Drivers may need to use extra caution when out on the snowy roads and that includes making sure their cars are properly equipped to handle any conditions.


Tire shops were busy on Monday as people brought in their vehicles to get snow or studded snow tires fitted for the winter season.

Michael Harrell, the President of Harrell Automotive said, "That first bit of snowfall everybody wants to get their snow tires done immediately, so very busy."

As the snow falls and sticks, that means it's time for snow tires to shine.
As Harrell explained, "We live in Erie, Pennsylvania, it does snow and having a good snow tire helps you get to where you need to go."


Harrell said getting snow tires or studded snow tires put on are a popular request this time of year and explained the difference between the two. 
"A snow tire is just going to be a rubber compound and a studded snow tire we put a metal bit inside of little siphons in the tire to give it better traction on ice", explained Harrell.


Kerr's Tire Korner had a steady flow of cars in and out with people looking to get snow tires or studded snow tires on their vehicles as well.
With the amount of snow Erie, gets a year, Harrell said no matter which one people choose, both will help the car navigate the Erie winters. "A snow tire is going to be better than anything else on your vehicle. A studded snow tire would be an added benefit, but really only an added benefit when it's extra icy", said Harrell.


But it all comes down to the vehicle and the decision of the driver. As Harrell explained, "Say an SUV that is all-wheel drive then a good snow tire would be sufficient, if you have a front wheel drive vehicle that's maybe a little bit lighter than you might want to consider those studded snows."


As far as the life expectancy of snow tires, Harrell said it all depends on how rough road conditions are and how many miles people are putting on their cars.