I have been a licensed driver, for over forty years. here in Newoundland Labrador.. Most of my winter driving was from Conception Bay South to St John’s via the old Topsail Highway and in recent years The Manuel’s Arterial. Also, I have done extensive driving, in my sales career, around St John’s and throughout the island. I can only recall having to spend one overnight, in St John’s, because of stormy weather. Other overnights were spent in St Anthony and on the Burin Highway.
Drivers here have to deal with blowing snow, slush and freezing rain and everything in between.. Many of us would remember the drifts by The United Church in Topsail and around Octagon Pond. Yes, I have been stuck, with other drivers, in both areas. The Manuel’s Arterial and other highways present different problems because of speed and the on and off ramps.
The following winter driving tips have been garnered from experience, other drivers and online resources. Credits will be given when available and when requested.. Click on links that are in dark blue. Have a safe driving winter.. This blog page will be updated as winter driving tips are received. There may be duplications, however; repetition may help prevent accidents. It’s winter, be prepared to change your driving habits.
- Winter tires are recommended..Transport Canada Link
- Make sure that your vehicle is equipped for winter driving. Transport Canada
- Watch out for children who have to walk to school in these conditions.
- Don’t tailgate. Tailgating becomes much worse in winter weather. Stopping takes much longer on snowy and icy roads than on dry pavement, so be sure to leave enough room between your vehicle and the one in front of you.
- Winter windshield wash. Keep topped up as a messy windshield is an accident waiting to happen.
- Clean the snow off your vehicle, including the roof. I had a frightening experience, when driving with a friend, on a freeway in Ottawa
- Make sure your windshield is completely free of frost. Don’t be a peep hole driver.
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Have a good set of winter tires on your vehicle, have plenty of gas in the tank especially during highway driving and a emergency kit with maybe extra clothing & or blankets you never know when you might get stranded on the road.
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