Starting Oct. 1, all motorists are required to have winter tires installed when driving on the Sea to Sky Highway and other designated roads throughout the province.
"People may experience sunny and warm conditions when they set out, but run into heavy rain, snow or sleet along the way," said Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Claire Trevena in a release. "That's why it's important to ensure your vehicle is properly equipped with snow tires with the Mountain Snowflake or Mud and Snow symbol, along with good solid treads."
Acceptable winter tires are indicated with either a mountain snowflake symbol or the mud-and-snow (“M+S”) symbol, located on the sidewall of the tire. Winter tires must also be in good working condition with a minimum tread of 3.5 millimetres.
These requirements only apply to specific highways designated by the provincial government. Along with Highway 99 through the Sea to Sky, other notable routes requiring winter tires in the South Coast region include Highways 1, 3 (also known as Crowsnest Highway), and 5 (also known as the Coquihalla).
“It is the responsibility of all drivers to ensure they have the correct winter tires on designated routes — this, along with other safe driving behaviours such as slowing down, putting your phone out of reach, and not drinking and driving, can make a big difference in getting everyone home safely,” said B.C. safety minister Mike Farnworth in the release.
Driving without the proper tires can net a fine of $121, while failing to have the proper tread depth on your tires can result in a $109 ticket.
For more information, visit http://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/transportation/driving-and-cycling/traveller-information/seasonal/winter-driving/winter-tires-and-chains/about-winter-tires.
