Winter drives in Southern and Central Ontario can be highly unpredictable in winter. You may leave for work with clear skies in the morning, only to look out of your office window hours later to discover your car is buried in several centimetres of snow, with icy roads waiting for the drive home. It goes without saying that paying attention to weather reports—and deciding when not to drive—is critical this time of year. That simple decision can save you hours in traffic, or the risk of a potentially life-changing personal injury if you happen to be involved in a weather-related auto accident.

To make matters more challenging in the winter months, according to a 2023 survey an estimated 67 per cent of Ontario drivers use winter tires. While it’s heartening to know that the majority of motorists take winter driving safety seriously, that still leaves a third of drivers who don’t, putting them (and you) at risk in harsh conditions.

Even with winter tires, all-wheel drive and careful driving, an icy or suddenly snow-covered road can be dangerous. So, what’s an Ontario driver to do when the weather worsens and driving conditions become decidedly riskier? Be proactive and put prudent decision-making first by knowing when to say ‘no’ to a longer winter drive when road conditions have (or may) deteriorate.

Driving decision-making: Weighing the risks

Before you spend the time brushing snow off your car, first spend time evaluating whether it’s worth venturing out onto the road in the first place. Here are some key factors to consider:

• Weather forecasts: Always check the latest weather conditions before embarking on a trip. Even a clear day can quickly turn stormy, producing hazardous driving conditions from freezing rain or a snow squall. Resources such as Environment Canada or the Weather Network provide up-to-date weather alerts and warnings that are crucial for planning travel during the winter months.
• Road condition reports: The Ontario Ministry of Transportation’s Ontario 511 website provides real-time road condition information for highways across the province. This resource offers live updates on road closures, snow removal status and traffic accidents, helping you decide whether it’s safe to hit the road.
• Personal driving skills and experience: Assess your own comfort level and experience with winter driving. If you feel tense or uneasy about driving in snow and ice, postpone your trip or consider alternative transportation options. Driving in winter conditions often requires experience handling skids and knowing how to navigate in reduced visibility. If you have a new driver in your household, talk to them about road safety and how to decide when road travel is worth the risk.
• How Essential Is the Trip: Your child may be excited about their hockey game or volleyball tournament two hours away, but a winter storm is a worthwhile reason to change your plans. Being prepared to leave early to take it slow on the roads is an option, but it’s important to use your discretion and opt to cancel your attendance at an event rather than taking the risk of driving through inclement weather. Know that your safety—and that of the loved ones you travel with—is more important than an event, appointment or even making it into the office.

Essential emergency gear for long winter drives

You’ve heard the common complaint that weather reports are rarely fully accurate. That’s why it’s important to prepare for any weather scenario when travelling across Ontario in the winter months. A well-stocked emergency kit can be a difference-maker. Consider packing these essential items:

• Flashlight
• Small shovel
• Cellphone car charger
• Snowbrush and ice scraper
• Sand, kitty litter or road salt for traction
• First-aid kit
• Windshield washer fluid
• Booster cables
• Warm blanket, hat, and gloves
• Non-perishable food, such as protein bars
• Bottles of water

The risks of navigating icy, snowy roads or driving when visibility is poor are real and can have serious consequences. If conditions deteriorate, it’s wise to err on the side of caution and make safety your top priority. Assessing weather forecasts, road conditions, and your own driving comfort can help you decide when it’s best to stay off the roads. This winter, empower yourself to make safe driving decisions—whether that means postponing non-essential trips or choosing to work from home.

The Leone Murray LLP Team

If you’ve been involved in a winter driving accident, read our recent blog on the immediate steps to take after an incident occurs. If you’ve sustained a significant personal injury, know that the Leone Murray LLP team is here to provide expert legal guidance and support. Our compassionate team is dedicated to helping you manage the legal process and obtain the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free case assessment.

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Why choose Leone Murray LLP

Expertise: Our law firm specializes in personal injury law, which means we know the ins and outs of insurance, what you’re entitled to, and the next steps if you or your loved one is involved in a motor vehicle accident in Ontario.

Compassionate Care: We take a client-first approach, ensuring you receive both the legal expertise and emotional support you need during this difficult time.

No Upfront Fees: Some insurance providers may require you to take on additional costs related to medical assessments or specialist treatments. We pay these upfront fees on your behalf while fighting for your rights, saving that added stress so you can focus on your complete recovery.