Research Review: 5 Reasons To Make The Switch To Winter Tires In 2022
November 16, 2022
Tires
You know winter tires save you money through insurance discounts, but do they really improve driving performance on snowy roads? And if so, does the benefit justify the cost?
In a word, yes—winter tires really do make a big difference, not only in terms of driving performance and safety, but also for your vehicle’s fuel efficiency. And you don’t have to take our word for it.
Synthesizing data from multiple tire tests, today’s post reviews research on the effectiveness of winter tires and highlights 5 reasons to make the switch in 2022.
Read on to learn more, or contact your local TIRECRAFT to speak directly with a winter tire expert near you.
Winter Tire Research Review: 5 Reasons To Make The Switch In 2022
1. Nearly 8 In 10 Drivers Report Winter Tires Kept Them Safe In The Snow Last Year
According to the Tire and Rubber Association of Canada’s 2021 Canadian Consumer Winter Tire Study, 79% of winter tire users report that “driving a vehicle equipped with winter tires has saved them from being involved in a potentially hazardous driving situation, such as a loss of control or a collision.”
2. Winter Tires Reduce Braking Distances To Prevent Serious Collisions
In one study comparing the effectiveness of winter tires versus all-seasons, researchers found that vehicles equipped with winter tires required 33.6% less braking distance to come to a stop, which is about 9 metres or two car-lengths difference.
Reducing braking distances not only lowers the risks of rear-end collisions, the number-one most common type of accident according to the Ontario Ministry of Transportation; it can also save your life, keeping you from sliding into a busy intersection or barrier wall during emergency braking situations.
3. Winter Tires Outmanoeuvre All-Seasons In Multiple Track Tests
In an experimental study conducted by Transports Quebec, researchers compared the performance of winter tires and all-season tires on cars, minivans, and 4-wheel drive vehicles in temperatures of -2°C and -20°C. Three different driving manoeuvres were executed:
- Braking in a straight line
- Accelerating in a straight line
- An avoidance manoeuvre
In all three tests, winter tires reigned supreme, offering:
- Superior braking performance, with faster stop times on snow and ice for all vehicle types
- Better acceleration, requiring less distance to reach a speed of 50 km/h
- Excellent avoidance maneuvers, with winter tire users reporting higher levels of control and shorter recovery times in emergency steering situations
And though winter tires lead the way in all track tests, the biggest gap was seen in tests where the temperature was -20°C. This is because all-season rubber compounds freeze and stiffen below 7°C, greatly reducing traction and lessening the contact patch. If you live somewhere that gets this cold, winter tires are definitely a smart investment.
4. Winter Tires Use Is Directly Associated With A Decrease In Fatal Accidents
Winter tires not only save money; they also save lives.
Research by the Government of Quebec found that winter road-accident injuries and deaths decreased by 5% within two years of mandating winter tire use.
Winter tires are not legally required in Ontario, but nearly 70% of drivers are using them to stay safe. When you’re ready to join them, your local TIRECRAFT is here to help.
5. Winter Tire Use Improves Fuel Efficiency
When temperatures drop below 7°C , all-season tire performance is compromised, and your engine has to work harder to transfer energy, which translates to you paying more at the pumps.
In a Swiss study comparing winter tires and all-seasons, the use of winter tires yielded a 5% reduction in fuel consumption and a 10-15% mileage performance increase.
With the average winter tire designed to last 2-4 seasons of driving, these savings can really add up!
Stay Safe And Save: Explore Your Winter Tires Options At TIRECRAFT
TIRECRAFT is your one-stop shop for winter tires, putting one of Canada’s largest selections at your fingertips, and giving you full access to all of the top brands’ official rebate programs, so you can compare different tire designs and deals under one roof.
No experience? No problem. Our friendly tire techs are standing by to answer any questions you might have, and we’re always happy to provide personalized winter tire recommendations based on your unique vehicle, budget, and weather conditions.
To schedule a free winter tire consultation, use the Find a TIRECRAFT tool.
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