Will Winter Tires Save You Money on Car Insurance?  

It’s that time of year, time to get your winter tires on. While we have enjoyed a warmer-than-usual Fall, the temperatures are dropping, and road conditions invariably become more challenging. Hopefully, you already have plans to get your winter tires on your vehicle. As insurance advisors, we often get this question: “Will winter tires save me money on car insurance?”  Here’s what you need to know about winter tires.

Are Winter Tires Mandatory in Nova Scotia?

In Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and most other provinces, winter tires are not mandatory but highly recommended. Our provincial governments have opted to raise awareness over imposing a law. Since 2008, Quebec has been the only province in Canada where snow tires are mandatory. This requirement only applies to motor vehicles registered in Québec, including rental cars. British Columbia also requires winter tires on some highways in mountainous areas. It should be noted that studded tires can be used in Nova Scotia from October 15th to May 31st.

How do Winter Tires Protect You?

In a recent survey (November 12, 2024) by the Tire and Rubber Association of Canada, the majority of Canadian drivers believe winter tires are more important than ever. The study finds that 83% of drivers believe winter tires are an important investment despite the rising cost of living. Interestingly, in Atlantic Canada, winter tire usage stands at 85%, which is 7 percent above the national average.

Winter tires are a smart way to mitigate the risks of driving in hazardous conditions and improve control over your vehicle in poor road conditions. All-season tires stiffen and lose elasticity when temperatures dip below seven (7) degrees Celsius. Equipped with rubber that provides optimal traction and a deeper tread pattern with more slots to grip harder, winter tires are designed for slippery and icy roads. Winter tires also improve the traction required to accelerate or stop and shorten stopping distances.

Do Winter Tires Save You Money on Car Insurance?

By installing winter tires, you reduce your risk of an accident. This is the main incentive for putting winter tires on your vehicles. Whether you get an insurance discount depends on your car insurance provider and your province. While Ontario has mandated insurance discounts for winter tires, this is not the case in most provinces.

However, insurance discounts for winter tires are a growing trend, with some insurance providers offering discounts to drivers in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick. If this is a discount you would like to take advantage of, you should ask your insurance advisor or broker about your options.

From a purely financial perspective, the amount you can save on insurance premiums is unlikely to balance the cost of buying and installing snow tires. That said, it is hard to put a price on the added safety that winter tires provide for you and your family.

Winter Driving Safety Tips.

Driving on snowy, icy roads during a Nova Scotia winter is all but guaranteed. These days, our winter weather seems to be characterized by all types of conditions – snow, ice, freezing rain, slush, rain and an occasional sunny day. Being well-prepared for winter driving is just the smart thing to do.

One thing is certain: we can’t control the weather. And staying completely off the roads isn’t realistic. So, we’ve developed our own advice in what has been a popular blog Winter Driving Tips for Nova Scotians to help safely see you through the coldest season of the year. For more information, check out a recently published (November 14, 2024) news release by the Province of Nova Scotia: Drivers Reminded to Prepare for Winter Conditions.

Our Bauld Insurance Advisors can review your car insurance policy to ensure you are well protected. Visit our web page for more information and frequently asked questions about car and auto insurance.