Driving instructor cautions those new and seasoned to winter conditions. Jayk Sterkenburg/CHAT News

By Jayk Sterkenburg

IN THE COMMUNITY

Driving instructor urges precaution for all drivers over winter in Medicine Hat

Dec 18, 2024 | 10:51 AM

Winter conditions have caused enough havoc this year already – and the season has yet to even begin, as fall will formally come to an end this Saturday.

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READ: Medicine Hat, for now, escapes snowfall warning issued north and east of city

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Hazardous driving situations concern those new to driving, new to the climate, or anyone at all.

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Driver’s EDge in Medicine Hat provides learning opportunities for everyone travelling by automobile at any time of year.

Mona Delaney, senior instructor and owner of Driver’s EDge, said that driving school gets a “little slower” over the winter – in literal terms.

“Winter driving for students is actually really good, because it gives them a chance to experience it with somebody in the car that knows how to handle things,” she said.

“And when to slow down to get their timing right, and to kind of learn techniques like gearing down so that you can control the vehicle without always braking.”

Delaney said that the first advice she would give a driver experiencing their first winter is to keep their following distance in mind.

“Following distance is actually the number one cause of casualty collisions,” she said.

“In adverse conditions like these, you need to increase it to at least four to six seconds.”

Delaney said that it’s essential to not only clear the windshields and windows of snow on a vehicle, but the entirety of it.

A Facebook discussion proposed that enforcement should be carried out in regards to snow uncleared on a vehicle, as accidents and damage have been caused as a result.

Proper tires on a vehicle can make all the difference as well. Delaney advised that all-season and winter tires are not the same, functionality-wise.

‘Tread carefully’: Tire identification crucial to functionality over winter. Courtesy Canada Drives

She said that, concerning whether an improperly outfitted vehicle or an unprepared driver often cause more accidents, both can equally contribute.

“I think it could be a combination of both,” she said.

“Not having the right tires, you’re slipping and sliding a whole lot more, which can cause problems with traffic,” she added.

“The biggest thing is drivers having good driving habits.”

Delaney also recommended always wearing proper clothing when driving, and to keep a blanket in the vehicle.

Conditions will always be unpredictable at this time of year, but preparedness can be that one decision that prevents the unprecedented.