Driving in Canada
A very clean and tidy road system means there are not too many worries about potholes or blind corners. All the crossings have signposts and the highway markers are usually quite clear. Europeans will probably find driving in Canada much less stressful than back home, with much larger and wider roadways.
There is certainly no shortage of service stations either. On the main highways, there are usually signs indicating how many kilometres it will be before the next service station so that can take the guesswork out of your rest stops.
Even on secondary highways, there shouldn’t be any problems finding local service stations, shops or restaurants. The only concern here is that they are most likely not 24 hours, so make sure you don’t get caught out in the middle of nowhere too long after dark.
Due to the considerable lengths of Canadian roads, it is recommended that you stop every few hours and limit your driving to no more than 350 miles (600 kms) a day. If you’re going to be doing a serious trip, it is always best to have a few drivers as driving can be very tiring and accidents can occur when you’re not fully alert.
At 5,000 miles in length, the Trans-Canada Highway is probably the most well-known route and is the longest highway in the world. Traveling this expanse is a journey in itself. The second largest highway in Canada is the Yellowhead Highway, which is almost as long and extends to the Pacific Coast here in British Columbia.
When choosing a vehicle, it’s best to rent a mid-size car at least. You will be in that car for a good portion of your day while on the road, so you’d better be comfortable. Another consideration for the long journeys is fuel economy, so be sure to take this into consideration when making your vehicle decision.
To rent a car, you”ll need only your license from home. Canada does not require an international driver’s license; it recognizes the individual permits from all countries. Inside the car, all passengers are required by law to wear seat belts while driving and all children must be in a safety seat. Should you wish information on provincial traffic laws, please contact the Department of Transport. AAA members are covered by the CAA while traveling in Canada. Be sure to carry proof of your car insurance.
Canadian police are very serious about driving under the influence and the penalties are not worth getting caught for. The legal alcohol limit is 0.8mg/ml and they do conduct check stops where they choose a place on the highway and stop all passing vehicles for breathalyzer tests. Roads are very windy in the Okanagan Valley and drivers always need to be on the alert.
Winter travel can be dangerous due to heavy snowfalls that make road conditions difficult. Holiday periods can also be dangerous because of increased traffic. Travelers should be cautious of deer, elk and moose when around the Vernon area. All forms of public transportation in British Columbia are generally excellent. Again, please remember: speed limits are posted in Kilometres Per Hour.
Safe Travels!