Why should you leave a little more space this winter?

OCT 13, 2026
  • Community and Advocacy
  • Driver Education

The easiest way to help prevent a winter collision is to leave more space. The recommended distance is at least three times your normal following distance on slick roads. This small gap gives you time to react and brake gently and fewer collisions means fewer repair bills and fewer claims on your record. In Alberta, the average cost of a collision claim has risen about 46.9% since 2021, so avoiding the collision in the first place matters more than ever.

This is part of our defensive driving tips series.

Why Does Leaving More Space Matter in Winter?

Posted speed limits are meant for ideal road conditions and winter roads aren’t ideal. Ice and snow mean your vehicle takes longer to stop and sudden moves can cause a skid. Extra space is your buffer: it gives you more time to see a problem, ease off and brake smoothly.

How Much Space Should I Leave?

The Government of Alberta gives these guidelines:

  • Normal conditions: At least 2 seconds behind the vehicle ahead.
  • Large vehicles (such as motor homes): At least 4 seconds.
  • Wet or slick roads: At least three times your normal following distance.
  • Snowplows: Stay well back until they let you pass.

What Does Following Too Closely Cost You?

Tailgating isn’t just risky. In Alberta, following too closely earns you 4 demerit point and careless driving carries 6 demerit points, according to the law.

There’s also the cost of a collision itself. AIRB’s Market & Trends 2026 report shows the below in Alberta:

  • The average cost of a collision claim has risen about 46.9% since 2021.
  • Collision claims are happening about 7.4% less often. In the report’s words, “fewer but more expensive claims are occurring.”
  • In 2025, the average collision claim for a non-electric vehicle was about $9,526. This is an average across all collision claims, not the cost of any single repair.

Under AIRB’s rating principles, an at-fault claim can affect your insurance premium for up to 6 years. So one rear-end collision can cost you at the repair shop and again at renewal.

What Other Winter Driving Habits Help Prevent Collisions?

Space is the star, but we recommend a few more habits which work together with it:

  • Slow down. You can be charged with a traffic offence if you don’t adjust to road conditions, even if you’re under the posted limit.
  • Brake gently. Avoid sudden braking or swerving, which can cause a spin.
  • Skip the cruise control. Don’t use it in winter conditions.
  • Don’t brake in curves. Take them at a steady, safe speed.
  • Watch the bridges. Bridge decks are often slicker than the rest of the road.
  • Clear your vehicle. Remove snow and ice from windows, mirrors, headlights, taillights and licence plates.
  • Use your headlights. Daytime running lights aren’t enough. Headlights help drivers behind you see your taillights.
  • Check conditions before you go. Dial 5-1-1 or visit 511Alberta.ca and stay off the roads during major storms unless travel is essential.

What Should I Do If I Start to Skid?

You should lift off the brake, steer where you want to go and once the wheels grip again, brake firmly and smoothly.

Conclusion

A little extra space costs you nothing. It can help you avoid a collision, a repair bill and a claim which stays on your insurance record. This winter, leave a little more room.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

How far should I stay behind another vehicle in winter? The recommended distance would be at least three times your normal following distance on wet or slick roads. In normal conditions, leave at least 2 seconds and at least 4 seconds behind large vehicles.

Is following too closely against the law in Alberta? Yes. According to the Government of Alberta, following too closely earns you 4 demerit point.

Does a collision affect my insurance premium in Alberta? An at-fault claim can affect your premium for up to 6 years under AIRB’s rating principles.

Are collision claims getting more expensive in Alberta? Yes. AIRB’s Market & Trends 2026 report shows the average cost of a collision claim has risen about 46.9% since 2021, while collision claims have become about 7.4% less frequent.

Should I use cruise control on icy roads? No. It is not recommended to use cruise control in winter conditions.

What should I do if my car starts to skid? Lift off the brake, steer where you want to go and brake firmly and smoothly once the wheels regain grip.

Where can I check road conditions in Alberta? Dial 5-1-1 or visit 511Alberta.ca