There are serious legal consequences whenever an accident occurs and– just like everything else– winter makes it more complicated. Keep reading for Martin G. Schulz’s top five safe winter driving tips.

#1: Winterize and organize.
One of the easiest ways to stay safe on winter roads is to prepare your vehicle for the elements. “Winterizing” means not only doing routine maintenance (check brake pads, change the oil, etc.) but also making adjustments such as swapping out winter tires and testing the heater. Another good bet is to store blankets, warm clothing and other winter accessories like a shovel or even sand for traction. It might seem hard to find time to do these things, but it will be much more inconvenient if they happen in sub-zero weather when you are trying to get somewhere.

#2: Weather or not
On the Canadian prairies, many of us are optimistic about the forecast– but if you are planning on driving, you are being unsafe if you do not check the conditions through which you will be traveling. Weather and road warnings should always be heeded, but if you absolutely must: always adjust your driving habits the many possible winter hazards.

#3: Slow and steady
Always leave extra time to get to where you are going, because even the legal speed limit can be unsafe on cold weather roads. Rain, sleet, snow, and ice can all reduce your vehicle’s handling and response time– under- or over-correcting can also have more severe consequences in such conditions. Winter weather can also change without warning, meaning a short journey can always turn into a long one.

#4: Stay in school
You are never too old to take defensive or winter driving courses and they are widely offered by many services. Some certificates may even lower your insurance premium, but the main benefit is your skill behind the wheel. If you have taken introductory lessons, there are intermediate or advanced licensing requirements that could improve your knowledge and confidence.

#5: Stay home!
It’s the absolute easiest way to avoid a winter accident or breakdown: don’t drive. You can avoid being a homebody thanks to public transit, taxicabs, rideshares or even bundling up and walking! Otherwise, just snuggle up on the couch.

If you have questions or concerns about a charge or legal liability related to winter driving: visit or contact Martin G Schulz & Associates today!