Driving Tips > Safety Columns
Gravel roads present driving challenges
High speed and quick manoeuvers on gravel roads are ingredients for disaster. Here are a few tips for safe travel off the pavement.
Less traction means less control
Your tires have less traction on loose gravel, so speed and cornering increase the risk. Accelerate gradually and brake slowly to avoid skidding. Swerving to avoid an object or animal on the road can lead to a skid or even a roll-over.
Prepare for skids
If you begin to skid, remain calm. Take your foot off the gas or brake, look where you want to go and steer in that direction. Resume driving at a lower speed.
Stay in the tracks
Drive in any existing tire tracks, even if there’s only one set of tracks in the centre of the road. When driving in these centre tracks, be prepared to slow and pull over to the right if you meet a vehicle travelling from the other direction.
Roll-over danger increases
If a vehicle drifts too far to the right and the right tires go off the packed surface a roll-over can result. If this happens to you, slow down gradually, without slamming on the brakes, before steering back onto the road.
Allow for more following distance
It takes longer to stop safely on a gravel road and dust can decrease visibility. Even under ideal conditions, allow at least six seconds of following distance on a gravel road. Increase your following distance if conditions are worse.
Match speed to road conditions
Under ideal conditions, the speed limit on any gravel road in Manitoba is 90 km/h unless posted otherwise. Even the best-maintained gravel roads may have rough sections and loose gravel that will require lower speeds. Reduce your speed for safety.
For more information, watch The 60-Second Driver on CTV, or visit the following sections on this website:
- Gravel Roads in Driving Tips
- Gravel Roads in Other Issues
- You can access the 60-Second video on Gravel Roads directly
