While Lethbridge has been fortunate as of late with balmy temperatures, snow and ice are not the best recipe for driving.
But before heading out this winter, Constable Steve Baker with the Lethbridge Police Services said it’s important to plan your trip and check the road and weather conditions.
“Here in Southern Alberta we have the wonderful Chinooks, we get the thawing and freezing which causes some very slippery conditions.”
And with the slippery conditions, Baker said slow done and leave yourself plenty of room between the vehicle in front.
“At the end of the day, the faster you go, the more likely you are to get into an accident. There’s the cliché speed kills, well it can, the faster you go, your ability to react, your visibility, everything decreases,” said Baker.
He also added, getting proper winter tires can help eliminate the chances of getting into a collision.
“We don’t have any legislation in Alberta that says you need winter tires, but they will make a world of difference,” said Baker.
Local mechanic Dustin Regimbald-Dieb said not having winter tires is one of the number one mistake drivers make.
“They’re made out of a softer compound, they tend to give you better traction at lower temperatures, they don’t get as stiff as an all season will.”
He also says it’s important to prepare for the winter months by making sure the health of your vehicle is in good condition.
“It’s always safe to get your battery tested before winter, get your coolant checked, make sure it’s not going to freeze on you, it’s always good to have an oil change, get your winter tires on and check your breaks,” Regimbald-Dieb said.
However, if you do happen to find yourself involved in a collision, police said it’s important to remember a few key things.
First, if it’s safe to do so, pull your vehicle to the side and out of the way. Second, accidents are only police reportable if they’re over $2,000 in damage.
And finally, remember to get all the information from the other driver, including licence plate, driver’s licence, registration and insurance.
“The most important thing is if you can get to a safe situation do it and get some information from the other person. And relax, sometimes people are in shock, upset and frustrated and those emotions boil over. It happened, it was an accident, take a breath, get the information and carry on,” said Baker.
Another way to get information on the road conditions before heading out is by using 511 Alberta, according to Alberta Transportation.
511 Alberta is a free traveller information service, operated by the Alberta government and can be accessed via phone, mobile device or computer.
By following these tips, you can help ensure your safety on the roads throughout the winter months.
