What is the best advice for Winter driving in Canada?

If you're like most people, you probably dread driving in bad winter weather. But did you know that there are some easy tips that can help make the experience a lot less stressful? Here are the top tips for driving in bad winter weather in Canada.

• Winterize your vehicle. Make sure your tires are in good condition and that your windshield wipers and headlights are working properly, and that you have plenty of windshield washer fluid.

• Drive slowly and be extra cautious in winter weather and road conditions. Black ice can be hard to see, so take your time and don’t be afraid to give yourself extra space between yourself and the car in front of you.

• Stay alert and rested. Fatigue can be a factor in winter accidents, so make sure you’re well-rested before you get behind the wheel.

• Pack an emergency kit. In case of a breakdown and you have to pull off the road, it’s important to have a phone and some basic supplies like food, water, blankets, and a first-aid kit in your car.

• Don’t tailgate. Leave more space than usual between you and the car in front of you. And give yourself extra time to get where you’re going.

• Be extra cautious at intersections — especially when making left turns. This is where most winter crashes happen.

• Know your brakes and don't lose control of your vehicle. Before you need them in an emergency situation, find out whether your vehicle has anti-lock brakes (ABS) and learn how to use them properly. If you don’t have ABS, pump your brakes rapidly while steering into a skid.

• Don’t use cruise control on slippery roads. When road conditions are bad, it’s best to just drive without it.

• Use Winter tires, it's a good idea. Drivers with all-season tires may think they don’t need Winter tires. But if you live in an area where the mercury regularly dips below 7°C, Winter tires can provide better traction, handling, and braking ability — even on dry pavement.