New BCAA survey shows motorists set to repeat last year’s winter driving mistakes

Straight up, last year’s winter conditions throughout the province were the worst BCAA has seen in decades. Our Roadside Assistance Techs and the rest of our Auto Service team were in full effect 24/7, rescuing our Members.

After making thousands of roadside rescues last year, we asked BC drivers if they were going to do anything differently this year so that they’re more prepared. What we learned is surprising—despite nearly half of motorists experiencing a winter driving incident last year, the majority say they’re not going to do more to prepare this year.

Hmmmm…

Here’s what else our survey revealed:

• Most common winter-driving incidents—skidding on black ice and getting stuck on a snowy street or driveway.
• Top reasons drivers felt they had difficulties—having the wrong tires or tires in poor condition, inadequate winter driving skills and weather or road conditions were worse than they had realized.
• Drivers also admitted to taking risks—drove in extreme conditions even though they felt nervous or felt the conditions were unsafe.

We also asked people about what drives them to drive in extreme conditions? Almost half said they felt pressured to get somewhere to fulfil an obligation, and yeah, many of us probably feel that way, too.

But, here’s the thing—we want all of us to be safe. We see first-hand how stressful it is for anyone experiencing a roadside emergency. So, here at BCAA, we’re all the more passionate about helping you avoid getting into a tough situation to begin with.

Based on our decades of winter driving and automotive experience, here’s our advice:

1. Get your car ready – have the right tires.
2. Adjust your driving habits to match the conditions.
3. Plan for alternative transportation or to stay indoors in case it’s too difficult or dangerous to drive.

In the end, no obligation is worth risking a life.

BCAA Winter Driving Tips