On the Radar
ON THE RADAR
Caution on Country Roads
Here are tips for sharing rural roads with farm equipment this spring.
SPRING PLANTING SEASON is one of the busiest times for farmers and that means motorists are likely to encounter slow-moving farm equipment on rural roads.
“Motorists don’t realize how big farm machinery is. They think they have more time than they actually do when they pass it,” says Garett Atkinson whose family works more than 550 acres of farmland in the town of Trent Hills in Central Ontario. Too many drivers are “in a hurry,” he says, and that puts everyone in harm’s way.
The Ontario Federation of Agriculture, a grassroots farmer-led organization, recommends these guidelines for drivers in rural areas:
- Be patient.
- Watch for orange triangles on farm equipment, which identify slow-moving vehicles that legally cannot go faster than 40 kilometres/hour.
- Pay attention to flashing indicator lights.
- Be aware that the gap between a slow-moving vehicle and an oncoming car or truck can close very quickly.
- Pass only when it’s safe.
And so, remember: Stay back from farm machinery vehicles, share the road responsibly — and enjoy the countryside scenery.
Be aware that farmers may not be able to see you. Pass with caution. | PHOTO: ALEXANDER NIKIFOROV/ADOBE STOCK
ON THE RADAR
Right Tires, Right Season
Why it’s important to switch to all-season tires in warm weather.
By Alexis Nicols
WINTER TIRES are engineered for cold weather, with tread patterns designed to grip icy roads. So, what happens when you drive with winter tires in warm weather? If you go on a road trip south or delay your tire switch-back to all-seasons, you’re risking the longevity of your tires and the contents of your wallet — and even compromising your safety on the road.
There’s a difference between winter tires and all-seasons or summer tires, according to Ryan Peterson, automotive services manager at CAA Club Group (CCG). Compared to all-seasons, the rubber compound in winter tires is softer and more flexible to allow for better grip and road traction in cold weather. As the temperature rises, that rubber becomes even softer, and the texture turns soft and mushy.
Peterson notes that the interaction between soft rubber and hot asphalt can affect your vehicle’s handling and braking distance, reduce tire-tread life and diminish performance. In fact, driving with winter tires during the wrong season reduces their lifespan by up to 60 percent. This compromises safety and also forces you to replace your tires sooner.
As well, driving with winter tires year-round can reduce fuel efficiency because they generate more rolling resistance. This means your car engine works harder and burns more fuel. To keep your tires in optimal condition, follow the 7-for-7 rule. After seven consistent days of temperatures above 7 C, shift to all-season tires. This will extend the lifespan of both your winter tires and all-seasons — and will keep you safer on the road.
Did you know that specific winter tires are required for electric vehicles (EVs)? The higher weight and torque of EVs can wear out standard tires faster. Because availability for EV-rated tires is limited due to low production, Ryan Peterson at CCG recommends ordering your EV-rated winter tires early.
PHOTO: TONG2530/ADOBE STOCK