On October 6, 2023, the Minister of Transport and Sustainable Mobility in Québec issued Order 2023-24, concerning the suspension of certain requirements for drivers of road trains operating under special road train operating permits. This decision is rooted in section 633.2 of the Highway Safety Code, which allows the Minister to suspend the application of specific provisions if deemed beneficial for public interest and highway safety.

A road train, also referred to as a land train or long combination vehicle (LCV), is a type of semi-truck designed to transport road freight more efficiently than traditional single-trailer semi-trucks. It typically consists of one or more semi-trailers connected together. Road trains are characterized by their significant length and capacity, allowing them to transport larger volumes of cargo than standard trucks. This is especially beneficial in remote areas where efficient goods movement is essential. The trailers in a road train are often designed with specialized features tailored to the type of cargo they carry, such as flatbeds, tankers, or containers. Due to their size, operating road trains typically requires special permits, adhering to regulations that may impose restrictions on routes, speed, and travel times. These vehicles are commonly utilized in industries such as mining, agriculture, and freight transportation, particularly in regions with vast distances and limited infrastructure.

The Minister’s order follows a precedent set by previous orders, specifically Order 2020-16 and Order 2021-01. The former suspended restrictions on road train travel during specific holidays, while the latter temporarily lifted time restrictions on road train operations during peak hours in urban areas like Québec City and Montréal. Both of these prior orders were set to expire on October 10, 2023.

In light of the expiration, the current order aims to extend the suspension of requirements outlined in paragraphs 3 and 4 of section 9 of the Special Road Train Operating Permits Regulation. The Minister has determined that continuing this suspension serves the public interest without compromising highway safety, and consultation with the Société de l’assurance automobile du Québec has supported this assessment.

The new order takes effect on October 10, 2023, and will remain in force until July 1, 2026. This timeline allows for continued flexibility in the operation of road trains under special permits, reflecting a proactive approach to managing transportation needs while ensuring safety on the highways.

Overall, this order signifies the government’s commitment to balancing operational efficiency for road train drivers with the overarching goal of maintaining road safety standards.

Quebec (Order 2023-24) October 10, 2023