Too many drivers believe all seasons are good enough, according to a tire survey – BC News

Photo: TRAC

The use of winter tires in British Columbia has steadily increased over the past six years. A new survey finds that 60% of BC drivers use winter tires, up from 38% in 2014.

And 80% of those say the tires saved them from a loss of control or a collision.

Increased use is good news for road safety, but 40% who don’t use winter tires threaten the safety of all drivers, according to the Tire and Rubber Association of Canada, which commissioned the Leger survey.

The national survey found that 63% of those who do not use winter tires believe that all seasons are “good enough”.

40% said they don’t use winter tires because they simply don’t drive a lot in the winter.

TRAC’s 2020 Canadian Winter Tire Study also found that outside of Quebec, where winter tires are required by law, winter tire usage is 65%.

“Canadian drivers have spoken and our study clearly shows that winter tires make a profound difference in collision avoidance and saving lives,” says Carol Hochu, incoming president and CEO of TRAC. “However, more consumer education is clearly needed to raise awareness of the increased grip and stopping power of tires designed specifically for Canadian winters. The study’s most surprising finding is that two-thirds of those who don’t use winter tires think all seasons are good enough. “

There are three basic choices: tires for all seasons; all-season tires with the three-pointed symbol (often called “all-season” tires) and dedicated winter tires designed for winter use only.

Choosing the right tire can make the difference between a safe winter driving experience and nervous driving.

Driving with all-season tires in the winter months results in longer stopping distances and impaired handling when temperatures drop below 7 ° C. All-season tires with the three-point symbol provide better traction, but they may not provide the grip you need for severe winter conditions.

Dedicated winter tires feature softer tread compounds that retain their elasticity even in extremely cold temperatures. They provide superior traction and significantly shorter stopping distances in all winter driving conditions, from icy, muddy and snowy roads to cold and dry pavements.