Tips and Tricks for Being Winter Road Ready
It’s been no surprise to Canadians that this winter season has been quite unpredictable, which can knock you in a loop when it comes to hitting the road. Freezing temperatures, along with snow and ice build-up can wreak havoc. Stay safe and warm this winter by following these tips and tricks:
Winter Tires
This seems like a no-brainer, but with the rising cost of living, many consumers are cutting corners – don’t make your tires one of them! Not only do winter tires improve your driving performance by providing better traction on cold, slushy roads, but they earn you a DISCOUNT!
Nearly all Insurers will provide a discount on your Auto Policy if you have four winter tires installed from November through to April, but make sure to file your receipt just in case.
See and Be Seen
The increased precipitation, black ice, salt, and varying light conditions require drivers to be even more vigilant than usual. So, before you hit the road replace your wipers, so you don’t get streaks, and fill up your fluid making sure to pack an extra jug in your trunk for when the blizzards hit.
Additionally, make sure to scrape the ice & brush the snow off your vehicle while it warms up. This includes your roof, hood, windows, lights, and plate. Not only does this prevent loss of visibility for you and other drivers, but it’s also a finable offence according to Ontario’s Highway Traffic Act to not have a clear view.
While you’re on the road, make sure to leave extra space between you and the vehicle in front of you to cushion the unpredictable conditions and prevent an accident. Avoid the use of cruise control and don’t forget to use your lights as soon as the visibility gets low.
Prepare an Emergency Kit:
We are all guilty of thinking it won’t happen to us, but nature has a mind of its own in the winter months. It is better to be overprepared and packing an emergency kit to place in your trunk is easy.
Some helpful items to keep in your kit are:
- Non-perishable food & water in a plastic bottle
- Candle in a can with matches
- Blanket and spare warm clothes and boots
- Whistle
- Jumper cables
- Sand or cat litter
- First-aid kit
- Shovel/snowbrush/scraper
For a complete list and additional tips on driving in winter visit the Government of Canada’s Get Prepared page.
Before you hit the road, remember that slow and steady wins the race, especially in snowy and icy conditions. Additionally, give yourself extra time to get where you’re going. Connect with your Lawrie insurance broker today to make sure you’ll be covered all season long.
Written by: Laura Ferri
*The content on this page is for information purposes only. The insights and insurance products described herein are subject to terms, conditions, restrictions, and exclusions, and should not be taken as a replacement for current information provided by governing authorities. Please contact your Personal Broker for any questions specific to your policy and needs.
Stay protected all season long!
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