Province reminding drivers to get ‘winter ready’

Winter weather may be soon approaching and the Government of British Columbia is reminding drivers to prepare for B.C.'s winter tire rules which come into effect Oct. 1.

Drivers will be required to equip their vehicles with winter tires if they plan to travel on certain highways in the North, the Interior, the South Coast (such as the Sea to Sky Highway) and Vancouver Island (such as the Malahat, Highway 14, Highway 4 and Highway 28).

"Drivers who travel on high mountain passes and designated routes where weather can suddenly change need to make sure their vehicles are winter ready," said Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Todd Stone. "We want to be certain drivers are prepared for unpredictable and
changing driving conditions.

“Make sure you are using winter tires that are in good condition, with solid treads, and adjusting your speed to match road and weather conditions."

Winter tires in B.C. are labelled with either the Mountain Snowflake symbol or the Mud and Snow (M+S) symbol. They have to be in good condition with a minimum tread depth of 3.5 mm, and must be used on designated highways Oct. 1 to March 31.

"It's important that all drivers do their part in keeping our roads safe, especially during unpredictable winter conditions," said Public Safety and Solicitor General Minister Mike Morris. "Having the correct winter tires on your vehicle can make a big difference and will help you get home safely at the end of the day."

Commercial vehicles heavier than 27,000 kg have to carry chains on the designated routes.

Signs are posted on highways where winter tires are required for lighter cars and trucks, and chains are required for heavy commercial trucks usually approaching high mountain passes.

Because over 60 per cent of B.C. motorists drive in parts of the province where snow conditions are not common, not everyone needs winter tires - it's only for motorists travelling on the designated routes.

Drivers who don't have the proper winter tires on their vehicle on the designated routes can receive a fine of $121. Drivers who don't have the minimum tread depth on their tires (3.5mm) on the designated routes can receive a fine of $109.