Safe driving on our highways and winter roads

Driving on winter and ice roads in the NWT comes with unique challenges and safety considerations. These roads are crucial lifelines for community resupply, so expect increased truck traffic this season, especially on the Mackenzie Valley Winter Road.

To prepare for a higher volume of traffic on these seasonal roads, the Government of the Northwest Territories will be investing in increased maintenance and improvements to make sure these roads remain safe and in good driving condition throughout the season. The Mackenzie Valley Winter Road will also be widened where possible, signage will be added, and highway patrols will be increased to ensure driver safety.

This year, there will be a significant increase in large truck traffic moving fuel and cargo to the Sahtu Region, making safe driving practices more important than ever. 
 

A reminder to all winter and ice road drivers: 

• Check road and weather conditions: DriveNWT.ca
• Share your travel plans with someone, including route and arrival time. 
• Pack a winter survival kit with essentials: extra fuel, spare tire, warm clothes, blankets, water and food. 
• Follow speed limits, adjusting for snow, ice, and visibility. 
• Keep a safe distance (at least four seconds) from other vehicles, giving extra room to large trucks. 
• Always yield to oncoming traffic and give space to large trucks.
• Pass only when it's safe and use headlights for visibility. 
• Avoid distractions and never drive impaired. 
• Have a LADD 1 radio if traveling on the Mackenzie Valley Winter Road.

Commercial drivers should also:

• Always check the weight restrictions before travelling
• Have a LADD 1 radio channel and call out their direction of travel on bridges and major hills (specifically on the Mackenzie Valley Winter Road)

In Case of Emergency:

• Call 9-1-1 for police or medical assistance but remember cell service is limited or non-existent along some sections of NWT highways and winter roads.

• Stay with your vehicle for shelter and visibility to rescuers.  
• Run your engine sparingly and keep the exhaust pipe clear. 
• Move around to stay warm if stranded overnight. 

Related links:

• Highway Conditions Map – Drive NWT
• Winter Driving tips
• Northwest Territories Highway Traffic Report 2023
• NWT Traffic Collision Facts 2023

For media requests, please contact:
Department of Infrastructure
Government of the Northwest Territories
INF_Communications@gov.nt.ca