Reasons to Install Winter Tires | Safe Driving Tips for Winter

As a car owner in Massachusetts, the winter months bring quite a few challenges. One decision you need to make it whether to swap out your regular tires for winter tires. You may think that as long as your tires are new, they are safe for driving in any weather. Unfortunately, this is not true. Winter tires are actually a different type of tire specifically designed for cold weather conditions. Here are a few reasons to install winter tires on your car.

Better Grip

Winter tires are made from a different type of rubber. They are softer and less prone to hardening and freezing in the cold. A softer tire will grip the road surface better. This means you’re less likely to slip and slide on snow and ice.

Deeper Tread

Another important feature of winter tires are the tread. Winter tire tread is deeper, which allows it to push through the snow and ice. Snow and ice actually travel into those grooves and get pushed away. So, rather than driving on top of snow, it drives through it. Again this can reduce slipping in inclement weather.

Better Stopping Power

Better grip and deeper tread allows you to start and stop much more quickly than traditional non-winter tires. This is one of the biggest reasons to install winter tires. As you’re trying to avoid hazards on the road, better stopping power can help you avoid accidents.

Other Reasons to Install Winter Tires

Beyond the 3 big reasons to install winter tires that we noted above, there’s also the money saving factor. If you normally run performance tires, they’re probably very expensive. By changing them out for cheaper winter tires, your regular performance tires will last longer,… saving you money. It’s also important to note that some people opt for all-seasons tires. These are an in-between breed. These aren’t as great as full winter tires, but they are better than regular tires for winter driving.

Tires are one of the most important safety features of your vehicle, but only if you have the right type for the climate and road conditions. Ultimately safety factors are the biggest reasons to install winter tires on your car. To maximize the safety benefits, be sure to also check your tire pressure frequently and adjust them as needed. Read our blog for other winter driving safety tips.