With another winter weather travel advisory in place and 10 to 20 centimeters of snow expected in Newmarket and area by Thursday morning, extreme caution is needed if you have to drive today.
On winter days with poor weather and driving conditions, York Regional Police typically see two to three times as many collisions compared to a clear day.
"Most of these collisions related to winter driving are avoidable," the force stated in a news release.
Environment Canada is forecasting snow will continue through tonight before easing by Thursday morning. Additional lighter snowfall is expected Thursday for the Greater Toronto Area, however there is still some uncertainty regarding the additional associated snowfall amounts.
Motorists should expect hazardous winter driving conditions and adjust travel plans and driving behaviour accordingly. Surfaces such as highways, roads, walkways and parking lots may become icy and slippery.
Here are some tips for safer winter driving:
- Always check weather and travel conditions before heading out and give yourself plenty of time to get to your destination;
- Slow down, drive according to the weather conditions and ensure you have enough time and gas in your tank to get you to your destination;
- Top up your windshield washer fluid and clear the snow and ice completely from your vehicle;
- Always wear your seatbelt;
- Avoid distractions;
- Leave a large space between your vehicles and those in front or around you;
- If visibility is reduced while driving, slow down, watch for tail lights ahead and be prepared to stop;
- Plan for longer times and distances when braking at a stop sign or at intersection.
If you are involved in a collision, stay calm and call 911 immediately if anyone is hurt or in danger, police advise. Remain at the scene and ensure your vehicle is in a safe location.
You may need to move your vehicle off the road to ensure your safety and that of other motorists. If you are able to do so safely, check on the well-being of anyone else involved.
Call police immediately if the collision involves any of the following:
- Someone who is hurt or in danger;
- A driver you suspect has committed a crime, such as impaired driving;
- A pedestrian or cyclist;
- An uncooperative driver;
- Damage to private property;
- A government vehicle or a vehicle that is transporting dangerous goods.
If the combined damage to vehicles is believed to be less than $2,000 and none of the above circumstances exist, you do not require a police report. Exchange drivers' licences, ownership and insurance information with any other drivers involved and report directly to your insurance company, police advise.
For more information on reporting collisions, click here.
For road conditions and other traveller information from the Ministry of Transportation, visit ontario.ca/511 or call 511.
