Winter tires compulsory in Austria and Italy

Winter tires compulsory in Austria and Italy – main image

From November 1, Austrian drivers driving cars with a GVM (passenger, delivery, special) not exceeding 3.5 t in conditions of reduced traction (rime, ice, snow) are required to have winter tires or chains in their vehicles on at least 2 driving wheels. It is worth noting that the use of chains is possible only when the surface is covered with ice or snow. The Austrian police are therefore given the power to impose non-compliance fines of up to EUR 5,000.

Strict rules for heavy vehicles

untitled-project-2021-11-02t090028673png

Cars with a permissible weight exceeding 3.5 tonnes are subject to an unconditional obligation to have winter tires on at least one drive axle from November 1 - regardless of the weather conditions. According to the regulations, winter tires include tires marked with the symbols MS, M + S and M&S ( mud and snow ) with a minimum tread height of 4 mm.

Italy from November 15th

The above provisions will soon enter into force also in Italy - from November 15, when going to Italy, it is necessary to remember about it in order to avoid unnecessary misunderstandings. Considering the road situation, for example in South Tyrol (which is a popular destination for Polish ski trips), such legal regulations should not surprise anyone.

The above regulations apply to drivers registered in a given country. In this case, Polish drivers are bound by the provisions of the Vienna Convention.

However, it is up to your decision to replace the tires for winter tires when we go, for example, in the mountain regions of France and we explain our rights under this Convention to a local policeman.

Winter tires compulsory in Austria and Italy – image 1
Maciej Kinal
Maciej Kinal

I feel best in the form of trade fairs and meetings with enthusiasts. Technical freak. In my life I have dismantled many motorhomes for the first time. Fan of large vehicles, mountain biking and traveling without weight and financial restrictions. At CampRest, I am responsible for all publications on automotive topics.

Also read

Abruzzo - a bridge between the north and south of Italy – image 1
Places to visit
Abruzzo - a bridge between the north and south of Italy
Abruzzo is a region in the central part of Italy, on the Adriatic Sea. It neighbors three other regions - Lazio, Molise and Marche. The main cities are Chieti, Teramo and Pescara. Many people call Abruzzo the bridge that connects the north with the south of the country. It is also one of the most natural places in Europe, known as a green land. It is home to over 70% of the continent's flora and fauna species. Traveling in a motorhome on vacation to Italy will bring a lot of fun mainly to nature lovers, who appreciate both access to the sea and hiking in the mountains. Interestingly - Abruzzo is not one of the most popular places among tourists, so it will appeal to everyone looking for a holiday away from crowded routes. The convenient location makes Abruzzo unique. On the one hand, 2/3 of the area of the region is covered by the Central Apennines, on the other hand, it is surrounded by the clear waters of the Adriatic Sea. These are ideal conditions for one day to enjoy the charms of the coast in coastal towns, and the next day to climb the snow-capped peaks with Monte Amaro and Corno Grande towering over the area. Numerous attractions await nature lovers on a trip to Abruzzo . On its territory, they will find three national parks and as many as 30 nature reserves. Many endangered plant and animal species can be observed there. Abruzzo is not only beautiful nature, but also monuments. It is also called the land of castles for a reason. So you will find numerous medieval castles, palaces and even monasteries in the area. There are also caves and hermits. Don't forget to visit Teramo with the Church of Saint Mary, the Bishop's Palace from the 14th century, and the remains of the fortifications and the Roman amphitheater. In Pescara, which serves as a port, you will find numerous beaches, and in the capital of Abruzzo - Aquila, lying at the foot of the mountains, you will be able to practice winter sports.