Winter is here, and so are BC’s winter tire and chain requirements!
From October 1 to April 30, most highways in British Columbia legally require vehicles to be equipped with winter tires or chains. For select highways in less snowy areas, the requirement ends on March 31.
What Qualifies as a Winter Tire?
A legal winter tire in BC must have:
- The Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMS) symbol, or
- The M+S (Mud and Snow) marking (minimum legal requirement).
Additionally, the tires must have a tread depth of at least 3.5 mm.
When Are Chains Required?
For commercial vehicles, chains are mandatory on most routes starting October 1. Roadside signs will indicate when chains are necessary.
- Chains are not required on the Lower Mainland and most of Vancouver Island, but they are essential for travel in snowy regions.
- Passenger vehicles are not typically required to carry chains but should be equipped with proper winter tires.
Why Are Winter Tires and Chains Important?
Winter tires and chains are designed to provide better traction in snow, ice, and slush. Winter tires can reduce stopping distances by up to 30% in icy conditions, while chains offer additional grip in extreme weather.
What Happens If You Don’t Comply?
Driving without proper winter tires or chains on designated routes can result in fines ranging from $109 to $121. Moreover, insurance claims may be impacted if unsafe tires or lack of chains are found to have contributed to a collision.
Exceptions to the Rule
In areas with milder winters, such as the Lower Mainland and southeastern Vancouver Island, winter tires and chains are not mandatory on most roads. However, if you plan to travel outside these regions, ensure your vehicle is equipped with the right tires and chains.
Protect Your Vehicle with AMC Insurance
At AMC Insurance, we’re here to help you stay safe and covered. Whether you need to renew your ICBC insurance or have questions about how winter driving impacts your coverage, our advisors are just a call away.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. When are winter tires required in BC?
Winter tires are required on most BC highways from October 1 to April 30. On select highways in less snowy areas, the requirement ends on March 31.
2. What qualifies as a legal winter tire?
A legal winter tire must have:
- The Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMS) symbol, or
- The M+S (Mud and Snow) marking (minimum legal requirement).
Additionally, the tire tread depth must be at least 3.5 mm.
3. Are chains required for all vehicles?
Chains are mandatory for commercial vehicles on most routes starting October 1, with roadside signs indicating when they are required.
Passenger vehicles are not typically required to carry chains but must have proper winter tires.
4. What are the fines for not complying with winter tire or chain requirements?
Drivers without proper winter tires or chains on designated routes can face fines ranging from $109 to $121.
5. How do winter tires and chains improve safety?
Winter tires provide better traction in snow, ice, and slush, reducing stopping distances by up to 30%. Chains offer additional grip in extreme weather conditions, especially on steep or icy roads.
6. Are there any exceptions to the winter tire and chain requirements?
Yes, in areas with milder winters, such as the Lower Mainland and southeastern Vancouver Island, winter tires and chains are not mandatory on most roads. However, if you plan to travel outside these regions, ensure your vehicle is equipped with the right tires and chains.
7. How can improper tires or chains affect my insurance?
If it’s determined that unsafe tires or the lack of required chains contributed to a collision, your insurance claim may be impacted. This could result in reduced coverage or denial of the claim. Ensuring your vehicle is properly equipped is not just about safety—it’s also about protecting your financial well-being.
