Winter weather is just around the corner and that means B.C.’s winter tire rules come into effect as of Oct. 1.
Drivers will be required to equip their vehicles with winter tires if they plan to travel on certain highways such as the Malahat, Highway 14, Highway 4 and Highway 28.
In British Columbia, winter tires are defined as those labelled with either the Mountain Snowflake symbol or the Mud and Snow (M+S) symbol. Winter tires must be in good condition with a minimum tread depth of 3.5 mm, and must be used on designated highways Oct. 1 to March 31.
Signs are posted to identify those highways where winter tires are required for lighter cars and trucks, and chains are required for heavy commercial trucks. These routes are generally located approaching high mountain passes and highways which see significant winter conditions and where conditions can change from rain to snow very quickly.
Drivers planning to travel through these designated routes are encouraged to “know before you go” and check DriveBC.ca for the latest for latest highway conditions, highway cams, route forecasts and delay information.
“We want to be certain drivers are prepared for unpredictable and changing driving conditions. Make sure you are using winter tires that are in good condition, with solid treads, and adjusting your speed to match road and weather conditions,” Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Todd Stone.
* Drivers who don’t have the proper winter tires on their vehicle on the designated routes can receive a fine of $121.
* Drivers who don’t have the minimum tread depth on their tires (3.5mm) on the designated routes can receive a fine of $109.
More information on winter tire and chain requirements in B.C., can be found here.
