Winter is here and now that temperatures are dropping, it won’t be long before the snow starts falling and sticks to the ground. With snow on its way, along comes the risk for pedestrians and drivers. In fact, the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety states that 66 percent of injuries are due to slip and falls. With winter’s wet and icy conditions, it is likely this percentage could go higher.

Meanwhile, drivers are also at risk during the winter season. In fact, there are nearly 30 percent of Canadian car accidents that have occurred especially with snowy or icy road conditions. This is why winter tires were created. The rubber used for winter tires are designed to stay flexible in extremely cold and chilly weather, and provides a better grip when driving on slippery roads. According to the Tire and Rubber Association of Canada, modern winter tires offer up to 50 percent more traction than all-season tires. This is because the tread design of winter tires is adapted to primarily allow penetration of the snow into the tread, where it compacts and provides resistance against slippage.

The importance of installing winter tires is beneficial for all drivers. Not only will they protect drivers on the road, but it will also save money on their insurance policy and here’s why.

Ontario Insurance Companies Give Discounts to Drivers Who Use Winter Tires

When installing the approved winter tires, which have the three-peaked mountain and snowflake symbol, Ontario insurance companies qualifies drivers who use winter tires for a discount on their policy. This discount can potentially help cover the expense of installing the tires. As long as the drivers have informed their insurance company or broker that their tires have been installed, they are entitled to receive a discount.

Winter Tires Will Help Your Insurance Record

Based on the TRCA, 35 percent of Ontario drivers avoid installing winter tires, which is potentially dangerous for all people on the road. Oftentimes, the driver at fault without winter tires tends to be the one who causes road collisions. This can result in a higher car insurance premium. With winter tires, they can provide superior traction and braking on cold-weather road surfaces. For example, at temperatures just below freezing, stopping distances for vehicles with winter tires are as much as 30 percent shorter than for vehicles with all-season tires. Therefore, drivers can reduce the risk of rear-end collisions, injuries, fatalities and an increase in their insurance premium.

Contact Oracle RMS today!

All drivers should make sure that they’ve installed their winter tires before the temperatures drop and to avoid the rush on service departments. For more information on how to receive the winter tire discount, contact an Oracle RMS licensed broker today!