With the opening of Northwest Territories’ (NWT) winter roads, truck traffic on NWT highways is higher at this time of year. The Government of Northwest Territories (GNWT) reminds residents and commercial drivers to drive safely. 

As cellular coverage is limited along some sections of NWT highways, drivers are encouraged to plan their route in advance and keep someone informed of their travel plans, especially when travelling between communities or far distances. It is recommended that drivers check the weather forecast as well as NWT’s Highway Conditions map, which is updated regularly by the Department of Infrastructure.

Drivers are reminded to use traffic pull-outs to stop whenever possible. If you must pull over on an NWT highway, select a straight, flat stretch of road with good visibility in both directions, and use hazard lights to ensure you are visible to other vehicles. Drivers and passengers are strongly encouraged to stay in their vehicle, as drivers may not be able to see them – particularly in the dark. Drivers should slow down when passing stopped vehicles.

Drive alert, always scanning for potential hazards. Drivers should adjust their speed to the road and weather conditions and never exceed the posted speed limit. In poor conditions, drivers should leave at least four seconds of space between their vehicle and the vehicle ahead, always giving larger vehicles like trucks and buses more space. Drivers are reminded to only pass a vehicle when permitted, keeping a safe following distance behind the vehicle they intend to pass.

It is strongly encouraged that drivers carry a winter survival kit in their vehicles, equipped with essential supplies that will keep them safe if an emergency situation arises. Items to consider for a survival kit:

• Two-way radio or satellite phone 
• Sand or other traction aid
• Tow rope and booster cables
• Road flares or warning light
• Reflective clothing
• Gas line antifreeze
• Headlamp or flashlight and extra batteries
• Lighter and matches
• First aid kit and fire extinguisher
• Non-perishable energy foods
• Winter-rated sleeping bag or blanket
• Ice scraper/snow brush/shovel/axe

As NWT winters are accompanied by extreme cold temperatures and snowy/icy conditions, it’s important that residents adapt to conditions and maintain their vehicles. For information on vehicle maintenance and safe winter driving practices, click here.

We remind residents that it is an offence under the Criminal Code to drive a motor vehicle, vessel, aircraft, snowmobile, or all-terrain vehicle while impaired by drugs, alcohol, or a combination of both.

Links

Northwest Territories Highway Traffic Report 2019
Annual Report of Registrar of Motor Vehicles 2019/2020
NWT Traffic Collision Facts 2019
Transportation of Dangerous Goods 2020
Highway Conditions map

Media Requests, please contact:

Public Affairs and Communications
Department of Infrastructure
Government of the Northwest Territories
INF_Communications@gov.nt.ca