1. An unprepared car

An unprepared vehicle isn’t just unsafe, it’s more likely to break down in the cold. For example, dead batteries are common problems we see at our BCAA Auto Service Centres and are one of the top Roadside Assistance calls we receive each winter. Cold weather weakens batteries, making them more likely to fail.

Before the snow hits:

• Book a winter check-up with a trusted automotive professional. They’ll check your battery, wipers, lights, fluids, belts, hoses, and window defrosters.
• Pack a roadside emergency kit that includes a scraper, snow brush, shovel, traction materials (like sand or wood chips), and essentials like snacks, water, a blanket, and warm clothing.

Tip: You can start off with a ready-made emergency survival kit (BCAA Members save 20% on kits from F.A.S.T.—First Aid and Survival Technologies Limited) and then add winter driving-related items found on BCAA’s list of essential items to carry in your car.

If the unexpected happens and you’re stranded with a dead battery, BCAA’s Battery Service Program is here to help. Our Technicians will come to you, test your battery, and if needed, install a high-quality BCAA replacement, backed by a 6-year warranty. We’ll also recycle your old battery responsibly. Plus, BCAA Members save $80 on a new battery!†

2. Wrong tires

Every winter, we see cars sliding off the road or getting stuck in snow or icy areas simply because they don’t have winter tires or the tire treads on their winter tires are worn. Tires that meet BC’s winter tire laws—those with the mountain peak and snowflake or M+S (mud and snow) symbols – are essential for safety and traction. Check out the BCAA Winter Tire Guide to choose the right tires for your vehicle and driving habits or visit your local BCAA Auto Service Centre and take advantage of:

• 5% savings on all tires
• Mount & balance service from $40 per tire
• Tire changeover service from $20 per tire
• Seasonal manufacturer discounts on select tire brands

Tip: Need new tires? BCAA Members also save 5% on all products and services at Kal Tire.

3. Driving too fast

One of the most common winter driving mistakes is driving too fast for the conditions. Each winter, BCAA Roadside Assistance Technicians help tow and recover many cars because the vehicle couldn’t stop in time and slid into something, or off the road. Fact: driving too fast reduces the amount of time your car has to come to a stop when braking on roads. So, slow down drive to match the conditions – not the speed limit. Whether it’s snow, ice, rain or fog, learn how to drive safely for the conditions with tips from Road Safety at Work. 

4. Driving too closely

Like driving too fast, driving too close to other cars lessens your reaction time if there's a problem with the vehicle ahead of you. BCAA Auto Service experts recommend that you at least double your normal distance from the car ahead which is about four car lengths of space.

5. Inexperience

When it comes down to it, extreme winter weather can make driving a challenge, even for the most experienced driver. If you aren’t seasoned enough to drive in winter conditions, plan for alternative transportation such as transit, taxis, ride sharing services or ride with a more experienced driver that you know.

6. Underestimating weather and street conditions

Keep your driveway clear of snow and ice. Remember, if snowy days present a challenge to getting out of your driveway, the side streets and hills you encounter will also be challenging. Consider if you need to drive or if you should seek alternative transportation methods (see tip #7 below).

7. Driving unnecessarily

When it comes to driving in winter conditions, the first thing to ask yourself is, “Do I really need to drive?” While we need to get to work, pick up children or run errands, try to minimize how much you have to drive in winter conditions. You can even plan for this by changing some of your routines during winter months. Here’s what we mean:

• Stock up on groceries and other everyday essentials so you don’t have to go out shopping as frequently.

  Tip: BCAA Members can even save 5% on grocery delivery orders with Meridian Farm Market.

• Adjust activities that you and your family will need to drive to, such as kids’ extra-curricular activities.
• Combine errands into as few trips as possible. Save them for days when the weather and roads aren’t so bad.
• If you must drive, make sure to check the road conditions before you leave at DriveBC.ca

8. Skipping essential pre-driving precautions

Before heading out:

• Defrost and clear all windows for full visibility
• Remove snow and ice from roof, trunk, hood and mirrors – snow flying off your car can be hazardous to other drivers
• Check tire pressure frequently – cold weather lowers pressure and traction

These small steps go a long way in preventing accidents and ensuring safety.

9. Not shovelling driveways

Ensure you don’t get stuck in your driveway by shovelling it each time it snows. This helps prevent ice from forming and building up.

10. Overconfidence about vehicle's capabilities

Often TV commercials show trucks and SUVs bursting through snowbanks or racing on icy lakes. Remember, these ads are dramatized for entertainment. While many vehicles with an antilock braking system (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC) or four-wheel drive typically perform better in snowy and icy driving conditions, these systems aren’t foolproof. Driving too fast or taking sharp turn on ice can still lead to skidding or losing control. No matter what you drive, make sure to:

• Slow down
• Leave extra space
• Stay alert and cautious

For the unexpected this winter, BCAA is here to help. At home or on the road, our 24/7 Roadside Assistance is just a click or call away.

Pro Tip: The BCAA App makes it easy for Members to request BCAA Roadside Assistance from their phone. Download the app to get faster service by passing the calling queue and getting to our dispatch team directly.

Not a BCAA Member yet? Join today for peace of mind in case of the unexpected and to save over $1,500 a year on everyday purchases, insurance, experiences, travel, dining and more!

^{* BCAA Battery Service availability varies depending on vehicle make and model, and is limited to service areas as outlined at bcaa.com/batteryservice.
†BCAA Member savings on a new BCAA Battery are only available with Basic, Plus, or Premier Membership plans. For full details, please visit bcaa.com/plans.}