Most Common Causes Of Accidents In Bad Weather/Collision Reporting Centres

It happens every time there’s a storm: motorists refusing to drive for the weather conditions. Here’s a look at what police say causes the most accidents during a major storm.

 

 

 

Driving too fast for the conditions

A driver going 40 kilometres per hour on dry roads will need about 20 metres to stop. On a snow-covered road, that distance more than doubles to 42 metres.  As speed increases, so does stopping distance.

 

Following too closely

Collision avoidance maneuvers are less effective on snow-covered roads than on dry roads.  Leaving more space between you and the vehicle in front provides more time and distance to take that important evasive action.

 

Improper tires

Many collisions which involve a loss of control are the result of worn tires. Bad treads can cause a vehicle to quickly and unexpectedly rotate into a sideways slide, exposing the occupants to a highly-dangerous side impact. Winter tires are the best choice for maximum control and traction.

 

Proper inflation is vital to keep your car on track in icy roads. Tires can lose air in cold weather. Make sure the pressure is where it’s supposed to be.

 

Obstructed view

Not only is it important to clear all your windows of ice and snow before heading out, but it’s equally vital to be aware of other view obstructions.  Heavy snowfalls result in high snow banks which can easily obstruct a driver’s view. Use caution when exiting driveways or when approaching intersections. Snow banks can easily hide a small car or pedestrian.

 

Source: York Regional Police

 

Collision Reporting Centres

 

O.K., despite your best efforts, the worst has happened and you’ve had an accident. What do you do now?  If no one is injured and the damage is less than $1,000, you don’t have to wait for police. Exchange information and head to a collision reporting centre within 24 hours of the accident.

 

Here’s where they are.

 

Scarborough

39 Howden Rd.

(Lawrence E., between Warden and Birchmount.)

Open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

 

Etobicoke

855 Oxford St.

(Near Royal York Road, between QEW and Evans Ave.)

Monday-Friday 7am-9pm

 

North York

113 Toryork Dr.

(Near Weston Road, between Steeles and Finch)

Open seven days a week 6:30am-1.30am

 

Brampton

7750 Hurontario St.

(Near Hwy. 10 & Steeles)

 

185 Central Park Drive

(Highway 7 and Central Park Dr.)

 

Milton

203 Steeles Ave. West

Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-9:30pm

Sat/Sun 9am-9pm

 

Mississauga

3030 Erin Mills Parkway

(Near Dundas St. West)

 

4600 Dixie Road

(South of Eglinton)

 

Durham Region

Ajax-Pickering Community Police Office

1710 Kingston Road (at Brock Rd. and Hwy. 2)

10am-8pm

 

Oakville

Halton Regional Police H.Q.

1151 Bronte Rd.

 

Info courtesy: MTO & Toronto Police

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