Greg discusses winter tire safety in this episode of Ask The Expert. 800 CHAB radio presents Ask the Expert with Greg Marcyniuk of Heritage Insurance located in Moose Jaw.
Here's a full transcript of the episode.
-Rob Carnie: Those who have them say, "You got to have them." Those who don't say, "I'm not sure I have to have them." And then they'll run into a situation where they come in handy.
We're talking about winter tires on 800 CHAB Ask The Expert today with Greg Marcyniuk at Heritage Insurance in downtown Moose Jaw. Greg, the stats show exactly what the tire shops tell us: "You really should use winter tires."
Greg Marcyniuk: That's right, Rob. In fact, winter tires are critical for road safety. When compared to all-season tires, winter tires have been shown to decrease the stopping distance by 30% to 40%. And our winter conditions are difficult. And, in fact, some provinces have made it mandatory — such as BC — that you have to have winter tires.
So, I believe when they're saying, "You should have winter tires," I think it's a good idea. But before you purchase the winter tires, it's critical that you do understand your options, and some general best practices.
First of all, winter tires are made for a variety of conditions, and mostly to perform in low temperatures, ice, and such. Effective winter tires have at least 3.5 tread on it, and they will have a symbol of either a mountain, and a snowflake, and this basically indicates that the tires have good traction on ice or snow.
And it's very important that you never mix these tires up. Like, make sure you have the same type of tires there. And if you do it could compromise the stability of your vehicle. And as with any tire, you should always maintain proper tire pressure just for extending the tread, and as well as getting better gas mileage.
Inspect those winter tires regularly. And if you see any sort of cracks or balders, just replace them. It's just not worth it. And when you're going out to purchase it, it's best that you know the different types of tires that are available. Because there's everything from all-season, high-performance, all-terrain, snow tires. And sit down — I would do some research on the Internet, and then go in and talk to a tire expert in any of the numerous tire — good tire dealers we have in this fine city.
Rob: Yeah. And I suppose the winter tires your choice might depend on what type of vehicle you're driving, right?
Greg: Well, for sure. The vehicles make a big difference and the type of driving. If you're out on the highway all the time, if you're just here in town, you know, they vary all the time. And, again, it's best just that you do talk to an expert, a tire dealer, and/or look online and do your research. Because a little bit of time pays huge dividends, and saves you some money.
Rob: Yeah. Absolutely worth the investment. And we get six months of winter here in Saskatchewan. So, certainly a good investment. Having winter tires on a vehicle, does that impact our insurance at all?
Greg: No. Unfortunately, it doesn't. But, you know, it's not about the insurance. It's about you and your family safety. I know I have them, and I wouldn't be without them personally.
Rob: Winter tires, highly recommended by Greg Marcyniuk your insurance expert at Heritage Insurance in downtown Moose Jaw. And we can find you online, sir?
Greg: That's correct. nohassleinsurance.ca or come on down and see any of our fine people here at the corner of Fairford and 1st.
(Video transcription by Speechpad)