Commuting through winter weather: How to stay safe on the roads this season

As we head into the winter season, commuting becomes difficult with the challenging weather and the daylight hours growing shorter. Whether you’re behind the wheel, riding transit, on two wheels or walking, icy conditions, reduced visibility and unpredictable weather can turn short trips into challenging journeys.

A safe winter commute starts before you get on the road. Always check the weather before you leave the house, dress warmly and make sure your vehicle is fully equipped. Be aware of your surroundings while you’re on the road, especially in low-light and low-visibility conditions. Take it slow and give yourself extra time to make it to your destination safely.

Whether you’re walking, cycling, riding transit or driving, make sure to stay safe on Mississauga roads this winter.

Winter walking

• Always be aware of your surroundings.
• Avoid using your phone or headphones when crossing the road.
• Use designated crosswalks and follow all traffic signals even when no vehicles are around.
• Look both ways before crossing the street.
• Allow for more time to cross the street in icy and snowy conditions.
• Even when you have the right of way, stay alert and watch for turning vehicles.
• Dress in layers to stay warm and wear winter boots with good traction to reduce the risk of slipping.

Winter cycling

• Check your equipment before you ride, including your brakes, and wipe down your bike after wet weather.
• Consider changing your bike tires – thick tires have better grip.
• Always wear a helmet.
• Ensure your bike has a light and reflectors.
• Give yourself extra space to brake and slow down before turns.
• Have a safety kit handy.
• Dress for the weather and consider wearing reflective clothing to make yourself more visible.

Taking transit in winter

• Make sure you are visible to your transit operator. Watch for your approaching bus, step out of the bus shelter and wave to your driver to signal your intention to board. Use your phone’s flashlight to signal to the bus operator in low light conditions.
• Be aware of your approaching bus and have fare payment ready to board quickly. Avoid phone distractions which may cause you to miss your bus.
• Check bus schedules frequently on miway.ca and monitor winter condition alerts.
• Give yourself extra travel time to get to your stop safely.
• Avoid running for the bus, in case you slip or fall.
• Be courteous to other passengers while boarding and offer a seat to those in need.
• Buses can be delayed due to weather, make sure to plan for extra time and dress for cold weather conditions in case you need to wait.

Winter driving

• Equip your car with winter tires for better traction in slippery conditions.
• Clear snow and ice from all windows, mirrors, lights and the roof before driving to ensure you have an unobstructed view and others can see you.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Give yourself more time to get to your destination safely.
• Give snow-clearing equipment ample space to work. Be patient if you are behind them.
• Look for pedestrians and cyclists before turning, especially when entering or existing driveways or roadways. This is very important when snowbanks are high after a heavy snowfall as it can impact your visibility.
• Drive for the road conditions by slowing down in bad weather like snow, ice or freezing rain.
• Keep your headlights on to improve visibility during snow or low-light conditions.
• Keep a blanket, flashlight, extra clothing, food and a charged phone in case of breakdowns and emergencies.

Everyone has a role to play in keeping Mississauga roads safe. A little extra preparation and patience can go a long way in ensuring everyone gets to their destination safely.

To learn more about road safety, visit mississauga.ca/roadsafety

Tags

• Active Transportation
• Public Safety
• Roads and Traffic