Winter is Coming - Have you got your Snows on Yet?

November 14, 2023, Kitchener, Ontario

Posted by: Robert Deutschmann, Personal Injury Lawyer

Living in Ontario one thing is for certain: winter weather can be unforgiving. With heavy snowfall, icy roads, and frigid temperatures, it's crucial to prioritize safety when driving during the winter months. One of the most important safety measures you can take is installing winter tires on your vehicle. In this blog post, we will explore the importance of having winter tires in Ontario, including when to put them on and the numerous benefits they offer.

When to Put on Winter Tires

Winter tires aren't just for heavy snowfall; they are designed to provide optimal traction and control in cold temperatures, making them essential in Ontario's harsh winter climate. Typically, the recommended time to install winter tires is when the temperature consistently drops below 7’C. By this point, all-season or summer tires may have reduced effectiveness due to the rubber compound hardening in the cold. Most people mount them in late October or early November. This precautionary approach ensures that you are well-prepared for the first snowfall or icy conditions.

Benefits of Using Winter Tires

1. Improved Traction

The primary advantage of winter tires is their ability to provide significantly better traction on snow and ice-covered roads. These tires are equipped with specialized tread patterns and a softer rubber compound, which helps grip the road surface more effectively. This improved traction means you can start, stop, and maneuver your vehicle with greater control, reducing the risk of accidents.

2. Enhanced Safety

Safety should always be a top priority when driving, especially during the winter. Winter tires are designed to minimize the risk of accidents by offering better stability and reduced braking distances. They help prevent skidding and sliding, allowing you to maintain control of your vehicle even in the slipperiest conditions.

3. Reduced Wear and Tear

Using winter tires during the cold months also has a positive impact on your all-season or summer tires. By sparing them from the harsh winter conditions, you extend their lifespan. This, in turn, saves you money in the long run, as you won't need to replace your tires as often.

4. Insurance Benefits

Using winter tires can lead to reduced insurance premiums. Many insurance companies offer discounts of up to 5% to drivers who equip their vehicles with winter tires. This incentive is not only a financial advantage but also encourages safer driving practices.

6. Peace of Mind

Knowing you have winter tires on your vehicle can give you peace of mind when winter storms hit. You'll be better prepared to handle whatever Mother Nature throws at you, which can reduce anxiety and stress associated with winter driving.

When it comes to winter driving, the safety of you and your passengers should always be a top priority. Winter tires are a smart investment that can help protect you on the road, reduce the risk of accidents, and ensure a smoother winter driving experience in the beautiful but challenging province of Ontario.

About Deutschmann Law

Deutschmann Law serves South-Western Ontario with offices in Kitchener-Waterloo, Cambridge, Woodstock, Brantford, Stratford and Ayr. The law practice of Robert Deutschmann focuses almost exclusively in personal injury and disability insurance matters. For more information, please visit www.deutschmannlaw.com or call us at 1-519-742-7774.

It is important that you review your accident benefit file with one of our experienced personal injury / car accident lawyers to ensure that you obtain access to all your benefits which include, but are limited to, things like physiotherapy, income replacement benefits, vocational retraining and home modifications.