In winter, drivers must adapt their driving to weather and road conditions. Under the Highway Safety Code, drivers must slow down when visibility is reduced as a result of darkness, fog, rain or other precipitation, or when the roadway is slippery or not completely cleared.
Winter tires are mandatory from December 1 to March 15 inclusive.
Before leaving, make sure you can make your trip safely by consulting:
During snow removal operations, stay away from snow removal vehicles
Snow removal vehicles have many blind spots that prevent their drivers from seeing other road users well.
It is best to stay at a safe distance when driving near this type of vehicle to ensure you are in the driver's field of vision.
This winter, for your own safety, keep your distance!
A vehicle’s windshield and windows must be cleared of any matter that might reduce visibility for the driver. A peace officer may impose a fine of $100 to $200, plus costs, on the driver and require that the vehicle’s windows and windshield be cleared of ice, snow, or any other matter that reduces the driver’s visibility. The driver must comply with this requirement.
Furthermore, no person may drive a vehicle covered with ice, snow, or any other matter that may detach from the vehicle and constitute a hazard for other road users. Offenders face a fine of $60 to $100, plus costs.
Lessons on how to drive on ice
Some driving schools offer lessons on how to drive on snow and ice to people who want to improve their techniques and gain confidence when it comes to winter driving.
When your car is buried beneath the snow, avoid turning on the ventilation and staying inside your vehicle after starting it. Otherwise, you put yourself at risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, which can lead to health problems and, in extreme cases, death.
Carbon monoxide is an insidious gas, as it is odourless. It spreads through the passenger compartment of a vehicle without being noticed. That’s why it’s important to always clear the snow off of your vehicle before getting in. That way, you can ensure that the exhaust pipe is clear and that the air circulating inside the vehicle is clean.
Other things to watch out for:
Last update: December 31, 1969