Winter in Ohio means slick roads, icy bridges and decreased visibility. While these don’t make for ideal driving conditions, many of us must drive anyway. Because there is always a risk of crashing, and because this risk increases when the roads are bad, it can be wise to take some precautions to keep yourself safe.
For instance, one thing you can do is determine if you have the right tires on your vehicle.
Winter tires best for snow and ice
Tire makers design winter tires for cold, snowy and icy roads. Their rubber stays soft and flexible below about 45°F so the tire keeps grip when others get hard and slick. Deep treads and many tiny sipes push slush away and bite into ice for better traction and shorter stopping distances.
If you opt for winter tires, look for the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) symbol. This symbol proves the tire meets certified winter traction standards. Use winter tires only in cold months. They wear faster in warm weather, so swap them out in spring.
All-weather tires are a good middle ground
Many drivers choose all-weather tires when they want one set year-round. Makers tune these tires with softer rubber than all-season types and add more aggressive treads to grip snow and slush. Many all-weather models carry the 3PMSF mark, so they count as winter-ready in many places.
While these won’t match the absolute winter performance of dedicated winter tires, you gain strong winter capability and the convenience of no seasonal swaps.
All-season tires not ideal for harsh winter
Manufacturers build all-season tires for spring, summer and fall. They use harder rubber to last longer and handle wet and dry roads well. Cold makes that rubber stiff and cuts traction. Some all-season tires have an M+S mark, but that label does not equal 3PMSF winter performance. All-season tires can be suitable if your winters stay mild and snow stays light.
Prioritize your safety in winter
Choosing the right tires can have a dramatic impact on your safety and stability during these winter months. The choices affect your stopping distance, traction and degree of control on Ohio roads.
If winter driving scares you because of slick roads and crash risk, consider options like snow tires to improve your safety. If, despite your efforts and equipment, a crash still happens, an attorney can help you pursue a legal claim against negligent parties.