Winter Driving

In winter in Prince Edward Island, drivers face a new set of challenges. Make sure you are prepared.

Winter tires

• Between the months of November and April, install four matching winter tires on your vehicle. Winter tires provide almost twice the traction of all season tires on snow or ice. Look for the peaked mountain and snowflake symbol, which indicates certification as winter tires.
• You may use studded tires from October 1 to May 31. See Winter Tires Regulations under RESOURCES.
• Have a winter check done by an authorized mechanic to ensure your vehicle is prepared for the winter months.

Driving on winter roads

• Slow Down: Watch for black ice when temperatures are just under or just above freezing. Black ice can form an invisible sheet of ice instantly when warm air meets an ice-cold road. Be especially careful on bridges, overpasses and in shaded areas. 
• Extra Driving Time: Allow extra driving time to get to your destination. Always keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you in case you need to brake suddenly. 
• Top-up Windshield Fluid: Remember to fill up on winter washer fluid and replace wiper blades that streak. Make sure there is enough windshield washer fluid in the reservoir and that it is rated in the -40C temperature range. Try to carry extra washer fluid in the vehicle.
• See and Be Seen: Clear all snow and ice from your windshield, roof, engine bonnet, windows, headlights and brake lights, and both side mirrors.  
• Do not speed near plows or pass them: Keep yourself and others safe around plows, graders, loaders, and snow blowers. 
• Keep clear: Do not park on the roadside and keep the roadside free of debris to help avoid preventable accidents.  
• Top-up the Gas Tank: Plan ahead for poor weather and try to have at least your gas tank half full. The extra fuel can help reduce moisture problems and give weight to the vehicle.
• Survival Kit: Have a winter survival kit in your vehicle so you are prepared for an emergency. A basic kit should include the following items:
  • non-perishable food and water
  • wind-up flashlight
  • small shovel, snowbrush and windshield scrapper
  • First Aid kit
  • blanket
  • roadmaps (in case you can't get a signal)
  • extra clothes, etc.

Additional items to keep in your trunk:

• Sand, salt, or non-clumping cat litter
• Antifreeze/windshield washer fluid
• Tow rope
• Jumper cables
• Fire extinguisher
• Warning light or road flares

Parking in winter

• Check with your local municipality for winter parking restrictions.
• Do not park on the side of roadways in winter.

For road related inquires, contact:

Telephone: 5-1-1

Email: roads@gov.pe.ca