Winter tires in season
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Updated: November 03, 2009 6:14 PM
As we watch the snow creep lower on the mountains those of us who drive start thinking about winter tires.
What kind of tires to buy and when to buy them are high on your list of questions.
Local business owner, Dale Desabrais said what many motorists don’t realize is that there is no law which states that the only snow tires recognized by Transport Canada must have a snowflake emblem on them.
“It’s just what Transport Canada recommends,” said Desabrais, who owns Kootenay Tool Sales.
In fact, the Canada Transport website supports Desabrais’ claims.
The website, which examines snow tires, mud and snow tires (also known as all season tires), and their usage and proper application states, “Tires marked with the pictograph of a peaked mountain with a snowflake meet specific snow traction performance requirements, and have been designed specifically for use in severe snow conditions.”
But, nowhere on the site does it state that the snowflake is required.
Christine Silver, ICBC’s road safety co-ordinator said the Ministry of Transport has posted signs on some passes requiring motorists to use winter tires or chains.
“Motorists can be ticketed or turned back by police,” advised Silver.
But, should the worst happen and you are involved in an accident in which inappropriate tires are involved, you can still file a claim.
“It does not void your insurance in the event of a claim. But, we strongly urge drivers to use snow tires or chains. If motorists are not using winter tires when they are required, it could have impact on the liability, however,” said Silver.
To learn more about winter tires, go to Transport Canada’s website at http://www.tc.gc.ca/eng/roadsafety/safevehicles-safetyfeatures-wintertires-index-468.htm
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