Tests by CAA-Quebec: Beware winter tires in summer!
With the return of warm weather, CAA-Quebec is warning drivers about the risk of using winter tires during the hotter summer months, from June to August. These tires could compromise their safety and that of other road users.
It's been proven!
"Tests conducted by CAA-Quebec last summer show beyond any doubt that all-season tires are safer than winter tires in warm weather," said Sophie Gagnon, CAA-Quebec's Senior Director, Public and Government Relations. "In these tests, we observed that braking distances in emergencies could increase by up to 30% with winter tires. Moreover, for evasive action to be successful, speeds had to be much lower than for the same manoeuvres with all-season tires. The test car was less stable with winter tires."
A question of money?
CAA-Quebec fears that the introduction last fall of new rules making the use of winter tires mandatory is tempting a growing number of motorists to keep their winter tires on in the hope of saving money. However, not removing winter tires in the summer might increase fuel consumption, and there is no doubt that they wear out more quickly in warm weather, reducing the anticipated savings.
Assessment and awareness
CAA-Quebec holds the view that an assessment of the new regulation is indispensable, and is urging the Quebec Transport Department to implement awareness actions to reduce to a minimum the risks caused by the use of tires that are inadequate for road conditions at certain times of year. A summary of the tests conducted by CAA-Quebec may be found in the Automobile section of www.caaquebec.com/Automobile/SecuriteRoutiere/Documents-Consultation.htm?lang= en.
CAA-Quebec, a not-for-profit organization founded in 1904, provides automotive, travel, residential and financial services, benefits and privileges to its one million members.
