Winter driving hazards have yet to seriously impact us, but it’s only a matter of time.
So, while conditions remain good, OPP remind motorists it is time to adopt a winter-driving mindset.
That includes slowing down in less-than-ideal conditions, don’t tailgate and plan for inclement weather driving conditions.
Police stress a leading cause of collisions in winter months is poor driving, not poor driving conditions.
With that in mind, follow these tips when faced with tough sledding on the roads:
- Slow down and adjust your driving to the current road and weather conditions.
- Allow extra time to travel to and from destinations.
- Leave extra space between vehicles, since stopping distances are more than double on snow or ice-covered roads.
- Stay alert, focus on the road and avoid sudden braking, accelerating or steering.
- Engage your full set of headlights during the winter months; daylight running lights do not engage your rear taillights, making it difficult for drivers behind you to see your vehicle.
- Never stop on the roadway. If possible, park your vehicle well off the roadway and stay in it until rescuers arrive.
- Before heading out, the OPP encourages motorists to use MTO’s Ontario 511 and Traveller Information Service for 24/7 and up-to-date access to road information on provincially maintained highways.
