Driving Tips > Safety Columns
Crossing a slippery bridge when you come to it.
You don’t drive far in Manitoba without crossing a bridge or an overpass. With winter weather nearly upon us, they can be especially slippery, even when the approaching road is dry and clear.
Because bridges and overpasses don’t sit on the ground, they don’t benefit from any warmth radiating from it. So they tend to freeze before the roads do.
Underpasses can also have slippery sections, because the structure above blankets them in shade and lowers the temperature.
Here’s how to avoid sliding:
- As you approach a bridge or overpass, slow down.
- Leave extra room between your vehicle and the vehicle ahead.
- Watch for other drivers sliding or skidding – it’s a warning to take extra care.
- Change lanes gradually – avoid sharp turns.
Remember, bridges are often narrow, so you’ll have little margin for error if you skid.
For more information, watch The 60-Second Driver on CTV, or visit the following sections on this website:
- Driving on bridges requires care in Driving Tips
- Skidding in Driving Tips
- Braking on Wet Roads in Driving Tips
