The Cobourg Police Service (CPS) is committed to keeping our community roadways safe for drivers, passengers and pedestrians through education and enforcement. CPS has enhanced traffic patrols with the Selective Traffic Enforcement Project (STEP); the project focuses on a different topic each month.
STEP for January is focusing on winter driving safety.
Taking proactive measures to ensure your vehicle is in working order and making responsible decisions when driving can help keep the roads safe for everyone. It becomes even more important to take steps to ensure a safe journey in the winter months. Unpredictable weather, below zero temperatures and less daylight, can impact driving conditions.
As a driver, it is essential to be aware of your surroundings. Windshields, car windows, or side mirrors covered with snow and ice inhibit views of other vehicles, the road, intersections, and pedestrians. In addition, snow or ice blowing off a vehicle can impede the vision of other drivers. Drivers are reminded to remove snow and ice from vehicles completely before driving and practice safe driving habits this winter. Slow down and give space to other motor vehicles when travelling on snow-covered and icy roadways.
Several Highway Traffic Act (HTA) charges exist related to January STEP:
• No Clear View to front / side
• No Clear View to Rear
• Windshield Obstructed
• Careless Driving
Fines can range from $110 to $2,000 and from zero to six demerit points depending on the HTA charge laid.
In addition to clearing all the ice and snow from your vehicle, here are some other winter driving tips:
• Pack a winter car kit in case of an emergency.
• Give yourself extra travel time and plan to stay on main roads that are plowed often.
• Increase distance between you and the vehicle ahead of you.
• Signal well in advance of turning to give other motorists time to anticipate and react.
• Slow down and avoid slamming on the brakes when it is snowy or icy
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
