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Winter Driving

Driving in winter weather - snow, ice, wet and cold – presents unique challenges and safety risks for drivers.

Here are some important winter driving safety tips drivers need to know:

  • It is important to keep your distance, reduce your speed and signal your intentions early on, because when the weather is cold, tire adherence decreases.
  • It is recommended to always keep a safe distance between your vehicle and the one in front of you, leaving a distance of at least two seconds - more is needed if the weather is severe.
  • Before taking to the road, for your safety and that of others, make sure to remove the snow from your windows, windshield, wipers and the headlights of your vehicle.
  • From December 1st to March 15th, taxis and passenger vehicles registered in Québec must have four tires specifically designed for winter driving, as they help the vehicle adhere to snow-covered surfaces or frozen roadways.

Infractions and penalties

Infractions

Penalties plus applicable fees

To follow another vehicle at a dangerous and unreasonable distance.

$100

To drive a road vehicle without continuously signalling your intentions.

$100

Not clearing the headlights, indicators or reflectors of a vehicle as required.

$60

From December 1st to March 15th, the owner of a taxi or a passenger vehicle registered in Québec cannot drive unless equipped with tires designed specifically for winter driving and in accordance with Government standards.

This requirement also applies to Québec car rental companies.

$200

Find out more

Winter Preparation - SAAQ

Snow Removal - Ville de Montréal