Question: Do I need snow tires?

A lot of drivers wonder if it makes sense to use snow tires during the winter months, and to be honest, it’s really a matter of personal preference.

In Indiana, winter’s wrath can vary drastically from one year to the next. Some years, we drive on snowy roads for months on end. Other years, we barely get enough snow to build a single snowman.

Since we don’t have a crystal ball at our disposal, we’ll share a few helpful considerations.

• Special rubber compounds and tread designs on snow tires reduce snow buildup, allowing better traction when driving in snow and ice.
• If you drive frequently in heavy snow or on unplowed roadways, snow tires may be beneficial. If you drive primarily on city streets, snow tires may not be essential.
• While the cost may be a deterrent, it’s important to remember that installing winter tires will extend the life of your regular tires.

No matter what you decide, always remember to drive carefully when road conditions are not at their best. Common sense and careful driving can go a long way toward keeping you and other drivers out of harm’s way.