Well as in everything, you can be your own worst enemy when it comes to driving. If I drive without snow tires, I drive a lot slower and allow for longer stops. I slow down in corners and it takes longer to get up to speed. Approaching hills, all about momentum and timing. The problem is the average driver doesn't have a clue about driving in the snow.

As for false sense of security? Again, if you drive like an idiot then expect the worst.... but, if you don't. You can drive faster without comprimising safety, you can get up hills without any issues, you can slow down a lot quicker, everything is better. So if you are a safe driver, then snow tires just makes life easier. Just ask all the people that I wave as I go by them. ;-)