
On Jan. 9, an overweight truck travelled north on the Fort Chipewyan Winter Road despite being well over the stated load limit of 15,000 kg.
The driver was charged and is facing fines of $6,000 in accordance with sections 12.03 and 12.04 of the Roads and Transportation Bylaw. The allegations have not yet been proven in court.
Engineers and Municipal contractors were required to do an emergency inspection of the winter road to assess if the route was still safe for vehicles to travel on. Fortunately, the ice river crossings and road were still safe for vehicles to use.
Overweight vehicles can delay winter road progress
Damage to the winter road could have delayed raising the load limit to 45,000 kg, which is necessary for deliveries of food and fuel by truck to Fort Chipewyan.
Winter road travelers and heavy vehicle drivers are reminded to obey all load limits, posted signage and always drive to conditions for the safety of everyone using the road. Drivers not following the laws can damage the winter road and will be subject to serious fines and penalties.
All updates and changes to the load limit for the Fort Chipewyan Winter Road and the La Loche Winter Trail are formally announced as well as posted on signage.
All heavy vehicles require a permit to use the winter roads
All heavy vehicles, such as fuel trucks and semi-trailers, require a Route Haul Permit to use the winter road. Find more information on permits and other important details in the Heavy Vehicle Information Package.
Important safety reminders:
- Stay on the right-hand side of the road, especially on hills
- Stop at river crossings – only one vehicle can cross at a time
- Be cautious, and always be aware of crews and equipment working on the road
- Review the Winter Road Safety Tips before travelling
Don’t miss a Winter Road update
Check the following sources for the latest information:
- Sign up for email updates at subscribe.rmwb.ca
- Winter Road Hotline (recorded message) - 866-743-6111
- Municipal website at rmwb.ca/winterroads
- RMWB Facebook and Twitter accounts
For further information or questions, please contact Pulse at 780-743-7000 or online at rmwb.ca/pulse.
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