Most drivers using all-season tires don’t bother changing them out for more durable ones for the cold months. However, visiting an auto parts store to exchange your current tires for a special winter-edition set can greatly improve your safety while on the road. The weather can be quite unpredictable during this time of year, but with the right set of tires, you can avoid accidents.

Here’s why you should consider rotating your current tires for winter ones this season:

• Flexibility: The tread rubber of regular tires tend to harden in extreme cold. As a result, they won’t be able to provide sufficient traction. Winter tires are designed to remain soft and flexible even when they come into contact with frozen roads, providing a better grip. All-season tires, although designed for year-round use, cannot match the rubber compound quality of winter ones.

• Maximum Traction: Winter tires feature unique tread patterns and deeper tread depths that provide maximum traction on snowy roads. These patterns can divert snow and slush and expel water. All-season tires do not have this feature and are more prone to slipping on wet or frozen roads, compromising your safety.

• Improved Stopping Distance: Because roads are often wet during the winter months, stopping distances matter more. Rain, slush, snow, and ice make driving more dangerous. Since regular tires offer less traction, it makes stopping harder. With winter tires, stopping distances are 30% shorter, which is why so many people are turning to auto parts suppliers for this more durable option.

• Better Cornering: Another advantage of using winter tires is they provide optimum performance when cornering. Thanks to the shorter stopping distance and increased traction, they can navigate corners better than regular ones. This minimizes skidding, preventing accidents in turns.

Are you looking for affordable winter tires? Northwest Auto Parts in Anchorage, AK, is one of the leading salvage yards that carry the most sought-after auto parts. Their experts can help you find what you need for a safer winter driving experience. This junkyard also offers OEM parts and wholesale auto parts. Call them today at (800) 770-6531, or visit their website for more information.