The Ontario Provincial Police is warning drivers that with the return of foggy, snowy and icy windshield season, good winter driving habits start with clearing your windshield.
“Motorists are reminded to completely clear the snow off their vehicles and to ensure visibility in all directions before heading out onto the roadway,” East Algoma OPP advised in a news release. “A buildup of snow on your vehicle and/or a foggy or iced over windshield or windows can drastically reduce your visibility and cause a traffic hazard to other motorists.”
Besides being a hazard to yourself and other drivers, motorists who don’t properly clear their windshield can be charged under the Highway Traffic Act.
“The OPP reminds drivers that it is their responsibility to take the time to properly clean off their vehicles and ensure a clear view out of all the windows and windshield.”
With the return of icy windshields comes the return of icy roads, so the OPP is also reminding drivers of all-wheel drive (AWD) vehicles that they aren’t any better at stopping than two-wheel drive varieties.
“All-wheel drive (AWD) vehicles help you accelerate, but not stop. On slippery surfaces, vehicles with four-wheel drive or AWD can accelerate better than those with two-wheel drive. However, when stopping or turning, the limits are determined by the traction capabilities of your tires, not the number of driven wheels,” the OPP said.
“You should still adjust your driving to the conditions you're are facing, even if you're operating an AWD vehicle.”
