Manitoba drivers are facing new legal requirements on the road as changes to the Highway Traffic Act came into force Jan. 1, introducing stricter rules around snowplows, cyclists and roadside workers.
The amendments, passed under the Highway Traffic Amendment Act (Traffic Safety Measures), are aimed at improving safety for highway workers and vulnerable road users, according to Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Lisa Naylor.
Under the new rules, motorists approaching or following winter maintenance vehicles with blue warning lights activated must maintain a minimum distance of 30 metres on roads with speed limits of 80 km/h or less. On roads with speed limits above 80 km/h, drivers must stay back at least 100 metres.
Drivers are also prohibited from passing snowplows if visibility ahead is obstructed or if passing could interfere with the vehicle or its work.
Police will enforce the new traffic safety measures on both urban and rural roadways, a provincial spokesperson said. Drivers who fail to comply may face fines of $298 and will have two demerit points assessed on their licence.
The required distances are intended to be measured from the rear of a snowplow or other winter maintenance vehicle. The spokesperson said the inclusion of specific distances in the legislation is meant to provide clear, objective guidance for both drivers and enforcement officers.
The legislation also establishes a mandatory minimum passing distance for cyclists. Drivers must now leave at least one metre of space when overtaking a cyclist, aligning Manitoba with similar rules already in place in provinces such as British Columbia and Ontario.
Additional changes affect tow truck and roadside assistance operators, who are now permitted to place cones and signage to create a safety zone while working in traffic. The measures are intended to alert drivers and help divert traffic away from active roadside work areas.
“When winter storms hit, we know how dangerous Manitoba’s highways can be,” said Kyle Ross, president of the Manitoba Government and General Employees’ Union, in a statement. He said the changes recognize the risks faced by highway workers and provide added protection while they carry out their duties.
The province said the amendments were developed following consultations with industry representatives, law enforcement, municipalities and advocacy groups. No new speed limits were introduced as part of the changes.
Tow truck and roadside assistance operators are encouraged to review the province’s Work Zone Traffic Manual for guidance on placing signs and cones on roadways.
Manitoba Transportation and Infrastructure said it will review the effectiveness of the changes through ticketing data and ongoing consultation with key groups, including law enforcement agencies.
