Winter tires law
In winter, drivers must adapt their driving to weather and road conditions. Under the Highway Safety Code, drivers must slow down when visibility is reduced as a result of darkness, fog, rain or other precipitation, or when the roadway is slippery or not completely cleared.
Failure to adapt your driving can result in:
- A $60 fine, plus costs
- 2 demerit points
Winter tires are mandatory from December 1 to March 15, inclusive.
To avoid surprises in winter
- Put together a winter supply kit (snow brush, ice scraper, windshield washer fluid, shovel, etc.) and keep it in your vehicle at all times.
- Completely remove all snow and ice from your vehicle before hitting the road.
- On the road, slow down and keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you, especially on slippery roads or in conditions of poor visibility. Watch out for black ice, even if it is nice outside.
- Always turn on your headlights and low beams when it is dark outside.
- If possible, reschedule your trip if road conditions are poor.
Driving a mobile igloo is dangerous and prohibited!
A vehicle’s windshield and windows must be cleared of any matter that might reduce visibility for the driver. A police officer may impose a fine of $100 to $200, plus costs, on the driver and require that the vehicle’s windows and windshield be cleared of ice, snow, or any other matter that reduces the driver’s visibility. The driver must comply with this requirement.
Furthermore, no person may drive a vehicle covered with ice, snow, or any other matter that may detach from the vehicle and constitute a hazard for other road users. Offenders face a fine of $60 to $100, plus costs.
