Gander RCMP Cst. Justin Lyall said even though it’s been a mild, wet winter so far, motorists have to be acutely aware of the dangers that can arise at a moment’s notice.
“Though there’s been no snow, temperatures have dropped in the night time and there could be a danger of black ice, so drivers have to keep this in mind when travelling after dark,” said Cst. Lyall, adding black ice is a driving danger many are not aware is present until they try to stop.
“This means, with or without snow, drivers need to watch their speed and drive to the conditions.”
How long this mild weather will last is anyone’s guess, but Cst. Lyall is confident central Newfoundland will be seeing its usual allotment of snow before spring hits, and insists drivers need to be prepared.
The installation of snow tires is something, according to Cst. Lyall, that should already be done.Wipers and windshield washer fluid should be changed to the winter type, and brakes and other mechanical aspects of a vehicle should have been checked and received any necessary maintenance.
“Why people don’t have snow tires on this time of year is beyond me,” said Cst. Lyall. “Speed and good traction are the two main things when it comes to safe winter driving, and snow tires give you the traction required to stop when coming upon other vehicles, traffic lights or stop signs.”
“This means, with or without snow, drivers need to watch their speed and drive to the conditions.” - Gander RCMP Cst. Justin Lyall
As for speed, he said, motorists need to drive to the conditions and not the posted speed limit, and also be aware of the amount of space between their own vehicle and the stopping point. He noted space should increase in the winter, as drivers should take into consideration slippery conditions.
“Awareness of what’s around you and anticipation are also good practices for safe winter driving,” said Cst. Lyall. “And even though we haven’t received very much frost so far, when there is frost, drivers need to make sure they have good visibility. Clearing off a small peek hole just isn’t sufficient. They really need defrost and completely scrape off their vehicle’s windows, including side windows.
“Winter may not be here now, but when it hits, and it will hit, people need to be prepared. Let’s hope we all have a safe winter driving.”
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