Winter driving conditions can vary dramatically in HRM and require the driver’s full attention. Often times road conditions warrant a significantly slower speed than what is posted. Remember to allow extra time for your commute so you don’t feel you have to rush. When the roads are slippery, a vehicles’ stopping distance increases so allow extra space between you and the car ahead. When approaching a red light or stop sign, begin stopping earlier to help prevent sliding into the intersection.
Motorists are reminded that it is an offence to drive with their windows obscured, including ice and snow. It is recommended that drivers take the time to completely clear the snow off their vehicle including the windows, hood, roof and trunk, and scrape the ice off the windows. Snow build-up on vehicles can be a hazard if it blows off on to other vehicles or slides down over the windshield when the vehicle stops.
Motorists are also reminded that during a snow storm, regardless of the time of day, vehicles cannot be parked on the street. Police urge vehicle owners to make sure they move their vehicles off the road to prevent being ticketed and possibly towed and to make it easier for snow plow operators to clear the streets.
Please do your part to make the roads safe this winter.