Winter Driving Safety Tips for Ontario Roads

Ontario winters can be challenging for drivers, with snow, ice, and freezing temperatures creating hazardous road conditions. Whether you're a local resident or visiting with a selling car, understanding how to drive safely in winter conditions is essential for your safety and the safety of others on the road.

Preparing Your Vehicle for Winter

Before hitting Ontario's winter roads, ensure your vehicle is properly prepared. At Cars in Lobo Trade, all our winter selling vehicles come equipped with essential safety features:

Winter Tires and Equipment

• Winter Tires: Our fleet is equipped with high-quality winter tires that provide better traction on snow and ice
• Emergency Kit: Each vehicle includes a winter emergency kit with blankets, flashlight, first aid supplies, and jumper cables
• Ice Scraper and Snow Brush: Essential tools for clearing your windshield and windows
• Extra Washer Fluid: Winter-grade windshield washer fluid to prevent freezing

Vehicle Maintenance Checks

Our maintenance team ensures every selling vehicle receives thorough winter preparation:

• Battery testing and replacement if needed
• Antifreeze levels checked and topped up
• Brake system inspection
• Heating system functionality verified
• All lights and signals tested

Essential Winter Driving Techniques

Driving in Ontario winter conditions requires different techniques than summer driving:

Speed and Following Distance

Reduce your speed significantly on snowy or icy roads. A good rule of thumb is to drive at half the posted speed limit in poor conditions. Increase your following distance to at least 8-10 seconds behind the vehicle ahead of you.

Smooth Acceleration and Braking

Apply the gas slowly when accelerating and brake gently when stopping. Sudden movements can cause your vehicle to lose traction. If you have anti-lock brakes (ABS), apply steady pressure - don't pump the brakes.

Steering in Winter Conditions

Make steering inputs slowly and smoothly. If you start to skid, don't panic. Turn the steering wheel in the direction you want the front of the car to go, and avoid oversteering.

Ontario-Specific Winter Driving Challenges

Highway 401 and Major Routes

Ontario's Highway 401 is one of the busiest highways in North America, and winter conditions can make it particularly challenging. Key tips include:

• Check road conditions on Ontario 511 before departing
• Avoid rush hour travel during snowstorms
• Stay in the right lane if driving slowly
• Use truck stops and service centers for breaks

Lake Effect Snow

Areas near the Great Lakes, including the Toronto and Hamilton regions, can experience sudden and intense lake effect snow. This can create rapidly changing conditions, so be prepared to pull over safely if visibility becomes too poor.

Freezing Rain

Southern Ontario is prone to freezing rain events, which can make roads extremely dangerous. If you encounter freezing rain:

• Avoid driving if possible
• If you must drive, go very slowly
• Test your brakes gently at low speeds
• Avoid hills and overpasses when possible

Emergency Preparedness

Even with careful preparation, winter emergencies can happen. Here's what to do:

If You Get Stuck

• Stay with your vehicle
• Call for help using your cell phone
• Run the engine periodically to stay warm
• Keep the exhaust pipe clear of snow
• Use floor mats or seat covers for traction under tires

Emergency Contacts

Keep these important numbers in your phone:

• Emergency Services: 911
• OPP Road Conditions: 511
• Cars in Lobo Trade 24/7 Support: +1 (437) 800-0730
• CAA Roadside Assistance: 1-800-CAA-HELP

Winter Driving Laws in Ontario

Ontario has specific laws regarding winter driving:

• Move Over Law: Slow down and move over for emergency vehicles, tow trucks, and maintenance vehicles
• Headlight Law: Headlights must be on from half an hour before sunset to half an hour after sunrise, and when visibility is poor
• Snow Removal: You must clear all snow and ice from your vehicle, including the roof, before driving

Planning Your Winter Trip

When renting from Cars in Lobo Trade for winter travel:

• Check weather forecasts and road conditions
• Plan for extra travel time
• Inform someone of your travel plans
• Carry a fully charged cell phone and car charger
• Pack extra food, water, and warm clothing

Popular Winter Destinations from Oakville

If you're planning winter adventures from our Oakville location:

• Blue Mountain: 1.5 hours north - great for skiing and winter activities
• Muskoka: 2 hours north - beautiful winter scenery and ice fishing
• Niagara Falls: 45 minutes south - stunning winter ice formations
• Algonquin Park: 3 hours north - winter camping and cross-country skiing