2026-Jan-16
Winter Driving Tips To Help You Stay Safe on the Roads
Don’t let the icy grip of winter catch you off guard. When you’re heading to the cottage this winter, these essential tips will help you stay safe on the roads.Prepare Your Vehicle
- Clear all windows, mirrors, headlights, and your roof of snow and ice. This will assist with visibility and help avoid having ice and debris falling off your vehicle.
- Get snow tires. Having winter tires can improve traction in frost, snow, and icy conditions and shorten the braking distance of your vehicle (you may get an insurance break!)
Drive Smart
- Turn off the cruise control on wet, snowy, or icy pavement. Cruise control can reduce your reaction time and vehicle control.
- Remember to give other vehicles extra room. It can take vehicles longer to stop in slippery conditions.
- Plan ahead and check the weather forecast before heading out. Ontario 511 and Alertable offer both website and mobile app options to keep you informed about road conditions, weather alerts, and emergencies along your route.
- Always tell someone where you are going.
Be Prepared for Emergencies
- Make sure your vehicle has a winter survival kit that includes warm clothing, a shovel, booster cables, high energy foods, flashlight, matches, and a candle. GBA has tips on how to assemble a winter survival kit for your vehicle here.
- If you are low on fuel, and still moving, seriously consider finding a safe place to park until you are able to safely get to a gas station or someone can safely bring fuel to you.
- If you are stranded, stay with your vehicle and don’t venture out on foot. Pedestrians could become lost, or face hazards posed by snow removal equipment.
What to Do in Case of a CollisionDo you know what to do if you are involved in a collision? The OPP have everything you need to know here.
Stay Safe, Take Your Time
Most importantly, please take your time and adjust your speed according to the road conditions. Speed limits are set for ideal road conditions and higher speeds in less than ideal conditions boost your chances of losing control.
Download our printable winter driving cheat sheet here.
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