I think a big part of it comes down to driver skill. Been driving for almost 40 years in Chicago and Minneapolis and used snow tires for two seasons. Really not worth the hassle to swap them out. They were grippier, but never took the place of good driving skills, good focus, and common sense. They are gathering dust in the garage.

One winter, I drove back and forth between Chicago and Minneapolis weekly from October to March regardless of the weather in a Honda Accord with standard tires with no problems. Yes there were plenty of cars in the ditch during bad weather, but I knew as long as I kept my motions smooth and steady and kept my sight line way ahead, I would be good.

Just my 2 cents and experience, but I think everyone should get tires based on their driving style and skills.