Winter in Ontario can be unpredictable. One day the roads are clear, the next they’re covered in ice and snow. While we can’t control the weather, we can control how prepared we are for it. That starts with understanding how winter tires work, why they matter and how they can help you save on your auto insurance.
Here is a straightforward look at what every Ontario driver should know before the cold weather hits.
Why Winter Tires Matter
Many drivers wonder whether winter tires are truly necessary if they already have all-season tires. The truth is that all-season tires are not designed for harsh Canadian winters. Winter tires use a special rubber compound that stays flexible in cold weather. This gives your vehicle better grip when driving on snowy or icy roads.
Studies show that winter tires can offer up to fifty percent more traction compared to all-season tires. They also reduce stopping distances by as much as thirty percent when temperatures drop below freezing. This difference can play a major role in preventing rear-end collisions and loss of control on slippery roads.
Even the best winter tires cannot make you invincible on ice, but they do give you a safer foundation to work with.
Common Myths About Winter Tires
There are a few long-standing myths that can cause drivers to make unsafe decisions.
- Some believe they can drive at normal speeds just because they have winter tires. While these tires improve traction, they cannot fully prevent sliding on icy patches. Safe driving is still essential.
- Others try to deflate their tires for more grip. This actually increases the risk of a flat and reduces the lifespan of your tires.
- And one of the most dangerous misconceptions is that installing only two winter tires is enough. Mixing tire types reduces stability and makes it easier to lose control on icy roads.
Avoiding these myths will help keep you, your passengers and other drivers safer all season long.
How Winter Tires Affect Your Auto Insurance
One of the biggest benefits of installing winter tires in Ontario is the insurance discount. Most Ontario insurance companies offer savings to drivers who install approved winter tires. These tires must display the three-peaked mountain and snowflake symbol.
The discount varies by insurer, but it can help offset the cost of purchasing and installing the tires. To receive the discount, you must let your insurance broker or company know when your winter tires are on. If you forget to notify them, you will not receive the savings.
Winter tires can also help protect your insurance record. A significant number of collisions in winter involve drivers who chose not to install proper tires. If you are found at fault in an accident, especially without winter tires, your insurance premium could increase. Installing proper winter tires lowers your risk of collisions and supports a cleaner driving record.
Stay Safe and Protected This Winter
Winter tires do more than help you navigate snowy roads. They protect your safety, your vehicle and your insurance record. If you have questions about winter tires, coverage options or how to maximize your insurance savings, the team at Oracle RMS is here to help.
Get in touch today for guidance or to request a free auto insurance quote. Stay safe this winter and keep your vehicle ready for whatever the season brings.
