Fraser Valley – Motorists are reminded that winter tire regulations will go into effect on Sunday October 1.
Drivers are required to have winter tires installed on their vehicles if they are traveling on designated highways around the province.
In B.C., winter tires are defined as those labelled with either the Mountain Snowflake symbol or the Mud and Snow (M+S) symbol. This symbol is located on the sidewall of the tire. Winter tires must be in good condition with a minimum tread depth of 3.5 mm, and must be used starting Oct. 1.
Signs are posted to identify these designated highways. Motorists will generally see these signs as they approach highway mountain passes or highways that see significant winter conditions or where there is a substantial increase in elevation.
These requirements are only for motorists travelling on designated routes. More than 60% of the province does not experience regular snow conditions; therefore, the ministry is not requiring all drivers to equip their vehicles with winter tires.
- Drivers who don’t have the proper winter tires on their vehicle on designated routes can receive a fine of $121.
- Drivers who don’t have the minimum tread depth on their tires (3.5mm) on the designated routes can receive a fine of $109.
To see which highways require winter tires after Oct. 1, click here: http://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/transportation/driving-and-cycling/traveller-information/seasonal/winter-driving/winter-tires-and-chains/winter-tire-and-chain-up-routes
For more information on winter tire and chain requirements in B.C., go to: http://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/transportation/driving-and-cycling/traveller-information/seasonal/winter-driving/winter-tires-and-chains/about-winter-tires
For information on winter driving preparation and tips, visit the “Shift Into Winter” website at: http://shiftintowinter.ca/
