A Quebec coroner is urging that newcomers to Montreal receive crucial preparation for the province's hazardous winter driving conditions, following a fatal crash in early 2025. The recommendation aims to prevent similar tragedies by ensuring new residents understand the unique challenges posed by snow, ice, and cold.
The Coroner's Critical Recommendation
The call to action was detailed in a report released by the Quebec Coroner's office on January 9, 2026. The investigation was prompted by a deadly collision that occurred the previous year, underscoring the severe risks unprepared drivers face during the long winter season. The coroner emphasized that familiarity with dry or rainy conditions does not equate to being ready for Quebec's winters.
The core finding is that individuals arriving from regions with milder climates often lack the specific knowledge and skills needed to navigate safely. This includes understanding how to handle black ice, what to do during a skid, and the importance of winter tires and increased stopping distances.
Addressing a Gap in Safety Education
The report suggests a coordinated effort between settlement agencies, driving schools, and provincial authorities to develop and mandate targeted winter driving education. This initiative would be integrated into the onboarding process for new permanent residents and temporary workers.
Potential measures highlighted include:
- Mandatory information sessions focused on Quebec's winter road safety laws and best practices.
- Practical driving demonstrations or accessible online modules illustrating winter hazard management.
- Clearer communication from the government and insurance providers about the legal requirement for winter tires from December 1 to March 15.
A Preventable Tragedy and a Path Forward
While the coroner's report does not disclose specific details about the 2025 crash to protect privacy, it firmly states that enhanced preparation could be a life-saving intervention. The goal is to transform this recommendation into concrete policy, making winter road safety a fundamental part of welcoming new communities to Montreal and Quebec at large.
The conclusion is clear: proactive education is as vital as a good set of snow tires. By equipping newcomers with the right knowledge, the province can work towards reducing winter road fatalities and ensuring everyone shares the road safely during the most challenging months of the year.
