Winter Driving Means Taking Care
THUNDER BAY – The Community Traffic Awareness Committee (CTAC) is urging Thunder Bay drivers to Get a Grip on their safety this winter. The organization asserts that installing winter tires allows drivers to maintain control on the roads despite unfavourable weather conditions, effectively reducing collisions. CTAC hopes that by addressing the need for winter tires, responsible driving practices will be encouraged across the region during what is often the most dangerous time of the year.
Tom Marinis, with the Ministry of Transportation and member of CTAC says; “Northwestern Ontario drivers can face unrelenting winter conditions and heavy snowfall. We are reminding drivers that installing winter tires is of the utmost importance as all-season tires begin to lose their grip in temperatures as mild as +7°C. Although it is a seasonal concern, not utilizing winter tires can have just as much impact on your safety as going too fast for road conditions.”
James Iannetti, General Manager, Canadian Tire Thunder Centre says; “Unlike winter tires, all- seasons don’t have the channel patterns for traction in deep snow.” Iannetti recommends applying studs to winter tires as an additional safety precaution. “Installing winter tires can shorten stopping distance up to 60 feet, and inserting studs prevents sliding even further. This traction in snow and cold weather could mean the difference between getting to your destination and getting into a very serious collision.” Iannetti reminds motorists: “When shopping for winter tires – look for the three peak mountain snowflake symbol located on the sidewall of the tire”
Ontario drivers can look forward to a recently introduced insurance discount for those who use winter tires as part of an initiative to improve road safety and lower insurance premiums in the province. “The mandatory insurance discount is great for motorists who may be deterred by the price of installing winter tires,” says Marinis.
City and highway commuters, as well as commercial drivers, are encouraged to also check road conditions before departing to ensure safe driving. “Ontario 511 is a great resource for every type of driver as it gives 24/7 access to Ministry of Transportation road information on provincially maintained highways,” continues Marinis. “This information is a great supplement to vehicle preparedness, and very accessible via phone, or online at Ontario.ca/511. The weather may be beyond our control, but we all have control over our safety on the roads.”
