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As winter shifts to the rearview mirror and the promise of spring weather becomes more and more prevalent, drivers begin to ask themselves: “When is it safe to remove my winter tires?” Being Canada’s largest personal injury law firm, Diamond and Diamond Lawyers, guided by Partner Jeremy Diamond’s expertise, offers essential insights to help drivers make informed decisions that prioritize road safety and compliance with local regulations. Here are four key considerations to keep in mind.
Temperature Trends
One of the first and easiest things to consider when it comes to winter tires and whether or not you should take them off is the temperature. “Winter tires are engineered for optimal traction in colder conditions. It’s advisable to retain them until consistently warmer weather prevails. Sudden temperature changes can impact road conditions and premature removal of winter tires may compromise safety,” says Jeremy Diamond.
Adherence to Local Regulations
It’s crucial that drivers understand and adhere to local regulations governing the use of winter tires. “Certain regions mandate the use of winter tires until specific dates. Being aware of these regulations is pivotal to avoid potential legal repercussions and, more importantly, to ensure your safety while driving.” Learn more about province-specific winter tire regulations from our knowledgeable Safety Ambassador, Cam Woolley, here.
Road Surface Conditions
It’s also crucial to assess road conditions before you make the decision to remove your winter tires for the year. “Even though Spring brings higher temperatures, if roads remain wet, icy, or snow-covered, retaining winter tires may be the safer choice. The goal is to guarantee your vehicle maintains optimal traction and control during the unpredictability of Spring weather,” says Jeremy Diamond.
Pothole Season
Another big consideration is that it’s pothole season! Winter tires tend to be more resistant to pothole damage. If they have a big sidewall, or steel rims, they are significantly cheaper to repair and replace. Jeremy Diamond says, “Consider your usual driving patterns and the types of roads you frequently travel. If you often encounter challenging conditions, it might be wise to retain winter tires for an extended period. Prioritizing personal safety should always be a top concern.”
If you’re thinking of switching your winter tires out, it’s important to first factor in the long-range forecast, local regulations, road conditions and pothole season. “Our objective is to empower drivers with the knowledge needed to navigate the seasonal tire transition responsibly, ensuring a smooth and safe journey on the road ahead,” says Jeremy Diamond.
About Jeremy Diamond
Jeremy Diamond is a lawyer and member of both Ontario and Florida Bars. Jeremy practices in the area of Plaintiff personal injury litigation. Click here to learn more about Jeremy Diamond.