Do I Need Snow Tires? Lessons Learned from the TRAC Winter Tire Report
November 11, 2020
Winter Tires
Today’s post reviews findings from the Tire and Rubber Association of Canada’s (TRAC) 2019 Winter Tire Report highlighting the importance of quality snow tires for Canadians in winter 2020-2021.
Read on to learn more about the difference that quality snow tires can make, or use Find a TIRECRAFT to speak directly with a local snow tire specialist.
Snow Tires Save Lives, TRAC Report Shows
TRAC’s online survey of 1,584 Canadian motorists showed that 80% of snow tire owners “believe driving a vehicle equipped with winter tires has saved them from being involved in a potentially hazardous driving situation, such as loss of control or a collision” (p. 3).
This echoes seminal snow tire research published by the Globe and Mail back in 2016, which showed that the average stopping distance of a car equipped with snow tires was 30-40% shorter than vehicles equipped with all-seasons.
“Since the force of a crash increases as the square of impact speed, this could be the difference between life and death,” wrote author Peter Cheney.
While tracking the effectiveness of winter tires through two driving seasons, a 2011 study by Le Ministère des Transports du Québec found:
- Snow tires reduce winter road collisions by 5%
- 574 fewer people were injured annually in winter road collisions
- Snow tires decreased deaths and serious injuries due to winter road collisions by 3%
Though snow tires aren’t absolutely necessary in areas with mild winters, they are absolutely effective for enhancing road safety.
Snow Tires Now Gold Standard for Canadian Motorists
“We see a steady improvement in consumer awareness,” writes Glenn Maidment, president of TRAC in the 2019 Winter Tire Report. “The millions of Canadian drivers who recognize them as the superior option for safe winter driving are helping prevent countless collisions and keep our roads safe.”
As more and more drivers recognize the benefits of enhanced grip and shorter stopping distances, snow tires have become the new standard for Canadian winter driving. According to TRAC research:
- 75% of Canadian motorists now use winter tires each year, up from 35% in 1998
- The snow tire category has grown at an annualized rate of 5% since 2016, making them the fastest-growing tire category in the Candian market
Where to Buy Quality Snow Tires Near Me — Find a TIRECRAFT
TIRECRAFT carries snow/winter tires from all the leading brands, including:
From the moment you call your local TIRECRAFT, a dedicated tire specialist will begin the process of finding your perfect tires. It all starts with your winter tire consultation, during which we’ll learn about your driving habits, cold weather conditions, preferences, and budget. Based on your unique customer profile, we’ll create a shortlist of tire recommendations that meet your needs without breaking the bank. And if you’re not completely satisfied with our winter tire picks, we’ll go back to the drawing board until we get it right.
Whatever winter tires you choose, TIRECRAFT adds value through the Advantage Plus Program, which includes:
- 12-month/20,000km Mechanical Warranty
- 30-day Tire Satisfaction Guarantee—no charge for tires and labour
- FREE flat tire repairs
- FREE tire rotations
Use the Find a TIRECRAFT tool to start a free winter tire consultation with a local tire expert.
Back