While spring is warming up the province of British Columbia and snow tires are coming off, motorists are being reminded they may still have to “shift into winter” at higher elevations.

Thursday, Mar. 31 marks the official end of the winter driving season however, drivers are being reminded that safe driving should be a priority all year long.

Photo Credit: B.C. Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure/ FlickrA snowy Coquihalla Summit.

From Oct. 1 to Mar. 31, drivers are required under the Motor Vehicle Act to obey posted winter tire and chain signs throughout the province.

Photo Credit: B.C. Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure/ Flickr

Thursday marks the final day drivers are required by law to drive with winter tires or carry chains. Despite temperatures warming up and spring like conditions emerging across the province, motorist are being reminded that winter storms can still occur, and drivers need to drive for the conditions they are facing.

Easter long weekend was an example of unpredictable weather on B.C. highways. Monday, Mar. 28 saw slippery, slushy and foggy conditions on the Coquihalla Highway and Okanagan Connector. Two days later, drivers were travelling on bare roads, in sunny weather.

Photo Credit: B.C. Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure/ FlickrIn October 2015, RCMP conducted "shift into winter" check stops to ensure drivers had the proper snow tires.

“It is important that all those who use these highways take their time to ensure they are prepared for the trip ahead and consider their safety and the safety of other motorists while on the roads,” said the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure.

Those travelling at higher elevations are being advised to continue to prepare for winter-type driving despite snow tires no longer being required.

“It is important to be prepared before you set out for driving this spring. This means equipping your vehicle and checking DriveBC for the latest conditions.”