A few tips for safe driving this winter
Here in Quebec, winter is part of our heritage and our culture, and it influences how we drive. If you have to travel by road during the cold season, you must always take both road conditions and weather conditions into account.
Here in Quebec, winter is part of our heritage and our culture, and it influences how we drive. If you have to travel by road during the cold season, you must always take both road conditions and weather conditions into account. To ensure safe driving in bad weather, you need to adapt your behaviour behind the wheel. What this basically means is that you must accept that you have to drive slowly and more carefully. Besides, taking a few simple precautions can spare you a lot of trouble.
Tires are important
First of all, choosing a model of winter tire that is suited to your vehicle and your type of driving is vital. The tires are the only part of a car that come into contact with the road. Do you have to spend money on buying premium tires? As Michel Gélinas, General Manager at Léveillé Toyota, says: “The quality of the tires will help considerably. But above all, it’s a matter of common sense. You have to adapt your driving to the conditions.”
Snow removal is everyone's responsibility
A few basic rules also apply. For everyone's sake, clear the snow from your vehicle before you head out! Mobile igloo drivers are a public hazard on the road. Also, reduce your speed. You shouldn’t drive at the same speed when there's heavy snow or ice on the road. Michel Gélinas adds, “The most important thing is to drive carefully. Today, the quality of the vehicles and computer-controlled braking give us the impression of safety. But you still have to adapt your driving, that’s the key.”
Prevent the unexpected
When driving in bad weather, there are also other rules you need to follow: turn on your headlights, and equip your vehicle with an emergency kit that includes a flashlight, a warm blanket, jumper cables and warning triangles in case of a breakdown or accident. If an incident does occur, it's best to ensure you stay visible and stay warm inside your vehicle.