They may get more snow in Quebec than we do around here but it’s probably not much more slippery than what piles up here in the West Kootenays.
But the authorities in Quebec have seen fit to make winter tires mandatory at that time of year. They’re not buying the concept of “all-season” tires being up to the task during every month of the year.
The all-season skins, when brand new, can do a reasonable job, but anyone who has discovered the difference made by dedicated winter tires will agree they’re the way to go when the roads get slick.
As soon as the budget will allow for the mounting of new, soft, winter rubber it is the smart thing to do.
But almost as important as getting the snow tires in the first place, is remembering to change them in the spring. How many winter-grippers (some, even with studs) did you notice on cars and trucks in the middle of the summer? Now that’s a waste of money and safety if there ever was one. It’s because they’re soft that the snow tires work, and because they’re soft that they wear out so fast on hot, dry pavement – then, the unpleasant surprise that most of that ice-gripping traction has worn away.
One more thing – good snow tires (just like four wheel drive) don’t negate the need to be more careful than ever when the snow flies.