Winter Driving Tips in Canada

Yesterday in Montreal, the snow caused a huge car pile-up. It included two buses, a police car, a van, and a snow plough all piled up. It started when a bus lost control and crashed into four cars.  There were roughly 10 vehicles involved in the pile-up but thankfully, no one was injured. Driving in the snow is difficult because it can be more slippery than it appears. To help avoid situations like this, here are some driving tips for the snow.

If you press the gas slowly, you will regain traction on the snow. If you try “flooring it,” your car’s tires will just spin in the snow and you won’t go anywhere. Also, make sure to give yourself plenty of time to slow down for a spotlight. It takes longer to slow down on icy roads. Make sure to always give yourself enough time while traveling since it will take you longer to reach your destination.

 

If you have anti-lock brakes (ABS) and you need to slow down quickly, press hard on the pedal. The pedal will vibrate a bit when the ABS are activated. 

 

It’s scary when your car begins to slide in the snow and go in a direction you don’t want. The worst thing to do is panic. If you find that your car beginning to slide, calmly slow down and try to stop your car. If you slow down enough but are still sliding, try to head towards a curb. You won’t be going fast enough to jump or injury your car but it will help stop your car. Think of like a door stop. 

 

The winter season doesn't magically appear, it comes the same time every year. To be prepared ahead of time, you should ready your car for winter. Make sure your tires have at least a 6/32-inch deep thread. You should also consider purchasing snow tires or chains for your regular tires. You’ll also want to check your antifreeze levels and battery power. Another great tip is to keep a snow shovel and kitty litter in your trunk in case you get stuck. Make sure to also include flares, a flashlight, and a snow scraper. 

 

If you can, it’s better just to stay home! If you are a confident driver in the snow, that doesn’t mean everyone else is. Try to gather supplies before a snowstorm and if you need to work, you can always ask if there’s a way you can work from home. It’s better to stay safe than sorry.