Even though it’s officially spring, the peeps at Shift into Winter are reminding drivers that tires or chains are still required on designated highways through March 31.
“As spring arrives we naturally start to think about how much longer we need to use winter tires. The answer is based on safety, not the season,” says Trace Acres, spokesperson for the campaign.
Winter tires provide better traction and stopping performance when temperature drop below 7C and on wet, snowy, or icy roads. All-season and summer tires are less effective in colder weather. “The difference in traction can be the difference between you reaching your destination safely or you and your passengers being in a serious crash,” Acres says.
For highways located through mountain passes and/or high snowfall areas, the requirements extend until April 30.
Some other tips to help drivers stay safe at this time of year:
- Know before you go. Check DriveBC.ca or your municipality and other local reports for updated road and weather conditions
- Avoid driving when road and weather conditions are poor, if possible
- Prepare yourself by knowing how to drive for the conditions before you get behind the wheel
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