Like it or not, winter is fast approaching, and with it comes the duty to replace summer tires for treads that stand up to the ice, snow and sleet we've come to expect - if not despise - in the colder months.
Since last year, winter tires are mandatory in Quebec between Dec. 15th and March 15th, and all-season tires are no longer acceptable. Drivers without winter wheels can be fined up to $300.
For mechanics, the new law means an added workload.
"It's physically demanding on your body. It's exhausting, so you do have to be in good physical shape to be doing something like this all the time," said Tyler Delisi, a mechanic at Merson Automotive in Notre Dame de Grace.
Like many garages across the island of Montreal, Merson Automotive has seen a steady stream of customers over the past two weeks. Owner Mark Merson said his customers aren't procrastinating.
"We start getting busy just after Labour Day, so we find it's just the opposite - that people are putting on tires much earlier than usual. So come the end of November, we think that most people have their winter tires on," he said.
According to Transports Quebec figures, 38 per cent of accidents that occur during the winter involve at least one vehicle that is equipped with all-season tires.
With one month left before the deadline, Delisi said it's wise to get them now, before the snow flies.
"As soon as the snow comes, it's going to be really bad," he said.
And for customers like Anibal Victoria, the advice couldn't fall on more agreeable ears.
"(I) always, always, always (get them), yeah, I truly believe that winter tires are the best way to go," said Victoria.
