TORONTO —Here's some good news for tire makers and Canadian tire dealers: winter tire usage has reached 78% in the Great White North — a 10 percentage-point increase from 2016.
That is according to a survey commissioned by the Tire and Rubber Association of Canada (TRAC). According to results of the survey, 73% of Canadian motorists believe extreme winter weather, related to Canada's changing climate, has made winter tires more important than ever before.
Although more motorists are using winter tires, the survey showed that financial pressures have prevented some from investing in the product. Just under a third (30%) report they are now less likely to buy winter tires because of high living costs.
Yet 83% said they believe winter tires are an important investment despite the rising cost of living.
"When it comes to climate change, there's no doubt that changing weather patterns are a serious concern for Canadian drivers," TRAC CEO and President Carol Hochu said. "We all see the impact of climate change and the increasing frequency of sudden and severe winter weather events."
Safety was listed by respondents as most common reason for using winter tires (79%), while 36% cite winter tires being mandatory in their province.
Other reason for using winter tires are lower insurance premiums (20%); trusted advice from family and friends (16%); and advice from retailers (8%).
"The good news is that the number of drivers investing in winter tires climbed over the last decade and they are better prepared for winter motoring," Hochu said. "Despite the cost of living increase, they know winter tires are critical in navigating unpredictability on winter roads, and 79% believe using winter tires saved them from being involved in a potentially hazardous driving situation."
The most common reasons for not using winter tires are the belief that all-season tires are good enough (62%); cost (27%); and reduced driving in winter (23%).
"As one in five drivers still opts out of using winter tires, educating consumers remains essential, and greater adoption of winter tires is crucial for making our roads safer for everyone," Hochu said.
Other notes from the survey:
• 68% of British Columbia drivers use winter tires;
• Alberta's usage rate is 69 %
• In Manitoba and Saskatchewan usage stands at 69%
• 74% of Ontario drivers now use winter tires
• In Atlantic Canada winter tire usage stands at 85%.