A few mild afternoons don’t mean winter is over, especially in higher-elevation areas of the Kootenays. Snow flurries remain in the forecast across the region.
Road Safety at Work reminds drivers that winter tires are still legally required on many B.C. highways through April 30, including key routes through the Kootenays such as highways 3, 3A, 6 and 95.
“Warmer days can give drivers a false sense of security,” said 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. However, shaded stretches of highway, mountain passes and rural roads throughout the Kootenays may remain icy well into the spring.
Winter tires aren’t just for heavy snow. They are designed to stay flexible in temperatures below 7 C, providing better traction and shorter stopping distances on cold pavement. In the Kootenays, overnight temperatures may remain below that threshold for several more weeks, particularly at higher elevations.
Early spring can be particularly risky for people who drive for work. Many workers in the Kootenays travel long distances between towns, job sites or resource roads. WorkSafeBC data show that claims for work-related driving injuries increase during the winter months.
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 conditions. Drivers should 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, Acres said. “Getting to your destination safely matters more than changing your tires early.”
People who drive for work or pleasure, and employers with staff who drive on the job, can find more winter driving tips at RoadSafetyAtWork.ca/Winter.
