As we approach the end of 2019, and begin a new decade, it’s a time of year when many families will take to the highway to visit friends and family to ring in the holiday season. In anticipation of the wonderful, and perhaps challenging aspects of a winter road trip, take time to plan ahead to make the journey more enjoyable for you and your loved ones.
As you begin to chart your holiday travel plan, the most important order of business is to ensure your vehicle is in good running condition. The last thing you want is to have mechanical problems in the middle of winter – so visit your new car dealer and ensure your vehicle is road-trip ready. Your new or used vehicle may also be under warranty with your dealer, so there is no excuse to not go in for a tune-up.
If your travel is going to take you to higher elevations or parts of the province with traditional snowfall, ensure you have winter tires. Winter tire and snow chain rules are effect on most of BC’s highways from October 1 to March 31, and not having the proper tires could cost you. Check the province’s online maps (winter tire & chain-up routes on www.drivebc.ca) to find out which highways enforce this rule, and be aware of roadside signs that indicate sections of the highway that require winter tires.
It is important to be cognizant of changing driving conditions that may occur prior to, or during, your road-trip. A great resource to plan your route and check winter road conditions is drivebc.ca, where you can see the latest weather map. They also have an abundance of winter driving tips, so you can ensure you are fully prepared for the potential conditions.
To further put your mind at ease, travel with an emergency roadside safety kit. If you break down on a remote road, the only help you may have is what’s inside your trunk. With a simple roadside survival kit, you can be ready to help both yourself and others you may find in need. Visit bcaa.com for tips on what to include in your kit.
Long winter drives can already be a challenge, but with bored kids asking “are we there yet?” – the tension can increase. Make sure your car is stocked with snacks and activities to keep your children occupied on long drives. With all the new technological advancements that have been made, this is becoming easier in newer car models.
It should go without saying, but if you are the one driving, leave all your electronic devices alone. According to ICBC, 77 people die every year in distracted driving crashes and distracted driving is responsible for more than 25% of car crash fatalities in BC. It is important to resist the temptation of checking your phone – especially if driving in conditions that may be less than ideal.
And a final caution – don’t drive under the influence under any circumstances. A mistake of this kind has the potential to drastically impact lives – as you put everyone at risk.
To all readers, safe driving and have a very happy Christmas holiday season!
For the latest information on car careers in BC’s automotive industry, visit: https://carsandjobs.com/.
The 2020 Vancouver International Auto Show returns to the Vancouver Convention Centre West from March 25-29, celebrating its 100th anniversary. For more information on the Show and to purchase tickets, please visit: www.VancouverInternationalAutoShow.com.
Blair Qualey is President and CEO of the New Car Dealers Association of BC. You can email him at [email protected].
