As we truly enter winter and the month of December, it is important to be cognizant of changing driving conditions, and driving in the snow. Weather forecasters predict a harsh winter season in B.C., so now’s the time to start thinking and planning ahead for the snowy season that may soon be upon us.
A recent ICBC survey noted that automobile crashes increased 10 per cent last winter compared to year previous, but even more concerning is the statistic highlighting that less than half of drivers surveyed had vehicles equipped with winter tires.
A quick reminder for British Columbians – winter tire and chain rules are in effect on most of B.C.’s highways run from October 1 to March 31. Given the unpredictability of the weather, it’s a good idea for Lower Mainland drivers to purchase some good snow tires too.
The ICBC survey also revealed that Lower Mainland drivers, in particular, are significantly more nervous about driving in both snowy and icy conditions. That’s not surprising, given that almost half of those surveyed (47 per cent) witnessed a crash during the winter last year.
Driving in snowy or icy conditions requires more than just equipping your vehicle with snow tires, although snow tires are the most important aspect of driving in those conditions.
Driving in the snow is a simple science – it’s all about friction and traction. Snow tires have a deeper tread to cut through the slush and snow, and snow tires are constructed from softer rubber to help with traction. Lower temperatures in general affects the rubber in summer and all-season tires in a way that lowers traction. The rubber used for snow tires, on the other hand, stay soft and flexible in freezing temperatures in order to grip what’s underneath them. All season tires have reduced traction and stopping power below seven degrees Celsius, and do not offer reliable braking or cornering on ice or cold weather conditions. Compared to M+S designated tires, winter tires offer superior braking and cornering performance on wet and rough ice, soft and hard-packed snow, along with slush. It’s worth the investment for winter tires!
Any combination of snowy, slushy or slick roads and reduced visibility means that drivers need to do more prep work and adjust their driving. Winter driving requires a lot more concentration and care as well. Use slow motions, refrain from braking quickly, and use a very soft foot on the accelerator pedal. Simply driving at a slower speed and exercising caution is one of the smartest things you can do. If you’re driving a new car with electronic traction and stability control, keep them turned on in the winter.
Store snow shovels and kitty litter in your trunk in case you need to dig yourself (or your neighbour) out. Flares, flashlights, and a snow scraper are also useful items to have on-hand. Check your antifreeze levels and consider investing in heavy-duty snow wipers to help with visibility.
Drivers who don’t slow down or adjust for conditions are always a top concern for others sharing the road. Both stopping and turning are actions that take a lot longer, so keep a longer follow distance and remember to slow down. Take time to plan your trip ahead – DriveBC is a great resource for the latest road conditions and weather forecasts.
Also remember to check your battery – there is nothing worse than trying to start your car’s engine and hearing your engine struggle to start.
In future years, emerging technologies may prove to be a big safety advantage. Last August, a new high-friction road surface treatment was applied to 14 intersections in Metro Vancouver and Vancouver Island to give drivers better control and help keep them from skidding in crash-prone locations. The specialized aggregate and resin treatment coarsens the road surface to boost skid-resistance, decrease braking distances in order to reduce rear-end collisions in intersections – in wet or slippery conditions.
For the latest information on car careers in BC’s automotive industry, visit: https://carsandjobs.com/.
The New Car Dealers has provided more than $500,000 in grants and scholarships to help fund the learning and growth of automotive students since 2005.
Blair Qualey is President and CEO of the New Car Dealers Association of BC. You can email him at [email protected].
