Canadian Winter Driving Tips: How to Stay Safe on the Road

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Canadian Winter Driving Tips: How to Stay Safe on the Road

Posted on January 13, 2023

In Southern Ontario, the winters can be harsh.  Blowing snow, black ice, and snow drifts are all common issues you’ll come across while driving in the winter here.  We have some winter driving tips that will help you keep safe.

 

Clean Your Vehicle

 

We’ve all seen it: people are in too big a rush to get on the road and don’t take the time to clear the snow and ice from their vehicle.  Not only does it make it harder for you to see while you’re driving, but the snow and ice that blows off your vehicle at high speeds is dangerous for other drivers on the road.

 

 

Take the extra time to clean off your car before you hit the road.  Get the defroster going before you start scraping the windows to make it a little easier.  Don’t forget to check for snow and ice build up under your fenders and inside wheel wells too, as well as clearing off your headlights and taillights.  Visibility is key at all times when driving in the winter!

 

Don’t Get Distracted

 

Winter driving requires even more focus than driving on a clear day.  This is especially true for inexperienced drivers.  It’s important to stay calm and focused when driving in the snow.  You want to ensure you’re keeping plenty of distance around your car, and you need all your attention on what’s going on around you. This may seem like an extremely simple winter driving tip but its one of the biggest reasons for so many accidents!

 

Keep the Tank Full (or the Gattery Charged)

 

Fingers crossed you don’t get stranded anywhere when driving in the winter, but it’s always a good idea to be prepared.  Do your best to ensure you keep your gas tank full or your battery charged on your EV.  Be mindful of upcoming weather in the area and be prepared before it’s too late.

 

Have an Emergency Supply kit

 

You should always have an emergency kit handy in your vehicle.  Before the worst of the winter weather strikes, be sure to stock it up.  You can use this checklist to ensure you have all you need:

• Bottled water
• Non-perishable food or snacks
• Blanket
• Flashlight
• Small shovel
• Extra gloves, hat, and a packable jacket
• Jumper cables
• First-aid kit
• Cat litter and ice melt

 

Cat litter comes in handy if you’re stuck in the snow.  It can give your tires the traction they need to get out of a snowbank.  Just a cheap bag will do, don’t splurge on the lightweight or clumping varieties, they won’t help you here.

 

Stay calm

Driving in a blizzard can be super stressful, so the most important thing you can do is stay calm.  Drive safely like you know you can, and don’t panic.  If you’re prepared, there’s no reason to fret when driving in winter.  If you feel like you can’t travel safely, then don’t!  Staying off the roads is the safest thing to do in a winter storm.

 

Those are all of our most important winter driving tips! Hopefully now you feel more prepared to take on the snow. If you have any more questions, please contact us here!