Think about this if you drive in winter

Winter weather has definitely arrived for us. It just feels a little colder because we were so spoiled with such mild temperatures in December and some crazy fluctuations in January. I guess we just need to adjust.

Adjusting to the conditions of winter also means we need to adjust to our driving conditions. This, it seems, is even more difficult.

Now into February our roads have been snow covered with white out conditions. The motoring public has been warned to slow down if there is a need to be out there at all. But, sometimes the conditions are really deceiving. One day last week, there were three car crashes all in the same time frame at different locations in the county. When a crash occurs, not only is there the concern of those involved directly, but also for the safety of those who will be driving into the scene before traffic control is present.

So, here are a few tips that will help keep you safe on the roads this winter.

-- The most important tip the police have when the weather is poor -- is stay off the roads. Don’t go out!

-- If you must go out -- slow down. Our highway patrol officers report that most of the crashes they respond to are the result of motorists failing to adjust their driving speed to the road conditions.

-- They further wish to remind motorists that the posted speed limits are for ideal conditions. Less than ideal means slow down. Our officers also encourage motorists who do want to travel slower to take the Highway 1 as apposed to Highway 101.

-- And, they remind drivers to check their rearview mirrors. If you see traffic building behind you, pull over at a safe location to allow these vehicles to pass. Failing to do so causes unsafe conditions as it can lead to drivers making unsafe passing attempts. This situation can put everyone in danger.

-- Another very important safety factor is to remove the snow and ice from your vehicle. This in fact, is a requirement by law. You must remove the snow covering your windshield, all windows including the rear, all lights, mirrors, your license plate, and snow and ice on the hood, roof and trunk of the vehicle. Failing to do so is a safety hazard, as well as a $157.50 fine!

-- Something else to consider, you might be a safe and cautious driver, but not everyone out there is. And, some vehicles are certainly more safe than others. Those with snow tires definitely have an advantage. For our winter roads, snow tires make all the difference and they are well worth their investment. Our highway patrol officers often see vehicles with tires that are unfit for the road conditions (you can be fined for this too). Worn and balding tires are dangerous for the best of conditions, not to mention during the winter! And, even a set of new all season tires do not compare to a set of good winter snow tires. Try it! You won’t believe the difference! But, remember, you still have to follow all the safety rules of good driving -- even with snow tires!

-- And finally, there is one last thing that might persuade you to make sure you travel safely – your insurance. Const. Sharon Johnson with RCMP Annapolis Valley Traffic Services explains that if your vehicle is involved in a crash, its condition will be described in the officer’s report. So, even if you aren’t charged for failing to properly clear your windows, or your tires are in poor shape, for examples, your insurance company will be made aware of all factors in the accident report. This may ultimately affect your coverage.

It is also important to note that any fine you receive is also recorded in your driver’s record through the Registry of Motor Vehicles. This information may also affect your insurability and the premiums you pay. A good driving record is key to lower insurance rates.

So, all around, it pays to drive safe! Please drive carefully.



Sharon Elliott is Seniors’ Safety coordinator in Annapolis County.