Motorists encouraged to practice safe and patient driving during impending winter storm

THORNHILL, ON, Jan. 9, 2017 /CNW/ - Another winter storm is expected to blanket the Greater Toronto Area and CAA South Central Ontario (CAA SCO) is reminding motorists to practice safety on the roads.

"Difficult driving conditions are expected to develop overnight and last throughout much of the day tomorrow. We are advising all members to keep winter driving strategies top of mind and practice patience and caution during their commutes," said Tony Tsai, Director Corporate Communications, CAA SCO.

6 winter driving essentials:

• Check the local forecast before heading out.
• Pack a winter emergency kit.
• Top off your windshield washer fluid.
• Ensure you have an ice scraper, snow brush, shovel and fully charged phone.
• Drive according to the road conditions.
• Letting a fellow driver into your lane and a simple thank you wave in return can make the difference on a cold and stressful winter day.

CAA SCO thanks our members in advance for their patience during this winter weather event. We will be prioritizing service to members stranded on highways and roads. Members who require service, but are at home, may experience an even longer delay as we prioritize those who are already on the road.

During southern Ontario's last winter storm on December 15, 2016, CAA SCO handled over 6,500 roadside assistance calls—double the calls normally experienced during non‐extreme weather events.

What to do if your vehicle breaks down:

• Pull off the road.
• Note your vehicle's location.
• Assess your vehicle's operation problem.
• Alert other motorists by making your vehicle visible.
• Call 911 and communicate your situation.
• Call for roadside assistance. If you are a CAA member give your
• Membership number.
• Know your rights and responsibilities.

We would also like to remind drivers to slow down and move over if they see emergency or roadside assistance vehicles on the side of the road. It's the law.

Whenever you need help, you can reach us by downloading the CAA App, visiting www.caasco.com/requestroadside or dialing *222 on your smartphone.

About CAA South Central Ontario
For over a hundred years, CAA has been helping Canadians stay mobile, safe and protected. CAA South Central Ontario is one of nine auto clubs across Canada providing roadside assistance, travel, insurance services and member savings for our 2 million members.

Follow @CAASCO_News on Twitter for regular updates on wait times, other news and information.

SOURCE CAA South Central Ontario

Tony Tsai, Director Corporate Communications, P: [phone], C: [phone], E: [email protected]; Jeff LeMoine, Communications Consultant, P: [phone], C: [phone], E: [email protected]

Related Links

www.caasco.com