Winter Driving Conditions Require Special Attention, SGI Warns | The Canadian News

Now that Saskatchewan has seen its first deposit of snow this fall, residents can prepare for winter – outdoor slopes, snow angels and, of course, winter driving conditions.

Although it is something the province deals with every year, a few simple steps can be taken while on the road to avoid a collision or injury.

“Making sure you are giving yourself enough time to get to your destination,” said SGI Communications Director Tyler McMurchy. “So it could mean leaving early because you will have to adjust your speed for these driving conditions. Posted speed limits are not necessarily how fast you want to drive when it comes to reduced traction and visibility on roads.

“So, reduce your speed accordingly, increase your following distance behind the vehicle in front of you. It is very important to increase the following distance to five or six seconds from the three you would normally have under ideal driving conditions. “

However, preparations for driving in winter conditions are not simply made while driving. According to McMurchy, they start before you step foot inside your vehicle.

“Safe winter driving starts before you even hit the road,” he explained. “You want to start by thoroughly cleaning your vehicle, removing snow, frost and ice from your windshield, your front and rear windshields, as well as your side windows, your mirrors, completely cleaning your headlights and taillights as well. “

SGI recommends that all vehicles contain a winter safety kit, especially those that travel frequently on the road.

“That can include things like booster cables, a small snow shovel, traction mats, extra clothing or blankets to keep warm in case you get stranded for a period of time, some non-perishable food, a candle to keep you warm. melt the snow. water, ”he said. “We’re not dealing with blizzard conditions right now, but keep in mind that having that emergency kit can really make a situation like that something that you can deal with more easily.”

Other precautions that can be taken are tires, which can make a difference when snow and ice keep the rubber from touching the road.

“We highly recommend that drivers invest in a set of winter tires,” said McMurchy. “When the conditions are icy, or even just cold; the special tread pattern and rubber compound that rubber tires are made of can really improve your traction and control of your vehicle and prevent your chances of being in a collision. “

But, even those who are taking all these precautionary measures, collisions are likely to occur and at an even higher rate after a fresh snowfall, especially early in the year.

“(SGI) sees an increase in claims, usually during the first day or two of a heavy snowfall,” McMurchy explained. “It can vary depending on the severity of the climate and also how widespread that system is. Our claims staff is happy to help drivers who are in a collision, but the ideal situation is to drive safely and not get involved in a collision. “