Winter driving conditions are upon us and the Ontario Provincial Police urge drivers to avoid the risky behaviour of aggressive driving – slow down, give yourself more time to arrive at your destination and maintain distance between vehicles.
Excess speed reduces the amount of available time needed to avoid a collision, increases the likelihood of a collision and increases the severity of a collision once it occurs.
Drivers of all ages have experienced being “pushed along” in traffic above what they are comfortable with. Many drivers exhibit a great deal of impatience with drivers travelling at or below the speed limit during poor winter driving conditions and can become quite aggressive. The motoring public needs to be made more aware of the dangers of excess speed in order to combat this dangerous, life-threatening behaviour.
If travel is necessary during potentially dangerous winter weather it’s best to inform someone of the travel route, destination and expected arrival time. Motorists should also remember to keep their gas tank near full to avoid ice in the tank and fuel lines. Motorists can check for road conditions by calling the MTO at 1-800-268-4686.
A winter vehicle kit is also a good practice and can include these items:
- Flashlights with extra batteries
- First aid kit with pocket knife
- Necessary medication
- Blankets
- Matches and candles for light and heat
- Extra set of mittens, socks and wool cap
- Bag of sand for generating traction under the wheels
- Shovel
- Tools (pliers, wrenches, screwdrivers)
- Booster cables
- A brightly coloured cloth to use as a distress flag
- Bottled water
“The OPP is asking all motorists to re-adjust their driving according to conditions. This adjustment goes a long way into making all area roadways safer for everyone”, states Staff/Sergeant Rick Witty, Kirkland Lake OPP Detachment Commander.
