By Vernon Matters Staff

Winter tire regulations kick in

Oct 1, 2019 | 11:47 AM

Today is the day (Oct. 1) drivers are required to have appropriate winter tires of their vehicles if travelling on most provincial highways.

In B.C., regulations state that an appropriate winter tire is defined as one with either the M+S or mountain/snowflake symbol and in good condition with a minimum tread depth of 3.5 millimeters.

Drivers are encouraged to choose their tires based on the region and conditions in which they regularly drive.

Tires marked with a mountain/snowflake symbol on the sidewall offer the best traction on snow and ice and in cold weather. Tires marked with M+S (mud and snow) offer better traction than summer tires but are less effective than mountain/snowflake tires in severe winter conditions.

While winter tires are not mandatory province-wide, they are required on a majority of B.C. highways. Drivers without the proper winter tires in good condition driving on designated B.C. highways can receive a $109 fine.

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Rain, slush, snow, ice and cold temperatures are all part of winter driving. The improved traction offered by winter tires may be the difference between safely driving on winter roads and being involved in a potentially serious motor vehicle incident.

“Winter is on its way and I urge people to make sure they use good winter tires, slow down when driving in winter conditions, and plan ahead by checking DriveBC,” said Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Claire Trevena. “Conditions can change quickly on B.C. highways, especially for drivers leaving the Lower Mainland for more mountainous terrain. We want everyone to drive safely and get home to their families this winter.”

Winter tire regulations end on March 31 on many highways, however, the regulations have been extended to April 30, 2019, on select mountain passes and rural highways, to account for early spring snowfall.

Southern Interior Highways (submitted/B.C. Government)

For more information, including safe winter driving tips, go to: www.shiftintowinter.ca

For a detailed map on which highways have had winter tire regulations extended to April 30, go to the provincial website.

by Vernon Matters Staff

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