Driving can be stressful during the winter months. Snow decreases visibility and tire traction and makes the roads slick. These conditions often slow traffic and facilitate automotive accidents. While there is little you personally can do about the roads or the snow, you can safeguard your vehicle by investing in winter tires.
During winter driving conditions, every driver on the road deals with reduced ability to see and limited maneuverability. That is why it is imperative that each driver practices safe winter driving. Safe practices include:
Controlling your speed. Start and stop gradually so your tires will not spin. Avoid braking suddenly, as this increases the risk of losing control of your vehicle.
Increasing your following distance. When the roads are icy, you may not be able to stop as efficiently. For this reason, keep enough distance between your car and the car in front of you that you will not collide if you are unable to stop suddenly.
Signaling early. Always give your fellow drivers the information they need to make safe decisions. Put on your turn signals and begin braking early.
When you practice conscientious driving, you protect yourself, your passengers, and the other drivers on the road. How You Benefit from Winter Tires To prepare your car for the rigours of winter driving in Halifax or other parts of Nova Scotia, you may choose to invest in winter tires.These tires differ from their all-season counterparts in material and design. The rubber used for all-season tires becomes stiff and decreases in traction at 0 degrees Celsius. Winter tires use a rubber compound that stays supple, even at low temperature extremes.Winter tires also come with specialized tread. While all-season tires cannot maintain a grip on the road, winter tires wick off snow as they turn. This allows increased traction, which improves safety and maneuverability. Talk to our brokers at Eisenhauer Insurance to find out if your tires affect your insurance policy. For more tips, be sure to check out our blog or contact our helpful staff at Eisenhauer Insurance. Return to main blog page