Safe Winter Driving Tips for Ontario Roads: What Drivers Need to Know This Season

January 16, 2026, Kitchener, Ontario

Posted by: Robert Deutschmann, Personal Injury Lawyer

Winter driving is once again a daily reality for Ontario motorists. With snow falling across much of the province since the start of December, road conditions have already become unpredictable and, at times, dangerous. Early and sustained snowfall increases the risk of collisions, especially when drivers are not fully prepared for winter conditions. Understanding how to drive safely, respond to skids, and equip your vehicle properly can significantly reduce the risk of injury on Ontario roads.

Prepare Your Vehicle for Winter Conditions

One of the most important winter driving safety measures is ensuring your vehicle is properly equipped. Snow tires are essential for safety on ice and snow-covered roads. In Ontario, snow tires are strongly recommended because they provide better traction, shorter stopping distances, and improved control in cold temperatures. Unlike all-season tires, snow tires are designed to remain flexible in freezing conditions, allowing them to grip icy or snow-covered roads more effectively.

Drivers should also ensure that:

• Windshield wipers are in good condition,
• Washer fluid is rated for winter use nd that you have an extra jug in the car, 
• The entire car including lights are clear of snow and ice.
• Carry an emergency kit in your vehicle, including a blanket, flashlight, shovel, and phone charger, or even a battery brick, is also advisable during the winter months.

Adjust Your Driving for Winter Roads

Winter driving requires patience and reduced speed. Snow and ice significantly increase stopping distances, even at low speeds. Drivers should increase following distance, accelerate slowly, and brake gently to avoid losing traction. Sudden movements of the steering wheel or pedals can easily lead to a loss of control.

Visibility is another major concern. Falling snow, blowing wind, and early darkness all make it harder to see hazards. Clearing all snow and ice from your vehicle before driving is not only safer, but legally required in Ontario to ensure unobstructed visibility.

What to Do If You Go Into a Skid

Knowing how to respond in a skid can help prevent a minor slide from turning into a serious collision. The correct response depends on the type of skid:

• If your rear wheels skid (oversteer), gently turn the steering wheel in the direction you want the front of the vehicle to go. Ease off the accelerator and avoid sudden braking.

• If your front wheels skid (understeer), ease off the accelerator and allow the tires to regain traction. Avoid turning the wheel sharply, as this can worsen the skid.

• NEVER brake or accelerate suddenly on ice or move the steering wheel suddenly as you will risk throwing your car into a skid or out of control.

In all situations, remain calm, avoid over-correcting, and keep your eyes focused on where you want the vehicle to go. Modern vehicles with stability control can help, but they do not eliminate the need for careful driving.

Plan Ahead and Drive Defensively

Winter weather can change quickly. Before heading out, check weather and road conditions and allow extra time for your trip. If conditions are severe, postponing non-essential travel may be the safest choice.

Defensive driving is especially important in winter. Be aware that other drivers may struggle with traction or visibility, and be prepared for sudden stops or slow-moving vehicles.

When Winter Driving Leads to Injury

Despite taking precautions, winter collisions still occur — often due to drivers failing to adjust to road conditions, speeding, or driving without proper tires. If you are injured in a winter driving accident caused by another driver’s negligence, it is important to understand your legal rights.

At Deutschmann de Koning Law, our Ontario personal injury lawyers regularly assist clients injured in winter collisions. Proper documentation, timely medical care, and experienced legal guidance can make a meaningful difference in recovery and compensation.

Stay Safe This Winter

With winter weather already affecting Ontario roads since early December, now is the time to prioritize safe driving habits. Preparing your vehicle, adjusting your driving behaviour, and knowing how to respond in a skid can help protect you and others throughout the winter season.

About Deutschmann de Koning Law

Deutschmann de Koning Law serves South-Western Ontario with offices in Kitchener-Waterloo, Cambridge, Woodstock, Brantford, Stratford and Ayr. The law practice of Robert Deutschmann and Nick de Koning focuses almost exclusively in personal injury and disability insurance matters. For more information, please visit www.ddinjurylaw.com or call us at 1-519-742-7774.