WHEREAS winters in northern BC are subject to icy road conditions and snowfall accumulation; AND WHEREAS many visitors to communities in northern BC rent vehicles for transportation; AND WHEREAS these rental vehicles traditionally have all season tires rather than winter tires: THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM request the Province of BC to make it mandatory that winter rated tires be installed on rental vehicles during the winter months in those areas of BC that experience snow and ice conditions.
Ministry of Transportation Infrastructure The Motor Vehicle Act requires vehicles to be equipped with winter tires or chains when directed by a sign or public notice. Signs are posted on roads or in advance of highway routes throughout the province where adverse snow conditions can reasonably be expected during winter; typically from October 1 April 30. Drivers must comply with the Act, and they bear the responsibility for ensuring the vehicle they are driving is appropriate for their intended use. The Ministry fully endorses the use of winter tires when appropriate, based on road and weather conditions across the province, and has worked with the Automotive Retailer Association and car rental agencies to encourage education and adoption of winter tires for rental vehicles. Most rental agencies now offer vehicles equipped with winter tires for a nominal daily fee. The Ministry has also worked with safety partners to develop educational campaigns such as Shift into Winter, to promote awareness about safe winter driving equipment and practices. While the Ministry is not considering further regulations surrounding the use of winter tires at this time, staff will work with stakeholders and communities to promote expanded use of winter tires, expand signage requiring use of winter tires or chains where appropriate, and continue to improve winter driving awareness education.