If you’ve ever driven in the snow you know that road conditions play a prominent role in your commute times and safety. In Canada winter conditions make up for approximately 30 percent of all vehicle collisions, and auto accident rates increase by 3.1 to 4.7 percent during December and January.
Taking the proper precautions can help you avoid becoming a statistic. Having winter tires installed on your vehicle will reduce your likelihood of being involved in a dangerous collision.
What Are Winter Tires?
Winter tires are designed with more significant tread gaps to provide extra traction when driving on snow and ice. In addition, some winter tires have ceramic or metal studs protruding from the tires to give even more traction when driving on ice or hard-packed snow. With greater traction you’ll be able to maneuver your vehicle more efficiently and stop more securely.
The Top 3 Benefits of Installing Winter Tires
1. Reduce the Likelihood of Dangerous Collisions
Winter tires are an excellent investment as they reduce the likelihood of dangerous and costly collisions. These tires provide superior:
- Braking power
- Traction
- Hydroplaning Resistance
- Maneuverability and control
Reducing your likelihood of a crash will not only help keep you and your loved ones safe, but it will help you avoid having to pay a collision deductible to have your vehicle repaired. Additionally, having winter tires can help you avoid the likelihood of your car becoming so damaged that it is beyond economical repairs.
2. Winter Tires May Lower Your Auto Insurance Premiums
Some auto insurers provide discounts on insurance premiums for installing winter tires on your vehicle each year. In addition, winter tires can help you avoid premium hikes that occur after an accident. If you have a driving record protector, like accident forgiveness, you’ll be able to maintain that coverage for when you really need it. Not every insurance provider offers these great discounts, but we work with several that do!
3. Your All-Season Tires Will Last Longer
Using winter tires during the winter season will help your all-season tires last longer since they won’t be in use for a portion of the year. You can store your winter tires for the following year and resume using your regular tires following the winter season. Doing so will help both types of tires last longer, saving you more in the long run.
When to Install Winter Tires
Knowing when to install your winter tires is essential. Knowing when to install your winter tires will help protect you and your loved ones during winter conditions. Where you live dictates when you need to swap your tires. Some areas see winter conditions sooner or later than others. Furthermore, some provinces require you to use winter tires during specified times of the year. For example, Quebec requires the use of winter tires between December 15th and March 15th.
Getting the Most Out of Your Winter Tires
Winter tires are an investment, and there are several ways you can get the most from them, including:
- Install a Complete Set of Matching Winter Tires: According to Transport Canada, installing a complete set of four matching winter tires will provide you with better stability and control during winter conditions.
- Look for the Snowflake and Three-Peaked Mountain Symbol: Winter tires displaying this symbol are designed for winter driving and have met snow traction performance requirements.
- Practice Safe Winter Driving: You should always practice safe winter driving guidelines. During winter conditions drive with caution by: keeping extra space between your vehicle and the one in front of you, braking sooner, and looking further ahead for oncoming hazards.
- Keep an Eye on Your Treads: Like all tires, winter tires don’t last forever. So keep an eye on your treads and replace your winter tires before treads reach minimum requirements.
- Don’t Over-Inflate Your Tires: Overinflated winter tires can’t cover as much ground or provide you with as much traction. Additionally, your winter tires will wear more quickly if they are overinflated. Always check your car’s owner manual to determine your optimal tire pressure levels.
The Bottom Line
Winter tires save lives and protect your vehicle from costly damages. Now that you know the benefits of installing winter tires it’s essential you protect your investment and get the most from your tires. When using winter tires there are several things you can do to preserve the longevity of your tires and reap the most benefits. Remember, some Canadian provinces require you to utilize these tires during winter conditions.
Are you paying too much for your auto insurance? Are you looking for union and group insurance discounts? Request a quote online to see how much you can save.