MPI offers driving tips for winter
Advertisement
Read this article for free:
or
Already have an account? Log in here »
We need your support!
Local journalism needs your support!
As we navigate through unprecedented times, our journalists are working harder than ever to bring you the latest local updates to keep you safe and informed.
Now, more than ever, we need your support.
Starting at $15.99 plus taxes every four weeks you can access your Brandon Sun online and full access to all content as it appears on our website.
Subscribe Nowor call circulation directly at (204) 727-0527.
Your pledge helps to ensure we provide the news that matters most to your community!
To continue reading, please subscribe:
Add Brandon Sun access to your Free Press subscription for only an additional
$1 for the first 4 weeks*
*Your next subscription payment will increase by $1.00 and you will be charged $20.00 plus GST for four weeks. After four weeks, your payment will increase to $24.00 plus GST every four weeks.
Read unlimited articles for free today:
or
Already have an account? Log in here »
Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 21/11/2024 (443 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.
Manitoba Public Insurance (MPI) has tasked drivers to embrace safe driving habits to prevent accidents and ensure smooth travel during icy and snowy conditions.
Plan by checking weather and road conditions before venturing out, using resources such as the province’s 511 service, MPI stated in a press release issued Wednesday.
The release stated that staying off the roads is the safest choice if the forecast indicates treacherous conditions.
However, for those who must travel, giving extra time for the journey and sharing the planned route and arrival time with someone can make a significant difference in staying safe.
MPI also underscored the need to adjust speed for winter conditions. While posted speed limits apply to ideal weather, icy roads, especially on bridges and overpasses, “demand slower speeds to maintain traction and allow for safer stopping distances.”
MPI warned against using cruise control in such conditions, as it can compromise control on slippery surfaces.
Clearing snow and ice from all vehicle parts, including the roof, hood, trunk and wheel wells, was another key recommendation from MPI.
“Clean surfaces ensure better visibility and safer driving for everyone on the road,” the release said.
“Keep windshield washer fluid topped up with a winter-ready solution to ensure a clear line of sight.”
The release added that drivers were encouraged to leave more space between vehicles than they typically would, particularly at higher speeds or during poor visibility.
Snow and ice reduce traction, increasing the time needed to come to a complete stop.
In addition, MPI advised drivers to remain vigilant for pedestrians, noting that snowbanks can obscure sightlines and make it harder to see people stepping onto roadways.
MPI also reminded drivers of its Winter Tire Program, which marks its 10th anniversary this year.
MPI chief customer and product officer Maria Campos said winter tires are specially designed to perform in cold temperatures by maintaining flexibility and offering better road grip, which helps reduce accidents.
“Since launching in 2014, MPI’s Winter Tire Program has provided over 240,334 loans to customers throughout Manitoba,” Campos said.
“Reducing barriers to this investment helps more people be ready for winter driving while preventing collisions and keeping our roadways safe for everyone across the province.”
She added that the program’s financing options of up to $2,000 per vehicle make it easier for Manitobans to equip themselves for the season.
For those seeking additional support, the release added, MPI offers free 45-minute winter driving sessions that are available in-person or virtually for groups of 10 or more and are particularly beneficial for new drivers or those unfamiliar with Manitoba’s winter roads.
» aodutola@brandonsun.com
» X: @AbiolaOdutola