Thick slush and transparent black ice could blanket driveways, sidewalks, and roadways as snow falls and the weather changes. Driving in the winter is risky because of decreased visibility and increased accident potential.
The good news is that winter tires can help you stay safe on the road when temperatures drop. Snow tires, designed to survive subzero conditions without losing traction, lessen the possibility of your car skidding on black ice.
Additionally, getting the appropriate car insurance is just as important as equipping your vehicle with the right winter tires. Numerous accidents can occur throughout the winter, so make sure you and your car are suitably covered. Fortunately, insurance discounts for winter tires can lower the overall cost of your insurance.
How Much Do You Save on Your Car Insurance if You Switch to Winter Tires?
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From January 1, 2016, all insurance companies in Ontario have to offer a discount to policyholders who have their cars outfitted with winter tires between the months of December and March. There is a possible 5% insurance discount for Ontario drivers who install winter tires, but the actual discount may vary by insurer.
To become eligible, drivers must complete the following three steps:
- Make sure the four tires you buy have the winter tire logo, which looks like a snowflake within a mountain peak.
- Get in touch with your insurer and let them know you’ve bought winter tires and intend to put them on. A receipt, invoice, or image could be requested as verification.
- Have your winter tires mounted and balanced, before the cutoff dates recommended by your insurance company.
Does Everyone Require Winter Tires?
Winter tires are only required in Quebec and British Columbia. However, even if winter tires aren’t mandated by law in your state, your car insurer will probably think it’s a good idea.
According to a recent survey conducted by TRAC, 70% of Canadian drivers now make use of winter tires. Outside of Quebec, where winter tires are required by law, winter tire use is 63%, with a continuing long-term increasing trend throughout Canada.
The study also found that 76% of winter tire owners feel their tires have prevented them from being in a dangerous driving position, such as losing control or getting into an accident. Despite increased living costs, 82% of drivers believe that winter tires are a necessary investment.
What is the Best Time to Put on Winter Tires?
In Quebec, drivers need to have winter tires on their vehicles from December 1 to March 15, while in British Columbia, drivers need to have them on from October 1 to April 30. But, to find out when you should switch to your winter tires in your province and qualify for a premium reduction, you need to consult with your insurance agent or broker.
For instance, you might need winter tires from November to April or from December to March in Ontario, if you want to take advantage of the insurance savings offered by having them installed. While insurance policies play a role, the weather is another consideration when deciding whether or not to switch to summer tires.
As the temperature drops below seven degrees Celsius, which often occurs in Ontario around the middle of October, all-season tires become rigid and lose their traction. In other words, you should think about scheduling an appointment with your technician when the temperature drops to seven degrees or below, even if this is earlier than the restrictions set by your insurance carrier.
At What Point Should You Stop Using Your Winter Tires?
In provinces, insurance companies have set dates for when winter tires must be removed from vehicles. These dates align with the dates on which they need installation. This is usually the last day of March or the first day of April.
Furthermore, your insurance company has the ability to refuse payment of your claim, if you are detected driving without winter tires within the times indicated by your policy. To explain this, imagine if your car insurance company offered you a discount in return for agreeing to install winter tires on your vehicle.
Since not having winter tires is a breach of the insurance policy, you can lose coverage if you do not have them. It falls under the category of substantial misrepresentation, which is a provision that is included in the majority of car insurance plans.
Final Thoughts
The bottom line is that you need winter tires. Not only are they legal in certain Canadian provinces, but they’re immensely helpful when the temperature swings from one extreme to another. Not only do they serve to improve your safety on the road, but many Canadian insurance companies will offer a discount when you equip your vehicle with winter tires. stay updated with Quintdaily for more amazing informative tips and ideas.
