakes
At the end of the road test, a complete report will be given to you with all errors
explained. If you were unsuccessful, the report will indicate where improvement is
required. Depending on how the examiner scored your test, you’ll either get a paper
copy of your results or have them emailed to you. The emailed results include links to
the online Driver’s Handbook so you can follow up on the areas you need to work on.
When you have had more practice, you may make an appointment for another road
test. You must pay an additional test fee before each road test.
If you’re applying for a Class 5 licence and fail your road test, you must wait two
weeks before you are eligible for another road test. Additional training may be
recommended or a longer learning period imposed. Successful exam results are valid
for 12 months but your licence must be upgraded at any SGI motor licence issuer
before you can drive alone.
20
Basic information and rules of the road
3
3. Basic information and rules of the road
The six basic driving conditions
Driver condition
Driver condition refers to your physical, mental and emotional fitness to drive. It’s
the most important of the six conditions, because a driver in top physical, mental
and emotional shape can adjust to all the other conditions and to the errors of other
drivers as well.
Vehicle condition
Vehicle condition affects your ability to control your vehicle, your ability to see and be
seen, and to communicate with other drivers and pedestrians. Your chances of staying
out of a collision are better with a vehicle in tip-top condition than they are with one
that has operational defects. You are the only one who knows when something isn’t
working right. Only you can spot possible vehicle defects and either repair them or
get them corrected by a qualified mechanic.
Light condition
The first requirement of safe driving is to see and be seen. This ability is affected by
light condition. The presence of natural or artificial light; you can have too little light, or
too much light. The hazard of too little light is found in the fact that the nighttime fatal
collision rate is more than double the daytime rate.
Weather condition
Bad weather can affect traction, visibility and vehicle control. Rain, snow and ice make
road surfaces slippery. Adverse weather can obscure your vision with rain, snow,
fog or road splatter, as well, steam up glass with interior vapour. Other drivers find
it harder to see you, and pedestrians hide behind umbrellas so they fail to see cars
approaching. High winds make steering difficult and cause vehicles to veer to the
wrong side of the road.
Road condition
Road condition refers to the total roadway and the type and condition of the road
surface. These can affect your ability to steer, stop and manoeuver. Adverse road
conditions can be produced by weather. Conditions change from one kind of road
to another – from a side street to a thoroughfare, from a secondary road to a main
highway, from a two-lane road to an expressway. Any trip may involve a number of
different road conditions, each requiring an adjustment in your driving.
21
3 Basic information and rules of the road
3.1 Speed
Traffic condition
Traffic conditions are created by the number of vehicles and pedestrians using the
same road or street at the same time you are, and to a large extent by how well the
road has been engineered to accommodate the amount of traffic present at a given
time. More cars mean more conflict in traffic and more chance for a collision. Traffic
conditions are influenced by the time of day, day of the week, even time of year in the
case of holiday periods, and by the nature of the environment, such as a shopping
centre, sports arena, factory or school.
3.1 Speeding, stunting and racing

There are speed limits on all Saskatchewan roads, streets and highways. Always
drive your vehicle within the posted speed limit. Emergency vehicles responding to an
emergency may exceed the speed limit.
On most provincial highways, and in urban areas, speed limit signs are posted. In the
absence of signs, the speed limit is 80 km/h. Most urban centres post speed limit
signs at the entrances to the town or city. Those speed limits apply to all locations
within community boundaries, unless otherwise posted. The speed limit means the
fastest you can travel under ideal conditions.
Stunting and racing can have serious and often life-threatening consequences.
Some of the things that could land you a ticket are:
• racing side by side with another vehicle while disobeying the speed limit
• chasing another vehicle
• speeding in and out of lanes to unsafely pass vehicles
• attempting to lift some or all tires from the roadway (including driving a motorcycle on
one wheel)
• attempting to spin a vehicle to cause it to spin or circle
• driving a vehicle while not sitting in the driver’s seat
• driving your vehicle in a way that prevents another vehicle from passing
• stopping or slowing down to interfere with the movement of another vehicle
The maximum speed limit when passing tow trucks or emergency vehicles that
are stopped with their lights flashing or when passing Ministry of Highways and
Infrastructure equipment with lights flashing, whether in motion or not, is 60 km/h.
Within the work zone (road maintenance areas), motorists are required to slow down
and travel no faster than the posted speed. Fines for speeding triple when passing
highway workers or equipment occupied by a worker in the work zone. Some cities
have bylaws requiring drivers to obey work zone speed limits through the entire
construction area. Please be familiar with the bylaws in your area.
Drivers are also required to reduce their speed to 60 km/h when passing a tow truck
stopped on the roadside with its amber or amber and blue lights flashing while it’s
assisting to a disabled vehicle.
In school zones drivers must be particularly careful. Each city or town sets speed
limits in school zones through local bylaws. As a result, laws vary from place to place
so watch for signs. If there are no signs, you should still reduce your speed and
proceed cautiously in school zones.
22
3.2 Distracted driving
3
Police use photo radar to enforce speed limits in some work zones, school zones
and high-risk locations. Photo radar tickets are issued to the registered owner of the
speeding vehicle driven through the zone.
You must slow down when approaching animals on or near the road.
Regardless of the posted or basic speed limit you must never travel faster than
conditions allow for safe and reasonable passage. At the same time, travelling too
slowly can be hazardous. You should never drive at a speed slow enough to impede
or block other traffic, unless proper safety precautions have been taken.
3.2 Distracted driving

Always drive with care, attention and reasonable consideration for other road users.
It’s illegal for you, or any of your passengers, to perform stunts or other activities that
distract, startle or interfere with other road users.
Driver inattention and distraction is responsible for 14% of all collisions. On average, it
leads to 19 fatalities a year in Saskatchewan (based on an average from 2019 – 2021).
Driving requires you to do more than two things at once – steering, braking, shifting
gears and watching for traffic all occur at the same time. When you add distractions
like eating, grooming, talking or texting on cellphones, the results can be disastrous.
Drivers should devote their full attention to driving. Some of the most common driver
distractions include persons, objects or events outside the vehicle, distraction from
passengers, looking for or at something in the vehicle, adjusting radio, climate or
vehicle controls, smoking and eating or drinking.
You also shouldn’t distract other road users - deliberately creating loud and
unnecessary noise with a motor vehicle is not permitted.
Cellphones
Holding, viewing or manipulating a hand-held cellphone or mobile device is prohibited
in Saskatchewan. Experienced drivers, who are no longer in the GDL, can use hands-
free cellphones if they’re activated with voice commands or one-touch, and are
dashboard, visor or cradle mounted.
Note: Hands-free cellphone or mobile devices are prohibited for drivers in the GDL
program.
Hands-free use of cellphones while driving is allowed for experienced drivers*,
including:
• devices that clip to the visor
• headsets, either wired or wireless
• voice-activated devices
• devices built into the vehicle, such as OnStar or those with Bluetooth technology
• Bluetooth ear pieces
• one-touch activation of a speakerphone feature on a cellphone placed within easy
reach
23
3.3 Stopping and parking • 3.4 Sharing the road
• making 9-1-1 calls on cellphones while driving for both new and experienced drivers
• making a call on a cellphone when parked on the side of the road, for both new and
experienced drivers
* Experienced drivers are drivers who are not in the GDL program.
If you have a previous conviction (within a 12-month period) for using electronic
communication devices while driving, or driving without reasonable care or
consideration, and receive another ticket for either of these offences, it will result in
the vehicle you’re driving to be impounded for seven days, regardless of who the
vehicle owner is.
3.3 Stopping and parking

You must move as far to the right as possible when stopping on a road.
When stopping on a rural road or highway you must be 30 m (98 ft.) away from any
vehicle stopped on the opposite side of the road or highway.
Vehicles stopped on rural roads or highways at night must be marked with flares,
hazard lights or reflectors. You must not tamper with the devices used to mark
stopped vehicles.
Always come to a complete stop at all stop signs and at railway crossings where
signals or gates are activated. After stopping, only proceed from a stop sign, or a
railway crossing without gates, when it’s safe to do so. You must also stop when
signaled to by a police officer or a flagperson.
If there are painted curbs or signs that prohibit parking please follow them and park
somewhere else.
Be considerate of others and your own safety. If you must stop in your lane (possibly
due to heavy traffic) always stop behind the crosswalk, before entering an intersection
or before a railway crossing so you don’t obstruct pedestrians or other traffic.
3.4 Sharing the road

You have to share the road with people who drive a variety of vehicles. The more
you know about the particular driving requirements of different vehicles, the better
equipped you’ll be to share the road and predict the actions of other drivers.
Sharing the road with large trucks

The large truck is a special vehicle. Its motor is not
much larger than a large car engine and yet the load
it carries can be 50 or more times the weight of a car.
When accelerating up to speed, truck drivers use up
to 18 gear changes. Once they get into top gear, they
do not appreciate having to start again. Therefore,
avoid forcing a truck driver to slow down.
24
3
Large trucks will decrease speed when going uphill. You can expect truck drivers to
pick up speed when going down hills to help them get up the other side. Plan your
passing manoeuvre accordingly.
It takes longer to stop a large truck than a car, so a truck driver needs a longer
following distance to be safe and in control. Don’t cut in front of a large truck
immediately after you have passed it.
Truck drivers have problems seeing smaller vehicles. Although they have mirrors
that help them to see each side, you may not be visible to the driver if you follow
too closely. (Besides, you can’t see anything yourself.) Realize that in poor weather,
exterior mirrors become spotted with rain and dirt and the truck driver doesn’t have an
interior mirror. Be sure to make yourself visible. Drive with your headlights on.
The driver of a large truck or bus has difficulty turning sharp corners, particularly to
the right. If the driver follows the proper procedure, vehicles facing them on the street
they are entering should be prepared for the large truck or bus to enter their half of
the roadway. If the large truck operator is not following the proper procedure, vehicles
on their right in the street they are leaving should stay well back to avoid being
crushed between the large truck and the curb. When you see a large truck or bus
making a sharp right turn, give it the room it needs.
All drivers should avoid a large truck’s “no-zone.” The no-zone refers to the blindspot
areas around big trucks, where crashes are most likely to occur. Just like cars, large
trucks have blindspots on both sides, but a large truck’s are considerably bigger.
These blindspots can mean trouble if a trucker decides to change lanes and a car is in
the blindspot. In addition to the blindspots on the sides of a large truck, drivers should
be careful around the front end of large trucks.
Truckers sit up high and the hood of the cab obscures part of the road ahead. This is
why when drivers in a car are passing a large truck, they should make sure they can
see the entire truck cab in their rear-view mirror before pulling in front. If a car cuts
in too soon, truck drivers are forced to react with little time or room to spare. Large
trucks also have deep rear blindspots. A good rule of thumb is that if you can’t see the
large truck’s mirrors, the truck driver can’t see you.
25
Sharing the road with snow plows

• Slow down – STAY BACK and STAY ALIVE when you
approach the mini blizzard created by a snow plow.
• Every winter, snow plows are hit by motorists who don’t
see them or see them too late. The vast majority of these
incidents are rear-end collisions where motorists have
failed to adjust to changing road and weather conditions.
• Snow plow operators are working in difficult weather conditions on the highways to
clear snow and ice and make the roads safer for all motorists.
• Drivers must slow to 60 km/h when passing snow plows or other highway
equipment that are stopped on the highway with blue and amber warning lights
flashing.
• Snow plows that are in motion, can be passed on the highway if it’s safe to do so.
Drivers in this case are not limited to travelling 60 km/h.
• Snow plows must travel slower than average traffic when clearing snow and
spreading salt and sand. Be patient and proceed with caution.
• Ministry of Highways crews clear major highways within six hours of the end of the
storm to make winter driving safe. Please give them room to work safely.
Sharing the road with snowmobiles, ATVs

and golf carts
If snowmobiles and ATVs were always operated
according to the law, there would be little chance of
conflict with other vehicles on the streets and highways.
Unfortunately, this isn’t always the case.
Snowmobiles are difficult to see because they are small
and low. These features, accompanied by exposure
to weather, also make it difficult for the snowmobile
operator to see. As snowmobiles are useful in storms,
they’re likely to be out when visibility is poor.
Also, children with little road experience operate snowmobiles and ATVs. When you
see a snowmobile or ATV, anticipate that it may cross the road suddenly or go out of
control, and decide how you will react.
In some municipalities, local bylaws allow snowmobiles, ATVs and golf carts to be
operated on the street.
26
3
Sharing the road with emergency vehicles
All emergency vehicles (fire engines, police vehicles
and ambulances) have the right of way when displaying
flashing lights and using sirens (sound devices).
• When approached by an emergency vehicle with
its lights flashing or sirens engaged, you must
immediately drive as closely as possible to the
right edge of the roadway and not enter the next
intersection until the emergency vehicle has passed.
The only exception is if a peace officer gives you
other directions. On one-way streets, pull right or left
to the nearest curb.
• At an intersection, you must stop and let the emergency vehicle through the
intersection, unless given other directions by a peace officer.
If the emergency vehicle has its lights flashing, but no siren engaged, motorists in the
vicinity should extend the same privilege as previously mentioned while meeting or
being overtaken by the emergency vehicle.
• When an emergency vehicle is stopped on the highway with its emergency lights in
operation, you must slow down to 60 km/h when passing it. This doesn’t apply to
vehicles travelling in the opposite direction on a divided highway. However, this does
apply when travelling in the opposite direction on an undivided highway.
• Never attempt to follow an emergency vehicle going to, or coming from, an emergency.
Sharing the road with farm equipment and

overwidth vehicles
Saskatchewan’s agricultural base means that
farm equipment such as combines, tractors, large
cultivators, etc. may be on highways and grid roads
from early spring until late fall.
These vehicles create a hazard, as they travel very
slowly – 10 to 40 km/h. Therefore, you may come
upon them very quickly and you’ll need to stop or
change lanes rapidly. Watch for them on the road and
only pass them when it’s safe to do so.
Sharing the road with school buses

School bus drivers have a difficult job. There are
plenty of distractions inside the bus. Knowing this,
you should make extra allowances, and be aware of
the possibility that the bus driver may not see you or
your signals. Rear-end collisions are the most frequent
type of crash involving school buses and are usually
caused by another driver failing to stop while the bus
is loading or unloading passengers.
27
When approaching a school bus, if you see amber flashing lights, slow down and
proceed with caution. If the red flashing lights are activated, you must come to a
complete stop. If you’re approaching the bus from the opposite direction on an
undivided highway, you must also stop. The single greatest threat to the safety of
children who ride school buses is motorists who pass the bus when children are
loading or unloading.
When approaching a bus that has its stop arm out and its red flashing lights activated,
as a driver:
• You must stop no closer than 5 m (15 ft.) from the front or back of the bus.
• You must not advance your vehicle until the bus driver turns off the flashing red stop
lamps and deactivates the stop arm.
• Before moving, check to see that all children have safely crossed the roadway.
Passing a school bus with red flashing lights is a serious offence and will result in
a minimum fine of $360. You don’t have to stop for a school bus if you’re travelling
in the opposite direction on a divided highway. Some cities, towns and villages may
have a bylaw prohibiting the use of flashing red stop lamps and stop arms on school
buses. In those communities you’re allowed to pass the bus. Drivers aren’t required to
stop for buses displaying four-way hazard lamps; however, use caution, go slowly and
always watch for children crossing.
Sharing the road with motorcycles

When a motorcycle and a four-wheel vehicle collide,
the motorcyclist is at a high risk for being killed or
severely injured. Since motorcycles are more agile
than cars, their actions are more difficult to predict and
their size makes them hard to see.
Most motorcycles are wired so that their headlights
are on at all times, making it easier for you to see
them. Be alert for motorcycles that don’t have their
headlights on. During motorcycle season, check twice
before making a lane change or turn – once for cars
and trucks, and once for motorcycles and bikes.
When passing a motorcycle, ensure you leave adequate distance ahead of the
motorcycle before you pull back in to the lane. Failure to leave sufficient room can be
extremely dangerous for the motorcyclist.
The same three-second following distance should be given to motorcycles as is given
to other vehicles. Following too closely may cause a motorcycle rider’s attention to be
distracted from the road and traffic ahead.
28
3
Motorcyclists are allowed to ride two abreast but most riders prefer to have a full
lane width. A skilled motorcyclist is constantly changing positions within a lane to
increase his ability to see and be seen, and to avoid objects on the road. Never move
into the same lane beside a motorcycle, even if the lane is wide and the motorcyclist
is riding to one side. It is not only illegal, it’s extremely hazardous. When overtaking a
motorcycle or bicycle in your lane, you must pass in the same manner as you would
pass a car.
Bad weather and slippery surfaces cause greater problems for motorcycles than for
cars. Allow more following distance for motorcycles when the road surface is wet and
slippery. These conditions create stability problems.
Being aware of these situations can help you share the road safely with all cyclists.
New motorcyclists are required to display a

Motorcycle Graduated Driver Licensing (MGDL)
placard on their licence plate identifying them
as new riders. Learners are required to display
a red ‘L’ placard and Novice riders must display
green ‘N’ placards. Please use caution when
passing or following a new rider and give them
plenty of space.
Sharing the road with bicycles

Bicycles are vehicles. More and more people are using
bicycles for transportation, not only for recreational
purposes, but increasingly for getting to and from work.
Drivers of motor vehicles must learn to share the road
with bicycles. Cyclists aren’t permitted to use the
sidewalk. Therefore, motorists must realize that cyclists
are required to use traffic lanes.
Some communities have lanes designated exclusively
for bicycles or lanes designated to be shared by
bicycles and vehicles. It’s important to become familiar
with the regulations of each community you drive
within.
There is also a class of bicycle called power-assisted bicycles, commonly known as
e-bikes or electric bicycles, and many are designed to look like scooters equipped
with pedals. These types of vehicles use an electric motor to provide assistance to
the operator up to a maximum speed of 32km/hr. For more information on e-bikes
(power-assisted bicycles), please visit www.sgi.sk.ca or call our Customer Service
Centre at 1-844-TLK-2SGI (1-844-855-2744).
29
Sharing the road with e-scooters

(electric kick scooters)
E-scooters (also known as electric kick scooters or
electric scooters) are known as limited speed motor
vehicles and are permitted in communities, towns, or
cities that have specific e-scooter bylaws in place. To
see if they’re legal in your community, please reach out
to your municipality directly.
E-scooters don’t need to be registered and don’t require a driver’s licence, but users
must be at least 16 years old, wear an approved helmet, follow all municipal laws and
provincial regulations and legislation.
If e-scooters are allowed on public roads in a community, motor vehicle drivers and
other road users must learn to share the road with e-scooters. It’s important to know
the rules within each community that you drive in. For more information on e-scooters,
please visit www.sgi.sk.ca/e-scooters or call our Customer Service Centre at
1-844-TLK-2SGI (1-844-855-2744).
Sharing the road with tow trucks

and vehicles rendering assistance
on the roadside
When a vehicle used exclusively for towing or
rendering assistance is stopped on a roadside with
its amber or amber and blue lights flashing to help a
disabled vehicle, drivers must slow to 60 km/h when
passing. This does not apply to vehicles travelling in
the opposite direction on a divided highway. However,
this does apply when travelling in the opposite
direction on an undivided highway.
Sharing the road with funeral processions

Funeral processions have special privileges and
should not be interfered with or interrupted. They
must, however, obey all traffic signs and signals –
unless all drivers with the right of way stop to permit
the procession to proceed.
30
3.5 The concept of gates
3
3.5 The concept of gates
The concept of “gates” is introduced to
help you understand how to deal with
vehicles around you.
Imagine four gates surround your
vehicle at all times. One gate is located
in front of the vehicle, one is behind and
one is on each side of the vehicle.
When you’re travelling alone in the centre lane of a road where there are three lanes
provided in the direction you’re travelling, all four gates are open to you. This means
you can move ahead, slow down and drop back, or move to your right or left, and still
continue uninterrupted movement.
If a gate is open you can drive into it whenever you want to. A safe driver always tries
to have at least two open gates to provide options for emergency movement.
If a gate is closed – by another vehicle, a curb, a guardrail or even deep snow – you
lose the opportunity to move into the area that gate controls.
31
3.6 Blind spots
Check your mirrors to ensure you know which gates are open. You need to check
your inside mirror and your left outside mirror often. When you’re a more experienced
driver, start using your right mirror, if you have one.
While you aren’t required to identify a vehicle in detail, you should know whether the
rear gate is open so that you could drop back if you wished.
If the vehicle behind you is tailgating, then your rear gate is closed. You need to
leave extra following distance ahead to allow room if you have to stop. Increase your
following distance to five or six seconds (see “Using time to estimate your following
distance,” page 85).
How often you check your mirrors depends upon the number of lanes and the amount
of traffic. If you’ve ever been surprised by a vehicle overtaking you, then you’re not
looking in your mirrors often enough.
3.6 Blind spots

A “blind spot” is an area alongside your vehicle that
you can’t see when using any of your mirrors. It’s BLIND SPOT
important to check these blind spots to ensure your
side gates are open, particularly if you’re going to
change lanes.
A quick glance over your shoulder, or “shoulder
check,” can allow you to see the entire side gate area BLIND SPOT
of your vehicle, which could be a blind spot.
Shoulder check your blind spot for the gate you’re driving into. For the left side, turn
your head left until you are looking along your shoulder. You’re checking to see if there
is a vehicle closing your gate. If there is something there, don’t try to move into that
space. To check the right side, you need to turn your head to the right.
Watch out for motorcyclists and bicyclists, especially during low light conditions (dusk
and dawn) or during periods of inclement weather, as these vehicles are small, fast
and very manoeuvrable and may be easy to miss during a shoulder check.
For your own safety and the safety of other motorists, don’t drive in other drivers’ blind
spots. Move forward, or drop back, as soon as you notice this situation.
The blind spot can be significantly reduced if your mirrors are properly adjusted (see
page 100).
32
3.7 Directional dividing lines
3
3.7 Directional dividing lines
Yellow directional dividing lines separate
traffic travelling in opposite directions.
White line markings are used to separate
traffic travelling in the same direction.
Freeway lanes, as well as some city street
lanes, which are ending will usually be
marked by double wide lines painted on
the pavement. If you’re driving in a lane
marked with double wide lines, be
prepared for the lane to end. You’ll have to
exit the freeway, turn at the next intersection,
or merge. Look for signs.
Vehicle A may pass if the road is clear ahead and behind.
Vehicle A must not pass or make a left turn between intersections.
33
3.8 Traffic Lanes • 3.9 Lane position • 3.10 Lane selection
3.8 Traffic lanes

On roads with marked lanes, you must travel entirely in one lane. Where there are no
lane lines marked, you should travel as if there were markings there. Changing lanes is
permitted only when safe to do so.
Where a solid line separates lanes, you may not move across the solid line. The only
exceptions are double lines in the centre of a highway where the line nearest you is a
broken line (see the preceding illustrations) or centre turning lanes (see page 45).
3.9 Lane position

On highways or rural roads, keep to the right of your lane.
In urban areas, you’ll usually drive in the middle of the lane. However, your position in
the lane should allow you to see as much as possible.
Your lane position provides information to other drivers. If you intend to turn left, move
to the left side of the lane. If you’re going to turn right, move to the right side of the
lane, but be careful to leave enough room for passing parked vehicles.
At some intersections, signs or traffic lights indicate two or more lanes may be used
to complete a turn. At these locations, you must approach the intersection and
complete the turn in the same relative lane position.
3.10 Lane selection

Choose the driving lane that gives you the best vision and allows you to keep the
maximum number of gates open.
• On slippery surfaces, pick the part of the lane that offers the most traction.
• When turning at intersections, choose the lane that the law says you must take (see
“Turning,” page 40). On a divided highway use the left lane to approach a left turn
off the highway.
• On a multi-lane divided highway the left lane is intended for vehicles to pass slower
moving right lane vehicles or for emergency vehicles. The maximum speed posted
is the maximum under ideal road conditions. See page 113 for safe merging on a
freeway.
34
3.10 Lane selection • 3.11 Signalling
3
It’s not a good practice to drive on the shoulder portion of the road. The area of the
roadway to the right of the solid white line is designed for stopped vehicles. As well,
the shoulder can be used for emergency manoeuvres, or preparing to make a right
turn from a highway. The shoulder is not an extra driving lane. Some highways have
rumble strips on the shoulder, and in some cases on the centre line, to alert drivers
when they drift out of their lane.
3.11 Signalling
You must turn on your signal lights in advance of your turn or lane change. A good
rule when driving at speeds under 60 km/h is to signal at least 30 m before turning.
At higher speeds, signal at least 150 m from the corner.
When changing lanes, you must signal and do mirror and shoulder checks before you
begin to move out of your lane.
If your signal lights or brake lights fail, these hand signals must be used.
Left turn Right turn Stopping or slowing abruptly
Turn signals
When you use turn signals, you’re saying, “I intend to turn or change lanes.” If you
wait until you’re actually turning or changing lanes before you signal, you’re not telling
other drivers what you intend to do. They can already see that you’re turning.
The procedure when you plan to turn or change lanes:
1. Assuming that you know the status of your gates and are properly positioned for
the turn, signal.
2. Check your mirror.
3. Shoulder check your blind spot for the gate you are moving into.
4. Start the turn or lane change.
If you are approaching an intersection and want to change lanes, complete your lane
change and cancel your signal before entering the intersection or wait until you pass
through the intersection before turning on your signal and changing lanes. This helps
to keep intersections safer and avoid confusion.
35
3.12 Changing lanes • 3.13 Passing
3.12 Changing lanes

The procedure for changing lanes:
1. Determine the need to change lanes well in advance. Make sure you know the
conditions of your gate.
2. Signal your intention to change lanes.
3. Check your mirrors to see that the gate is open and that no one else is moving into it.
4. Shoulder check to look for vehicles or obstructions in your blind spot.
5. Look where you want the vehicle to go and steer there.
6. Accelerate gently and steer the vehicle to the position where you’re looking.
7. When you’re almost completely in the new lane, look ahead to the point where you
intend to drive and your steering will adjust.
8. Cancel signal. Check the condition of your new gates. Adjust your speed.
When moving through more than a single lane, make the change as one continual
action. Only one signal is required, and don’t forget to shoulder check.
3.13 Passing
When meeting other vehicles, you must keep to the right of the centre line of the
roadway.
Head-on collisions are usually fatal. Driver distraction (e.g., texting/talking on a
cellphone, eating, etc.), driver impairment (fatigue, alcohol, drugs) or driver errors,
such as faulty judgment or techniques while passing, are often contributing factors in
these collisions..
When passing, it’s very important to keep the time spent on the wrong side of the
road to a bare minimum.
When passing:
1. Make sure the pass is legal, safe and necessary. Don’t cross solid or double solid
yellow lines. Don’t pass on the crest of a hill, before a curve, at intersections or any
place where your sight distance is limited.
2. Maintain a minimum three-second following distance between you and the vehicle
you are following (see “Using time to estimate your following distance,” page
85). When you decide to pass, accelerate to build up speed before passing.
The greater the difference in speed between you and the vehicle you’re passing,
the shorter your passing time will be.
36
3.13 Passing
3
3. Continue to accelerate throughout the entire pass. Don’t slow down until you’re
back in your original lane and well in front of the vehicle you just passed. Keep in
mind that it’s illegal to speed even when passing.
4. Wait until you see the vehicle being passed in your inside rear-view mirror before
pulling back into your travelling lane. Remember, you must signal, check your
mirrors and shoulder check to ensure it’s safe to re-enter your travelling lane.
Note: At high speeds, the lane change is more gradual and takes longer to complete.
When passing other vehicles, you must always pass on the left except:
• where there are two or more traffic lanes in your direction of travel
• any time the vehicle ahead is about to make a left turn and it is possible to pass
safely on the right without driving on the shoulder
You may not pass any vehicle that is stopped at an intersection to permit pedestrians to
cross.
When being passed on the left by another vehicle, stay to the right of your lane and
maintain your speed. Don’t accelerate or obstruct the passing vehicle from returning
to the right lane.
Passing Lanes
Passing lanes are designed to allow vehicles to pass safely and improve the flow of
traffic. A passing lane is an additional lane added to a highway that permits a slower
vehicle to move into the right hand lane, while a faster vehicle can pass safely in the
left hand lane.
The right hand lane is designated for travel and the left hand lane is only to be used
for passing. Maintain your speed when moving into the right hand lane and do not
speed up.
Signs will alert you of a passing lane ahead. Have patience, maintain a safe following
distance and wait for the passing lane instead of using the oncoming traffic lane,
which can be dangerous.
37
3.14 Bus lanes and bicycle lanes

Major centres often have designated bus and/or bicycle lanes
that other motorists must stay out of unless they need to
enter them to turn, park or for entering a lane or driveway.
Bus lanes are marked by a lane sign that indicates the time
and days of operation of the restriction. The sign has a
diamond on it, as well as a bus symbol. In some centres, the
lane itself has diamond markings installed in the pavement.
On these designated streets, curb lanes are reserved for
transit vehicles during the rush hour, or peak driving times.
When bus lane hours are in effect, no one is allowed to operate a vehicle, other than
a bus or an emergency vehicle, in the designated curb lane, except for the purpose
of making a right turn onto, or off of, a street block where a bus lane is in effect.
Only buses, emergency vehicles or accessible taxicabs loading or unloading non-
ambulatory passengers are allowed to stop in a designated bus lane.
This sign indicates the

street you’re turning to has a
designated lane.
Bicycle lane
Bicycle-only lanes are dedicated for cyclists and are similar to bus lanes. Vehicles
aren’t allowed in bicycle-only lanes except for the purpose of making a right turn,
accessing a parking space or entering a lane or driveway.
38
3
Exclusive bicycle lanes Shared bicycle lanes
Designated bicycle lanes may be exclusive for bicycle use (left) or shared with motor
vehicle traffic (right).
Pavement marking may vary between communities.
Shared bicycle lanes
A chevron and bicycle symbol designate a shared bicycle or “sharrow” lane.
Sharrows use pavement markings painted on a roadways to encourage cyclists and
motorists to share the lane. They are generally intended for use on roadways with
lanes that are wide enough for side-by-side bicycle and vehicle operation. However,
motorists should always pass cyclists at a safe distance and should not assume that
the sharrow indicates that they can pass within the travel lane. Depending on the
positioning of the cyclist, it may be necessary to change lanes in order to pass safely.
Sharrows do not designate a bicycle lane and should not be treated as such. While
some cyclists will ride down the centre of the arrow, in many locations, the sharrow
marking simply indicates cyclists and motorists are to share the lane and isn’t an
indication of where a cyclist rides within the lane.
39
3.15 Turning
3.15 Turning
Right turns
When approaching an intersection or driveway that requires a right-hand turn, move
as close to the right curb or right edge of the road as possible.
General procedure:
1. Plan your right turn well in advance. Signal, check your rear gate and check your
blind spot. When safe, move as close to the right as possible.
2. Check for traffic, pedestrians and other real or potential hazards in or near the
intersection. A basic left, straight ahead, right, left sweeping pattern will be
sufficient.
3. Slow down (and shift to a lower gear if you are in a manual transmission vehicle).
4. Check again for real or potential hazards.
5. If there are no real or potential hazards, complete your right turn into the first
available driving lane.
See page 77 for rules regarding turning right on a red light.
40
3.15 Turning
3
When a vehicle is parked in the lane closest to the right curb and near the
intersection, the driver must move into that lane at the first opportunity before turning,
keeping as close to the right curb or edge of the road as possible.
Drivers may not make turns from the main driving lane.
Incorrect Correct
41
3.15 Turning
Left turns
Left turns are more dangerous than right turns because you have to cross traffic
coming from at least two directions. This means that your searching pattern is very
important and you should continue to search as you cross the intersection. When
you intend to turn left across the path of any vehicle approaching from the opposite
direction, you must yield the right of way to the oncoming vehicle. When making a left
turn, you must approach the intersection and complete the turn in the left-most lane
available for your direction of travel.
General procedure:
1. If a lane change is required, decide well in advance to make your left turn. Signal
and check your rear gate and blind spot to see if there is a vehicle close to you.
Move safely into the left side of the left lane.
2. Check for traffic, pedestrians and any other real or potential hazards that may be
in or near the intersection. Use the basic left, straight ahead, right, left sweeping
pattern.
3. Slow down (and shift to a lower gear if you are driving a manual transmission
vehicle).
4. Check again for real or potential hazards. Watch out for motorcycles when
completing a left turn. Motorists failing to identify oncoming motorcycles when
making a left turn is a significant contributing factor in collisions involving
motorcycles.
5. If you have to stop in the intersection to wait for oncoming traffic, be sure to keep
your vehicle parallel to the lane and your front wheels straight. That way if you’re hit
from behind, you will not be pushed in the path of oncoming traffic.
6. If there are no potential hazards, complete your left turn into the first available
driving lane.
42
3.15 Turning
3
A left turn from a one-way street to a two-way street should be made as close as
possible to the left edge of the roadway. If there are no cars parked in the curb lane,
you can move into that lane in advance of the corner. If there is a car in the curb lane,
be sure the driver is turning and not pulling over to park before entering the lane.
When you make your turn onto the two-way street, enter into the lane immediately to
the right of the centre line.
43
3.15 Turning
For a left turn from a one-way street to a one-way street, start the turn from the left
edge of the roadway and complete the turn in the left-most driving lane.
When a vehicle is parked in a lane closest to the left curb and near the intersection,
the driver must move into that lane at the first opportunity before turning.
For a left turn from a two-way street to a one-way street, turn from the lane next to the
centre line and enter the one-way street into the left-most driving lane.
44
3.16 Centre turning lanes
3
3.16 Centre turning lanes
This sign indicates a two-way left turning lane. These are
used in many communities, especially larger centres,
to improve traffic flow and to allow for easier access to
properties in mid-block.
The diagram indicates the correct turning procedure. Here are
some other points to keep in mind when using centre turning
lanes:
• Enter the two-way left turning
lane only at the point adjacent
to the property you want to
access (see arrow for car A).
• Left turns from either direction
may be made from the two-way
left turning lane.
• When leaving a driveway or
parking lot, pick a gap in traffic,
complete the turn by driving
through the centre turning
B
lane and into the first available
driving lane as quickly as
possible (see arrow for car B).
• The centre turning lanes may
not be used as a passing lane
or as a driving lane.
• Where a centre turning lane is
provided, you may not make a
left turn from any other lane.
45
3.17 Right of way
3.17 Right of way

Uncontrolled intersections
At an intersection where there are no stop signs, yield signs, traffic lights or police
directing traffic, and two vehicles arrive at the intersection at approximately the same
time, the driver of the vehicle on the left must yield the right of way to the driver of the
vehicle on the right.
This rule also applies to T-intersections.
46
3.17 Right of way
3
When turning left, you must yield the right of way to any vehicles coming toward you if
they are close enough that your turn would interfere with them.
When entering a provincial highway from any other road, you must yield the right of
way to any vehicles travelling on the provincial highway and to any pedestrian closely
approaching the intersection.
47
3.17 Right of way
When entering a street, road or highway from a private road, lane or alley, you must
yield the right of way to any pedestrians on the sidewalk and to any vehicles on the
street, road or highway.
Controlled intersections
At any intersection where a yield sign is present, drivers facing the sign must yield the
right of way to any other motorist approaching the intersection.
At three and four-way stops, courtesy dictates that the first vehicle that stops should
be given the right of way. The remaining three then yield the right of way to the driver
on their right.
At two-way stops, vehicles must remain stopped until all cross traffic passes. When
two vehicles arrive around the same time to the opposite stop signs and one of the
vehicles is turning left, the driver turning left must yield the right of way to the driver
going straight. If it’s safe, the vehicle turning left can go next, even if another vehicle
arrives in the meantime, and plans to go straight. The left turning vehicle can turn
left while the next vehicle advances to the stop line. This keeps traffic flowing. When
opposing vehicles are both going straight, the drivers can proceed at the same time.
In any case, if you’re at a stop sign you must yield to vehicles and pedestrians and
may not proceed until it’s safe.
All drivers have a moral and legal responsibility to avoid collisions. If you have the right
of way at an intersection and a driver refuses to yield to you, you’re responsible from
a safety standpoint to avoid a collision, rather than insist upon your right of way. Don’t
forget the old adage – “You could be right – dead right.”
48
3.17 Right of way
3
Construction or maintenance vehicles
At all times, you must yield the right of way to any highway construction or
maintenance vehicles that have their warning lights flashing.
Zipper merge
When a lane is closed in a construction zone, you might need to make a zipper
merge. A zipper merge means drivers use both lanes of traffic until the lane ends,
and then alternate in “zipper” fashion into the open lane. Vehicles in the lane that’s
ending must signal, shoulder check and merge when safe, while each driver in the
continuing lane should let one vehicle in. Sometimes both lanes are merging into
a new lane and drivers in both lanes must signal, shoulder check and take turns
merging when it’s safe.
Zipper merging is beneficial because it makes traffic flow more quickly and efficiently
for drivers in both lanes. It also creates a sense of fairness and equity since all lanes
are moving at the same rate. Zipper merging also helps reduce:
• differences in speeds between two lanes
• the overall length of traffic backup
• congestion on freeway interchanges
Always pay attention and follow any posted signs you see in a construction area.
Zipper merge signs may not always be present, but zipper merging is allowed and
recommended in construction zones.
Remember to be courteous, merge when safe and you’ll zip through quickly.
49
3.18 Stopping positions
3.18 Stopping positions

There are several different situations you may see when preparing to stop at an
intersection with a stop sign or traffic light. Where you should stop and your stopping
position, is determined by markings on the road. You must stop:
At the nearest crosswalk, At a clearly marked Where there is no stop line,

whether marked or not. stop line. sidewalk or crosswalk:
• Within three metres of the
intersection in a town, city,
village or hamlet.
• Within 10 metres of the
intersection in a rural area.
Behind the clearly marked X.
50
3.19 Interchanges
3
3.19 Interchanges
Roundabouts
In a roundabout, the vehicle on the right must yield to the vehicle on the left.
In the diagram, traffic indicated by red arrows in yellow lanes must yield to traffic
indicated by white arrows in green lanes. Traffic entering the roundabout must yield to
traffic in the roundabout.
In this diagram:
• B and C must yield to A.
• E must yield to D while F and D proceed.
• H must yield to G.
When you’re leaving the roundabout use your right-turn signal to warn other drivers of
your intention to exit.
It’s recommended that for safety, entry into the right lane be used mainly when
intending to exit at the first available exit point. If you are intending to proceed beyond
the second exit, you should drive in the left lane.
51
3.19 Interchanges
Diverging Diamond Interchange

A diverging diamond interchange is new to Saskatchewan, but is gaining popularity
across North America. This type of interchange is designed to improve safety and
reduce delays by maintaining the flow of traffic. The key feature of this type of
interchange is that traffic on the overpass crosses over to the opposite side of the
road at one traffic-signal controlled ramp and then returns to the proper side at the
next traffic-signal controlled ramp. The crossover allows higher volume left-turn traffic
to proceed with little disruption or interruption.
When you encounter this type of intersection:
• Watch for lane designation signs as well as pavement markings to guide you into the
correct lane (see “Lane selection,”page 34).
• Traffic going straight – watch for lane designation signs and ensure you’re in the
correct lane to proceed straight. After the traffic lights, don’t panic; you will be
crossing onto the opposite side of the road for a short distance before crossing
back onto the proper side at the next traffic lights.
• Traffic turning left – watch for lane designation signs and ensure you’re in the
correct lane to turn left. After the traffic lights, don’t panic; you will be crossing onto
the opposite side of the road for a short distance before making your left turn.
• Traffic turning right – normal right-hand turn procedures apply, so watch for lane
designation signs and ensure you’re in the correct lane to turn right.
Traffic going straight
52
3.19 Interchanges
3
Traffic turning left
Traffic turning right
53
3.19 Interchanges
Restricted Crossing U-Turn

The Restricted Crossing U-Turn (RCUT)
intersection (also known as a reduced
conflict intersection) is designed to
decrease collisions caused by motorists
attempting to cross a four-lane divided
highway.
At an RCUT intersection, drivers always
make a right turn, followed by a U-turn.
Motorists approaching a divided highway
with an RCUT intersection are not allowed
to make a left turn or drive straight through
to cross the divided highway. Instead,
drivers must do the following:
1. Using the entrance ramp, make a right
turn into the acceleration lane to enter
the highway.
2. When it is safe to do so, signal, check
your mirrors, shoulder check and
change lanes into the far-left lane to
enter the U-turn lane.
3. Complete the U-turn into the

acceleration lane going the opposite
direction.
4. When it is safe to do so, signal, check
your mirrors, shoulder check and
change lanes into the far right driving
lane to continue straight or into the far
right turning lane to complete a right
turn.
5. Remember to shoulder check when
changing multiple lanes.
*This is a general representation

of the intersection. Actual layout
dimensions and lengths may
differ from this image.
54
3.20 Highways • 3.21 Pedestrians
3
3.20 Highways
Driving to the left of centre
You may not drive to the left of the roadway centre on two-way streets, roads or
highways unless it’s safe and there’s no traffic approaching.
One-way highways
You may not travel in the wrong direction on a one-way highway.
Divided highways
Travel in the right hand driving lane and only use the left lane for passing, turning left
or emergency manoeuvers.
Controlled access highways

In the case of controlled access highways or freeways, you may not enter or leave
except at the exit or entrance provided.
3.21 Pedestrians
When approaching an intersection, you must yield the right of way to any pedestrians
who are crossing the street.
You must stop your vehicle before the crosswalk, which will either be painted on the
road or be an imaginary extension of the sidewalk. If a traffic light changes while a
pedestrian is in the crosswalk, the pedestrian has the right of way.
You must stop your vehicle when directed to do so by a school crossing guard
controlling a crosswalk.
You may not pass any vehicle that is stopped at an intersection to permit pedestrians
to cross.
As a pedestrian, you must not attempt to cross at an intersection unless you have
given motorists a chance to stop.
Pedestrians walking along a road should walk on the left shoulder, facing oncoming
traffic.
Note: Pedestrians also include persons in wheelchairs, motorized wheelchairs and
medical scooters.
Jaywalkers
Jaywalking is when a pedestrian crosses a roadway in violation of traffic laws, typically
when crossing outside of a marked or unmarked intersection.
You must always be prepared to stop if you see a pedestrian who is about to step out
in front of you. But don’t encourage jaywalking by stopping and inviting pedestrians to
cross. The car behind you may not be expecting you to stop and may collide with you.
Also, drivers in the other lanes might not see the pedestrian crossing in front of your
vehicle and may hit them.
55
3.22 Crossing urban streets • 3.23 Wheelchairs and medical scooters
3.22 Crossing urban streets

You may drive across a street only at an intersection, lane or alley.
Note: In some cities, crossing a street at a lane or alley is prohibited by a local bylaw.
3.23 Wheelchairs and medical scooters

The rules of the road that apply to pedestrians also
apply to persons using a wheelchair, motorized
wheelchair or medical scooter for medical reasons.
When approaching an intersection, you must yield the
right of way to any person crossing the street who is
using a wheelchair, motorized wheelchair or medical
scooter. This does not apply to wide streets if the
person in the wheelchair is at a safe distance from
your side of the street.
You must stop your vehicle before the crosswalk,
which will either be painted on the road or be an
imaginary extension of the sidewalk.
You may not pass any vehicle that is stopped at an
intersection to permit persons using wheelchairs,
motorized wheelchairs or medical scooters to cross.
Persons in wheelchairs, motorized wheelchairs or medical scooters must not attempt

to cross at an intersection unless they have given motorists a chance to stop.
The sidewalk should always be the first choice while using a wheelchair, motorized
wheelchair or medical scooter. When there is no wheelchair accessible curb, get onto
the sidewalk using the first available driveway.
Like pedestrians, persons using wheelchairs, motorized wheelchairs or medical
scooters travelling along a road where no sidewalk exists should travel on the left
shoulder, facing oncoming traffic. Wheelchairs, motorized wheelchairs or medical
scooters should also have a brightly coloured flag attached to increase visibility to
motorists.
56
3.24 Motorcycles • 3.25 Medians
3
3.24 Motorcycles
Although two motorcycles are permitted to drive in the same traffic lane, it’s not
recommended practice to operate directly alongside another motorcycle.
Motorcycles may not travel beside any other type of vehicle in the same lane.
Incorrect Correct
Drivers and passengers must wear an approved motorcycle helmet. If the motorcycle
does not have a windshield that deflects the air stream away from the driver’s face,
drivers and passengers must wear safety glasses, a face shield or goggles.
For further information, refer to www.sgi.sk.ca/motorcyclehandbook.
3.25 Medians
Where a median, boulevard or ditch divides a road, you may not drive on the left side
of it.
You may not cross any median, boulevard or ditch except at an intersection or where
a cross-over is provided.
57
3.26 Parking lots
3.26 Parking lots

Many rules of the road that apply to highways and streets also apply to parking lots,
such as speed, traffic control signs, following too closely, proper turns, signalling
and backing.
When parking lanes and/or passageways intersect in a parking lot and don’t have
yield or stop signs, treat the area as an uncontrolled intersection - you must yield to
the vehicle on the right.
In some areas there are main roadways that provide access to one or more parking
lots – these are called thoroughfares. Thoroughfares lead into, through or out of a
parking lot and aren’t used for vehicle parking. Parking lanes and passageways within
a parking lot must yield to thoroughfares.
In the above illustration:

• Car A must yield to the car on its right, Car B.
• Car C must then yield to the vehicle in the thoroughfare, Car D.
58
3.27 Headlights
3
3.27 Headlights
It’s advisable to have your lights on at all times because studies show that vehicles
driven with lights on at all times are much less likely to be involved in collisions than
those operated with their lights on at night only.
The law requires the use of headlights from half an hour after sunset until half an hour
before sunrise, and at any time when visibility is poor.
Note: Some vehicles do not have tail lamps on when daytime running lights are
being used. Always ensure you turn your headlights on at night, as it’s dangerous to
operate a vehicle at night without them or your tail lamps illuminated.
When using high beams, you must dim

your headlights at least 200 m (650 ft.)
in advance of oncoming vehicles and
keep them dimmed until the vehicle has
passed.
Many drivers make the error of dimming
their headlights too soon for oncoming Low beams
vehicles. For example, when driving
at 100 km/h, you may not have to dim
your high beams until the approaching
vehicle is about seven to eight seconds
away from you, but a realistic approach
is to dim your lights between nine and
12 seconds away.
While you need to see the road, you Low beams
shouldn’t blind the oncoming driver with
the glare of your lights. You may find
that some drivers approaching you will
signal you to lower your lights while they
are up to 20 seconds away. This applies
to vehicles you are meeting and vehicles
you are following. To avoid blinding
other drivers, make sure your headlights
are properly adjusted and are in working High beams
order.
Also, turn off any spotlamps at least 500 m (1,640 ft.) in advance of an oncoming
vehicle and keep them turned off until the vehicle has passed.
You don’t need to dim your headlights for oncoming traffic if you’re driving on a
divided highway where the distance between the roadways is 22 m (70 ft.) or more
(the distance is measured from left shoulder marking to left shoulder marking in each
direction of travel).
You must keep your headlights on low beam within 100 m (330 ft.) and keep any
spotlamps or auxiliary driving lights turned off within 500 m (1,640 ft.) when you’re
following another vehicle, or when you’re being passed.
59
3.27 Headlights • 3.28 Night driving and low visibility • 3.29 Choosing the right speed
If you’ve been driving in the dark for a while, you will need up to five seconds to
recover from the glare of oncoming lights. This glare recovery time tends to increase
with age to the point where it sometimes takes up to 25 seconds to recover. If
you suspect you have a glare recovery problem, check with an ophthalmologist or
optometrist.
3.28 Night driving and low visibility

Driving at night is difficult because the area illuminated by your headlights is not all
you need to see. Motorcycles, cyclists, pedestrians and wildlife are particularly difficult
to see under these conditions — watch closely for them. If street lamps provide
overhead lighting, you can see well ahead. If not, you must rely on your headlights.
While driving at night, you should be able to see about 12 seconds travelling distance
in front of you. This means that most of the time, you should be using your high beam
headlights and be looking beyond the part of the road illuminated by your lights.
To reduce glare from other vehicles or lights to the rear, adjust your mirror or use
a day-night mirror turned to “night.” Dimming the dash lights will also improve your
ability to see the road.
3.29 Choosing the right speed

Driving without a full 12 seconds of view ahead means you are over-driving your
headlights. This means by the time your headlights illuminate an object on the road
you’ll be unable to stop before hitting it. This makes it critical to use all the other
information available.
Pay attention to other vehicles on the road, which can give you clues.
If you can see the rear lights of the vehicle in front, you can be sure that no large
object is between the two of you.
The most important action that you can take at night is to slow immediately when you
detect something on the road ahead. Don’t wait until you can see the object clearly –
by that time, it will probably be too late to stop. As soon as you see something on the
road, use your brakes so that you are slowing down while identifying what it is. You’ll
then have more time to stop or change your direction if the need arises.
60
3.30 Rules related to vehicles
3
3.30 Rules related to vehicles
• Tampering with a vehicle without the owner’s permission is not permitted.
• Climbing into or on a vehicle without the owner’s permission is not permitted.
• Throwing objects at a vehicle is not permitted.
• You may not watch a television, video screen or computer screen when driving
unless the information displayed is solely designed to assist you in the safe
operation of the vehicle.
• All material carried on a vehicle must be securely contained or tied down so that it
cannot fall off the vehicle.
• Damages resulting from any of the above infractions may have to be paid for by the
offender.
• Unless you are riding in or on the vehicle, you must not hold onto a moving vehicle.
• Passengers may not ride in or on a trailer.
• The use of hand-held cellphones while driving is prohibited, (see page 23).
• No one may ride on the exterior of a vehicle unless there is a space designed for
passengers. This does not apply to construction, maintenance, firefighting, police or
parade vehicles.
• Passengers are not permitted to ride between the driver and the driver’s door.
• Passengers must not crowd the driver.
• Drivers must have a clear view of the road to the front, sides and rear. Aftermarket
tinting is not allowed on the windshield or front side windows.
• No pedestrian, passenger or driver shall perform any stunt or activity that is likely to
distract, startle or interfere with any other user of the road.
• Dropping burning material or material that could damage tires onto a road is not
permitted.
• Vehicles must display a valid licence plate firmly secured to the rear of the vehicle
and not obstructed in a manner that prevents the plate from being read or accurately
photographed by a red light camera.
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4 Traffic signs and signals
4.1 Traffic signs • 4.2 Six basic sign shapes every driver must know
4. Traffic signs and signals

4.1 Traffic signs
Many collisions and near crashes occur as a result of drivers who ignore or fail to
respond appropriately to traffic signs. It’s essential that the meaning of traffic signs
be interpreted correctly. Signs are classified according to their function such as
regulatory, warning and information.
The easiest way to identify traffic signs is to learn to recognize their shapes and
colours. For safe driving, you must recognize and obey traffic signs without hesitation.
A sign-conscious driver is a safe driver. Keep a constant look-out for signs as you
move your eyes in the field of view ahead of you.
4.2 Six basic sign shapes every driver must know
Stop
The stop sign, a red octagon with white lettering, means come
to a full stop and be sure the way is clear before proceeding.
Regulatory
Regulatory signs are white rectangles or squares with black
or other coloured lettering. These signs state the law, such
as speed limits, parking regulations and turning and passing
movements.
Yield
Yield right of way signs are triangular and have a red border on
a white background.
A yield sign means you must reduce speed when approaching
an intersection. Give right of way and stop if necessary if any
other traffic is in, or closely approaching, the intersection.
Warning
Warning signs are diamond shaped and are yellow or orange
with black letters or symbols. They warn of dangerous or unusual
conditions ahead, such as a curve, turn, dip or side road.
62
Traffic signs and signals
4.2 Six basic sign shapes every driver must know
4
Railway Crossing
The crossbuck is the traditional symbol at roadway-railway
crossings. The colour of the crossbuck is the same as a yield
sign and has the same meaning; give right of way and stop if
necessary.
School Zone (New)

The new school zone signs have a pentagon shape, with
a fluorescent yellow-green background and show a black
silhouette of a schoolboy and a schoolgirl.
School Zone (Old)

The old school zone sign has a pentagon shape, but with a blue
background and shows a white silhouette of a schoolboy and a
schoolgirl. These signs are currently being replaced.
School Zone
When this sign has a “Maximum Speed” or “km/h During School
Days” tab mounted underneath, it means the speed is to be
observed as indicated.
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4.3 Standard sign colours • 4.4 Regulatory signs
4.3 Standard sign colours

Each colour has a particular meaning.
Red Blue Green Yellow

Stop or prohibition General information Indicates traffic General warning
or service road movement such danger/caution
information as turns which
are permitted or
directional guidance
Fluorescent White Orange

yellow-green Regulatory Construction
School zone and and maintenance
school crosswalk warning
ahead signs
4.4 Regulatory signs
One-way street or Two-way traffic The maximum Advance warning

highway speed allowed of a lower maximum
under ideal speed zone ahead
conditions
* The fine for speeding

triples when travelling
greater than the
posted speed limit
past workers. Workers
are identified as
anyone within 3 km
FI N ES of a traffic control
TR I PLE person, survey crew
or highway workers
The maximum sign identified on Keep to the right Do not enter
speed allowed in a page 73. of traffic islands or
work zone* obstruction
64
4.4 Regulatory signs
4
Passing permitted Passing not U-turn permitted No U-turn

permitted You must not turn your
vehicle around in the
roadway to travel in
the opposite direction
Heavy trucks should No heavy trucks Dangerous Dangerous goods

use this roadway are allowed on goods route carriers prohibited
roadway
Truck inspection Truck inspection station exit Over dimensional

station Arrow indicates which side of road route
Weight limit of
vehicle permitted on
highway or bridge
expressed in tonnes
65
4.5 Regulatory parking signs • 4.6 Regulatory pedestrian crossing signs
4.5 Regulatory parking signs
Parking allowed Do not stop Parking prohibited Stopping prohibited

as indicated to wait as indicated as indicated
4.6 Regulatory pedestrian crossing signs
Pedestrian Pedestrian School School

crosswalk (new) crosswalk (old) crosswalk (new) crosswalk (old)
Pedestrian crosswalk
Traffic must stop when lights are flashing and proceed when safe
66
4.7 Regulatory lane designation signs
4
4.7 Regulatory lane designation signs
These signs may be mounted above (or to the side of) the roadway. When mounted
above, each sign is centred over the lane it controls.
Bus lane Bicycle lane This lane must This lane left
turn left or through
Two turning lanes left/right This lane left or right This lane all
movements
This lane This lane must This lane right

through only turn right or through
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4.8 Regulatory turn control signs
4.8 Regulatory turn control signs

These signs may be accompanied by a tab that indicates the sign is only in effect
during certain hours of the day.
No left turn No right turn Go straight or Go straight or

right turn only left turn only
Turn right or left Go straight Turn left only Turn right only
No right turn on red Centre Turning vehicle

Wait for green turning lane yields to bikes
light before making
a right turn
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4.9 Warning signs
4
4.9 Warning signs
Modern traffic signs use symbols instead of words. However, drivers must be familiar
with both types of signs. Where applicable, both signs are shown.
Two-way traffic Divided highway Road surface Bump or rough

ahead ahead slippery when wet road ahead
Obstruction Divided highway Section of roadway Steep hill ahead

Pass to either side begins regularly crossed Shift to lower gear or
Keep to the right by deer slow down if going
down very steep hill
The following high-risk locations were ID-33

selected for photo speed enforcement:
ID-33
• Circle Drive in Saskatoon
• Hwy 1 and 9th Ave. in Moose Jaw
• Ring Road in Regina
• Hwy 1 East between Pilot Butte and White City ID-33T
• Hwy 12 at Martensville ID-33
• intersection of Hwy 41 and Hwy 2 ID-33T
For a current list of the locations visit www.sgi.sk.ca.
ID-33T
69
4.9 Warning signs
Stop sign ahead Divided highway Traffic signals Railway ahead

ends ahead Road intersects with
Be prepared to stop rail tracks ahead at
angle depicted
Road narrows Narrow bridge Lane ends Winding road

Road ahead is not as ahead Right lane ends ahead
wide as the road you Width of pavement First curve right
are driving on narrower than
approach
Sharp curve to the

right ahead
Reverse curve ahead Curve to the Maximum advised

Two turns in opposite right ahead speed
directions separated by Recommended
a tangent of less than safe speed
120 m, first turn right
70
4.9 Warning signs
4
Underpass ahead Concealed or Added lane Two lanes

Overhead clearance hidden intersection Two roads converge merge ahead
as shown ahead and merging Traffic entering
Road from right movements are not from right
and/or left required
Checkerboard Pavement ends Surface subject Snowmobile

Road ends Continuation has to icing crossing ahead
gravel surface Bridge or roadway
surface may be
slippery at zero
degrees Celsius˚,
slow down
Cattle crossing Warns of Playground ahead Pedestrian

ahead T-intersection When this sign has crosswalk or
Road turns sharply a km/h tab mounted corridor ahead
right and left underneath, it means
that this speed is to
be observed
71
4.9 Warning signs
School bus stop School crosswalk Chevron Slow moving

ahead ahead (arrowhead) vehicle
Stop for bus with Posted in groups to Mounted on the rear
flashing lights guide drivers around of vehicles that travel
sharp curves in at speeds less than
the road 40 km/h. It warns
drivers approaching
from behind to
slow down.
Hazard close to the edge of the road

The downward lines show the side on which you may safely pass
Warning sign on overdimension loads or on escort vehicles
72
4.10 Construction signs
4
4.10 Construction signs
Construction signs have black letters or symbols on an orange background.
Traffic control Survey crew ahead*

person ahead*
Be prepared to stop
for instructions Highway workers*
* The presence of one of the above three signs designates the start of the work zone. The
Highway workers sign may or may not have a WORKERS PRESENT tab as illustrated.
In the work zone drivers must slow to the posted speed through the entire zone and 60 km/h
or less when passing a worker, flag person or equipment occupied by a worker. Some cities
have bylaws requiring drivers to obey work zone speed limits through the entire construction
area. Please be familiar with the bylaws in your area.
Truck entrance Be prepared to Construction ahead Be prepared

left/right stop if you are This sign indicates to stop
The location at which driving a vehicle you are entering a
trucks are entering, with a high load construction zone.
leaving or crossing Drive with extra
caution and be
prepared for changes
in the speed limit
Pavement drop-off
This sign warns motorists that they are on or

approaching a section of roadway where either
the adjacent lane or shoulder or both
are lower or higher than the motorist’s travel lane
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4.11 Railway crossings
4.11 Railway crossings

Drivers should check for trains at every crossing, even those
equipped with automatic signals. Always proceed with caution
when crossing railway tracks.
Never get trapped on a crossing

When traffic is heavy, wait on the approach to a crossing until
you’re sure you can clear it.
When the last car of a train passes the crossing, do not
start up until you’re sure no train is coming on another track,
especially from the other direction.
Never race a train

Racing a train to the crossing is foolhardy. You may lose.
Avoid shifting gears on a crossing

If your vehicle has a manual transmission, shift down before
the crossing.
Watch for vehicles that must stop at crossings

Be prepared to stop when you are following buses, school
buses or large trucks that are required to stop.
Automatic protected crossings

Never drive around gates
If the gates are down, don’t cross the tracks until the gates are
raised. It’s against the law to go around crossing gates.
Flashing lights
At crossings without gates, you may cross the tracks, after
stopping, while the red lights are flashing if it’s safe to do so.
However, if a train is closely approaching, or if a signal person
signals you to stop, you must stop and wait until it’s safe
to proceed. Some railway crossings may have an advance
flashing amber (yellow) light and sign warning of a train ahead
at a concealed crossing.
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4.12 Crossroad delineators • 4.13 Guide signs
4
4.12 Crossroad delineators
Triangular reflective delineators can be found
mounted on both sides of a sign post at many rural
intersections controlled by stop or yield signs.
They alert rural drivers to the fact they’re
approaching an intersection and indicate the
classification of the road as follows:
Three delineators
• all provincial and public highways
• community access roads
• grid roads
• major streets
Two delineators
• main farm access roads
• improved all weather roads
• intermediate urban streets
One delineator
• all other minor rural roads and local urban streets
4.13 Guide signs
SA
S K AT C H E W A N
Trans Canada Provincial Numbered Rural Airport

Highway Highway Municipal Route Plane points
Marker direction to airport
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4.14 Information signs
4.14 Information signs
Advance
community sign
with service tabs
Telephone Picnic facilities Accomodation Trailer facilities
Food Swimming Camping Hospital
Golf course Police Museum Gasoline fuel

Diesel fuel (D)
76
4.15 Traffic signals
4
A green light at an intersection means
you may turn left, right or drive straight
though the intersection, unless a sign
prohibits any of these movements,
once the intersection is clear and it’s
safe to do so.
If you want to turn left you can enter

the intersection on a green light,
but you must yield to oncoming
traffic and pedestrians. If traffic
is heavy, you may be forced to
complete your turn on an amber
(yellow) or red light.
You can often predict the appearance of an amber (yellow) light by taking note of how
long the light has been green and by watching for the “don’t walk” light, especially if it
is flashing.
When approaching an amber (yellow) light at an intersection, you must stop before
entering the crosswalk. If you have already entered, or cannot stop safely, proceed
with caution.
When approaching a red light,

you must stop and remain
stopped until the light changes.
If you’re making a right turn at
an intersection, you may make
the turn, but only after stopping
and yielding the right of way to
pedestrians and to any vehicles
travelling through the intersection.
If you’re in the outside (left) lane of a double right turning
lane, you may also turn right after stopping and yielding the
right of way to pedestrians and vehicles. Use extra caution,
it’s not a common manoeuver.
This also applies to making a left turn at the intersection of
two one-way streets. Some intersections may have a sign
prohibiting turns on red lights.
You may not make a U-turn at any intersection where there are traffic lights unless
there is a sign to indicate U-turns are permitted.
77
When approaching a red light and a light with

a solid green arrow, you may proceed in the
direction of the arrow only after yielding the right of
way to any other vehicles and pedestrians.
When approaching a red or green light and a flashing green (left turn) arrow, you may
proceed in the direction of the green arrow.
After the left turn arrow, an amber (yellow) arrow may appear. This means the green
light is about to appear for traffic in both directions.
78
4
When approaching a flashing amber (yellow) light, you must proceed with caution.
Alternating flashing amber (yellow) lights may warn you that traffic lights ahead are
red or about to turn red.
When approaching an amber (yellow) light, you must yield the right of way to any
pedestrians in the crosswalk or pedestrian corridor.
When approaching a flashing red

light you must stop, but you may
then proceed when it’s safe.
Pedestrians may not cross an
intersection when they are facing
a red light, an amber (yellow) light
or a “don’t walk” light or symbol.
A flashing “don’t walk” means
pedestrians should finish crossing
the street if they have already
started. Some signals have a
countdown showing how many
seconds remain before it is unsafe.
79
5 Basic driving skills
5.1 Hazards
5. Basic driving skills

5.1 Hazards
A hazard is a source of danger. When driving, it’s something that forces you to change
your speed (usually to slow down) or change your steering (usually to steer around it)
to avoid a collision.
Real and potential hazards

A real hazard is something that you have to react to. Examples of real hazards are: a
stop light, a car moving slowly or stopping in your lane, a curve that requires you to
slow down, a pedestrian or vehicle blocking you.
Real hazard
A potential hazard is something that might happen and you may have to react to: a car
signalling the intention to change lanes, a car on the shoulder that might pull out, a
pedestrian who might cross the road or a traffic light that might change.
Potential hazard
These two types of hazards will be referred to frequently in the following sections.
80
Basic driving skills
5.2 The IPDE method of driving
5
We use the IPDE (Identify, Predict, Decide, Execute) approach to driving to deal with
potential and real hazards. IPDE defines the four steps involved.
Identify Predict Decide Execute
Identify
The first step to good driving and avoiding collisions is to identify, well in advance, real
and potential hazards.
From the thousands of objects in your field of vision, you must learn to filter out those
that do not provide you with information relevant to the driving task. For instance,
although a red neon sign attached to a restaurant may catch your eye, it’s an
unnecessary distraction because it’s irrelevant to the driving task. You must search
for real or potential hazards (such as traffic lights or children) and give them your
immediate attention.
To use this information the hazard must be spotted in plenty of time. That’s why your
windows need to be clear.
Predict
Step two is to predict what will happen should you encounter a real or potential
hazard.
Real hazards
For a real hazard, such as a red light, stop sign or a stopped vehicle, you simply
predict whether or not the traffic light will change or the vehicle will remain stopped.
You usually see real hazards in plenty of time and will have few problems predicting
what will happen. Although you may be scanning the road properly, a vehicle may
suddenly stop right in front of you. You will then have to quickly predict what may
happen in the next few seconds.
Potential hazard
Every vehicle you share the road with is a potential hazard. Be aware of where other
drivers could go. Make your best prediction of what they’re likely to do and keep
revising this prediction as you move towards them. Pedestrians, cyclists or children on
the side of the road are often potential hazards.
Predict the path of potential hazards. The vehicle may make a right turn. The child may
run across the road.
The more often you practise predicting what may happen and what pedestrians and
other drivers might do, the quicker you’ll be able to make accurate predictions.
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Decide
Step three is to decide exactly what you’ll do to drive smoothly and deal with the
hazard. This means planning your actions in detail and checking to see that the way is
clear to proceed.
Real hazards
You may decide to simply brake gently or change lanes to avoid the hazard, or you
may want to brake hard, release the brakes and steer.
Potential hazards
When you encounter a potential hazard, you may decide to take no action and
continue to monitor the actions of other drivers, or you may decide to take action to
avoid the other vehicles.
Consider the following steps before you take any action:
1. Check that your chosen gate is still open.
2. Check the surface condition of the roadway for braking.
3. Check the shoulder and the ditch.
4. Continue to watch the vehicle and decide whether you will take action to avoid it.
Execute
The final step, to execute, means to carry out your decision.
Executing some of your decisions will simply mean making a smooth stop at a
traffic light.
Executing other decisions may involve using techniques for emergency driving.
To be good at executing your decisions, particularly emergency decisions, you need
to practise in a safe situation, preferably with a trained instructor. Practice helps you
overcome the panic that usually arises the first time you’re in an emergency.
Practice makes perfect

When you begin practising the IPDE method you’ll be slow and will probably think in
words. As you practise, you’ll become faster and begin to think in ideas and pictures.
At this stage, you will be able to carry out the entire procedure rapidly. You can cut
your reaction time by taking the time to practise the IPDE method. It may save your
life.
Once you have been using IPDE for some time, much of your identifying, predicting,
deciding and executing will be carried out instinctively.
You’ll need to use IPDE more often in heavier traffic and when you are driving at
higher speeds.
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5.2 The IPDE method of driving • 5.3 Time – the key to judgment
5
You’ll find that your physical condition greatly affects your ability to handle IPDE. If
you’re tired or ill, you should reduce the IPDE load by travelling at reduced speeds.
You can reduce the IPDE load by avoiding heavy traffic. You might also consider not
driving.
Alcohol and other drugs make it very difficult to carry out the IPDE process. Since
IPDE is designed to prevent you from having collisions, it’s not surprising that a large
number of crashes are alcohol-and drug-related.
5.3 Time – the key to judgment

It’s difficult to judge how far things are ahead of you. It’s even more difficult when
both your vehicle and the object outside the vehicle are moving. For example, can you
judge how far away an approaching car is?
We all have internal clocks. We all have an internal awareness of time. Why not use
time to measure how far ahead things are in day-to-day driving? You can do this by
counting seconds.
To count time in seconds, say out loud, “thou - sand and one, thou - sand and two,
thou - sand and three,” at a normal speaking rate without pausing between the
numbers. This will give you a reasonably accurate count of three seconds.
Practise checking against your watch; you’ll be counting off perfect seconds in
no time.
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The language of time

The most important skill in driving is being able to use your eyes effectively to seek
out the information you need to drive. To use time as the basis for all of your driving,
with special emphasis on your eye use, you need to understand the different ways of
estimating time.
First, you must be able to estimate, while you are driving, how far stationary objects or
fixed distances are from you. For example, the sign is nine seconds away and at 100
km/h the spaces on the broken lines on the highway disappear about 12 seconds
ahead.
Estimate distance ahead in the

following way:
1. Pick a stationary object that is on or
near the road (for example: a sign,
shadow, overpass or pavement
patch).
2. Guess how many seconds the
object is ahead.
3. Then start counting “thou - sand
and one, thou - sand and two, thou -
sand and three,” etc.
4. When your front bumper is beside
the object, stop counting. This will
give you the number of seconds
between you and the object chosen.
If you guessed 15 seconds and
the distance ahead is really eight
seconds, then guess a lower number
next time. Try for longer distance;
see if you can guess how far away
40 seconds is. This way you’ll
improve your judgment.
5. Continue practising this exercise
until you can judge time accurately.
The relationship between time and distance varies with speed. Therefore, begin by
making all your judgments at the same speed. Then, practise at other speeds at which
you most commonly drive, say 100, 80 and 50 km/h.
84
5
Using time to estimate your following distance
When you are driving, estimate the
distance between you and the vehicle in
front in the following way:
1. Pick something that is on or near the
road and is not moving (for example,
a sign, pavement patch, shadow or
overpass).
2. When the back bumper of the vehicle
ahead is even with the object you have
chosen, start counting – “thou - sand
and one, thou - sand and two, thou -
sand and three,” etc.
3. When your front bumper is beside the
object, stop counting. This will give you
the number of seconds between you
and the vehicle you are following.
4. If you are closer than three seconds,
drop back and check again until you
have achieved a minimum of three-
seconds following distance. Any
following distance longer than that
is safe. However, a longer following
distance is recommended when
following a motorcycle.
You will notice that by keeping a three-second following distance, regardless of your
speed, the distance between you and the vehicle in front will automatically lengthen
as you go faster. So, for a three-second following distance at 100 km/h, you will be
twice as far back as you would be at 50 km/h and four times as far back as you would
be at 25 km/h.
Time – distance relationships

Speed 3-Second 12-Second
Metres/second Following Distance Following Distance
km/h MPH (in metres) (in metres)
100 62 28 84 336
90 56 25 75 300
80 50 22 66 264
70 43 19 57 228
60 37 17 51 204
50 31 14 42 168
40 25 11 33 132
85
For a three-second following distance at 100 km/h, you will be twice as far back as
you would be at 50 km/h.
100 km/h 50 km/h
There is one situation where a three-second following distance is not enough. If you
are following a large truck or van that blocks your view of traffic ahead, drop back to
more than three seconds until you can see around the vehicle.
Incorrect
Correct
You may feel that if you try to keep a three-second following distance, other drivers
will cut into the space you leave. This will happen sometimes, but less often than you
think. To give up your sight distance, your planning and response time and relaxed
driving just because you want to save a few seconds and not let other drivers cut in,
is a poor bargain. If you let other drivers dictate your driving style, then you’re not
in control.
86
5
The three-second following distance is recommended when driving conditions are
ideal. If driving conditions are less than ideal, your following distance should increase
accordingly.
To understand why, you will need to examine how three seconds would be spent in a
situation that could turn into a collision.
First, you’ll spend some of the three seconds identifying the problem, predicting the
outcome and deciding what to do, through the IPDE approach to driving. Then you
need some reaction time – to get your foot off the accelerator and apply the brake. If
you’re reasonably alert, you can do all of this in three seconds and begin braking, too.
If you stop at the same rate as the vehicle ahead, you‘ll not hit it.
But, if the driver in front hits a fixed object; you’re tired and are slower to react than
the other driver; the other vehicle has better traction; or, the other driver is more
skilled at braking than you are, then you need more than three seconds to avoid a
collision.
However, if you’re looking ahead as far as you should, you’ll see the cause of the
problem any time from 12 to 60 seconds ahead – possibly before the driver ahead
of you sees it. In this case, you can respond to the problem rather than to the brake
lights of the vehicle in front of you.
Identify
Predict Decide
Execute
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5.4 Eye use
5.4 Eye use

Of all your senses, your eyesight is the most important for driving. Your eyes pick up
most of the information you need to drive.
Steer where you look

It’s important to understand that your eyes determine the path your vehicle follows
– you steer where you look.
To illustrate this, pick a straight stretch

of paved highway with light traffic.
While driving, look at the centre line
about 12 seconds ahead. Keep looking
at the centre line 12 seconds ahead.
Observe how the car moves toward the
centre line.
Now, look at the edge of the road
12 seconds ahead.
You will steer where you look.
To steer straight ahead, look about
12 seconds directly ahead of where
you are sitting.
To steer around a curve, look at the
inside of the curve to where the centre
lines vanish. Do not look in the mirrors,
don’t look down at your instrument
panel. If you take your eyes off the road,
you will not maintain precise control
over your steering.
Remember, if you look at the side of the
road, you’ll steer to the side of the road.
Look where you want to go, particularly
in an emergency or a skid, and steer
there.
Check your mirrors and speed when
you’re driving in a straight line, and
when steering is less critical.
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5.4 Eye use
5
Search patterns on highways and rural roads
When you drive on a highway, you hope the road is clear and unobstructed. To verify
that, you’ll need to perform a search pattern – searching the road for any obstructions
or hazards.
Looking up on highways
As part of your search pattern, look up as far as you can see. To look up means to
look as far ahead as you can see the highway – to the horizon (on a straight road, you
may be able to see up to 90 seconds ahead).
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5.4 Eye use
On a curve, look up across and around as far ahead as you can see. At first, you’ll
likely have to concentrate to look this far ahead in curves.
When curving right, look at the shoulder line to the point where it disappears. Keep
looking at that point and maintain a steady speed. When curving left, look at the
centre line as far as you can see it. When coming out of the curve, look at your lane all
the way to the horizon.
As you develop that “far ahead” view, you’ll automatically drive the curve smoothly and
accurately. You’ll also benefit from seeing your path far enough ahead to deal with any
obstacles in your path.
90
5.4 Eye use
5
Referencing down on highways
Reference down by moving your eyes down from the look up position so that you see
the road 12 seconds ahead at 100 km/h.
Look on the road in front of you to where the spaces on the broken lines on the road
disappear. This will be about 12 seconds away. This will help you obtain information
you require to steer accurately and safely.
Until now, you have been looking up (to the horizon), referencing down (12 seconds
ahead), looking up, referencing down, etc.
When most people try this exercise, they usually find that they have not been looking
up as far as they can see. Also, they have usually been referencing down much closer
than 12 seconds.
To establish search patterns of up to 90 seconds ahead and to stretch your
referencing down to 12 seconds requires two things. First, most drivers must admit
that they haven’t been looking far enough ahead. Second, you have to practise to
make looking up and referencing down a habit.
As you establish the habit of looking up and referencing down, you’ll see the benefits
to your driving, and this method will become easier every day. Also, steering where
you look will help you overcome steering problems such as wandering within a lane or
wandering from lane to lane.
Sweeping highways with your eyes

The next part of your search pattern is to look for things that will interfere with your
path – vehicles entering from the side, animals or people on the side of the road, or
approach roads. This involves sweeping your eyes across and to the side of the road.
Try to sweep about 12 seconds ahead.
Filling in the gap on highways

Now fill in the gap between you and where you reference down 12 seconds ahead.
Check the vehicles in front, the road surface for ice or pot holes, and the width and
firmness of the shoulders.
Checking your gates on highways

Next, you need to check which gates are still open; that is, the space around your
vehicle on all four sides. Pay close attention if you have detected a real or potential
hazard. Check your mirrors often to see whether the rear and two side gates are
open.
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5.4 Eye use
Checking your instruments on highways

You should check your instruments when it’s safe to take your eyes off the road. Even
checking your speed takes one and a half seconds. Therefore, check your instruments
when you’re on a straight stretch of road with your gates open and with no real or
potential hazards ahead.
Check your speed and, less often, glance at your gas gauge and other instruments or
warning lights.
Now your pattern should be: look up, reference down, look up, reference down,
sweep left, sweep right, look up, reference down, fill in the gap, look up, reference
down, check your gates, look up, reference down, check instruments, etc.
The exact sequence that you use will vary with the features and the traffic on the
highway. The most important part of the sequence is to look up and reference down.
Include the others as needed. The more often the situation changes around you, the
more often you have to search.
Search patterns in urban areas

The pattern for city driving is similar to that of highway driving. It‘s not easy to achieve,
but is worth practising.
Looking up in urban areas

To look up in an urban area, look ahead as far as you can see – usually several
traffic lights or a number of blocks ahead. This will give you information about the
flow of traffic, the sequence of the lights and whether there is construction or major
obstructions ahead.
Referencing down in urban areas

Next in the sequence, you should reference down. To reference down in an urban
area, move your eyes down from the look up position so that you view the road 12
seconds ahead at city speeds. Even if you cannot see clearly for that distance, you
should look around or through the windows of the vehicles ahead. Try to see cars well
ahead that are slowing down, changing lanes, turning or stopping. Watch for brake
and signal lights.
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5.4 Eye use
5
Sweeping with your eyes in urban areas
In the city you need to sweep further to each side and sweep more frequently than
you do on the highway.
The sequence now should be: look up, reference down, look up, reference down,
sweep left, sweep right, look up, reference down, etc.
Filling in the gap in urban areas

You need to fill in the gap between you and where you reference down, 12 seconds
ahead. In the city, you need to do this more often than on the highway because you
do not have as clear a view ahead.
Checking your gates in urban areas

You need to be more aware of the status of your gates when driving in the city
because vehicles are more likely to be in your blind spot.
Never permit yourself to drive in a situation where there are fewer than two gates
open. If you cannot control the rear and side gates, at least you can drop back and
double the distance between you and the vehicle ahead – to five or six seconds.
Checking your instruments in urban areas

You’ll have little time to check your instruments when driving in the city. From time
to time, check your speed. But remember to do this in light traffic or on straight,
unobstructed roads. You can check your gauges at traffic lights and stop signs.
Search patterns at night

At night, your search pattern is much the same as it is during the day. You should look
up and reference down to about 12 seconds ahead. This means that most of the time
you’ll be looking beyond the part of the road illuminated by your lights.
You still need to sweep with your eyes, fill in the gap and check your gates and
instruments.
Do not look at the side of the road because you will steer there. Obviously, don’t look
at oncoming headlights because the glare will blind you. Look 12 seconds ahead,
directly in line with where you are sitting.
Search patterns in emergencies

The rule for where to look in emergencies is simple: look where you want to go and
steer there.
If you are sliding or skidding sideways, don’t look down, don’t look at the instrument
panel and don’t look at what you might hit. Look where you want to go.
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5.4 Eye use
Preventing potential collisions

Most collisions occur at intersections and cross roads. To help you spot and prevent a
potential collision, use the following method.
Scenario:
You’re driving on a road towards an intersection and spot another vehicle approaching
the same intersection. You don’t know how fast the other vehicle is travelling or how
far away it is from the intersection. To help you determine if a collision is imminent,
maintain your speed and course, and turn your head to take note of the other vehicle’s
position in relation to you. Continue to maintain your speed and course for a few
seconds and check the other vehicle’s position again by turning your head. If the other
vehicle is still at the same position, you’re on a collision course. Start slowing down,
and be prepared to yield or stop to avoid a collision.
collision
Slow down here.

Be prepared
to yield or stop.
60°
60°
It’s important to turn your head while looking for approaching vehicles and not rely on
your peripheral vision only. Peripheral vision is very good at picking out objects that
are moving; however, in the above scenario the other vehicle would appear to be not
moving as it’s in a fixed position in your peripheral view.
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5.4 Eye use • 5.5 Before you drive
5
Driving in dense traffic
If you’re not accustomed to driving in
dense traffic, the experience can be
highly stressful. You can make it easier
if you plan where you wish to go in
advance. It’s nerve wracking to drive in a
new environment and to try to navigate
at the same time.
The most important thing to remember
is don’t give up your following distance.
Don’t stop your search pattern. If the
drivers around you are driving one
second apart, let them, but don’t be
tempted to follow their example.
5.5 Before you drive

Vehicle familiarization
Many drivers have collisions during their first week of owning a new car because they
don’t know where the controls are.
Whenever you get into a vehicle that is new to you, take time to find out where the
controls are. You must be able to operate the windshield wipers, windshield washers,
horn, lights, heater, radio, turn signals and hazard lights without looking at them. With
the vehicle stationary, practise looking at the road ahead while you reach and adjust
each control.
Read the owner’s manual. New vehicles have new design features that you should be
familiar with if you’re to drive safely and get maximum enjoyment and efficiency from
your vehicle’s equipment. Visit mycardoeswhat.org to learn more about how to use
safety technology and features such as back-up cameras, lane departure alerts, and
blind spot detection.
Before you drive check that:
• doors are properly closed (if security is an issue, you may want to lock your doors)
• all loose objects are secured
• your seat is properly adjusted
• head restraints are properly adjusted
• mirrors are properly adjusted
• air flow regulators are adjusted (vents, heaters, air conditioning)
• seatbelts are fastened and properly adjusted
• bulbs in warning lights are working and the lights go out when the engine starts (see
owner’s manual)
Should an engine or oil warning light come on while operating your vehicle, the cause
should be determined as soon as safely possible. Continuing to drive with a warning
light on may cause damage to the vehicle.
95
Design components for safety

Vehicle designers must prevent injury and reduce the seriousness of injury in crashes
by building safety features into the design of every vehicle.
Important safety features include head restraints, seatbelts and airbags.
Head restraints
In some vehicles, the head restraints are built into the seat, while in others you have to
adjust them.
If your vehicle is hit from behind, or if you hit someone in front, you are much less likely
to suffer a whiplash injury to your neck if your head restraint is properly adjusted.
Adjust the height of the head restraint for each driver or passenger. The protection
afforded is well worth the effort.
Adjust the pad of the restraint to support the back of your head. The top of your head
restraint should never be lower than the top of your head.
Incorrect Correct
Seatbelts
A safe passenger compartment is an important part of vehicle design. The front and
rear of a car are designed to collapse on impact while the passenger compartment
remains undisturbed. Your chances of survival are, therefore, greatly increased if you
remain in the passenger compartment.
Your seatbelt will keep you in your seat and will reduce the forces your body
experiences in a crash.
In Saskatchewan, every vehicle occupant must wear a seatbelt where they are
provided in a properly adjusted and securely fastened manner. Obey the law and
increase your chances of surviving a collision. Put on your seatbelt every time you ride
in a vehicle. To be most effective, seatbelts must be used properly. First, put the lap
belt on, adjusting it to fit over your pelvis, and pull it snug. The lap belt is designed to
take the force on your pelvis – not your stomach. Keep the lap portion low.
Next, adjust the shoulder portion of the seatbelt over your chest area. How you do this
will vary from vehicle to vehicle. Some adjust automatically, others work like a window
blind. Adjust your shoulder belt to make it snug, yet comfortable. Shoulder belts
should never be worn behind your back or under your arm.
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5
Lap belt Shoulder belt
Drivers are legally responsible to ensure that passengers under 16 years of age use
seatbelts where available and child safety seats, when appropriate. If not, the driver
may be charged. Passengers aged 16 years and older are responsible for buckling
themselves up.
Being a safety-minded driver means you make sure everyone in your vehicle is
properly secured. Without a seatbelt or proper child safety seat a passenger can
become a dangerous flying object during a collision.
Child restraints
In collisions, children can acquire severe injuries by being thrown about or completely
out of the passenger compartment. This can happen more easily than with adults
because they have heavy heads in relation to the rest of their bodies. Their necks
and bodies are not strong enough to withstand the impact of a collision or sudden
braking.
In Saskatchewan, small children must be properly fitted into approved child

restraints that are correctly installed. Children who weigh less than 18 kg (40 lb.)
must be buckled into proper child safety restraints that are fastened to the vehicle
by a seatbelt and any other straps specified by the manufacturer no matter who is
transporting them – parent, grandparent, caregiver.
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Children under seven years of age, weigh less than 36 kg (80 lb.), and are less than
145 cm (4'9") must be properly fitted into an approved booster seat, used according
to manufacturers’ instructions.
For more information on child restraints, refer to our Keep Them Safe brochure, visit
www.sgi.sk.ca or contact SGI Traffic Safety Promotion at 306-775-6042 or
1-844-TLK-2SGI (1-844-855-2744) or email [email protected].
Airbags
Almost all vehicles are equipped with air
bags. The tough fabric bags inflate in crashes
over 16 km/h, cushioning an occupant’s neck,
head and chest in moderate to severe impact.
Children should never be put in the front
seat of cars equipped with passenger-side
airbags. The force of an airbag deploying is
enough to critically injure or kill an infant or
small child.
Airbags are not a replacement for seatbelts. Seatbelts alone provide all the protection
a person needs in low and moderate-speed impacts. Airbags are most effective in
high-speed crashes, where they often prevent serious injury.
Driver-side and passenger-side airbags are common features in newer automobiles.
Airbags are also installed in the doors of some cars to prevent passengers from
hitting their heads against the windows or pillars of the car during a collision.
Occupants must wear seatbelts to protect themselves in these circumstances and
to ensure that in the event of a frontal crash, they remain in the seating position
necessary for airbags to be effective.
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5
Seating position
If you don’t sit properly, you cannot steer well nor can you use your brake or
accelerator efficiently.
The proper way to sit:
1. Sit up straight and well 2. Move the seat forward With a manual transmission,
back into the seat. Your or backward so your depress the clutch with your
body should be firmly right foot is placed on left foot. When it is all the
against the seat back and the floor underneath the way down, your leg should
cushion. brake. The seat should still be slightly bent.
be sufficiently forward
so that your right leg If, with the seat adjusted as
cannot be straightened, far forward as it will go, you
and remains slightly are too far back to be in this
bent even when you position, pad your back with
push hard. cushions.
3. If the seat height can be

changed, adjust it so you
can see over the steering
wheel, preferably so that
your line of vision is half
way between the top of
the steering wheel and the
top of the windshield. If
necessary, use a cushion to
raise yourself to the correct
height. Try also to have at
least a fist’s space between
the top of your head and 4. Adjust your seat so that 5. Adjust the head restraint
the roof of the vehicle. your arms are slightly so that the top edge is
The angle of the seat should bent when you reach out level with the top of your
be adjusted to support your and grasp the steering head.
thigh, but you should not wheel in a “9 and 3” or
have to use excessive force “8 and 4” position (see
to depress any pedal to the “Steering,” page 101).
floor.
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Mirror adjustment
Proper mirror adjustment is critical to safe driving. The following page outlines an
excellent method to adjust your vehicle’s mirrors to maximize your view of the road.
Remember, always adjust your mirrors before you start to drive.
Begin with the rear-view mirror. Adjust the mirror so that you’re able to see as much of
the rear window as possible. While adjusting the mirror, aim to keep your head in the
same position as it will be when you are actually driving your vehicle.
Adjusting your side mirror is a little more difficult. First, lean to the left so that your
forehead is barely touching the side window. Then move the mirror so you can just
see the left side of your vehicle.
To adjust the right side mirror, position your head toward the centre of your vehicle.
Adjust the mirror so it shows just a sliver of the right side of your vehicle.
By setting mirrors so the driver can see both sides of the vehicle from the driving
position, the same image will appear in all three mirrors. By setting them so the driver
has to lean to see the sides of the car, the outside mirrors continue on where the
inside mirror leaves off – significantly reducing the blind spot.
Another advantage of positioning your mirrors this way is that it reduces headlight
glare from vehicles travelling behind you.
Left foot brace

The left foot brace refers to the bracing of your
left foot against the fire wall (located below and
behind the pedals separating the engine from the
driving compartment) to support you and to keep
you firmly in your seat.
Place your left foot against the fire wall and
push whenever you need stability such as
when negotiating a curve, when braking, in an
emergency or on slippery pavement.
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5.5 Before you drive • 5.6 Steering
5
Bracing with your left foot helps you steer easily and well because you are not leaning
on the wheel. Also, if you’re not supporting your weight on the heel of your right foot,
it is free to brake and accelerate with greater precision and control.
The fact that you need a left foot brace for controlled driving means you cannot use
your left foot to brake. Always brake with your right foot.
5.6 Steering
Hand positions
There are two correct hand positions on a steering wheel: “9 and 3” and “8 and 4.”
“9 and 3” “8 and 4”
These methods refer to visualizing the steering wheel as the face of a clock, and
positioning the left hand at the 9 or 8 and the right hand at the 3 or 4 o’clock position.
Steering wheels and shoulder widths differ, so exactly where people grasp the wheel
will vary.
On a vehicle equipped with an airbag in the steering wheel, a hand placed on the
top of the wheel may be forced back into the driver’s face if the airbag is deployed,
causing injury.
Once your hands are in correct position, don’t shuffle them around on the wheel.
Keep your grip in the same place and simply twist the steering wheel to turn the
vehicle.
You can twist the wheel until your forearms touch. To steer beyond this point, you‘ll
have to use a “hand over hand” or “hand to hand” steering sequence.
The key to steering is to know the steering wheel position at which your front wheels
are straight. When you start out, straighten your front wheels and place your hands in
position. Provided that you don’t shift your grip, every time your hands are straight and
level, you know your front wheels are straight.
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5.6 Steering
“Hand over hand”

This method is used when turning the wheel sharply either when driving slowly or in
emergencies when conditions are very slippery.
As you turn the wheel, pull the wheel down with the top hand, take the bottom hand
and put it up at the top, pull the wheel down with the top hand, take the bottom hand
and put it at the top, etc.
When unwinding the wheel after a turn, use the hand over hand system. Don’t let the
wheel slide through your hands – you have very little control of the speed at which it
comes back or the point at which it stops.
“Hand-to-hand”
Commonly called push/pull steering or zone steering, when using the hand-to-hand
steering method, your left hand grasps the wheel between 7 and 8 o’clock, and your
right hand between 4 and 5 o’clock. Depending on the direction you turn, your right or
left hand pushes the wheel up and the opposite hand slides up, grasps the wheel and
pulls down to turn.
While the pulling hand moves down, the hand that initially pushed up slides back
toward its original position to make adjustments as needed. The driver should use the
area on the wheel between 11 and 8 o’clock with the left hand and the area on the
wheel between 1 and 8 o’clock with the right hand regardless of the direction of the
turn.
Simply reverse the process to bring the vehicle back to the desired path. Since your
hands never cross over the steering wheel, there is less chance of an injury to the
face, hands or arms induced by your hands or arms in the event of a frontal crash due
to an air bag.
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5.7 Accelerating • 5.8 Standard (manual) transmission vehicles
5
5.7 Accelerating
To move the vehicle smoothly and to save on fuel, push the accelerator down
gradually and wait for the vehicle to build up speed.
In vehicles with automatic transmissions, the gears will change automatically for
you. With manual transmissions, you have to release the accelerator and re-apply
accelerator pressure as part of your gear shift.
To drive with precision, you must vary the accelerator position smoothly by small
amounts.
5.8 Standard (manual) transmission vehicles

Driving a vehicle with a standard (manual) transmission requires significant practice
and skill. Drivers should read the vehicle owner’s manual for information specific to
their vehicle.
Neutral/clutch
• know your gear pattern so you are able to shift gears without looking at the gear shift
• take the engine’s rpm (revolutions per minute), choice of gear and road speed into
consideration when shifting gears
• shift gears in order (e.g., 2 to 3 to 4, or 4 to 3 to 2)
• never force a gear
• never coast in neutral
• never depress the clutch (riding the clutch) for extended periods of time. The clutch
should only be used when starting and stopping the vehicle, and to change gears.
• become familiar with accelerator and clutch timing. Poor timing from one to the other
can cause the vehicle to jolt, jump or stall.
You should shift to neutral (or declutch) during emergencies or when stopping
in winter driving conditions. This gives you better control over your vehicle by
disconnecting the engine from the drive wheels. If you’re stopping on a slippery
surface and are in neutral, then your drive wheels are not driving the car forward while
you are trying to stop. You stop more easily over a shorter distance.
To shift to neutral, declutch by pushing the clutch to the floor and hold it there, and
move the gear shift lever to neutral.
When parking a vehicle, ensure the vehicle is in (first) gear, not in neutral, before
leaving the vehicle. This is to prevent the vehicle from freely moving forward or
backward while parked.
Standard (manual) transmission training is available from certain SGI certified driver
educators.
Use the Driver Educator locator at www.sgi.sk.ca/drivereducator for a list of SGI
certified driver educators.
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5.9 Automatic transmission vehicles • 5.10 Low speed skills
5.9 Automatic transmission vehicles

Most vehicles on the road are equipped with automatic transmissions. An automatic
transmission placed in drive “D” is designed to change gears automatically without
any driver assistance. This type of transmission selects the most efficient gear based
on speed and acceleration.
It’s possible for the driver to make an automatic transmission shift by simply using the
accelerator pedal:
To shift to a higher gear - ease up slightly on the accelerator.
To shift to a lower gear - push the accelerator to the floor. This technique is used for
passing or to get out of an emergency situation quickly.
When driving down a steep hill, you can slow your vehicle by manually shifting to a
lower gear and using engine compression as a braking effect. Simply move the gear
shift lever from the drive “D” position to the next lower gear (usually third or second
gear). It is recommended to make your gear selection at the top of the hill before you
start going down. If you have to make the shift while driving down the hill, release the
accelerator and use your brake to slow the vehicle down before moving the shift lever.
To avoid engine damage, pay attention to ensure that the rpm’s stay out of the red
zone as you shift to a lower gear. You should use the brakes only as needed. Holding
the brake pedal for an extended length of time may cause the brakes to overheat,
which can result in a loss of braking ability.
5.10 Low speed skills

Surprisingly, certain low speed skills can be quite tricky. You need to drive slowly to
park, turn sharply, back up or move forward in traffic jams.
Low speed manoeuvring

To drive slowly in an automatic-transmission vehicle, rest your foot on the brake and
let the idling speed of the engine move the vehicle, braking as necessary to control
the speed.
In a manual-transmission vehicle, you control very low speeds almost entirely with the
clutch. Accelerate as for a normal start and hold your engine speed constant. Raise
the clutch to the point at which the engine engages with the drive wheels, and stop.
Then, ease the clutch up a small amount to move the vehicle. To gain speed, ease the
clutch up a little more. To slow the vehicle, push the clutch down a small amount until
the engine is again disengaged from the drive wheels.
If the vehicle is on a slope and/or is moving faster than you wish, declutch and brake
gently.
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5
Backing
You might think that being good at backing
isn’t very important. However, collisions
while backing are among the most frequent
type of collision. This is due, in part, to
drivers who believe that a low-speed
activity such as backing is no problem.
Never back a vehicle until you have
checked behind it from outside. Children,
bicycles, wagons, etc., aren’t always visible
from inside your vehicle.
Begin, as you should for all backing manoeuvres, with the vehicle straight and the
front wheels straight.
1. From your normal seating position, shift your weight so that you’re resting on your
right hip.
2. Support yourself by placing your right arm along the arm rest or the top of the front
passenger seat.
3. Grasp the top centre (12 o’clock position) of the steering wheel with your left hand.
4. While looking back, begin backing slowly. Within the first foot or so of vehicle
movement, check forward. If the front of the vehicle is moving straight back, your
front wheels are straight. If the front of the vehicle swings to the left or right, your
wheels are not straight.
If the front of your vehicle swings to the left, turn your steering wheel to the left to
straighten. If the front swings to the right, turn your steering wheel to the right to
straighten. Once you get the wheels straight, move your grip to the new 12 o’clock
position.
5. Having done this, you know that every time your hand is at 12 o’clock, your front
wheels are straight.
6. Now, look through the rear window and focus your eyes well back along the path
you want to go.
7. Move the vehicle slowly backwards. Look and steer where you want to go.
8. You’ll notice that the vehicle turns much more when you are backing because the
front wheels are pivoting, or swinging, around the rear wheels. This is called ‘front
end swing’ and is the cause of many backing collisions.
105
Steering techniques for backing

1. Hand over hand and hand-to-hand
Shift your weight slightly onto your right hip, grasp the steering wheel with both
hands and use the hand over hand method to turn the steering wheel. While this
method provides good steering control, it limits your ability to see out the back
window. For the hand-to-hand method, refer to “5.6 Steering”.
2. Palming (precision backing technique)
Palming is an advanced steering
technique that’s only used when backing.
It’s used in situations where both straight
line backing and sharp turning are
required. This method allows you to turn
the wheel sharply while ensuring that your
front wheels will be straight when your
hand is at 12 o’clock.
Put your left hand at the 12 o’clock
position but do not grasp the wheel.
Instead, push your palm against the rim
of the wheel with enough pressure so
that when you move your hand down and
around, the wheel turns, but your palm
stays on the same place on the wheel rim.
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Advanced driving skills
6.1 Parking
6
6. Advanced driving skills
6.1 Parking
Parallel parking
First, find a space that you can fit your vehicle into. Signal your intention to park to
other drivers as you approach. If you’re not sure, stop your vehicle beside the space
and check that you have at least 2 m more than the length of your vehicle. Shift to
reverse as soon as possible to activate the back-up lights.
This is only one suggested method of parallel parking. There are others that work just
as well.
1. Position your vehicle parallel to the front vehicle about .5 m out from it, with your
back bumper lined up with the front vehicle’s back bumper. Shift to reverse, check
that the way is clear and get ready to steer.
2. Back slowly. Immediately start turning your wheel toward the curb until you reach
about a 45 degree angle. (Pay attention to your vehicle’s front end swing into
traffic. Make sure you are clear of oncoming vehicles.)
3. Continue to back slowly and straighten your wheels.
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6 Advanced driving skills
6.1 Parking
4. When your front bumper clears the bumper of the front vehicle, continue to move
slowly and turn your wheels away from the curb.
5. If necessary, shift to first or drive, and slowly move forward while you straighten
your vehicle.
Back-up cameras
Driving assist options are becoming increasingly more standard on new vehicles.
However, they aren’t substitutes for proper driving techniques. In the case of back-up
cameras, the sun can interfere with the view as can snow, or dirt. Before reversing,
look over your shoulder and use your mirrors to check behind you. Shift into reverse
to activate the back-up camera. As you back up, check the monitor for objects while
being aware of your surroundings. Observe your mirrors and check or look through
the rear window. Don’t rely primarily on the monitor when backing.
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6.1 Parking
6
Angle parking
Where a parking space is at 90 degrees (a right angle) to the road, as it is in most
parking lots, it’s recommended that you back into the space, unless prohibited. You
have the advantage of being able to back in accurately because your windows are
clear and you are warmed up for driving. In addition, the front end swing occurs in the
aisle, not between two parked cars and you’re backing into a space you know is free
of obstacles instead of backing into traffic. More importantly, when you drive out you
will have an excellent view.
Some parking spaces are at about a 60 degree angle to the road. These spaces are
usually located in small urban centres and on one-way streets. You’re meant to drive
into and back out of them.
Steps in angle parking:

1. Signal your intention to park and slow down.
2. Check for approaching traffic from the front and rear.
3. Approach the stall approximately one vehicle width from the parked vehicles.
4. When your vehicle’s front end is even with the rear of the stall you want to park in,
begin steering sharply to the right while slowly driving towards the centre of the
stall. Remember, as you’re turning into the stall, to check that you will not hit the
vehicle on either side of the stall.
109
6.1 Parking • 6.2 Turning
5. Once your vehicle is centred in the stall, straighten your wheels and continue driving
forward until you are completely in the parking stall. Although it’s easy to park,
backing out from this position can be hazardous. Shoulder check both your sides
and rear — don’t just rely on your rearview mirror. Make sure it’s clear behind and
on both sides before backing up. If your vision is blocked, for example, by a truck
parked beside you, move back cautiously and watch for pedestrians or vehicles
that you may not have seen.
Parking on a hill
The trick to parking on a hill is to turn your front wheels so that if the vehicle rolls
away, it will roll into the curb and stop. If there is no curb, the vehicle should roll off
the road, not into the path of other vehicles. This will prevent the vehicle from building
momentum and will stop it from entering the street. The emergency brake should be
applied whenever parking on a slope.
Downhill with curb Uphill with curb Downhill no curb Uphill no curb
6.2 Turning
U-turns
A U-turn is when you turn your vehicle around at an intersection to travel in the
opposite direction. Before making a U-turn, check that:
• there are no signs prohibiting U-turns
• you have adequate sight distance so you have time to finish the turn before
encountering oncoming traffic. For example, in a 60 km/h area, you need a sight time
of at least 20 seconds each way. In a 100 km/h area, you need 40 seconds sight
distance clear of vehicles each way
• you have enough room to make the turn in one swing
If there is any doubt whether a U-turn can be made safely and with minimal disruption
to traffic, go around the block.
The procedure for making a U-turn:
1. Check that the turn is allowed and the way is clear.
2. Signal the turn and approach as you would a left turn.
3. Move very slowly. Turn the wheel into a full lock as soon as you can (use hand over
hand).
4. Once you are on full lock, slightly increase your speed.
5. Throughout the turn, check to see that the way is still clear (both ways).
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6.2 Turning
6
6. Complete the turn. Before the car is straight, start unwinding the wheel (hand over
hand).
7. Straighten your front wheels.
8. Proceed as normal.
U-turns are prohibited at traffic lights unless permitted by a sign.
When making U-turns every effort should be made to complete the turn in the most
extreme left driving lane.
Two-point turns
Before making a two-point turn, check that you have adequate sight distance so
that you have time to finish the turn before any possible vehicle conflict occurs. For
example, in a 60 km/h area, you need a sight time of at least 20 seconds each way. In
a 100 km/h area, you need 40 seconds sight distance clear of vehicles, each way.
1. Well before the place where you wish to turn around, signal right, shoulder check,
position your vehicle in the right lane and slow down.
2. Cancel the signal, proceed past the intersection, and stop your vehicle as far right
as possible.
You may also move to the far right after the intersection and stop your vehicle as
illustrated on the next page. Choose whichever method can be done most safely
given the traffic flow.
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6.2 Turning • 6.3 Highway driving
3. Signal right or turn on four-way flashers. Check for traffic.

4. Begin slowly backing up. When the rear bumper is even with the intersection, turn
wheels sharply to the right. Be careful that the front of your car does not swing out
into traffic. As you back into the approach, straighten the wheels and stop.
5. Signal for a left turn, check for traffic and proceed to make a left turn into the left
driving lane.
6.3 Highway driving

Highway driving requires rapid acceleration to build up speed over as short a time as
possible to minimize the difference in speed with other vehicles. It’s very important
that you have a good judgment of the amount of time you need to safely enter the
highway and that it matches the amount of time you actually have.
Some things to remember while highway driving:
• It takes a longer time to stop from higher speeds.
• Some drivers who have been driving for a number of hours can develop “highway
hypnosis.” They may not see your brake lights or turn signal. Be prepared to make
your movements obvious and for a potential slow reaction by other drivers.
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6.3 Highway driving
6
• The higher the speed, the less the steering wheel needs to be turned and the sooner it
must be turned prior to a curve, in order to get the vehicle around the curve.
• Don’t make any sudden movements of the steering wheel.
• It’s safest to drive at the same speed as the other traffic, provided that the other
traffic is driving at a sensible speed for the conditions and within the speed limit.
Cruise control
On a long trip you can use the cruise control, if your vehicle is so equipped, to keep
your speed constant. Cruise control will save gas and make highway driving less
demanding. However, there are times when you should not use cruise control, such
as in urban areas, on wet or slippery roads, in traffic where the speed is highly variable
or in any situation where your vision is restricted.
Restricted access freeways

A freeway is a multi-lane, divided highway, with restricted access. There should be no
cyclists, pedestrians or hitchhikers. Regina’s Ring Road and Saskatoon’s Circle Drive
are some examples of freeways.
Entering a freeway
The key to entering a freeway is to increase your speed in the acceleration lane until it
matches the speed of the vehicles already on the freeway.
You also need to plan your merge:

1. While on the entrance ramp, look at the freeway traffic and determine where you
want to merge.
2. Build up your speed in the acceleration lane as quickly as you can.
3. Continue to check the spot where you want to merge.
4. Signal, make your final shoulder check and accelerate into the freeway lane.
Merging at less than freeway speeds can be dangerous.
While on the freeway

Provide a safe merge for other vehicles entering the freeway from access ramps
by either moving left to free the right lane or by adjusting your speed. Drive in the
right lane, or perhaps the centre lane, when there are three lanes. The left lane is for
passing or may be used by faster vehicles when the traffic is dense.
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6.3 Highway driving
Keep looking up and referencing down to 12 seconds ahead so that you have
advance notice of any obstacles in your path. Maintain a three-second following
distance and keep at least two gates open at all times. When driving conditions are
not ideal, you should decrease your speed on the freeway accordingly to maintain
safe travel.
Leaving a freeway
When leaving a freeway, signal your intention and move into the deceleration lane.
Slow down in the deceleration lane, not on the freeway. Some deceleration lanes are
shorter than others, so watch your speed. When you exit a freeway, you are likely to
under-estimate your speed when you slow down.
If you miss an exit

If you miss an exit, don’t stop on the freeway. Don’t back up on the freeway. Continue
to the next interchange and return to the correct exit.
Emergencies on the freeway

If your vehicle starts to give you trouble, check your mirrors, signal, shoulder check
and pull over onto the nearest shoulder as quickly and safely as possible. Slow down,
turn on your hazard lights and stop on the shoulder as far right as possible.
Never stop your car on the travelled portion of the freeway. Don’t wait for your car to
stall on the freeway. At the first sign of trouble, pull over safely. If possible, stay with
your car. If you must cross the freeway on foot, use extreme caution.
Turn on your four-way flashers or raise the hood to alert other motorists you need
assistance. Be especially careful getting out of your car when stopped along a
freeway. If necessary, exit from the door away from the traffic.
In some cities, you may encounter roadways that have some characteristics of a
freeway and some characteristics of a normal street. Be alert for unexpected traffic
patterns.
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6.4 Passing
6
6.4 Passing
Estimation of safe passing time
Using time to estimate when you can pass is complicated, but it’s well worth the effort
required to master it. You can practise passing safely and once you can judge time
well, you have a good method of judging when it’s safe to pass.
You can get all the information you need to make a passing judgment from two
estimates: the estimate of your safe passing time and the estimate of the closing time
between you and the approaching vehicle.
The first step in developing your new technique is to find out how long it normally
takes you to pass. This varies from 10 to 40 seconds depending on your vehicle, your
technique and the difference in speed between you and the vehicle you are passing.
To find your safe passing time, choose a divided highway or a two-way highway at a
time and place when traffic is light.
First, determine your passing time as follows:
1. Follow the vehicle ahead at the same speed, but three seconds back. Note its speed.
2. Check that you can see at least 40 seconds ahead, that there are no vehicles
coming the other way and that there are no intersections or solid lane markings.
3. Begin counting “Thou - sand and one, Thou - sand and two” from the point you
decide to pass and begin to accelerate.
4. Signal, and at a point where you still have good vision and can smoothly change
lanes around the vehicle ahead, move into the left lane.
5. Continue in the left lane until you see the vehicle you have just passed in your
inside mirror. As you pull back into your original lane, signal right and continue your
acceleration. Do not decelerate as you change lanes.
6. Continue counting until you have completed your pass. Stop your count when your
left rear wheel crosses the lane line (just as you are returning to your original lane in
front of the vehicle you have passed).
7. The last number you say after “Thou - sand” is your measure of passing time in seconds.
Next, build in a safety margin that you are comfortable with.

Five seconds is a minimum safety margin. For example, if your passing time is 15
seconds, add another five seconds for possible error. This will give you a cushion of
five seconds if the vehicle coming towards you is approaching faster than normal or if
your estimation is not accurate.
Start counting Safe passing time Stop counting
Your passing time + your safety margin = your safe passing time
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6.4 Passing
Your safe passing time in this case is 20 seconds.

If you think about it, your safe passing time will also tell you the minimum sight
distance needed for safe passing, even if there is nothing coming the other way.
Try this several times at highway speeds varying the difference between you and the
vehicle ahead until you get a handle on what your safe passing time actually is.
Estimation of the closing time of two vehicles

This is similar to judging the time from fixed objects except now you have a vehicle
coming towards you. The gap between you and the approaching vehicle will close
about twice as fast as if you were approaching a fixed object.
Steps to estimate closing time:
1. Position your vehicle three seconds behind the vehicle in front.
2. Determine the point at which you could safely return to your lane if you were to
pass the vehicle in front – the safe return point. For example, watch a vehicle pass
and note where it pulls back into the driving lane.
3. When an approaching vehicle appears, start counting and continue counting until
the vehicle reaches the safe return point ahead of you. The last number you say
after “Thou - sand” is your measure of closing time.
Safe return point Closing time
The safe/unsafe judgment

When you feel confident that you can estimate closing times reasonably well, practise
judging when it is safe to pass, then check by counting time. When a vehicle is
approaching, decide if it is safe to pass or not. Say “safe” or “unsafe,” then count
“Thou - sand and one, Thou - sand and two” – check the actual closing time against
your safe passing time to see if you were right. Keep practising until you can make the
safe/unsafe judgment with 100% accuracy.
There are two advantages to practising your passing judgment in this way. First, it is
completely safe because you never actually pass the vehicle. Second, your timing will
be based on the actual speeds of vehicles using the highway.
Be sure to keep the type and size of vehicle you are passing in mind. For instance,
when passing a motorcycle make sure you leave a greater distance between your
vehicle and the motorcycle you are passing, before pulling back into the driving lane.
It’s easy to underestimate how much room you should allow due to the smaller size of
a motorcycle.
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6.4 Passing
6
The actual passing judgment
Now practise what you have learned. When you judge that it is safe to pass, carry out
a passing manoeuvre.
Remember:
1. You have to build a minimum of a five-second safety cushion into your safe passing
time. Do not give this up under any circumstance.
2. When you have enough experience with this method of estimation to be skilled and
comfortable with it, extend your range. Determine the safe passing time for different
situations, such as different speeds, surface conditions and longer vehicles such as
tractor trailers. The passing time will vary.
3. Your safe passing time is also a measure of the shortest sight distance you need to
pass, even with no oncoming traffic.
4. Your passing time will vary with the speed difference between you and the vehicle
you are passing.
Being passed
When you’re being passed:
1. Maintain your speed; do not speed up.
2. Slow down, move to the right of your lane and let them back into the lane.
3. If the driver passing you has misjudged, slow down and let them back into the lane.
4. When being passed by large trucks, you’re likely to be pushed around by the wind.
Just look where you want to go and your steering will take care of itself.
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6.5 Curves and corners
6.5 Curves and corners

The techniques for driving around curves and corners are basically the same. In a
curve or corner, the vehicle will want to go straight ahead while you want to turn. If
you’re going too fast, or if the road is slippery, the vehicle will win and you won’t get
around the corner or curve. Any speed or steering adjustments required while in the
curve should be very gradual to avoid losing control of your vehicle.
The most important part of driving a curve or corner is to slow down before you get to it.
To drive around a sharp curve or corner, follow this procedure:
1. Slow down. Take your foot off the accelerator and, if necessary, brake. It’s important
to brake in a straight line.
2. In a manual transmission vehicle, shift to a lower gear so that you have enough
power to accelerate through the curve or corner.
3. Use the vision techniques on page 88.
4. Use your accelerator gently until you reach the mid-point of the curve, pushing down
on the accelerator if you want the vehicle to go to the outside of the curve. Ease up on
the accelerator if you want the vehicle to go to the inside of the curve or corner.
5. Once you reach the mid-point of the curve, unwind the steering wheel and
accelerate out of the curve.
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6.6 Driving in mountains • 6.7 Grid, municipal and resource access roads
6
6.6 Driving in mountains
When driving in mountains, you will have shorter sight distances, so it’s important that
you look up, reference down and adjust your speed so that you can see at least 12
seconds ahead.
When you drive down mountains, you sometimes move faster than you wish. You’ll
find that shifting to a lower gear will help you to slow down. As you travel down the
mountain, brake very lightly and continuously. This method of braking is least likely to
overheat your brakes.
6.7 Grid, municipal and resource access roads

Saskatchewan has a large network of roads connecting its main highways.
These roads present driving challenges which differ from provincial highways. Sight
distances may be shorter. There are no shoulders, curves are sharper and there are many
T-intersections, which means that the road comes to an end, often with little notice.
Unlike main highways, these roads are not designed to permit you to get out of
trouble if you happen to be travelling faster than the posted speed limit. The speed
limits are to be taken seriously and should be regarded as maximums under ideal
conditions. When there is no posted speed limit, the speed limit is 80 km/h under
ideal conditions.
Gravel surfaces may cause problems. At times, the gravel may be deep and loose,
making it difficult to steer around curves. At other times there may be so little gravel
that you’re actually driving in dirt, which is very slippery when wet.
When dry, gravel surfaces also create visibility problems. Every moving vehicle creates
clouds of dust that make meeting and passing other vehicles very dangerous.
Railway crossings, crossroads and farm entrances are more difficult to see on these
roads than when you’re driving on provincial highways that provide better sight
distances. You’re also more likely to encounter slow-moving farm vehicles, livestock
and wildlife.
Driving techniques for gravel roads

Drive at a speed suited to the conditions. This means drive slowly. When you exit from
a provincial highway, slow down. Keep your eyes up. You need all the advance notice
you can get.
To steer in deep gravel, grasp the wheel firmly. Expect that the vehicle will wander.
You won’t steer as precisely as you do on pavement, so don’t fight it by turning the
steering wheel too much – you could lose control.
Stay well back from dust clouds.
Always drive with your headlights on so that others can see you earlier than they
otherwise might.
When meeting large trucks or farm equipment, slow down and pull as far to the right
as possible. You may have to stop.
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6.8 Winter driving
6.8 Winter driving

In Saskatchewan, it’s possible that you
could be operating your vehicle for at
least five months of the year in winter
driving conditions. It’s in this period,
from November to March, that most
collisions occur.
Snow, ice and freezing rain reduce
traction. Drifting and blowing snow,
fog, whiteouts, gas exhaust clouds and
frosted windows may severely limit
visibility.
The main cause of collisions in winter
months is failing to adjust to changing
conditions.
Before heading out, be sure to check the Highway Hotline at hotline.gov.sk.ca/map for
road conditions, and stay home if it says travel not recommended.
Preparing your vehicle

Winter conditions, plus the effects of extremely low temperatures, demand that a
vehicle be in top condition. For this reason, a pre-winter check is a necessity, and
in the end is less annoying and less costly than battery boosts, tows and being late.
Give special attention to your heater and defroster.
As well as getting a tune-up and adding antifreeze to your radiator, you would be wise
to have the following:
• snow tires
• block heater
• snow brush and scraper
• gas line antifreeze
• small snow shovel
• set of traction mats
• booster cables (know how to use them)
For out of town trips, add the following survival equipment:

• extra warm clothes (include footwear, mitts and hats)
• a supply of candles and matches
• tow chain or rope
• nourishing freezable food (raisins, nuts, candy)
• sleeping bags
• cellphone and charger cable
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6.8 Winter driving
6
Preparing to see and to be seen
If you cannot see through your windows, you should not drive. If your lights and
signals are to protect you, they must be visible. Before you drive, do the following:
• Brush the snow off your car.
• Scrape the windshield, rear and side windows.
• Clear your heater air intake (this is usually in front of the windshield).
• Clean your headlights, tail lights and signal lights.
• Be sure to clear your tissue boxes, sunglasses, papers, etc., away from defroster
outlets.
• Drive with your headlights on at all times. Even on a clear day, swirling snow makes
it difficult to see and to be seen.
Driving on slippery surfaces

Winter traction problems require a number of changes from summer driving
techniques. The general rule for driving on slippery conditions is drive slowly.
You should not use cruise control on icy or slippery roads. This is even more important
when the road may have black ice formed on it (a thin layer of transparent ice found
on the road or other paved surfaces).
Traction varies tremendously with temperature changes. Icy roads will look just the
same at -2 C or -22 C, but will be far more slippery at the warmer temperature.
Winter driving calls for special driving skills. This means gentle acceleration, gentle
braking and small, smooth steering movements.
Reduced traction means the grip between your tires and the slippery surface is
fragile.
If you accelerate hard, you go beyond the amount of traction that is available and
your wheels spin. If you brake too hard and your wheels lock, you break the traction,
which means that when you turn the steering wheel, the vehicle will not turn – it
will continue in the direction it was going when the wheels locked. If this occurs
on ice, your stopping distance changes. In most situations, locking four wheels by
pushing hard on the brakes will give you the shortest stopping distance. But on ice,
especially when it’s near the freezing point or if you are driving fast, you are better off
to threshold-brake by pushing on the brake up to the point just before it locks. (See
“Threshold braking,” page 125.)
If the surface is slippery, flatten the corner or curve by positioning your vehicle in the
left side of your lane prior to making your turn.
As you enter the curve, gradually steer across the lane so that as you near the mid-
point of the curve the vehicle is near the right side of the lane with its wheels straight.
As you exit the curve, gradually steer back across the lane towards the left side. For
left curves, reverse the process. This will lessen the sideways force and reduce the
chance that you will spin out. Slow entry into the curve is crucial or your vehicle may
not make it around the curve.
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6.8 Winter driving
Because there is reduced traction available for stopping and turning, reduce your
speed when conditions are wet or slippery. As well, give yourself a following distance
even longer than three seconds.
Never use cruise control when roads are wet or slippery.
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6.8 Winter driving
6
How to get moving
You can usually start moving on ice or packed snow by accelerating gently. If this
does not work, or if you are on a slight downgrade, try moving in second gear.
If you’re stuck in deep snow, try rocking your vehicle. To do this, start forward, gently
accelerate and you will move forward a little. When your wheels spin, immediately
stop accelerating and hold the vehicle with the brake to stop it from rolling back.
Shift to reverse, release the brake and accelerate gently. You will move back. When
the wheels spin again, stop immediately. Repeat the forward-backward rocking
movement, increasing the distance you move each time until you gain sufficient
momentum to keep moving ahead. Be sure the wheels have stopped turning before
changing gears to avoid damage to your transmission.
Search for traction. Look for sand or grit. Choose snow rather than ice. A small
movement to one side will often move you from a low traction icy patch onto snow or
sand. This motion can usually be completed in your lane.
How to stop on slippery surfaces

1. Shift to neutral (or declutch) before you brake.
2. Brake early and gently using the threshold technique. (See “Threshold braking,”
page 125.)
3. Again, search for the best traction and position your vehicle to take advantage of it.
4. Allow extra space for other drivers to stop. They may not be as skilled as you, or
their traction may be worse.
Temptations to resist
1. Accelerating hard when you are passing.
2. Using cruise control on wet or slippery roads.
3. Forgetting that other drivers may not be making proper allowances for winter
conditions.
4. Letting your gas tank drop below half full.
Whiteouts
Whiteouts occur when the sky, horizon and ground blend into one, making it
very difficult to determine your position on the road. All shadows and distinctions
disappear, so that you can barely tell where the road ends and the ditch begins.
The first snowfalls

During the first few snowfalls, drive very slowly and keep a five-second following
distance. It takes time to change from your summer driving patterns. Exaggerate your
gentleness on your brake and accelerator pedals and you will stay out of the line-ups
at the body shop.
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6.8 Winter driving • 6.9 Braking
Survival
Lives continue to be lost in Saskatchewan winter blizzards.
Dress warmly for long trips. Do not be deceived by the false comfort of a well-heated
car and wear indoor clothes on long journeys.
Before starting a long trip, listen to weather forecasts and pay attention to storm
warnings. If storms develop while you’re travelling, seriously consider stopping over in
a town or village, rather than continuing, when there is a possibility of being stranded.
If you are stranded:
1. Always stay with your vehicle.
2. Keep calm.
3. Lower your downwind-side windows slightly and open the heater air vent to get
fresh air into the vehicle.
4. Run the engine to get some heat, and to listen to news reports or charge your
cellphone but don’t run out of gas or drain your battery.
5. Keep your exhaust pipe clear of ice and snow.
6. Get into your emergency clothing before you get cold.
7. If necessary, use candles to keep warm. Be careful not to over-exert yourself by
shovelling or by pushing your vehicle.
Many people die when they leave their vehicles to walk for help in a blizzard. If you
stay with your vehicle, you have a better chance of surviving and are more likely to be
found.
6.9 Braking
The general procedure for braking is to begin early, apply light pressure and ease up
on the brake as the vehicle comes to a stop. Always brake with your right foot.
If you want to stop more quickly, push the brake down a little further. Remember, for
normal braking you control the stop by varying the pressure. Do not push the brake
down as far as it will go.
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) – was introduced in the mid-1980s and has become
standard equipment on most newer vehicles. It was designed to help drivers maintain
some steering ability and avoid skidding while braking. In normal braking, ABS is not
activated. During hard braking, vehicles with ABS remain stable. The brakes do not
lock up, which means the driver has more steering control. How do you use ABS?
Press the brake firmly and do not release until the vehicle has stopped. Do not pump
your brakes; the ABS is doing it for you.
When the ABS is active, the brake pedal may pulsate and the car may shudder or
emit clunking noises. This can startle some drivers, causing them to release the brake,
but these things are normal and indicate the ABS is functioning properly.
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6.9 Braking
6
You may think that with ABS you can stop on a dime. This instantaneous stop is not
realistic. When braking on dry or wet roads your stopping distance will be about the
same as with conventional brakes.
You should allow for a longer stopping distance with ABS than with conventional
brakes when driving on gravel, slush and snow. This is because the rotating tire will
stay on top of this low-traction road surface covering and effectively “float” on this
layer.
A non-ABS-braked vehicle can lock its tires and create a snow plow effect in front
of the tires that may, in some cases, help slow the vehicle. These locked tires can
sometimes find more traction below this layer. It’s recommended you refer to your
vehicle owner’s manual to become familiar with proper practices should your vehicle
have electronic stability control, traction control, or other safety features.
Threshold braking
In threshold braking, you’re trying to use all the braking force available without locking
the wheels, i.e., you’re trying for the “threshold” just before lock-up.
To accomplish this, shift to neutral (declutch) and brake until you feel one or more
wheels lock, then, ease up the brake slightly until the wheels are all rolling again.
Re-apply pressure until you feel one of the wheels start to lock up, ease off slightly
and continue this movement, tracking the threshold until you stop. As the vehicle
slows, you can brake harder before lock-up will occur.
The more slippery the surface, the less you will be able to push the brake before a
wheel locks.
The skill in threshold braking comes from being able to linger just short of lock-up.
To threshold brake well requires much effort and concentration. While it’s usually the
technique of choice, it is almost impossible to do if you panic.
Four-wheel lock braking

With this technique, you shift to neutral (declutch) and then hit the brakes very hard
so that all four wheels lock at the same time. Since most cars aren’t designed to do
this, you need to stomp on the brake pedal and keep maximum pressure on the brake
until you come to a complete stop.
Your vehicle will travel in a straight line. If all four wheels do not lock at exactly the
same time, or if the surface under different tires varies, the vehicle may rotate a little
before it finally stops. Even under the worst conditions (one wheel on ice, one wheel
on dry pavement), the vehicle will travel in a straight line, although it may revolve
around a point in the middle of the vehicle.
You need very little pressure to lock the wheels on ice. As the traction increases, you
must increase the pressure to lock the wheels. On dry pavement, you really have to
stomp on the brake to lock all four wheels simultaneously. You must also be seated
sufficiently close to the brake pedal to get the leverage required.
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6.9 Braking • 6.10 Emergency driving
The four-wheel lock will produce the shortest stopping distance on all surfaces,
except glare ice. It’s also an ideal technique to use if you panic because stomping on
the brake is a natural reaction. Also, once you stamp on the brake, you do not have to
do anything except keep pressure on the brake.
If possible, try the four-wheel lock when you are with a trained instructor. Otherwise,
practise at low speeds (20 - 40 km/h) on a wet surface. If you try this procedure on
dry pavement, you may damage your tires, which is acceptable if you’re trying to avoid
a crash, but not recommended if you are just practising.
6.10 Emergency driving

If you use the proper search patterns and see things well in advance, you should
avoid most emergencies. However, as part of your IPDE method of driving, expect
that other drivers may sometimes proceed when they shouldn’t. This means that you
will have to execute your decision in a hurry if you are to avoid a collision.
In this section, you’ll deal with the techniques you need to control your vehicle
during the execution part of an emergency situation. To become skilled in emergency
techniques, you need to practise, if possible, with a trained instructor.
Where to look
The rule is simple! Look where you want to go and steer there. Don’t look at the tree
you want to avoid, look at the gap you want to get through.
Emergency braking techniques

Always try to brake in a straight line. Get your wheels straight and line up your vehicle
so that it can go straight ahead while you’re braking. Don’t try to brake when your
vehicle is turned – you could spin out. (See “Braking,” page 124.)
Emergency steering techniques

The difference between steering in an emergency situation and steering in a normal
driving situation is the speed and amount that you need to turn the wheel.
If you do skid and need to recover, turn the wheel to correct your direction of travel.
This method just takes practise. The difficult part is knowing when your wheels are
straight.
At higher speeds, use the “9 and 3” steering method. (See “Hand positions,”
page 101.) Twist the wheel without moving your hands on the wheel. When your
hands return to “9” and “3,” you know your front wheels are straight.
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6
Steering around an object involves

three movements:
Steer
Twist the wheel in the direction you
wish to go.
Counter-steer
Turn the wheel back the other way
beyond the centrepoint.
Straighten out
Twist the wheel back to the point
where your wheels are straight.
Timing is crucial, so it’s advisable
to practise this manoeuvre with an
experienced instructor.
It’s important, after turning around
an obstacle, to get the vehicle going
straight before you begin a second
steering movement.
If your choice is between braking
or steering, choose to steer. You
can steer around an obstacle in a
shorter distance than it takes to stop
in front of it.
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Combined braking and steering

Where you have a choice, the best method of dealing with an emergency is to
combine braking and steering. Brake first, while you slow down and regain control
and finish deciding where you want to go.
If you have time and you are feeling calm, threshold brake. If not, lock your four
wheels. Regardless of the method of braking you use, take your foot off the brake to
steer around the object. Most importantly, do one thing at a time, either brake or steer.
If your wheels are locked, the car will go straight ahead regardless of how you turn the
steering wheel.
Brake Off brake Steer
If you are driving a vehicle equipped with ABS, the best way to deal with an
emergency is to brake hard and steer where you want to go.
Neutral/declutch
Providing it’s recommended for your vehicle type, it’s best to shift to neutral, or
declutch, in all emergencies, except when you plan to use the accelerator to get
out of trouble. Please refer to your vehicle owner’s manual for manufacturer’s
recommendations in this regard.
Skidding
A skid usually occurs on a slippery surface when there is not enough traction to
keep the tires rolling. You will go into a skid when it is wet or slippery if you brake or
accelerate too hard or turn too sharply.
Regardless of the kind of skid, always shift to neutral (declutch). Turning the wheel in
the direction of the skid is correct, but complicated. A much simpler way to decide
what way to steer is to look where you want to go and steer there.
Never use cruise control when roads are wet or slippery or on gravel.
Skids resulting from braking

The remedy is the same in any skid resulting from braking, regardless of how many
wheels lock. Shift to neutral (declutch) and remove your foot from the brake. Look where
you want to go and steer there. By shifting to neutral, you will ensure that the skid does
not get worse and you will get the wheels rolling again so that you can steer.
You will probably have to correct the steering. Look where you want to go and steer
there. This will usually mean steering, counter-steering and straightening out.
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6
Skids resulting from too much acceleration
Sometimes too much acceleration or using cruise control on a slippery surface will
cause the vehicle to skid. To correct this situation, shift to neutral (declutch), take your
foot off the accelerator, look where you want to go and steer there. Do not touch the
brake. Some corrective steering may be necessary.
Skids resulting from steering too sharply

If you turn the wheel too far to the left or right on a slippery surface, the front wheels
will skid straight ahead. To correct this, you must shift to neutral (declutch) and turn the
wheel back towards the centre. As the wheels move to a position where they are turned
less sharply, they will begin to grip again and you will be able to steer. You actually turn
the wheel in the opposite direction from which you wish to go until the wheels begin to
roll. Only at this point do you look where you want to go and steer there.
When in a skid, look where you want to go and steer there.
When skids go too far

Sometimes, when a skid has gone too far, the vehicle will start to spin. You may not be
able to stop the spinning, but you do have a choice of where it spins. Shift to neutral, if
you have time, and lock all four wheels. The vehicle will spin in a straight line, continuing
in the direction in which it was last going. Usually, if you do this you can stay on the road.
To avoid getting into skids

To avoid getting into a skid, first adjust your speed to the conditions, then look well
ahead so that you have plenty of time to react slowly and smoothly. If you must make
any movements on a slippery surface, make them smoothly and gently and avoid
sudden movements of the steering wheel.
Do not turn a little problem into a tragedy

Many collisions are caused by the driver’s over-reaction to a possible emergency
situation. If you find yourself in an emergency situation, try to remain calm and take the
time to think before you act. As a skid develops, the earlier you take action, the smaller
the corrective movement required and the greater are your chances of controlling it.
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Drifting onto a soft shoulder

If you drift onto a soft shoulder, it’s not what you do that is important, it is what you do
not do that counts.
If your right wheels drop onto a soft shoulder, don’t jerk the wheel to get back on the
road in a hurry and don’t brake hard.
Do not take any corrective action immediately, just steer straight along the shoulder,
gradually slowing down. Then, when you have slowed and there are no other vehicles
around, turn the wheel left and almost immediately (when you feel your front wheel
come onto the road) counter-steer and straighten out.
It’s a simple procedure as long as you don’t steer very much. You should, however,
grip the wheel tightly.
If you come off in a critical location, for example, just before a bridge, then treat your
return to the road like an emergency lane change and steer, counter-steer, straighten.
Ditches
With ditches, as with soft shoulders, it’s what you don’t do that’s important.
Don’t brake hard, don’t turn the wheel violently and don’t try to get back on the road.
These actions are very likely to cause your vehicle to roll over.
The important thing is to drive down the ditch. The greater the slope of the ditch, the
more you will have to steer down the ditch to keep from rolling.
To drive down the ditch, hold the wheel firmly. Look and steer gently down the slope
to where you want to go. Stay off the brake. Gradually release the accelerator. If
you need to steer to avoid an obstacle, do it slowly and gradually and, if you have a
choice, choose the direction that will send you down the slope.
If you suddenly find yourself going into a ditch, do not over-react. Try to resist doing
anything until you think about what you must do. You’re better off to do nothing than
to try the wrong thing.
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6
Gentle ditch Steep ditch
It’s perfectly all right to drive in a ditch to avoid a rollover, provided you don’t hit an
approach road or something hard. The main cause of rollovers is attempting to return
to the road too early. You may have to be towed out, but that is a small price to pay
compared to rolling the car.
Blow-outs
With a front or rear tire blow-out, do not over-react. Look where you want to go and
steer there, holding the steering wheel firmly. Gradually ease off the accelerator and
gently brake. Once you have slowed down, steer the vehicle off to the side of the
road.
Blow-outs can cause tremendous steering and wheel vibration. Do not be alarmed.
Remember, gentle braking will improve stability and reduce steering and wheel
vibration.
Rear wheel blow-outs can cause the back of the car to fishtail. Do not over-correct
your steering. Just brake gently and steer where you want to go. Remember to shift to
neutral (declutch).
Brake failure
Vehicles are manufactured with a two-circuit hydraulic brake system, and total brake
failure is very rare. If one half of the system fails, the brake warning light will usually
come on when you apply the brakes and you’ll have to push much harder to slow or
stop the vehicle. Even if the brake pedal goes right to the floor, do not give up. It‘ll still
have stopping power.
You can help slow the vehicle by using the parking brake. Try to avoid having the rear
wheels lock as this will cause the vehicle to spin around. By adjusting the parking
brake release, you will make it easier to vary the pressure and avoid locking.
Don’t pump your brakes. It’s the wrong thing to do with a modern brake system. If the
vehicle pulls to one side, grasp the wheel firmly, counter-steer and shift to a lower
gear. After the car has stopped, do not drive any further. Call for help.
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Power steering or power brake failure

Most vehicles have some form of power assistance for braking and steering to reduce
the force necessary to operate the controls.
If the engine stalls, you’ll lose your power assistance and will have to apply a great
deal more force to the brake or steering wheel to maintain control. Try shifting to
neutral and re-starting the engine, then return the shift lever to drive.
Accelerator sticking
If your accelerator sticks, don’t panic. Shift to neutral (or declutch), slow down, pull
over and stop. Then, turn the key off and try unsticking the pedal with your feet.
Headlight failure
If your headlights suddenly go out, immediately slow down to keep your original
course, pull over and stop. Check the headlight switch and the dimmer switch. If
these don’t work, put on the parking lights or hazard lights.
Animals on the road

Peak times
Wild animals are unpredictable but there
are times when the risk of a collision is
particularly high. Be alert during the months
of May and June when animals are drawn
to ditches for road salt and to escape biting
insects. Animals are also especially active
in the late fall and early winter during mating
season and migration. The peak times for
collisions are dawn and dusk.
Watch your speed

Yellow wildlife warning signs indicate areas
of high risk. No matter the season or time
of day, it’s important to watch for signs of
wildlife and reduce your speed accordingly.
Slowing down reduces the distance
required to stop and decreases the force of
impact in the event of a collision.
Be alert
It’s important to constantly scan the road from shoulder to shoulder. Being alert is still
your best defence to prevent a collision. When you see an animal at the side of the
road, slow down and pass by slowly. For night driving, look for the glowing eyes of
animals and use your high beams whenever possible.
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6
When encountering an animal, try to do the following:
• Remain calm if an animal appears on the road in front of you. If you have time to
stop, do so at a safe distance and stay alert. When one animal crosses the road,
others often follow. You can also sound your horn to scare wildlife away from the
road.
• If an animal appears suddenly and surprises you, remember to brake firmly and stay
in control of your vehicle. Avoid swerving because you may turn into oncoming traffic
or roll into the ditch.
• If the animals are being herded or if you approach horseback riders you should slow
down and wait for the herder or rider to move the animals across the road or to one
side and indicate that it’s safe to proceed. Do not use your horn as it may panic or
scatter the animals.
When a collision is unavoidable

Sometimes collisions with wildlife are unavoidable even if you take every precaution
and remain alert at the wheel. In these circumstances, try to remain calm.
• Aim your vehicle at the spot where the animal came from, not where it’s going.
• Try for a glancing blow rather than a head-on encounter and let up on your brake just
before you collide. This causes the front of your vehicle to rise slightly and reduces
the chances of the animal going through your windshield.
• Hitting an animal can be a traumatic experience. If possible, move to the shoulder
and turn on your hazard lights. Take a moment to regain your composure and then
assess the damage to your vehicle.
• Don’t approach the animal, especially if it appears to be wounded. Injured animals
can be dangerous.
• Call the police or your local RCMP detachment if there are human injuries or
significant damage to your vehicle. If the damage is less severe, you may continue
driving and follow regular SGI claims reporting procedures.
• Call the Conservation Officer Service if there is a dead or injured animal to report.
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6.11 Understanding collisions
6.11 Understanding collisions

When you know your front steps are icy, you take special care when going down
them. By being aware of and understanding some basic traffic collision statistics,
you’ll know to take special care to avoid high-risk situations.
Two-thirds of the time, the causes of collisions are related to driver condition or
improper action.
Some of the most common contributing factors to collisions are:
• driver inattention
• failing to yield the right of way
• driving too fast for road conditions
• driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• disregarding a traffic control device
• driver inexperience or confusion
• following too closely
• backing unsafely
• changing lanes or passing improperly
Other information you should know about collisions:

• Most traffic collisions occur during peak traffic times such as late afternoon and early
evening.
• November and December usually have the highest total number of collisions.
• August and October are when the most severe collisions and the most traffic deaths
occur.
• Alcohol is a factor in about 4% of all traffic collisions and in about 40% of all fatal
collisions.
• Approximately 90% of all collisions in rural Saskatchewan are single-vehicle
collisions.
• Wearing a seatbelt can decrease your chances of being killed or seriously injured in
a collision by as much as 50%.
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6.12 What to do if you are in a collision
6
6.12 What to do if you’re in a collision
The first few minutes after a crash can be critical if the consequences are to be
minimized. If you haven’t been seriously injured during the collision, the following
steps should be followed as quickly and calmly as possible.
Protect the scene

If any gasoline has spilled, make sure the ignitions of any damaged vehicles are turned
off and any cigars or cigarettes are extinguished.
Warn approaching traffic by setting up flares (well away from the crash scene)
or delegating two people to signal at each end of the collision scene. Turn on the
hazard lights of all undamaged vehicles at the scene. This is particularly critical during
darkness or at times of reduced visibility when the risk of subsequent collisions is very
high.
Check all injuries

Make an initial survey of damage, checking for hidden victims. Call 9-1-1 and
administer first aid to the injured in order of priority. Injured persons should be moved
only if they are in danger of drowning, suffocating, burning or being electrocuted.
If you have not had formal training in first aid, follow these tips:
• If the person is unconscious, be sure their air passages are clear. False teeth,
chewing gum, vomit or mucus can block air passages.
• If the person is not breathing and you’re familiar with mouth-to-mouth or artificial
respiration, begin the procedure immediately.
• Stop bleeding by applying direct pressure over the wound. A clean piece of tissue
or handkerchief may be used. If there is a depressed skull fracture, pressure should
not be applied.
• If a person is pinned in a car, do not attempt to move them, but be sure the head
and spine are firmly supported.
• Reassure the injured individual and stay with them until an ambulance or other
vehicle is available to take them to the hospital.
• Give all information on the first aid that you have applied to the ambulance attendant
and the police.
Contact the police

All crashes involving injury or death, hit and run, an impaired driver, an out-of-province
vehicle or where a vehicle must be towed from the scene must be immediately
reported to police.
Be prepared to give an accurate description of the crash location, the number of

injured persons, the severity of the injuries and any other support services that may be
required, such as ambulance, firefighting, rescuing or towing. Stay on the phone long
enough to make certain that all the information has been recorded.
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Check for witnesses

Record the names of any witnesses to assist the police with their investigation. Keep
a copy of the names for your insurance company or lawyer in case any legal action
follows.
Take photographs
Take photographs of the collision scene, vehicles involved in the crash and road
conditions.
When to provide a report to police

If asked, you’re required to provide a statement to police if you were a driver,
passenger or witness.
If you’re involved in a collision in which there are no injuries or deaths, that does not
involve a hit and run or an impaired driver, that does not involve an out-of-province
vehicle and where all vehicles can be driven from the scene of the collision, you must
provide the vehicle owner with your name, address, driver’s licence number and any
relevant insurance information.
Dangerous goods
If a vehicle involved in the collision is a truck displaying a dangerous goods placard,
you must take extra care in case the vehicle is discharging a dangerous substance.
Power lines
If your vehicle comes in contact with a power line, stay in your vehicle and call
SaskPower at 306-310-2220. If it’s an emergency, call 9-1-1 and stay in your vehicle
until help arrives.
If your vehicle is on fire and you must exit the vehicle:
1. Make sure there are no wires in your way.
2. Stand in the doorway of the vehicle with feet together and cross your arms over your
chest.
3. Jump as far away from the vehicle as possible and land with both feet together.
4. Do not touch the vehicle.
5. Keep arms crossed, feet together, and hop at least 10 metres to safety.
If you see a collision involving a power pole, fallen line or transformer:

1. Park at least 10 metres away and assess the situation before getting out of your
vehicle.
2. Don’t touch the other vehicle(s), power pole, fallen line or transformer because they
may be energized.
3. Call 9-1-1 and provide a detailed description of the scene and the electrical hazard.
4. Keep yourself and others at least 10 metres away and wait for emergency personnel
to arrive.
Visit saskpower.com for more information on vehicle collisions and electrical safety.
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6
Exchange information with other drivers
As a driver in Saskatchewan, you’re required to provide your name, address, driver’s
licence number and vehicle licence plate number to any other persons involved in a
collision, regardless of the severity. You should also record the licence plate number
of all vehicles involved in the collision. If a non-Saskatchewan vehicle is involved, or if
you are involved in a collision outside Saskatchewan, you’re also required to provide
information on the company that insures your vehicle.
Don’t admit fault or any other liability before discussing the details of the collision with
your insurance adjuster.
Don’t offer to pay for any repairs or accept payment for repairs unless you’re prepared
to handle the matter without the help of your insurance company.
Report to SGI
To report your claim:
• Visit www.sgi.sk.ca and use the SGI Auto eClaim registration service.
• Call the claims centre closest to your home (see the SGI information pages in the
front of your SaskTel phone book).
• Call 1-844-TLK-2SGI (1-844-855-2744).
When you report a claim, you’ll need to have your vehicle appraised and the damage
assessed. You can set up an appointment at an SGI claims centre or your adjuster
may tell you that you can take your vehicle to an SGI-accredited repair firm to
complete the assessment. To help you avoid delays, please don’t visit a claims centre
for an appraisal without first calling the claims centre closest to your home or using
eClaim.
If your vehicle is not driveable, call the claims centre closest to your home to make
arrangements with an adjuster. Your vehicle will be towed to a location where the
damage can be appraised.
To speed up the process when you report your claim, have the following information
on hand: your driver’s licence, the vehicle registration and, if you have one, your auto
extension policy number.
Collisions involving injury, death, hit and run, an impaired driver, vehicles that have to be
towed from the scene or an out-of-province vehicle must also be reported to the police.
An appraiser will assess the damage to

your vehicle and the cost of repairs.
Once the appraisal is done, you will
receive a printout outlining the cost of
repairs if your vehicle is repairable.
Once your adjuster has confirmed your
coverage, you may have the vehicle
repaired at the auto body shop of your
choice. SGI doesn’t direct customers to
any particular repair facility.
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6.13 Impairing factors (other than drugs and alcohol)
If your vehicle cannot be repaired, your adjuster will advise you of the process for
“total loss” vehicles.
If you’re injured in a crash, you should immediately contact an injury claims centre or
rural branch office nearest you.
For further information on the auto claim process please refer to the You and Your
Auto Claim brochure available at all SGI claims centres and motor licence issuers.
After hours Out-of-province crashes

You may report a claim by telephone If the crash occurs outside of
after regular office hours: Saskatchewan, call, fax or write:
Monday to Friday – 5 to 8 p.m. SGI Out-of-Province Claims Dept.
Saturday – 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. 440 Fleet St., Regina, SK S4N 7N7
1-800-647-6448 Telephone 1-800-647-6448
Monday to Friday – 5 to 8 p.m.
Saturday – 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Your file will be assigned to a team of adjusters to help you with your claim. In the
case of a loss outside Saskatchewan, SGI may also provide you with the name of an
independent adjusting firm in your area to assist you with your claim.
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6
Fatigue
It’s not wise to drive when you’re tired or sleepy, particularly if you are driving along a
straight road where the chances of falling asleep are high.
An early warning sign of fatigue is noticing you’re not looking as far ahead as you
should, or not moving your eyes in the proper search pattern. Rather, you tend to stare
straight ahead.
What can you do about it?
• Recognize and admit that you’re becoming tired. Some highways have rumble strips
along the shoulder line and, in a few places, on the centre lines to alert drivers when
they drift out of their lane.
• Stop and rest.
• Change drivers when you start to feel tired.
If you can’t stay awake, then for your safety and the safety of others, get off the road!
Personal stress and illness

By now, it should be clear to you that
driving places heavy demands on your
ability to think clearly. Emotional and
physical stress – worry, grief, anger, joy,
a toothache, a headache – anything that
is really bothering you, will distract you
from the thinking part of your driving.
If you know you’re under stress, either
emotional or physical, do not drive.
Arrange to be driven by someone else
who is not involved in the emotional
situation and who is physically well.
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Aggressive driving
Slow moving traffic, a motorist who doesn’t signal, a seemingly endless stream of
pedestrians – they can all frustrate the average driver. Aggressive driving, more
commonly known as road rage, occurs when a motorist becomes angry, hostile or
furious behind the wheel. And it’s not only yelling obscenities or running other drivers
off the road that are signs of road rage. The slightest variation in driving behaviour, no
matter how minimal, is still considered road rage.
To ensure a safe trip, it’s recommended that drivers:
• don’t take traffic problems personally • use your horn sparingly
• avoid eye contact with an aggressive driver • don’t block the passing lane
• don’t make obscene gestures • don’t block the right turn lane
• don’t tailgate
If you notice someone on the road who is driving aggressively, the best thing you can
do to ensure your safety is to pull over and let that person pass by you.
Fog, dust, heavy rain and poor visibility

These factors may impair your vision:
• Make sure that your headlights and
tail lights are on and clean so that
other people can see you.
• Adjust your speed to the number of
seconds you can see ahead. If you
can’t see 12 seconds ahead, slow
down until you can.
• In fog, blowing snow or heavy rain you
will see better if you drive with your
lights on low beam.
• The smear that windshield wipers sometimes create may be removed by using a
good windshield wiper fluid or a sprinkle of ordinary detergent.
• If you have already slowed down and still cannot see 12 seconds ahead, find a safe
place as soon as you can and get off the road.
Be aware that during the first 10 minutes of a rain storm, the roads are the most
slippery. The solution to driving in heavy rain is to slow down, making only small and
gentle movements with your brake, accelerator and steering wheel.
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Drinking, drugs and driving
7.1 Alcohol
7
Cellphones
Many collisions are the result of driver distraction. Many people talk or text on a
cellphone while driving, which can have dangerous consequences. As a result, there
is legislation that prohibits the use of a cellphone without a hands-free headset while
driving.
The following are key tips to remember when using a cellphone in your vehicle to
ensure a safe ride:
• put your cellphone in a place where it won’t tempt you, such as the back seat, or
switch it off or to airplane mode while you drive
• always use a hands-free unit (experienced drivers only, see page 23)
• become familiar with your phone and its features – before you try to use the hands-
free unit while driving
• don’t dial while driving – instead, pull off the road
• be a good Samaritan by reporting emergencies and road hazards
• never take notes or look up phone numbers while driving
• avoid stressful or emotional conversations while on the road; you can always pull
over or end the conversation
• do not use a cellphone when refueling your vehicle
• most importantly, whenever possible, pull over to a safe spot on the roadside to use
the phone
See Distracted driving page 23.
Cigarette smoke
Open the windows while smoking.
Vehicles with children in them are
non-smoking areas; it’s illegal to smoke
while children are in the vehicle.
Cigarette smoke will gradually cause a
film on the inside of your windshield and
windows. If people who smoke use your
vehicle, clean the inside of your windows
with window cleaner as soon as you
notice the start of a build up.
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7 Drinking, drugs and driving
7.1 Alcohol
7. Drinking, drugs and driving

7.1 Alcohol
Facts about drinking and driving in Saskatchewan*:
• A drinking driver is involved in four out of every 10 fatal collisions.
• There is a drinking driver in approximately 7% of all collisions where someone
is injured.
• Of the average 39 people killed, 26 were drivers, seven were passengers, and eight
were pedestrians.
• Of the average 39 people killed, 21 were killed on provincial highways, eight on rural
roads, four on urban streets, and six on First Nations roads.
• Those aged 25-34 are involved in the most alcohol-related collisions.
• Alcohol, although legal, is an addictive drug that depresses the central nervous
system (brain) and may change your mood and behavior.
* Based on 2015 to 2019 five-year average.
The impairing effects of alcohol on the brain

Alcohol affects everyone differently. Blood alcohol content (BAC) may be affected
by age, gender, physical condition, and amount of food consumed, medication and
other factors. Also, different mixed drinks contain different amounts of alcohol, so it’s
important to know how much alcohol has been consumed, not just how many drinks
the person has had.
Sequence of effects on the body

Alcohol is absorbed into the blood stream very quickly. As blood alcohol levels start to
rise, the brain becomes increasingly sedated or drugged.
1. Judgment 2. Muscle control

The first part of the body affected The second part of the body affected
by alcohol is the brain, particularly by alcohol is muscle control. Due to
the part of the brain that allows the small muscles in the eye being
you to think clearly and make good very susceptible to the effects of
decisions. Its sedative effect impairs alcohol, vision can be significantly
judgment in a way that is usually not affected, even at low alcohol levels.
noticed by the drinker. The part of the
brain that controls social inhibitions is
also affected, causing people to say
and do things they normally would
not. These effects start with one drink.
Many people wrongly assess their ability to drive after drinking by observing physical
dexterity (staggering, etc.). This is incorrect as the greatest percentage of alcohol-
related collisions result from faulty thinking during the identification, prediction and
decision parts of the driving task and not as a result of poor execution (steering,
braking, etc.).
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7.1 Alcohol
7
The brain functions that are first affected by alcohol consumption are not only
important to our ability to drive safely, but are the same ones required to make rational
decisions about not driving after drinking. For this reason, you must make the decision
to separate your drinking and driving and make the necessary alternate transportation
plans before you have that first drink!
It doesn’t make sense to drive after drinking. For more information on the effects of
alcohol and drugs, contact your nearest Alcohol and Drug Services office.
How alcohol affects you

Predictable Effects
BAC Typical Effects
on Driving
• Some loss of judgment • Decline in visual functions (rapid tracking
• Relaxation of a moving target)
.02%
• Slight body warmth • Decline in ability to perform two tasks at
• Altered mood the same time (divided attention)
• Exaggerated behavior • Reduced coordination

• May have loss of small muscle control • Reduced ability to track moving objects
(e.g., focusing your eyes) • Difficulty steering
.05% • Impaired judgment • Reduced response to emergency driving
• Usually good feeling situations
• Lowered alertness
• Release of inhibition
• Muscle coordination becomes poor • Concentration
(e.g., balance, speech, vision, reaction • Short-term memory loss
time, and hearing) • Speed control
.08% • Harder to detect danger • Reduced information processing
• Judgment, self control, reasoning and capability (e.g., signal detection,
memory are impaired visual search)
• Impaired perception
• Clear deterioration of reaction time and • Reduced ability to maintain lane position
control and brake appropriately
.10%
• Slurred speech, poor coordination, and
slowed thinking
• Far less muscle control than normal • Substantial impairment in vehicle
• Vomiting may occur (unless this level control, attention to driving task, and in
.15% is reached slowly or a person has necessary visual and auditory information
developed a tolerance for alcohol) processing
• Major loss of balance
.16% and Extreme crash risk!
greater
(Guide based on averages – not for legal use)

Information borrowed from Centre for Disease Control and Prevention
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7.2 Drugs
Likelihood of a crash
As the concentration of alcohol in the bloodstream increases, the body loses more
and more of the functions required to drive safely. The increased likelihood of a crash
begins long before drivers feel drunk or severely impaired.
It’s important to understand BAC and its impact on driving at various levels. Driving
impaired, even at low levels, is a real gamble.
The only truly safe BAC is 0%.
.05-.09% BAC .10 -.14% BAC .15+% BAC

Increased likelihood
of a crash
11x 48x 380x
BAC and time

Only time can eliminate alcohol from the body. You cannot successfully sleep off a
night of heavy drinking in a few hours. If you go to bed intoxicated with a BAC of
.25% and alcohol leaves the system at a rate of approximately .015% per hour, this
might be a picture of what happens:
Time Activity Sample BAC

Midnight goes to bed .25
1 a.m. sleeps* .235
2 a.m. sleeps* .22
3 a.m. sleeps* .205
4 a.m. sleeps* .19
5 a.m. sleeps* .175
6 a.m. sleeps* .16
7 a.m. gets up for work .145
8 a.m. feels dry mouth .13
9 a.m. at work .115
10 a.m. still legally intoxicated .1
11 a.m. spills coffee .085
Noon still feels tired .07
1 p.m. mind feels foggy .055
2 p.m. feeling irritable .04
3 p.m. starting to feel better .025
4 p.m. head clearing .01
5 p.m. goes home .00
* Very restless sleep with a lot of tossing and turning.
Note: The above situation is only an example. Alcohol effects each person differently.
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7.2 Drugs
7
7.2 Drugs
Facts about drugs and driving in Saskatchewan*:
• Over 60 collisions involving a drug-impaired driver resulted in more than 35 injuries
and three deaths.
• Drug-impaired drivers do not react or make decisions as quickly as a sober driver.
Their attention, judgment, motor skills, balance, and co-ordination are all impacted.
• The combination of alcohol and drugs creates a synergistic effect and significantly
increases impairment levels.
* Based on 2015 to 2019 five-year average.
Prescription, over-the-counter, and recreational drugs

Many drugs affect your brain functioning and some directly affect your driving.
Cannabis
Some people think that cannabis is a safer
substitute to drinking, but it can cause
concentration to wander, which can affect
reaction times. It can also cause paranoia,
drowsiness, distorted perception and a
sense of disorientation – all of which could
cause you to lose control at the wheel.
Cannabis is the most commonly traced drug in drivers. Even though the effects fade
after a matter of hours, it can be detected in the blood for up to four weeks. In theory,
this can compromise the driver if they tested positive, even if their driving wasn’t
adversely affected at the time.
Some experts claim that smoking a cannabis joint has roughly a similar level of
impairment on driving ability as drinking four pints of beer. Also, reports show that in
the majority of fatal collisions where cannabis has been detected in a driver’s body,
alcohol has also been detected. Alcohol alone or in combination with cannabis
increases impairment, collision rate and collision responsibility (the same can be
applied to other drugs too).
Depressant drugs
Like alcohol, other depressant drugs include sedatives
or tranquillizers (used to treat anxiety, depression and
sleeping disorders, e.g., valium), antihistamines (often
used in flu, allergy and hay fever remedies) and painkillers.
These drugs slow down your brain and body; they blunt
alertness and reduce motor coordination. This affects a
person’s ability to drive safely in a way similar to alcohol.
Any drug that causes drowsiness can also affect a
person’s ability to drive safely.
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7.2 Drugs • 7.3 Drinking and drugs combined
People who drive after using any type of depressant can’t react as quickly when they
need to. Their vision is affected, and may be blurred or doubled. Depth perception is
altered, making it hard to tell whether other vehicles, pedestrians or objects are close
or far away. Their driving is more likely to be careless or reckless – weaving, speeding,
driving off the road, and (too often) crashing.
If the label advises against operating heavy machinery, consider it a warning not to get
behind the wheel of a vehicle.
Stimulants
Stimulant drugs, such as caffeine and amphetamines, may increase alertness, but this
does not mean they improve driving skills. The tired driver who drinks coffee to stay
awake on the road should be aware that the stimulant effect can wear off suddenly,
and that the only remedy for fatigue is to pull off the road and sleep. Amphetamines
do not seem to affect driving skills when taken at medical doses, but they do make
some people over-confident, which can lead to risky driving. Higher doses of
amphetamines often make people hostile and aggressive.
If you think drug taking has little, or even a positive impact on your driving, you could
be tragically mistaken. It’s important to bear in mind that it can be hard to determine
exactly how a drug will affect your driving ability – impairment caused by drugs can
vary according to the individual, drug type, dosage, the length of time the drug stays
in your body, or if the drug has been taken with other drugs or alcohol.
When taking prescription or over-the-counter medications, it’s wise to consult with
your doctor or pharmacist before driving.
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7.3 Drinking and drugs combined
7
Illegal drugs
Illegal drugs impair your driving. They can alter your perception of time and what you
see. They can make you hallucinate or miss things you should see. They can put you
to sleep.
Cocaine
This is a psycho-stimulant that can lead to misjudging driving speed and stopping
distances. It can also cause a distorted sense of light and sound and a feeling of
overconfidence, which can lead to aggressive and erratic driving. While it can make
you feel alert at first, the effects wear off quickly, leading to an increased danger of
falling asleep at the wheel.
Ecstasy
A stimulant drug with hallucinogenic properties, ecstasy can distort your sense of
vision and heighten your sense of sound. Your concentration can be affected, while
you may become over-confident and more likely to take dangerous risks.
Ketamine, LSD and magic mushrooms

Drugs such as these with hallucinogenic properties can strongly influence the senses,
so drivers may react to objects or sounds that aren’t there and place themselves and
other road users in danger. Coordination skills are likely to be greatly affected, and
you may experience anxiety, blurred vision and a sense of detachment from reality – all
of which could be deadly on the road.
Speed (amphetamine)
While amphetamines might give you a sense of heightened alertness and confidence,
they can be highly dangerous for drivers as they distort your perceptions and can
make you feel anxious, prone to panic attacks and lose coordination.
Drug-impaired driving is considered as serious an offence as alcohol-impaired driving,
and carries the same penalties.
There are no illegal drugs that improve your driving. They all make it worse. Don’t drive
after using any drugs.
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7.3 Drinking and drugs combined

Many people think that driver impairment is caused exclusively by ingestion of
alcohol. The truth is that the alcohol in one’s body will determine their blood alcohol
level. However, if that person already has another drug in their system, the impairing
effect on the functioning of the central nervous system (brain) is far greater than the
impairing effect of the alcohol and the impairing effect of the other drugs combined;
it’s not a simple adding together of impairment, but rather a multiplier effect!
This is the synergistic effect! What it means is that the whole is greater than the sum
of its parts, or 1 + 1 = more than two. When combining drugs and alcohol it causes a
multiplying effect. This has an unpredictable effect on driving and can be deadly.
Perhaps a few real life examples would be helpful to understand this synergistic
effect. Assume that a drink is:
• 1 bottle of regular alcohol content beer; or
• 5 ounces table wine; or
• 3 ounces fortified wine (port or sherry); or
• 1-1/2 ounce hard liquor (rye, rum, vodka etc.).
Combined with:
• anti-depressants
• gravol
• antihistamines
• valium
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We find that there is a predictable synergistic effect related to the level of impairment
caused by a certain number of drinks when combined in this manner.
Number of Equivalent to Number

Combined With
Drinks of Drinks
2 Antihistamine (Cold Remedy) = 4 to 5
2 Marijuana (1 joint) = 5 to 6
2 Tranquilizer (Valium – normal dose) = Approximately 6
2 Gravol = Approximately 6
It must be noted that the dosage of the drug will have a serious effect on the
“equivalence to number of drinks” estimates. Hydroponically grown marijuana, for
example, is much stronger than the light dosage drug used in compiling the figures for
this chart.
In all cases, the Intoxilyzer reading would indicate just the blood alcohol level caused
by two drinks, but the actual impairment of central nervous system function would be
equivalent to a much higher blood alcohol level.
Understanding the synergistic effect of alcohol combined with other drugs could be a
lifesaver.
Students Against Drinking and Driving (SADD)

SADD is a positive lifestyle promotional program that attempts to make drinking and
driving socially unacceptable among young people and encourages them to help
each other change their attitudes about drinking and driving. With the help of an adult
leader, students develop and promote the program themselves using assemblies,
rallies, classroom sessions and social activities. Parents are encouraged to support
the program by attending SADD functions and entering into a contract with their
teenager whereby each agrees to always seek safe, sober transportation home.
For more information, contact SADD at 306-757-5562.
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8 Complying with the law when driving
8.1 The Traffic Safety Act
8. Complying with the law when driving

Cities, towns and some villages have their own set of ‘rules of the road,’ known as
bylaws. These rules are necessary as each urban centre has special driving situations.
However, bylaws must complement The Traffic Safety Act, Saskatchewan’s traffic laws.
Enforcement
To permit the police to function effectively, they’ve been given certain powers. You’re
required to comply with the requests or demands of the police when they are carrying
out their duties.
Stopping when signalled by police

Police can signal you to stop using their red/blue lights, a special stop light, voice
commands or hand signals. You must pull over as close to the right-hand edge of the
road as possible and stop before entering the next intersection.
Producing driver’s licence and registration

If requested, you must show the police your driver’s licence and vehicle registration. If
you don’t have them with you, the police may allow you up to 48 hours to produce them.
Unsafe vehicles
The police may require you to submit your vehicle for a safety inspection. If they find
that your vehicle is unsafe, they can order you to take it off the road and to not drive it
until it has been repaired.
Vehicle impoundments
If a vehicle is being operated in violation of traffic laws, or presents a hazard by being
parked within the traveled portion of a roadway, it may be impounded by police under
the SGI Vehicle Impoundment Program.
Impoundments are based on the actions of the driver. Any vehicle can be impounded,
including passenger vehicles, trucks and commercial vehicles.
There are three types of impoundments:
1. Impaired driving impoundments - Includes both drug and alcohol impairment.
2. Unauthorized driver impoundments - Includes driving while suspended or without
a valid driver’s licence. The vehicle will be impounded for 30 days, if it’s the driver’s
second occurrence in a two-year period the impound length is 60 days.
3. Rules of the road impoundments - Vehicles will be seized when drivers commit
certain high-risk offences. These offences contribute to unsafe roads and impact
the severity of collisions. Anyone stopped by law enforcement who is being
charged with an offence, meeting the criteria outlined in the chart on page 151
will have the vehicle they are driving impounded for the following impoundment
terms.
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Complying with the law when driving
8
2nd and Subsequent
On Each
Impoundment Reason Offence (within a
Offence
12-month period)
Driving as a learner while unaccompanied n/a 3 days
Driving an unregistered vehicle n/a 7 days
Stunting n/a 3 days
Exceed speed limit by at least double the speed n/a 7 days
Exceed speed limit by more than 50 km/h 7 days n/a
Contest of speed or race with other vehicles 30 days n/a
Driving without due care or reasonable consideration
Using, holding, viewing or manipulating electronic n/a 7 days
equipment while driving
Fail to stop for a peace officer 7 days n/a

Certain prescribed Criminal Code offences 30 days n/a
The vehicle will be impounded even if you’re not the owner. All towing and storage
costs are the responsibility of the vehicle owner. The owner of the impounded vehicle
may recover from a driver, in any manner authorized by law, any amount the owner has
paid to recover their motor vehicle.
An application to the Highway Traffic Board can be made to have a vehicle released
early from impoundment in certain limited circumstances. If your vehicle was stolen
at the time of the impoundment, please contact SGI at 1-844-855-2744 with your
police file number as soon as possible.
Impaired driving
Drivers who are impaired by alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both may be subject
to severe consequences. Consequences apply even if the driver is not found
criminally impaired, but exceeded the provincial limits.
If a driver is found to have exceeded the provincial limit, the severity of the
consequences are determined based on how many administrative suspensions have
been issued in the past 10 years, and whether they are considered a new driver or an
experienced driver.
If a driver is found to be criminally impaired, the consequences are more severe, and
apply to all drivers.
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New driver roadside administrative licence suspensions

New drivers caught with any detectable amount of alcohol or drugs will be suspended
at roadside and face other consequences such as vehicle impoundment and
mandatory ignition interlock.
There is zero tolerance for alcohol for new drivers, and zero tolerance for drugs for
both new and experienced drivers.
New drivers are:
• 21 years of age and under
• Learner (Class 7)
• Class 5 Novice 1 and Novice 2
• Endorsement 6, M1, or M2 (while operating a motorcycle)
• No licence in the last five years
• Out of Country drivers (when equivalent Class cannot be determined)
• Restricted or Provisional drivers
New drivers who receive roadside suspensions and who are transporting passengers
under 16 will receive an increased vehicle impoundment length. The chart below
outlines the suspensions and consequences for new driver roadside administrative
licence suspensions.
New Driver Roadside Administrative Licence Suspension Summary

Number of Offences (Zero to .08 BAC and drugs)
10 year look-back
3rd & Subsequent
1st Offence 2nd Offence
Offence(s)
Roadside Licence Suspension 60 days 120 days 18 months
Vehicle Impoundment 3 days 7 days 14 days
Passengers under 16 7 days 30 days 60 days
Driving Without Alcohol & Drug Addictions
Required Program
Impairment (DWI)* Education (ADE)* assessment
Installation Period N/A 120 days 365 days
Programs Must be
Ignition N/A Voluntary** Mandatory
Completed
Interlock
Suspension
N/A 60 days 365 days
Served***
Safe Driver Recognition Points -4 -4 -4
* Must be completed within 120 days from the entry date of the suspension.
** Ignition interlock is voluntary to have installed. Once installed it becomes mandatory and must remain
installed for the required period regardless of the number of days remaining in the roadside suspension.
*** This suspension period must be served before ignition interlock can be installed.
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Experienced driver roadside administrative licence suspensions
Experienced drivers (any driver age 22 years and over that is not in the GDL program
and holds a Class 5 or higher licence) who register a Blood Alcohol Content (BAC)
level exceeding .04 to .08 and/or are impaired by drugs will lose their licence and
face other consequences such as vehicle impoundment and mandatory ignition
interlock.
If you hold an ignition interlock restricted licence, a special restricted licence or a
provisional licence you will receive the same penalties as a new driver and should
refer to the chart on page 152.
Experienced drivers who receive roadside suspensions while transporting passengers
under the age of 16 will receive an increased suspension and vehicle impoundment
length. The following chart outlines the suspensions and consequences for
experienced driver roadside administrative licence suspensions.
Experienced Driver Roadside Administrative Licence Suspension Summary

Number of Offences (.04 to .08 BAC and drugs)
10 year look-back
3rd & Subsequent
Offence(s)
Roadside Licence Suspension 3 days 21 days 90 days
Vehicle Impoundment 3 days 7 days 14 days
Driving Without Alcohol & Drug Addictions
Required Program
Impairment (DWI)* Education (ADE)* assessment
Installation Period** N/A N/A 365 days
Mandatory
Programs Must be
Ignition N/A N/A
Completed
Interlock**
Suspension Served N/A N/A 90 days
Safe Driver Recognition Points -4 -4 -4
* Must be completed within 120 days from the entry date of the suspension.
** Ignition interlock must remain installed for an accumulated 365 days. If removed, the driver will remain
suspended until it is re-installed.
Indefinite roadside administrative licence suspensions

If you’re charged with a criminal impaired driving offence you lose your licence
immediately and face other consequences like vehicle impoundment. The immediate
roadside licence suspension is indefinite and remains in effect until your charges
are resolved in court. You may be eligible to reinstate your driving privileges early by
voluntarily installing an alcohol-sensing ignition interlock device in your vehicle. To be
eligible, your charge must be alcohol-related and you must serve at least 90 days of
your indefinite suspension.
The chart on page 151 outlines the consequences for drivers who are convicted of a
criminal impaired driving offence.
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8.2 The Criminal Code of Canada

Certain driving behaviours are dealt with more severely or are considered to be sufficiently
dangerous or objectionable to be dealt with under the Criminal Code of Canada.
The penalties and consequences for criminal driving offences are severe. In addition
to the penalties under the Criminal Code, there are also provincial penalties. Under
the provincial legislation the consequences include suspensions, reinstatement
programs and financial penalties.
Some examples of Criminal Code driving offences are:
Impaired Driving Offences

Equal to or exceeds .08 BAC
It’s an offence to drive or to operate a conveyance* when you have over 80 mg or
more of alcohol per 100 ml of blood (or .08% per 100 ml). If your blood alcohol
content (BAC) is over .08 you have committed a Criminal Code offence.
Impaired
Operating a conveyance while your ability to operate is impaired in any degree by
alcohol or a drug or by a combination of alcohol and a drug is an offence.
* Defined as a motor vehicle, water vessel, aircraft or railway equipment.
Exceeds drug
It’s an offence to operate a conveyance when you have a blood drug concentration
that is equal to or exceeds the blood drug concentration prescribed by federal
regulation for that drug.
Combination alcohol and drug

It’s an offence to operate a conveyance if you have a blood alcohol concentration and
a blood drug concentration that is equal to or exceeds the blood alcohol and blood
drug concentration prescribed by regulation for instances where alcohol and that
drug are combined.
Operation – low blood drug concentration

It’s an offence to operate a conveyance if you have a blood drug concentration that
is equal to or exceeds the blood drug concentration that is prescribed by federal
regulation for that drug and is less than the concentration prescribed for Exceeds Drug.
Mandatory Alcohol Screening

A police officer may demand a breath sample from a driver in the absence of having a
reasonable suspicion that the driver has consumed alcohol.
Refusal
If a police officer suspects you are impaired they may demand that you provide a
breath sample or samples of a bodily substance that, in the police officer’s opinion,
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8
are necessary to enable a proper analysis by means of an approved screening device
or approved drug screening equipment. The police officer may also demand that you
immediately perform physical coordination tests.
Knowing that a demand has been made for a sample, it’s an offence to fail or refuse to
comply without reasonable excuse.
Refusing to comply with a demand is an offence.
Administrative Consequences for Criminal Code Impaired Driving Offences

An indefinite licence suspension will be issued to any driver who is charged
under the Criminal Code of Canada with an impaired driving related offence. The
suspension will remain in effect until the charges are resolved in court. If the offence
you are charged with is alcohol-related, you may be eligible to reinstate your driving
privileges early by voluntarily installing an alcohol-sensing ignition interlock device
in your vehicle. The vehicle being operated will also be seized under the Vehicle
Impoundment program for a minimum of 30 days, to a maximum of 60 days if the
BAC is .16 or greater, or if the driver failed to comply with a demand.
Further consequences will be applied if the driver is found guilty of the offence in
court. The chart below outlines the consequences for impaired driving offences.
Impaired Driving Consequences

Number of Offences (Over .08 BAC or Refusal)
10 year look-back
3rd & Subsequent
Offence(s)
.08 to .08 to .08 to
.16 BAC2 .16 BAC2 .16 BAC2
.159 .159 .159
Offence Type and over or and over or and over or
BAC1 or BAC1 or BAC1 or
Refusal3 Refusal3 Refusal3
Impaired Impaired Impaired
Immediate Indefinite
Suspension
Vehicle
30 days 60 days 30 days 60 days 30 days 60 days
Impoundment
Driving Alcohol
Without & Drug Addictions Addictions
Education/Program4 DWI ADE
Impairment Education assessment assessment
(DWI) (ADE)
Move to Move to Move to Move to Move to Move to
Safe Driver
-20 or -20 or -20 or -20 or -20 or -20 or
Recognition Points4
Minimum -10 Minimum -10 Minimum -10 Minimum -10 Minimum -10 Minimum -10
Financial Penalty4 $1,250 $2,250 $1,250 $2,250 $1,250 $2,250
1
Alcohol or combination alcohol and drug, or over drug legal limit.
2
Alcohol or combination alcohol and drugs.
3
Refusal means Failure or Refusal to comply with a demand.
4
Only applies if convicted.
Note: For any incident which results in injury or death, the financial penalty will be $2,500.
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Other Criminal Code driving offences

Criminal negligence
Driving with reckless disregard for life and safety is an offence. If you’re charged and
convicted of a criminal negligence causing bodily harm, the penalties are increased.
Dangerous driving
Failing to exercise reasonable care in the operation of a motor vehicle is an offence.
Failure to stop at scene of collision

If you’re involved in a collision with a person, vehicle or cattle in the charge of a
person, you must give your name, address, driver’s licence number and insurance
information to any other involved people and assist any injured people.
Drive while disqualified

If you drive while you’re disqualified, you could face additional charges, vehicle
impoundment, and other financial consequences. It’s an offence under the Criminal
Code to drive while disqualified.
Arrest
You may be arrested if you:
• operate an unregistered vehicle
• drive without a driver’s licence
• fail to stop when signalled by police
• drive without care and attention or without reasonable consideration for others
• tamper with a vehicle
• fail to provide information when requested by police
• commit Criminal Code offences
You may be arrested if the police have reason to believe you will not appear in court to
answer your summons.
Licence disqualifications
If you’re convicted of any of the offences One conviction 1 year
discussed in this section, your licence will be Two convictions 3 years
automatically cancelled and you will be disqualified Three convictions 5 years
from driving. The period of disqualification will be
based on the number of Criminal Code convictions
you have had in the last 10 years.
In addition to these automatic provincial disqualifications, the court may issue an order
prohibiting you from operating a motor vehicle on any street, road, highway or other
public place anywhere in Canada for a period of time. You will not be allowed issue of
a full unrestricted driver’s licence until the expiration of the longer period, whether it is
the automatic disqualification or the court order.
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Reinstatement of driving privileges
If you’re convicted of a criminal offence you may be eligible for early reinstatement of
your driving privileges. Options for early reinstatement may include:
• Ignition interlock special restricted driver’s licence
• Special restricted driver’s licence
These options are issued on the provision that you have a zero tolerance for drugs
and alcohol while driving. This means no detectable amount of alcohol or drugs in
your system.
Ignition interlock special restricted driver’s licence

The Ignition Interlock program is a remedial program for drivers who have received
impaired driving suspensions or convictions. An ignition interlock device prevents
you from operating a vehicle if you have alcohol in your body. A device is installed in
the vehicle that is connected to the vehicle’s ignition that checks for the presence
of alcohol in the driver. The driver must blow into the machine to start the car, and
continue to periodically blow into the device to keep the car in motion. If the device
senses alcohol, the car will not start. If while in motion the device senses alcohol the
horn will start honking and headlights will flash to draw attention to the vehicle. These
cannot be stopped until the vehicle is turned off.
The ignition interlock special restricted licence is mandatory for the following:
• Your conviction was for impaired driving, driving while equal to or over the legal limit for
alcohol or a combination of alcohol and drugs, or for failing to comply with a demand.
• You received a third roadside suspension within the last 10 years and it’s alcohol-
related. (Note: If you received your first two roadside licence suspensions as a new
driver, those count towards the number of offences as an experienced driver.)
The ignition interlock special restricted licence is voluntary for the following:
• You received a second roadside licence suspension as a new driver within the last
10 years.
• You received an indefinite roadside administrative suspension for an alcohol-related
Criminal Code offence and you’ve served at least 90 days of your suspension.
The device must remain in the vehicle until the ignition interlock suspension period
ends. You cannot wait out your suspension period.
Eligibility and program duration

The Ignition Interlock program is mandatory for certain impaired driving offences, the
length of the mandatory term depends on how many prior offences the driver has in
the past 10 years, and the type of impaired driving offence.
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8.2 The Criminal Code of Canada • 8.3 Traffic tickets
You’re not eligible for early reinstatement of your driving privileges by installing an
ignition interlock device if you’ve been declared ineligible by a judge, your conviction
is not alcohol-related, or because you’ve been convicted under the Criminal Code of
Canada for any impaired driving offence causing bodily injury or death.
Special restricted driver’s licence

A restricted driver’s licence limits when and where you can drive. You may be granted
a restricted licence if you demonstrate that:
• the licence suspension would cause you exceptional hardship
• allowing for a restricted licence would not be contrary to public interest
You’re eligible to apply to the Highway Traffic Board for a special restricted licence if
the following applies to you:
• Your conviction is non-alcohol/drug related and you have served the entire court-
ordered prohibition period and completed the required educational program.
• Your conviction is alcohol/drug related and you have completed the required
educational program and your mandatory ignition interlock term, and still must serve
the provincial suspension.
• You paid the $75 reinstatement fee.
8.3 Traffic tickets

When the police charge you with a violation, they’ll issue a ticket indicating the
offence you committed as well as the date, time and location. The ticket will also
indicate where and when you are to appear in court. Some tickets, including those for
stunting, racing and driving at excessive speeds, will result in an immediate roadside
suspension.
For some less serious offences, the ticket will indicate the amount of the fine you must
pay. If you choose to plead guilty, you may pay your fine voluntarily through the mail or
online, if available.
You must appear in court to enter a not guilty plea. You’ll then have a trial date set.
You may want to consult a lawyer before entering a plea.
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8.4 Driver Improvement Program
8
8.4 Driver Improvement Program
The Driver Improvement Program monitors the driving records of all Saskatchewan
drivers. The program aims to make Saskatchewan roads safer for everyone by
reducing the incidence of high-risk behaviours by motorists.
Impaired driving is one example of high-risk driving, but many motorists endanger
the lives of others through behaviours that frequently cause motor vehicle collisions,
including speeding, running red lights and stunting.
Under this program, drivers are assigned points every time they are convicted of a
traffic offence or have an at-fault collision. Drivers who reach their maximum threshold
of points are sent a warning letter to advise that tougher sanctions will follow should
their driving record continue to deteriorate.
Drivers who continue their high-risk behaviour face consequences that include fines,
driver’s licence re-testing, driver’s licence suspensions of up to six months and
completion of a driver improvement training program.
For more information on the Driver Improvement Program, call 1-844-TLK-2SGI
(1-844-855-2744).
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8.5 Safe Driver Recognition

The Safe Driver Recognition (SDR) program rewards safe drivers with a discount on
their vehicle insurance.
If you own or lease a vehicle registered in Class LV, PV or F (one ton model or
smaller), you may be eligible to receive a discount on your vehicle insurance premium.
That discount will apply to every qualifying vehicle you insure.
On the other hand, the program also ensures drivers who demonstrate risky behaviour
pay their share in financial penalties - helping offset the costs of the discount for safe
drivers.
Safety Rating Scale
Penalty Zone Neutral Safety Zone
Good Drivers Great Drivers Safest Drivers

Penalty per
Points incident Points Discount Points Discount Points Discount Points Discount
-1 $50 0 0% 1 2% 11
21 21%
-2 $100 2 4% 12
-3 $150 3 6% 13
22 22%
-4 $200 4 8% 14
-5 $250 5 10% 15
Base 20% 23 23%
-6 $300 insurance 6 12% 16
-7 $350 premium 7 14% 17
24 24%
-8 $400 8 16% 18
-9 $450 9 18% 19
25 25%
-10 $500 10 20% 20
Add $50 for every additional
Penalty Zone point to a As long as your rating is zero or higher you will not pay a penalty.
maximum of $1,000.*
*Some Criminal Code convictions result in penalties up to $2,500.
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How it works
The Safety Zone – Discounts
For every year since 1995 that you have driven without an incident, you earn a safety
point. Each point in the Safety Zone corresponds to a discount on your vehicle plate
insurance, to a maximum of 25%.
Even if you don’t own a vehicle, a positive rating in the Safety Zone is beneficial to
you. It protects all safe drivers from financial penalties if they are involved in future
incidents.
You only receive a financial penalty for an incident if it causes you to lose enough
points to move you to the Penalty Zone on the scale. As long as you remain in the
Safety Zone, you continue to receive some level of discount.
You’re eligible for a Safe Driver Recognition discount on your registered motorcycle
plates, if you get:
• To the Novice 2 stage of the Motorcycle Graduated Driver Licensing program and
take an SGI -approved motorcycle training course, or
• Your full M Endorsement.
3 discount zones
• Good Drivers Zone (+1 to +10) - If you’re in the Good Drivers Zone, you have
earned enough safety rating points to receive a discount on your basic vehicle
insurance. For each year you drive incident-free, you earn a safety rating point that
gives you 2% off your basic vehicle insurance.
• Great Drivers Zone (+11 to +20) - If you’re in the Great Drivers Zone, you have
earned enough safety rating points to receive a 20% discount on your basic vehicle
insurance, plus you have earned a cushion to shield you from losing some or all of
your discount if you cause a collision or get traffic convictions in the future.
• Safest Drivers Zone (+21 to +25) - If you’re in the Safest Drivers Zone, you have
driven incident-free for more than 20 years. You earn an extra 1% discount for each
additional year you drive incident-free up to a maximum discount of 25%.
The Penalty Zone – Financial penalties

Drivers lose points for unsafe driving - such as being at fault for a collision or certain
traffic convictions and roadside suspensions. Driving disqualifications automatically
move drivers to -20 or lower, regardless of where they were on the scale prior.
Financial penalties are assessed for incidents that result in a safety rating below zero.
• You’re assessed a financial penalty of $50 for each point you move in the Penalty
Zone (capped at a maximum penalty of $1,000).
• The further an incident moves you into the Penalty Zone, the more you pay for that
incident. The maximum penalty noted above applies to most incidents, with the
exception of certain Criminal Code convictions. The maximum penalty for a Criminal
Code conviction is $2,500, which is for offences that result in bodily injury or death.
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Motorists are assessed the penalty immediately and have 90 days to pay the charge.
These penalties are in addition to fines handed out by law enforcement for traffic
convictions.
Moving out of the Penalty Zone

Each year of incident-free driving moves you one point back towards the Safety
Zone. As long as you are moving towards the Safety Zone, you don’t pay another
financial penalty - you pay only your basic vehicle insurance premium. In other words,
you don’t pay your way out of the Penalty Zone - you drive your way out of the
Penalty Zone through safe driving.
After three consecutive years of safe driving, drivers still remaining in the Penalty
Zone automatically move out of the Penalty Zone and return to neutral (the starting
point), and can begin to earn points towards a discount again.
For further information visit www.sgi.sk.ca or see SGI’s Safe Driver Recognition
brochure.
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Fuel-efficient driving techniques

Safety should be your number one concern every time you get behind the wheel of
a vehicle. The good news is that practising fuel-efficient driving techniques not only
improves road safety, it also reduces fuel consumption and cuts exhaust emissions
that contribute to climate change and urban smog. Depending on your driving habits
and how often you drive, these basic techniques and useful tips could save you
hundreds of dollars a year in fuel and maintenance costs:
• It’s both safer and more fuel efficient to maintain a steady speed on a road.
Accelerate smoothly when passing or merging with faster traffic and avoid hard
braking. European tests have shown that aggressive driving, including frequent rapid
acceleration and hard braking, can increase fuel consumption by approximately
40%.
• Drive at the posted speed limit. Lowering your highway cruising speed from
120 km/h to 100 km/h will reduce fuel consumption by up to 20%.
• Plan your trips to combine errands and to avoid traffic jams, steep hills, road
construction, etc. Combining a number of short trips into one longer one allows your
engine and drivetrain to reach peak operating temperature, which is not possible on
trips of less than 5 km. Avoiding trouble spots shortens your travel time and reduces
unnecessary idling.
• If you are driving a vehicle with a manual transmission, learn how to use it properly
for maximum fuel savings. A tachometer can help you shift the transmission at the
most fuel-efficient engine speeds (the owner’s manual will indicate these speeds).
• If you have cruise control, use it for highway driving to maintain a constant speed.
The exception is on hilly terrain, where it’s a good idea to allow the vehicle’s speed
to drop slightly going uphill and then let gravity help you build up speed again (to a
safe level) going down the other side.
• In summer, minimize your use of air conditioning. Operating an air conditioner in
hot weather can increase fuel consumption by more than 20% in city driving.
A more fuel-efficient option for staying cool is to open a window. However, at
highway speeds, use your car’s flow-through ventilation – open windows and
sunroofs increase aerodynamic drag, which makes the engine work harder and
consume more fuel. If you must use your vehicle’s air conditioning, avoid running
it continuously. Shut it off after the interior is cool or set the controls to a comfort
level that allows the system to cycle.
• Check tire pressure at least once a month when the tires are cold (i.e., the vehicle
has been stationary for at least three hours or has not been driven more than 2 km).
If you have to drive more than 2 km to add air, check the tires before you leave and
then add the amount of air that is missing from this reading. Inflate the tires to the
recommended pressure, usually indicated on the car door, glove compartment or
in the owner’s manual. With proper tire inflation, your car will burn less fuel and
be safer to drive. A vehicle with tires that are under-inflated by a total of 10 psi
increases fuel consumption by 5%.
163
• Use a block heater in the winter to warm the engine oil and make cold starts easier
on your engine components. Your vehicle’s oil doesn’t freeze when the temperature
dips below 0˚C, but it does get much thicker. This means your engine has to work
harder and use more fuel. Use a timer to switch the block heater on two hours
before you plan to drive. Proper use of a block heater can improve your vehicle’s
overall fuel economy by as much as 10%. Still, don’t leave your block heater on
overnight or your energy savings will disappear in a higher electricity bill.
• Follow the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended operating procedures and
maintenance schedule in your owner’s manual. Regular maintenance such as oil and
filter changes will not only prevent early degeneration of your vehicle’s components,
it will also keep them operating at their most fuel-efficient level. A clogged air
filter can increase fuel consumption by up to 10%. Regular maintenance will keep
your vehicle operating safely, save you money and, at the same time, help the
environment.
• Remote car starters are handy on cold winter mornings, but don’t start your car
too soon. In most driving conditions, today’s modern engines need less warm-up
time even on cold mornings. Also, allowing your car to idle too long wastes gas and
produces unnecessary exhaust emissions.
• Idling for more than 10 seconds, except in traffic, wastes more fuel than stopping
your engine and restarting again. At the end of the day, stopping unnecessary idling
will benefit the environment and save you money.
164
Index
Index
A
Accelerating. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
Accelerator sticking. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132
Aggressive driving. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140
Airbags. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
Alcohol. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142
Angle parking. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109
Animals on the road. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132
Arrest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 156
Automatic transmission vehicles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104
B
Backing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105
Back-up cameras . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
Steering techniques . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106
Before you drive. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
Design components for safety. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
Seating position. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
Vehicle familiarization. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
Bicycles
Lanes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Sharing the road with . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Blind spots. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Blow-outs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131
Braking. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124
Brake failure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131
Combined braking and steering. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128
Emergency braking techniques . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126
Four-wheel lock braking. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125
Power steering or power brake failure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132
Threshold braking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125
Bus lanes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
C
Cellphones. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23, 141
Centre turning lanes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Change of name or address. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Changing lanes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Child restraints. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
Cigarette smoke . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141
Classified licence system. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Closing time of two vehicles. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116
Clutch. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
Neutral/clutch. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
Neutral/declutch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128
Collisions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134
Call the police. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135
Check all injuries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135
Check for witnesses. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136
Dangerous goods. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136
Exchange information with other drivers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137
Failure to stop at scene of collision. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 156
166
Index
Preventing potential collisions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94

Protect the scene . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135
Report to SGI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137
Take photographs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136
What to do if you are in a collision. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135
When to provide a report to police . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136
Concept of gates. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Construction signs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
Controlled access highways. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Corners. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118
Coverage for multiple-vehicle losses. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Coverage for specific single-vehicle losses. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Criminal Code of Canada. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 154
Arrest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 156
Criminal negligence. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 156
Dangerous driving. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 156
Driving while disqualified . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 156
Ignition interlock special restricted driver’s licence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 157
Impaired driving offences. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 154
Licence disqualifications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 156
Refusal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 154
Reinstatement of driving privileges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 157
Special restricted driver’s licence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 158
Criminal negligence. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 156
Crossing - railway. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
Crossing urban streets. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Crossroad delineators. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
Cruise control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113
Curves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118
D
Dangerous driving. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 156
Dense traffic. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
Design components for safety. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
Directional dividing lines. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Ditches. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130
Diverging Diamond Interchange. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Drinking, drugs and driving. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142
Impaired driving consequences. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 155
Refusal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 154
Driver distraction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Driver education. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Driver Improvement Program. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 159
Driver’s licence. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Change of name or address. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Classified licence system. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Driver Improvement Program. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 159
Fake ID. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Mandatory driver education . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Medical requirements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Producing driver’s licence and registration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150
167
Index
Reinstatement. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 157
Roadside suspensions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 151
Drugs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 145
Illegal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 147
Prescription and over-the-counter drugs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 145
Dust. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140
E
Electric kick scooters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Emergencies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126
Accelerator sticking. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132
Animals on the road. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132
Blow-outs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131
Brake failure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131
Ditches. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130
Drifting onto a soft shoulder. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130
Emergency braking techniques . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126
Emergency steering techniques. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126
Headlight failure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132
Search patterns. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
Skidding. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128
Where to look. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126
While on the freeway. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113
Emergency vehicles - sharing the road with. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
E-scooters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Eye use. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88
Checking your gates in urban areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
Checking your gates on highways. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
Checking your instruments in urban areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
Checking your instruments on highways. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92
Driving in dense traffic. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
Filling in the gap in urban areas. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
Filling in the gap on highways . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
Looking up in urban areas. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92
Looking up on highways. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
Referencing down in urban areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92
Referencing down on highways. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
Search patterns at night. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
Search patterns in emergencies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
Search patterns in urban areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92
Search patterns on highways and rural roads. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
Steer where you look. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88
Sweeping highways with your eyes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
Sweeping with your eyes in urban areas. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
F
Fake ID. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Farm equipment - sharing the road with. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Fatigue. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139
Filling in the gap
Highways. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
Urban areas. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
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Fines. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 152
Fog . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140
Following distance - estimating. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
Freeways
Emergencies on the freeway . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114
Entering a freeway. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113
If you miss an exit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114
Leaving a freeway . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114
Restricted access freeways. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113
Funeral processions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
G
Gates
Checking your gates in urban areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
Checking your gates on highways. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
The concept of gates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Golf carts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Graduated Driver Licensing Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Gravel roads. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119
Grid roads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119
Guide signs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
H
Hand over hand. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102
Hand positions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101
Hand-to-hand. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102
Hazards. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
Headlights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Failure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132
Heavy traffic. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
Highway driving. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112
Highways
Checking your gates. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
Checking your instruments. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92
Controlled access highways. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Cruise control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113
Divided highways. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Driving to the left of centre. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Emergencies on the freeway . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114
Entering a freeway. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113
Filling in the gap. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
If you miss an exit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114
Leaving a freeway . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114
Looking up on highways. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
One-way highways. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Restricted access freeways. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113
Search patterns. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
Sweeping with your eyes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
Hill parking. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110
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I
Ice and slippery surfaces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121
How to stop on slippery surfaces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123
Skidding. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128
ID Requirements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Ignition interlock special restricted driver’s licence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 157
Illegal drugs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 147
Illness. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139
Impairing factors
Aggressive driving. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140
Cellphones. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23, 141
Cigarette smoke . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141
Drinking, drugs and driving. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142
Fatigue. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139
Fog, dust, heavy rain and poor visibility. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140
Illegal drugs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 147
Impaired driving. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 151
Personal stress and illness. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139
Prescription and over-the-counter drugs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 145
Students Against Drinking and Driving (SADD). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 149
Information signs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
Instruments
Checking in urban areas. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
Checking on highways. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92
Insurance
Auto insurance in Saskatchewan. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Extended Auto Insurance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Intersections
Centre turning lanes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Highway. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Left turns . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Parking lots. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
Right of way. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Right turns. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Stopping positions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50, 51
IPDE method of driving. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
Decide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82
Execute. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82
Identify . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
Predict . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
J
Jaywalkers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
K
Knowledge tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
L
Lanes
Bicycle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Bus. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Centre turning. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Changing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Designation signs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Lane position. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
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Lane selection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Passing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Laws
Arrest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 156
Complying with the law when driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150
Criminal Code of Canada. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 154
Criminal negligence. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 156
Dangerous driving. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 156
Driver Improvement Program. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 159
Enforcement. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150
Impaired driving offences. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 154
Impoundment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150
Rules related to vehicles. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Stopping when signalled by police. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150
Traffic tickets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 158
Unsafe vehicles. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150
Left turns. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Licence plates. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Insurance coverage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Your vehicle deductible. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Failure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132
Looking up
Highways. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
Urban areas. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92
Low speed skills . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104
Backing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105
Low speed manoeuvreing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104
Steering techniques for backing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106
Low visibility and night driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
M
Mandatory driver education . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Medians . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Medical requirements for driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Medical scooters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Merging. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113
Mirror adjustment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100
Motorcycles. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Sharing the road with . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Motorized wheelchairs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Mountains. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119
Municipal roads. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119
N
Negligence - criminal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 156
Neutral
Neutral/clutch. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
Night driving. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
171
Index
Low visibility. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
Search patterns. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
No Fault Coverage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
No-zones . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
O
One-way highways . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
One-way street . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Operating in the United States. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Over-the-counter drugs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 145
Overwidth vehicles - sharing the road with. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
P
Parallel parking. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107
Parking. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107
Angle parking. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109
Back-up cameras . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
Parallel parking. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107
Parking on a hill. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110
Signs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Parking lots. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
Passing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36, 37, 115
Being passed. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117
Estimation of safe passing time. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115
Estimation of the closing time of two vehicles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116
Lanes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
The actual passing judgment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117
The safe/unsafe judgment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116
Pedestrian crossing signs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Pedestrians. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Personal Auto Injury Insurance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
No Fault Coverage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Tort Coverage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Phones - cellphones. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23, 141
Potential hazards. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
Power lines. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136
Power steering or power brake failure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132
Prescription drugs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 145
R
Railway crossings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
Rain. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140
Real hazards. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
Reduced conflict intersection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Referencing down
Highways. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
Urban areas. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92
Registration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Regulatory signs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62, 64
Reinstatement of licence. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 157
Report to SGI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137
Resource access roads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119
Restricted access freeways. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113
Restricted Crossing U-Turn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
172
Index
Restricted driver’s licence. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 158

Right of way. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Construction or maintenance vehicles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Controlled intersections. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Uncontrolled intersections. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Zipper merge. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Right turns. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Roadside suspensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 151
Road test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
A road test will be rescheduled if. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Before the examination. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Preparing for your road test. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
You will fail the road test if you. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Roundabouts
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Rules related to vehicles. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Rural roads - search patterns. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
S
SADD. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 149
Safe Driver Recognition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 160
Safe passing time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115
Safety
Design components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
Unsafe vehicles. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150
Safe/unsafe judgment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116
School buses - sharing the road with. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Search patterns
Emergencies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
Highways and rural roads. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
Night. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
Urban areas. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92
Seatbelts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
Seating position. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
Seizure of vehicles. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150
Shared bicycle lanes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Sharing the road . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
with bicycles. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
with emergency vehicles. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
with E-scooters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
with farm equipment and overwidth vehicles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
with funeral processions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
with large trucks. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
with motorcycles. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
with school buses. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
with snowmobiles, ATVs and golf carts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
with snow plows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
with tow trucks. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Shifting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
Shoulder - drifting onto. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130
Signalling. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Signals - traffic. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
Signs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Construction signs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
Crossroad delineators. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
Guide signs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
173
Index
Information signs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
Lane designation signs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Parking signs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Pedestrian crossing signs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Railway crossings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
Regulatory signs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62, 64
Six basic sign shapes every driver must know. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Standard sign colours. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
Turn control signs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Warning signs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
Slippery surfaces. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121
Skidding. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128
Smoke - cigarette . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141
Snowfalls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123
Snowmobiles - sharing the road with . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Snow plows - sharing the road with . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Speed. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Choosing the right speed. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
Standard (manual) transmission vehicles. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
Steering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101
Backing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105
Emergency steering techniques. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126
Hand over hand. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102
Hand positions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101
Steer where you look. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88
Stopping and parking. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Stopping positions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Stress. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139
Students Against Drinking and Driving (SADD). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 149
Survival - winter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124
Sweeping with your eyes
Highways. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
Urban areas. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
T
Tests
Knowledge. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Road. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Vision . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Tickets. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 158
Time
BAC and time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 144
The key to judgment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
Using time to estimate your following distance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
Tire blow-outs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131
Tort Coverage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Tow trucks - sharing the road with. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Traffic lanes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Traffic Safety Act. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150
Arrest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 156
Enforcement. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150
Impoundment of vehicles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150
174
Index

Stopping when signalled by police. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150
Unsafe vehicles. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150
Traffic signals. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
Traffic signs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Construction signs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
Crossroad delineators. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
Guide signs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
Information signs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
Lane designation signs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Parking signs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Pedestrian crossing signs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Railway crossings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
Regulatory signs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62, 64
Six basic sign shapes every driver must know. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Standard sign colours. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
Turn control signs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Warning signs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
Traffic tickets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 158
Train crossings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
Trucks - sharing the road with . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Turning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Centre turning lanes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Control signs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Corners. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118
Left turns . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Right turns. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Two-point turns . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111
U-turns. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110
Turn signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Two-point turns . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111
U
Unsafe vehicles. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150
Urban streets
Checking your gates. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
Checking your instruments. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
Crossing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Filling in the gap. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
Looking up. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92
Referencing down. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92
Search patterns. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92
Sweeping with your eyes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
U-turns. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110
V
Vehicle
Coverage for multiple-vehicle losses. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Coverage for specific single-vehicle losses. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Familiarization. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
Impoundment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150
Personal Auto Injury Insurance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Registration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Rules related to. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Unsafe vehicles. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150
Vehicle registration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
175
Index
Visibility
Night driving and low visibility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
Poor visibility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140
Vision test. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
W
Warning signs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
Wheelchairs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Whiteouts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123
Wildlife (see “Animals on the road”). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132
Winter driving. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120
Driving on slippery surfaces. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121
First snowfalls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123
How to get moving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123
Preparing to see and to be seen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121
Preparing your vehicle. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120
Survival. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124
Temptations to resist. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123
Whiteouts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123
Work zone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22, 73
Z
Zipper merge. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
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Drivers Handbook

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Copyright:

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Drivers Handbook

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2023-24 Saskatchewan

* Google Translate is a third-party tool, and is not owned or administered by

2. SASKATCHEWAN’S DRIVER’S LICENCE PROGRAM. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

3. BASIC INFORMATION AND RULES OF THE ROAD. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Sharing the road with school buses. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

4. TRAFFIC SIGNS AND SIGNALS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

5. BASIC DRIVING SKILLS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80

6. ADVANCED DRIVING SKILLS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107

Four-wheel lock braking. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125

7. DRINKING, DRUGS AND DRIVING. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142

8. COMPLYING WITH THE LAW WHEN DRIVING. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150

2. Saskatchewan’s driver’s licence program

2.1 Driver’s licence

The driver’s licence shown

Restrictions and endorsements

How auto insurance works in Saskatchewan

Licence plate insurance coverage

Coverage for specific single-vehicle losses

Coverage for multiple-vehicle losses

Personal Auto Injury Insurance

Extended Auto Insurance

Steps in the Graduated Driver Licensing program

Graduated Driver Licensing program

Class 7 – Learner Class 5 – Novice 1 Class 5 – Novice 2

licence suspension) licence suspension); and

YOU HAVE GRADUATED TO AN EXPERIENCED LICENCE!

supervising driver) must be

2.4 Change of name or address

2.5 Classified licence system

Licence Class 2 – minimum age: 18

Licence Class 4 – minimum age: 18

Licence Class 5 – minimum age: 16

Does not permit the licence holder to operate

Licence Class 5 and 7:

2.6 Medical requirements

2.7 Operating in the United States

2.8 Mandatory driver education

2.10 Before the examination

2.11 Your test

3.1 Speeding, stunting and racing

3.2 Distracted driving

3.3 Stopping and parking

3.4 Sharing the road

Sharing the road with large trucks

Sharing the road with snow plows

Sharing the road with snowmobiles, ATVs

Sharing the road with farm equipment and

Sharing the road with school buses

Sharing the road with motorcycles

New motorcyclists are required to display a

Sharing the road with bicycles

Sharing the road with e-scooters

Sharing the road with tow trucks

Sharing the road with funeral processions

3.6 Blind spots

Vehicle A may pass if the road is clear ahead and behind.

Vehicle A must not pass or make a left turn between intersections.

3.8 Traffic lanes

3.9 Lane position

* Google Translate is a third-party tool, and is not owned or administered by

2. SASKATCHEWAN’S DRIVER’S LICENCE PROGRAM. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

2. Saskatchewan’s driver’s licence program

*This is a general representation

* The fine for speeding