Winter Driving Tips for B.C.

Safe winter driving in B.C.: tips and trips

BC Hydro

It's the law to have winter tires and chains when driving most B.C. highways after October 1. And that's just the start of what to know and prepare to drive safely in challenging conditions.

Plan ahead, drive with care, and consider these road trips

We love summer, but B.C. is a four-season playground that serves up fun in the snow, big-time events and more during the winter months.

That usually means packing bags and gear into our gas or electric vehicles and heading out on our roads, which can range from tricky to treacherous in the winter months. All travel on highways outside the Lower Mainland and Vancouver Island between October 1 and April 30 requires that we only travel in vehicles equipped with snow tires or chains.

Today, we take a look at winter road safety, including some specific information for EV drivers, while also offering some ideas for road trips around the province.

Winter driving safety: the basics

While there are different considerations for winter driving in an electric vehicle versus a gas vehicle, there are basic tips that apply to both.

• Know the law -- winter tires or chains are required on most B.C. highways between October 1 and April 30.
• Check weather, highway conditions and tire requirements at DriveBC.ca before every trip.
• Be patient and plan extra time: Snow plows, salt trucks, and slower vehicles are part of winter travel.
• Give snow plows extra space -- stay at least 30 m back in town, 70 m on highways, and never pass a plow on the right.
• Keep your vehicle visible: clean lights, mirrors and sensors.
• Use low beams in snow or fog, as high beams can reflect glare.
• Keep washer fluid rated for -35 °C or lower, and replace wipers if they streak.
• Check tire pressure regularly -- it drops roughly 1 psi for every 5°C decrease in temperature.
• Avoid using cruise control on slippery roads.
• Carry an emergency kit that includes a first aid kit, phone charger, blankets and gloves, water, snacks, road flares or reflective triangles.
• Watch for wildlife, especially at dawn and dusk. Deer, moose, and elk are more active in winter and can be difficult to spot in low light.

Did you know? A downed power line is danger. Stay back at least 10 metres and call 911. Always assume that a downed, sagging, low-hanging or damaged power line is live, even if it's not sparking or making any sound.

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Source: Safe winter driving in B.C.: tips and trips

 

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