Winter Driving in Ontario: Tickets, Tires and Who's at Fault

Bad weather doesn't excuse unsafe driving. In winter, drivers are expected to adjust their speed and following distance to the conditions.

Clear your car

• Driving with snow or frost blocking your view can lead to a ticket.
• Snow flying off a roof can hit other vehicles: clear it.
• Make sure your headlights and taillights are clean.

Winter tires

• Winter tires aren't mandatory in Ontario for most passenger vehicles.
• Insurers must offer a discount to drivers who use winter tires.

"The road was icy" isn't a defence

• Courts and insurers expect drivers to drive for the conditions.
• In a rear-end collision, the driver behind is usually found at fault, ice or not.

After a winter collision

1. Move to safety if you can, and turn on your hazard lights.
2. Exchange information and take photos of the scene and road conditions.
3. Report the collision as the law requires.

Charged with careless driving?

Careless driving is a serious charge with heavy penalties. Get advice before you plead.

Sources

• Highway Traffic Act
• Ontario: winter driving

Read next: Reporting a Collision in Ontario: When You Must Call Police

General Ontario legal information, not legal advice for your matter, and reading it does not create a retainer. Sources checked 15 October 2026: check the current law, forms and dates before you act.

Photos from Pexels: A country road in Rockwood, Ontario in the fall · A snowy neighbourhood street in Toronto.

This article is general information for people in Ontario, not legal advice. Rules, forms and deadlines change, and every situation is different. Check the current rule or speak to a licensed legal professional before you act.