December 1st is Approaching: Install Your Winter Tires and Avoid a $200 Fine

December 1st is Approaching: Install Your Winter Tires and Avoid a $200 Fine

Winter Tire Season Is Officially Underway — Install Yours by December 1st to Avoid a $200 Fine

Winter tire season is officially open, and you have until December 1st to equip your vehicle. After this date, driving without winter tires can result in a $200 to $300 fine. Don’t wait too long, though: the later you leave it, the more likely you are to face crowded garages and higher installation costs. Winter conditions can also arrive well before December, so it’s best to install your tires as soon as temperatures drop below 7 °C or snow appears.

All-season tires, often called “summer tires,” lose effectiveness on snow or ice. Below 7 °C, their grip decreases significantly, increasing the risk of accidents.

There are some exceptions, such as for new or temporary vehicles, but it’s always safer to equip your vehicle on time. If you use studded tires, their permitted usage period is October 15th to May 1st.

So why wait? Install your winter tires now and drive safely throughout the season!