The interlocking tread pattern on the Assurance tire features TripleTred technology to deliver gripping power on icy or slick roads, says Goodyear.
(Photo: Goodyear)
"The bottom line for consumers is knowing what level of winter they might face," says Toth.
"Preparation - of the vehicle and the driver - is the key for winter driving," he adds. "When it comes to driving on the changing road conditions, ranging from dry, wet, icy and snowy, one of the most important factors to consider is the tires. It doesn't matter if it's a front-, rear- or four-wheel-drive vehicle; it will perform better if the vehicle has good tires. For some, this means purpose-built winter tires. For most, any-weather tires with plenty of new tread will do the job."
Whatever tire is chosen, Toth offers advice for anyone who will be faced with potential slippery driving conditions this winter:
* Match your driving speed to the current conditions. If conditions are challenging because of a slippery road surface or reduced visibility, decrease your speed. A slower driving speed allows more time for a necessary response.
* Additional factors to consider when adjusting speed are the condition of the vehicle, its tires and your driving abilities. Always keep in mind the posted speed limits, and understand that those limits indicate the maximum speed when weather conditions are good.
* Plan ahead and try to anticipate potentially dangerous situations. When approaching a curve or potentially slick area of the road, use the brakes effectively. The brakes should be applied only before a curve and on a straight section of the road. Sometimes, taking your foot off the accelerator and allowing the vehicle to naturally slow without using the brakes is best.
* Be alert to other vehicles. Maintain enough distance between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. If someone else seems to be following too close to your vehicle, perhaps slow down to allow them to pass, rather than speeding up to achieve a distance between vehicles.
* If visibility is poor, remember to use your lights. This helps other drivers to see you when approaching or when following. You should always turn your lights on when your windshield wipers are operating.
* Set the vehicle interior to a comfortable temperature. This can be a challenge during winter, when drivers and passengers may be wearing heavy coats, but it is imperative to be comfortable when driving. Comfort includes keeping the windows free of frost, ice and snow.
* Drive as smoothly as possible, avoiding sudden braking and steering responses. Always signal early when turning or stopping, in order to alert approaching or following drivers.
* Avoid overconfident driving, and avoid overestimating the vehicle's capability simply because it is equipped with anti-lock brakes, four-wheel drive, traction control, winter tires or other safety devices. Do not allow good judgment and smart driving to be overtaken by a false sense of security provided by vehicle technology.
* Before driving in inclement weather, be sure that your vehicle is properly maintained. Make sure your windshield wipers work properly; have the correct level of antifreeze for heating and defrosting the vehicle; keep plenty of gas in the tank; and always use required safety devices such as seat belts.
(Source: Goodyear
Tires)
