Driving Safely in Winter: Winter Driving Tips to Keep You Safe on Ontario Roads
Winter in Ontario can be breathtakingly beautiful, but it also presents its own set of risks, particularly for drivers. Snow, ice, freezing rain, and shifting temperatures can all pose potential risks for drivers across the province. Being prepared and following to safe driving habits can make all the difference in navigating these challenging conditions.
Whether you’re new to snow driving or an experienced driver looking for a quick refresher. Here are some useful winter driving tips to help you safely navigate Ontario’s highways and streets during the colder seasons.
10 Winter Driving Tips to Keep You Safe on Ontario Roads
10 Winter Driving Tips to Keep You Safe on Ontario Roads
Prepare Your Vehicle for Winter
To ensure safe winter driving, start by preparing your car. Installing winter tires is critical because they improve traction and handling on icy or snowy roadways. Winter tires, unlike all-season tires, are engineered to remain flexible even at freezing conditions, maintaining maximum grip. In addition, your vehicle’s battery is critical for winter travel. Cold weather can strain an already weak battery, so keep it fully charged and operational to minimize problems.
Another important component of winter preparation is keeping your vehicle’s fluids in good condition. To avoid freezing, ensure that your windshield washer fluid is winter-rated and that your antifreeze levels are enough. Lastly, stock your vehicle with a winter emergency set. Essentials like a torch, jumper cables, a blanket, extra-warm clothing, snacks, a first-aid kit, and a small shovel can be quite useful in the event of an unexpected breakdown.
Plan Your Trip and Stay Informed
Winter weather in Ontario can change quickly, so make sure to plan your trips carefully. Before leaving, always check the weather forecast to avoid driving in strong storms or freezing rain. Use resources such as the Ontario 511 website or app to stay up to date on real-time road conditions, including closures and traffic updates, so you can plan a safer route.
Allow extra time to reach your destination during the winter months. Rushing causes negligent driving, which increases the probability of accidents. You can avoid the stress of having to make up time on slippery roads if you leave early and allow for delays. Planning ahead reduces the likelihood of being caught off unprepared by unexpected weather changes.
Adjust Your Driving Habits
Driving safely in winter requires modifying your regular behaviours to accommodate for the tough road conditions. Slowing down is one of the most significant changes you can make. Higher speeds limit reaction time and increase the likelihood of losing control on slippery roads. Driving at a slower, more cautious pace will provide you more control over your vehicle.
Maintaining a safe following distance is another important habit to develop. In the winter, leave at least six seconds between your car and the one ahead of you because stopping distances are much longer on snow or ice. Always brake, accelerate, and turn carefully to avoid slipping. If visibility is decreased due to snow or fog, switch on your headlights so that other vehicles can see you.
Learn How to Handle Skids
Even the most diligent drivers may experience skidding in cold weather. Knowing how to control a skid can help you avoid an accident. First and foremost, stay calm. Panicking often leads to overcorrecting, which can make the situation worse. Instead of slamming on the brakes, gently steer in the direction you want the car to go. This action, combined with easing off the accelerator, helps regain control. Practicing skid recovery in a safe, controlled environment if needed, such as an empty parking lot, can enhance your confidence and abilities.
Be Cautious on Highways
Driving on Ontario’s highways in winter presents unique challenges that require extra caution. Snowplows play a critical role in keeping roads clear and safe, so it’s important to give them space. Never attempt to pass a snowplow, as the road ahead is often more treacherous than the cleared path behind it. Patience is key when following these slow vehicles.
Sticking to cleared lanes is another important practice. Snow and ice tend to accumulate in the passing lane, making it more dangerous to drive there. If you must pass, do so cautiously and return to a safer lane as soon as possible. Additionally, avoid using cruise control on icy or snowy highways. Cruise control can cause your vehicle to accelerate unexpectedly, reducing your ability to react to road conditions.
Be Aware of Black Ice
Black ice is one of the most dangerous winter driving hazards since it is almost imperceptible. It typically occurs in shaded regions, on bridges, or during the early morning and nighttime hours when temperatures decrease. To avoid incidents, be extremely cautious when driving in these conditions. If you suspect black ice, limit your speed and prevent unexpected movements. Testing your traction by lightly tapping the brakes can help you determine the road’s grip without putting yourself in danger. Even if the road looks to be clear, keep an eye out for black ice.
Clear your windows and mirrors
If you’re going for a drive and it’s windy, snowy, or extremely cold outside, make sure your car is clear so you can see from the driver’s seat. Brush off your car’s windows, hood, taillights, and headlights. Before driving, make sure all windows and mirrors are clean of snow, ice, and frost. This guarantees you have a clear view of the road and helps to avoid accidents.
Use winter tires
Winter tires improve traction, steering, and braking on snowy and icy roads, lowering the risk of accidents. Winter tires can reduce your braking distance by as much as 25%. Make sure your winter tires are in good shape and have the correct tire pressure.
Keep an emergency kit
In case of an emergency, it’s important to keep an emergency kit in your vehicle. Your survival kit should contain gloves, booster cables, a small shovel, windshield wiper fluid, a first aid kit, a torch, a snowbrush, candles, a safety vest, water bottles, and non-perishable energy items.
Stay Calm During Emergencies
Even the most prepared drivers may become lost or stalled during a winter emergency. Knowing how to deal with such situations is important. If you become frustrated, it is often safer to remain in your vehicle rather than heading out into potentially dangerous situations. Your car offers shelter and is easier for rescuers to find than a single person on foot.
Call for help as soon as you’re in a safe position to do so. If you’re on a highway, look for signs with emergency contact numbers or use your phone to call roadside assistance or emergency services. While waiting for help, conserve energy by running your engine for heat only in short intervals. Always ensure your exhaust pipe is clear of snow to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
It’s always important to stay alert and focused while driving in winter conditions. Avoid distractions like texting or eating, and take breaks as needed to avoid fatigue. Remember that focus and patience are a virtue when it comes to winter driving, Ontario’s winter roadways require your full attention. Avoid distractions, remain cautious, and allow extra time to respond to any unexpected changes in road or weather conditions. You’ll be better prepared to deal with the challenges of winter driving if you keep a cautious attitude and follow these practical tips.
Winter driving in Ontario can be challenging, but it does not have to be dangerous if you take safety precautions. Preparing your vehicle, preparing ahead, and changing your driving habits can greatly minimize your risk of causing an incident. Remember that safety should always come first—take your time, remain mindful, and recognize the unpredictable nature of winter roadways. By staying prepared and practicing these tips, you’ll not only ensure your safety but also contribute to a safer driving environment for everyone. Stay safe and enjoy Ontario’s winter wonderland responsibly!
Keep in mind that your car is a major investment, so consider taking your car to YST Auto Service for a wiper and fluid maintenance service. YST Auto Service is your one-stop destination auto repair garage in Mississauga, Toronto. Our professional mechanics can identify potential issues and ensure your vehicle is ready for the changing season.
At YST Auto Service, we deliver only the highest quality car services and repairs. We provide all manner of auto repair and car maintenance services to keep your vehicle running strong and smooth. From keeping proper tire traction to ensuring your battery is up to the task, we will help you enjoy the drive with confidence and comfort.
