The question of whether or not you need winter tires in Vancouver depends on a variety of factors. Vancouver is known for its wet and mild winters, but temperatures can dip below freezing and snowfall can occur frequently in some areas. For these reasons, it is important to consider the benefits of investing in winter tires and the potential risks associated with driving in winter conditions without them.
Benefits of Winter Tires
Winter tires are specifically designed to provide increased traction on icy and snowy roads. They are made with a softer rubber compound that remains pliable in colder temperatures, which helps to improve grip and reduce the risk of skidding. In addition, winter tires also feature a tread pattern designed to evacuate snow and slush from the tire’s contact patch with the road, giving the tire more surface area to grip the road.
Risks Associated with Not Having Winter Tires
Driving in winter conditions without the appropriate tires can be dangerous. Without winter tires, your vehicle will be less able to stop, turn, and accelerate in icy and snowy conditions, meaning you are more likely to skid or lose control of your vehicle. Furthermore, the risk of being involved in an accident increases significantly when driving without winter tires.
What To Consider When Buying Winter Tires
When considering whether or not to purchase winter tires, you should consider the type of vehicle you drive and how often you will be driving in winter conditions. If you are an occasional driver in winter conditions, then you may be able to get by with all-season tires. However, if you drive regularly in winter conditions, then winter tires are highly recommended.
Cost of Winter Tires
The cost of winter tires varies depending on the size and type of tire you need. Generally, winter tires cost more than all-season tires, but the added safety and performance benefits may be worth the extra expense. Additionally, many tire shops offer seasonal tire storage plans, which can help to reduce the overall cost of purchasing winter tires.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is important to consider the benefits and risks associated with driving in winter conditions without winter tires. If you drive regularly in winter conditions, then winter tires are highly recommended. The cost of winter tires varies depending on the size and type of tire you need, but the added safety and performance benefits may be worth the extra expense.
References
BCAA. “Should I get winter tires?”. BCAA, 2019. https://www.bcaa.com/road-safety/tires-wheels/winter-tires