Kootenay drivers: don't put those snow tires away just yet

A few mild afternoons don’t mean winter is over, especially in colder and higher-elevation parts of the Kootenays. Snow flurries are in the forecast around the region.

Road Safety at Work reminds drivers that winter tires are still legally required on many highways in the Kootenay regionthrough April 30. This includes Highways 3, 38, 93, 95, and parts of Highways 1 and 22..

“Warmer days can give drivers a false sense of security,” says Trace Acres, spokesperson for Road Safety at Work’s Winter Driving Safety campaign. “But in many parts of B.C., winter conditions can return quickly and without much warning.”

Morning frost, compact snow, black ice, and sudden snowfalls are still common this time of year.

Even in communities that experience long winters, drivers can become less cautious as daylight increases and daytime temperatures rise. But shaded stretches of highway, mountain passes, and rural roads may remain icy well into the spring.

Winter tires aren’t just for heavy snow. They’re designed to stay flexible in temperatures below 7C, providing better traction and shorter stopping distances on cold pavement. In colder regions, overnight temperatures may remain below that threshold for several more weeks.

Early spring can be particularly risky for people who drive for work. Many workers in northern and Interior communities travel long distances between towns, job sites, or resource roads. WorkSafeBC data show that claims for work-related driving injuries increase by nearly 20% in winter.

For many workers, driving is the most dangerous part of their day. “Employers and workers need to stay vigilant right through the end of the season.”

Road Safety at Work encourages drivers to continue adjusting their driving to the conditions. Slow down, increase following distance, allow extra travel time, and check weather reports and road conditions at DriveBC.ca before setting out, especially when travelling mountain highways or remote routes.

Winter tires still have an important job to do, says Acres. “Getting to your destination safely matters more than changing your tires early.”

People who drive for work or pleasure, and employers who have staff that drive on the job, can find more winter driving tips at RoadSafetyAtWork.ca/Winter.