Winter tires in B.C.: What you need to know

Winter has arrived in many parts of B.C., making the roads a challenge for drivers to navigate.

Here's what you need to know about getting your car ready for safe winter driving.

Where do I need them?

In B.C., passenger vehicles must have winter tires on almost all sections of highway between Oct. 1 and March 31, with the Lower Mainland and Greater Victoria as the exceptions although proper tires are still recommended forthose areas.

• MAP: Designated winter tire and chain-up routes in B.C.

Commercial vehicles also have to carry chains on highway routes.Those travelling to B.C. from out-of-province are required to have winter tires as well.

Drivers who don't equip their vehicles properly can be fined up to $109.

Which symbol should be on my tires?

The province accepts tires with the snowflake and mountain symbol, or the M+S symbol. The latter stands for mud and snow, and must alsobe displayed on all-season tires to be accepted as winter tires.

All winter tires have to have at least 3.5. mm of tread left.

What about four-wheel drive?

Four-wheel drive will give your car a better grip in slippery conditions, but won't help much when it comes to stopping or turning corners.

Driving slowly is key, no matter what kind of vehicle you have.

Drivers with four-wheel drive vehicles still need winter tires.

For motorcyclists

Motorcycles aren't required to have winter tires or chains, but the province recommends drivers use "common sense" when deciding whether or not to hit the road in the winter.